The Greatest Biography and Friendship Books of All Time
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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 464 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.
Genres
Biography is a genre of literature that focuses on the life story of a person, typically a historical figure or a celebrity. It provides a detailed account of the subject's life, including their upbringing, achievements, struggles, and personal relationships. Biographies can be written in various formats, including memoirs, autobiographies, and third-person narratives. This category of books offers readers an opportunity to gain insight into the lives of notable individuals and their impact on society.
The "Friendship" category of books focuses on the relationships between individuals who share a deep bond of mutual affection, trust, and support. These books explore the complexities of friendship, including the challenges and rewards of maintaining close connections over time. They often depict the joys and struggles of navigating the ups and downs of life with the help of loyal companions, and may touch on themes such as loyalty, forgiveness, and the power of human connection. Whether exploring the dynamics of childhood friendships or the complexities of adult relationships, books in this category offer readers a heartwarming and insightful look into the power of friendship.
Countries
Date Range
Reading Statistics
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1. The Life of Samuel Johnson by James Boswell
Including A Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides
"The Life of Samuel Johnson" is a comprehensive biography that chronicles the life of one of the most prominent English literary figures of the 18th century. The book provides an in-depth account of Samuel Johnson's life, his literary works, and his significant contribution to English literature. It also offers a detailed portrait of his personality, his relationships, his struggles with depression and illness, and his views on a variety of subjects. The book is as much a biography of Johnson as it is a portrayal of 18th-century England.
The 225th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas by Gertrude Stein
This book is an innovative and unconventional autobiography, penned from the perspective of the author's life partner, providing an intimate view into the lives of the Parisian avant-garde in the early 20th century. It offers a personal account of their life together, filled with anecdotes of their interactions with famous figures such as Picasso, Matisse, and Hemingway. The narrative also delves into the author's own thoughts and experiences, creating a unique blend of biography, autobiography, and personal memoir.
The 389th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. History of My Life by Giacomo Casanova
"History of My Life" is an autobiography of an Italian adventurer and author, who is best remembered for his often complicated and elaborate affairs with women. The book offers a fascinating insight into his life, travels, and encounters. It provides an intimate look at the social customs and life of the 18th century, as well as the author's personal philosophies on a variety of subjects, including love, luck, and the importance of maintaining a sense of humor.
The 384th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. Parallel Lives by Plutarch
The Lives of Noble Grecians and Romans
"Parallel Lives" is a collection of biographies of famous Greek and Roman figures, written in pairs to draw comparisons between their lives. The work explores the influence of character on the lives and destinies of these historical figures. The biographies are not only a record of the lives of these individuals, but also provide insight into the times in which they lived, offering a unique perspective on the history and culture of the ancient world.
The 455th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. Testament Of Youth by Vera Brittain
An Autobiographical Study of the Years 1900-1925
Testament of Youth is a poignant memoir detailing the author's experiences during World War I. The narrative follows her journey from her early life, her time as a Voluntary Aid Detachment nurse serving in London, Malta, and France, and her later years as a writer and pacifist. The author's personal loss, including the death of her fiancé and her brother, and the impact of the war on her generation, is a central theme, offering a unique female perspective on the devastating effects of war.
The 476th Greatest Book of All Time -
6. Henry James by Leon Edel
A Life
This book is an in-depth biography of one of the most influential writers of the 19th century. The author meticulously details the life and work of the subject, from his early years in New York and his extensive travels in Europe, to his eventual settling in England and his career as a writer. The book delves into his relationships with family, friends, and fellow writers, as well as his own struggles with identity and sexuality. It also provides a comprehensive analysis of his novels, novellas, and short stories, highlighting his unique narrative style and his exploration of complex themes such as consciousness, morality, and social class.
The 601st Greatest Book of All Time -
7. Good-Bye to All That by Robert Graves
An Autobiography
This memoir provides a candid and unflinching look at the horrors of World War I, as experienced by a young British officer. The narrative explores the brutality and futility of war, the author's struggle with shell shock, his disillusionment with the military and British society, and his decision to leave England for a new life abroad. It also offers insights into the author's personal life, including his troubled marriage and his relationships with other prominent figures of the time.
The 608th Greatest Book of All Time -
8. The Life of Charlotte Brontë by Elizabeth Gaskell
Author of "Jane Eyre," "Shirley," "Villette," &c.
This biography provides an intimate look into the life of renowned author Charlotte Brontë. It covers her early years growing up in a Yorkshire parsonage, her struggles with poverty and the tragic deaths of her siblings, her development as a writer, and her eventual success. The book also delves into Brontë's relationships, particularly her close bond with her sisters, and her unrequited love for her married professor. The narrative is both a tribute to Brontë's resilience and talent, and a poignant portrayal of the hardships faced by women in the 19th century.
