The Greatest Biography and Poverty 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 465 '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.

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Biography

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.

Poverty

The category of "Poverty" in books refers to stories that explore the experiences of individuals or communities living in poverty. These books may examine the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to poverty, as well as the personal struggles and triumphs of those living in poverty. They may also shed light on the inequalities and injustices that exist within society and the impact they have on marginalized communities. Overall, books in this category aim to raise awareness and understanding of poverty and its effects on individuals and society as a whole.

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  1. 1. 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 352nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Souls of Black Folk by W. E. B. Du Bois

    Essays and Sketches

    This seminal work is a collection of essays that explores the history and condition of African Americans at the turn of the 20th century. It delves into the issues of race, class, and the socio-economic realities faced by black people post-emancipation. The author employs a combination of history, sociology, and personal narrative to present a powerful critique of American society, highlighting the struggle for civil rights, the importance of black spirituals, and the concept of "double consciousness" - the idea of viewing oneself through the lens of a society that sees you as inferior.

    The 367th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Black Boy by Richard Wright

    A Record of Childhood and Youth

    "Black Boy" is an autobiographical account of a young African-American boy growing up in the South during the early 20th century. The book explores his experiences with extreme poverty, racism, and his struggle to find his place in a society that marginalizes and devalues him. The protagonist's desire for self-expression and understanding leads him to a love of literature and writing, providing him with a means to challenge and critique the oppressive social structures around him.

    The 780th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Down Second Avenue by Es'kia Mphahlele

    "Down Second Avenue" is a semi-autobiographical account of a black man's life under apartheid in South Africa. The narrative chronicles the protagonist's journey from childhood to adulthood, detailing his experiences with poverty, discrimination, and the struggle for education. Despite the harsh realities of life under apartheid, the protagonist's resilience and determination shine through, offering a poignant and powerful critique of the socio-political realities of the time.

    The 863rd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt

    A Memoir

    This memoir is a profound and heart-wrenching account of the author's impoverished childhood in Limerick, Ireland, during the 1930s and 1940s. The story is filled with tales of survival in the face of extreme poverty, an alcoholic father, a struggling mother, and the deaths of three siblings. Despite the harsh circumstances, the narrative is infused with a sense of humor and hope, demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit.

    The 1115th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Color of Water by James McBride

    A Black Man's Tribute to His White Mother

    This book is a moving memoir that tells the story of a biracial man raised in a housing project in Brooklyn by his white, Jewish mother. The narrative alternates between the author's perspective and his mother's, providing a nuanced view of issues related to race, religion, and identity. The author's mother, a Polish immigrant, married a black man in the 1940s and raised twelve children in the midst of poverty and racial tension. Despite the hardships, she instilled in her children the importance of education and self-reliance. The book is a tribute to the strength, resilience, and love of this remarkable woman.

    The 1234th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Hard Times by Studs Terkel

    An Oral History of the Great Depression

    This book is a compelling oral history of the Great Depression, featuring a collection of interviews from a diverse range of individuals who lived through the era. The interviewees include both the ordinary people and famous figures of the time, from businessmen and politicians to artists and criminals. The book provides a vivid, first-hand account of the economic hardship, social changes, and emotional struggles experienced by people during the 1930s, offering a unique perspective on this significant period in American history.

    The 2087th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The House on Henry Street by Lillian D. Wald

    The Enduring Life of a Lower East Side Settlement House

    "The House on Henry Street" is a memoir by a prominent social worker and public health advocate, detailing her experiences and work in the Lower East Side of New York City in the early 20th century. The book chronicles her establishment of a settlement house in the area, which provided a range of services including healthcare, education, and employment assistance to the community. The narrative offers a poignant insight into the struggles and resilience of the immigrant population during this period, and the author's pioneering role in public health nursing and social reform.

    The 2702nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson

    A Story of Justice and Redemption

    This book is a profound work of non-fiction that focuses on the author's experiences as a young lawyer fighting for the rights of those wrongfully convicted or excessively punished. The narrative primarily revolves around the case of a black man sentenced to death for a crime he didn't commit. The author not only exposes the inherent racial bias and systemic flaws in the American criminal justice system, but also provides a compelling argument for compassion in the pursuit of justice.