The 908th Greatest Book of All Time -
9. The World Of Yesterday by Stefan Zweig
Memoirs of a European
The book is a poignant memoir reflecting on the transformative events and cultural atmosphere of Europe before World War I, through the interwar years and into the rise of the Nazis. It captures the author's experiences of growing up in a vibrant pre-war Vienna, the intellectual richness and artistic achievements of the time, as well as the profound sense of loss as the world he knew disintegrated into chaos and totalitarianism. With a mix of nostalgia and despair, the narrative serves as a lament for the lost world of European culture and as a warning about the fragility of peace and the human cost of war.
The 910th Greatest Book of All Time -
10. Experience by Martin Amis
"Experience" is a memoir which delves into the author's life, exploring his relationships with his family, friends, and his own self. The narrative is a candid reflection on his father's influence, his friendships with other writers, his marriages, and his children. The author also discusses his experiences with fame, age, and loss, providing an intimate look into his personal and professional journey. The memoir is a blend of the author's unique humor, sharp observations, and poignant moments, offering a compelling and deeply personal narrative.
The 1299th Greatest Book of All Time -
11. The Memoirs Of Princess Dashkova by Ekaterina Romanovna Dashkova
A Prominent Figure in the Age of Enlightenment
"The Memoirs of Princess Dashkova" is a captivating autobiography that chronicles the remarkable life of a prominent Russian noblewoman. From her privileged upbringing and close relationship with Catherine the Great to her influential role in the Russian Academy of Sciences, Dashkova's memoirs offer a unique perspective on the political and cultural landscape of 18th-century Russia. With wit, intelligence, and a strong sense of self, Dashkova's narrative sheds light on her personal triumphs, challenges, and the turbulent historical events that shaped her life.
The 2037th Greatest Book of All Time -
12. The Periodic Table by Primo Levi
"The Periodic Table" is a collection of short stories that use elements of the periodic table as metaphors to explore the author's experiences as a Jewish-Italian chemist before, during, and after World War II. Each chapter is named after a chemical element, reflecting its significant role in the story. The work provides deep insights into the human condition and the power of science, while also serving as a poignant memoir of survival during the Holocaust.
The 2148th Greatest Book of All Time -
13. My Past And Thoughts by Alexander Herzen
The Memoirs of Alexander Herzen
The book is a rich and vivid memoir by a prominent Russian intellectual and revolutionary who lived through a period of profound social and political upheaval. It combines personal narrative with philosophical reflections, offering a penetrating look at the author's life experiences, from his aristocratic upbringing to his involvement in radical politics. The work delves into the author's ideological development, his relationships with key figures of his time, and his observations on the social issues and political movements that shaped the 19th century. It is a testament to the author's profound engagement with the ideas of freedom, justice, and human agency in the face of an oppressive regime and a changing world.
The 2165th Greatest Book of All Time -
14. Beethoven's Letters by Ludwig van Beethoven
This book offers an intimate glimpse into the personal life and inner world of one of classical music's greatest composers through a collection of his correspondence. Spanning from his early years in Bonn through his rise to fame in Vienna and until his death, the letters reveal his relationships with family, friends, and fellow artists, his struggles with hearing loss, and his insights into his creative process. They also reflect his financial worries, his search for love, and his passionate involvement with the political and cultural movements of his time. The letters are a testament to his enduring legacy and provide a deeper understanding of his music through the lens of his personal experiences and emotions.
The 2276th Greatest Book of All Time -
15. Life Of John Sterling by Thomas Carlyle
With an Essay on His Life and Writings
This biography chronicles the life of John Sterling, a lesser-known literary figure of the 19th century, exploring his intellectual pursuits, personal struggles, and the friendships that shaped him. The narrative delves into Sterling's quest for truth and meaning amidst the religious, philosophical, and social upheavals of his time. Through a series of letters, personal reflections, and accounts from those who knew him, the book paints a portrait of a man deeply engaged with the intellectual currents of his era, yet often at odds with himself and his health. The biography is as much a meditation on the challenges of leading a life of the mind in a turbulent era as it is a detailed account of Sterling's own endeavors, failures, and achievements.
The 2283rd Greatest Book of All Time -
16. All But My Life by Gerda Weissmann Klein
A Memoir
"All But My Life" is a poignant memoir of a young woman's six-year ordeal as a victim of Nazi cruelty. The narrative follows her life from a peaceful, upper-middle-class childhood in Bielitz, Poland, through her horrifying experiences and loss during the Holocaust, to her miraculous survival and marriage to an American soldier. It is a story of courage, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.
The 2370th Greatest Book of All Time -
17. The Autobiography of Mark Twain by Mark Twain
This book is an intimate and detailed account of the life of one of America's most celebrated authors. It covers his childhood in Missouri, his travels across the United States and Europe, and his career as a writer and public speaker. The book offers a candid and often humorous look at his personal life, his family, and his views on politics, religion, and literature. It provides an insightful look into his creative process and the experiences that influenced his most famous works.
The 2637th Greatest Book of All Time -
18. Zami by Audre Lorde
A New Spelling of My Name
This book is a biomythography, blending history, biography, and myth, of a young, black, lesbian woman growing up in 1950s Harlem. The narrative explores her early life, including her relationship with her immigrant parents, her sexual awakening, and her struggle to define her identity in a time of intense racial and homophobic prejudice. The protagonist's journey is marked by a series of women who shape her consciousness and her understanding of herself, leading her towards activism and writing.
The 2649th Greatest Book of All Time -
19. Iron & Silk by Mark Salzman
This book is a memoir that recounts the experiences of an American teacher and martial artist who spends two years in China during the early 1980s. The narrative delves into the cultural exchanges and misunderstandings between East and West as the author teaches English and studies kung fu with master practitioners. Through a series of vignettes, the memoir paints a portrait of a China still recovering from the Cultural Revolution, exploring themes of connection, tradition, and the nuances of human relationships across a vast cultural divide. The author's journey is one of self-discovery, as he navigates the complexities of life in a foreign land, building friendships and gaining insights into the subtleties of Chinese culture and society.
The 2712th Greatest Book of All Time -
20. Wittgenstein's Nephew by Thomas Bernhard
A Friendship
"Wittgenstein's Nephew" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the friendship between the narrator and his friend Paul, who is the nephew of the famous philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein. The story takes place in Vienna and is set against the backdrop of the Austrian mental health system. The novel delves into themes of sanity, insanity, and the fine line that separates the two, while also offering a critique of Austrian society. It is a meditation on the nature of illness, both physical and mental, and the impact it has on personal relationships and one's perception of the world.
The 3134th Greatest Book of All Time -
21. James Joyce by Richard Ellmann
This book is a comprehensive biography of a renowned Irish writer, delving into his life, work, and the intricate relationship between the two. It provides a detailed account of the writer's personal life, including his upbringing in Dublin, his self-imposed exile from Ireland, and his personal relationships. The book also offers a thorough analysis of his major works and the profound influence they have had on 20th-century literature. The biography is meticulously researched, drawing on a wealth of primary sources, and is written in an engaging and accessible style.
The 3261st Greatest Book of All Time -
22. Being Geniuses Together by Robert McAlmon
An Autobiography
"Being Geniuses Together" is a memoir that offers an intimate glimpse into the lives and social milieu of the expatriate writers and artists living in Paris during the 1920s. The narrative, rich with personal anecdotes and observations, paints a vivid portrait of the bohemian lifestyle and creative ferment of the Lost Generation. The book delves into the friendships, rivalries, and collaborations among some of the era's most renowned literary figures, providing a candid and often critical perspective on the talents and personalities that defined this iconic and transformative period in literary history.
The 3273rd Greatest Book of All Time -
23. Just Kids by Patti Smith
"Just Kids" is a poignant memoir that explores the journey of two friends in New York City during the late 1960s and 70s. The book delves into their dreams, struggles, and successes as they navigate their way through the city's vibrant art and music scene. It's a tale of love, friendship, and the pursuit of artistic inspiration, providing a raw and intimate look into their lives as they strive to make a name for themselves in the world of art and music.
The 3333rd Greatest Book of All Time -
24. John Keats by Robert Gittings
The Living Year
This biography provides an in-depth look at the life of one of the most beloved English Romantic poets, exploring his brief but impactful career, personal struggles, and the posthumous fame that his work achieved. The author meticulously examines the poet's relationships, his profound love for literature, and how his experiences shaped his writing, which includes some of the most celebrated poems in the English language. Through detailed research and analysis, the book paints a vivid picture of the poet's life, from his early years and medical background to his untimely death, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of his enduring legacy in the world of poetry.
The 3380th Greatest Book of All Time -
25. North Toward Home by Willie Morris
"North Toward Home" is a memoir that explores the author's journey from his childhood in the South during the 1940s, through his college years in Texas, and finally his time in New York City as a young writer in the 1960s. The book offers a vivid portrayal of the South's racial tensions and the author's struggles with the cultural differences in the North. The author's longing for his Southern roots while grappling with the stark realities of racism and social change forms the central theme of the book.
The 3397th Greatest Book of All Time
Reading Statistics
Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!
Download
If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.
Download