    The 3287th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Kaffir Boy by Mark Mathabane

    The True Story of a Black Youth's Coming of Age in Apartheid South Africa

    This autobiography tells the story of a young boy growing up in apartheid-era South Africa. Despite enduring extreme poverty, brutal police raids, and constant racial discrimination, the protagonist manages to escape his harsh reality through education and tennis. His determination and resilience eventually lead him to receive a scholarship to an American university, providing him a chance to escape the oppressive system of apartheid.

    The 3344th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. A Childhood by Harry Crews

    The Biography of a Place

    This book is a memoir of the author's early years in Bacon County, Georgia, during the Great Depression. It details his life in a poverty-stricken, rural community, exploring themes of hardship, resilience, and the human spirit. Despite the harsh circumstances, the author also recounts moments of joy and beauty, offering a vivid and compelling portrait of his childhood and the place that shaped him.

    The 3555th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. All Over But The Shoutin' by Rick Bragg

    A Memoir

    The memoir is a heartfelt tribute to the author's mother who struggled to raise her three sons in dire poverty in the deep south. The author recounts his journey from a poor, white, uneducated family in Alabama to winning a Pulitzer Prize as a national correspondent. It is a story of love, loss, and redemption, showcasing the enduring strength and resilience of a mother's love amidst hardship and adversity.

    The 3890th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder

    The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World

    The book is a compelling narrative about a dedicated doctor who leaves behind his comfortable life in America to work in the poorest regions of Haiti. His mission is to combat diseases like tuberculosis and AIDS, which are rampant in these areas. Despite facing numerous challenges, including lack of resources and political instability, his relentless determination and commitment to his cause lead to significant improvements in healthcare for these underserved populations. The story is a testament to the power of one individual's unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world.

    The 3901st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance

    A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis

    "Hillbilly Elegy" is a memoir that explores the author's personal journey from a troubled upbringing in a working-class Appalachian family to achieving success as a Yale Law School graduate. Through his own experiences, J. D. Vance delves into the challenges and complexities faced by the white working class in America, addressing issues such as poverty, addiction, and the cultural dynamics that shape their lives. This poignant and thought-provoking account offers a compassionate and insightful examination of social and economic struggles, while also reflecting on the importance of family, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

    The 4326th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Common Ground by J. Anthony Lukas

    A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families

    "Common Ground" is a non-fiction book that provides an in-depth examination of racial tensions in Boston, Massachusetts during the 1960s and 1970s, primarily focusing on the controversial issue of court-ordered busing to integrate public schools. The narrative follows three families - one African-American, one Irish-American, and one Yankee - to depict the effects of these tensions on the city's different communities. The book also explores the historical, political, and social context of these events, offering a comprehensive analysis of a critical period in American history.

    The 4606th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Dr. Johnson & Mr. Savage by Richard Holmes

    A Biographical Mystery

    This book delves into the complex friendship between the 18th-century literary figure Samuel Johnson and the enigmatic poet Richard Savage. It explores the profound influence they had on each other's lives and works, set against the backdrop of London's vibrant and often sordid literary scene. The narrative weaves a tale of two men from vastly different backgrounds who form an unlikely bond, with Johnson becoming fascinated by Savage's scandalous history and the mysteries surrounding his true identity. Through their association, the book examines themes of authorship, friendship, and the struggles of the creative life, while also painting a rich picture of the society they navigated.

    The 5089th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson, David Oliver Relin

    One Man's Mission to Promote Peace... One School at a Time

    The book tells the true story of a man who, after a failed attempt to climb K2, the world's second highest mountain, is taken in by the people of a small village in Pakistan. Touched by their kindness and noticing their lack of educational facilities, he promises to build them a school. The story follows his journey of fulfilling this promise, which expands into a mission to build schools, especially for girls, in remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan, despite numerous challenges, including financial struggles, cultural barriers and threats from the Taliban.

    The 5238th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. The Seed Is Mine by Charles Van Onselen

    The Life of Kas Maine, a South African Sharecropper 1894-1985

    "The Seed Is Mine" is a historical non-fiction book that explores the life of a black South African named Klaas, who lived through the tumultuous years of apartheid. Through extensive research and interviews, the author delves into Klaas' personal experiences, struggles, and aspirations, shedding light on the complex dynamics of race, class, and power during this period. The book offers a poignant and intimate portrayal of one man's fight for dignity and justice amidst a system designed to suppress and oppress.

    The 5467th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario

    The Story of a Boy's Dangerous Odyssey to Reunite with His Mother

    "Enrique's Journey" is a poignant narrative about a young Honduran boy who embarks on a perilous journey through Central America and Mexico to reach his mother in the United States. The story, based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning newspaper series, explores the harsh realities faced by immigrants, the devastating impact of family separations, and the unyielding determination of a child in search of his mother. It offers a deeply personal and eye-opening perspective on the challenges and perils faced by undocumented immigrants.

    The 5482nd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Women Of The Shadows by Ann Cornelisen

    Wives and Mothers of Southern Italy

    "Women of the Shadows" is a poignant exploration of the lives of five Italian women in the impoverished region of southern Italy during the mid-20th century. The book delves into the personal narratives of these women, revealing the harsh realities and societal expectations they face. Through intimate portraits, the author uncovers the strength and resilience of these women as they navigate a world of limited opportunities, traditional gender roles, and the struggle for self-determination. The work serves as both a testament to the enduring spirit of these individuals and a critique of the cultural and economic conditions that shape their lives.

    The 5669th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Born A Crime by Trevor Noah

    Stories from a South African Childhood

    "Born A Crime" is a captivating memoir that chronicles the life of Trevor Noah, a South African comedian and television host. Set during the apartheid era, the book explores Noah's experiences as a mixed-race child growing up in a society where interracial relationships were illegal. With humor and insight, Noah recounts his struggles with identity, poverty, and racism, while also highlighting the resilience and strength of his mother who played a pivotal role in his life. This thought-provoking memoir offers a compelling and personal perspective on race, family, and the power of laughter in the face of adversity.

    The 5721st Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Mao's Last Dancer by Li Cunxin

    A Memoir

    The book is a memoir of a Chinese peasant boy who, chosen at a young age by Madame Mao's cultural delegates to become a ballet dancer, undergoes a grueling training at Beijing Dance Academy. Through sheer determination and resilience, he excels and earns a rare opportunity to study in America. His experiences abroad open his eyes to the stark contrasts between the communist regime of China and the freedoms of the West. The story follows his emotional and ideological struggle as he eventually defects, leaving behind his family and homeland to pursue his passion for dance and a life of artistic and personal freedom.

    The 5851st Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. All God’s Dangers by Theodore Rosengarten

    The Life of Nate Shaw

    The book is a compelling oral history that captures the life of Nate Shaw, an African American sharecropper in the early 20th-century American South. Through Shaw's vivid recollections, the narrative delves into the harsh realities of sharecropping, racial discrimination, and the struggle for civil rights. Shaw's resilience and determination shine through as he navigates the complexities of his environment, offering a poignant and personal perspective on broader social and economic issues. The work is a testament to the enduring spirit of an individual who, despite systemic oppression, maintains his dignity and sense of justice.

    The 6199th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Growing Up by Russell Baker

    A Personal History

    "Growing Up" is a memoir that recounts the author's experiences growing up in America during the Great Depression and World War II. The author shares his journey from a poverty-stricken childhood in Virginia to becoming a successful journalist in New York. The narrative is filled with engaging anecdotes about his family, particularly his strong-willed mother, and the struggles they faced during these challenging times. The memoir is an exploration of the author's family history, personal growth, and the socio-political landscape of mid-20th century America.

    The 6594th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Prairie Fires by Caroline Fraser

    The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder

    This book presents a deeply researched biography of Laura Ingalls Wilder, the author of the "Little House on the Prairie" series. It provides an in-depth look into Wilder's life and the historical context in which she lived, from the westward expansion to the Great Depression and beyond. The narrative explores the complex relationship between Wilder and her daughter, the hardships they faced, and the ways in which these experiences shaped Wilder's writing. It also delves into the myths and realities of American frontier life, challenging the often-romanticized view of pioneer life.

    The 6719th 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