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24 best autobiographies you have to read in 2024

Whether you're a long-time lover of non-fiction or you're new to the world of autobiographies, this is our list of the 24 best autobiographies you've got to read in 2024.

• Imogen Hope
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Are you dreaming of a summer holiday? Perhaps you're fantasising of afternoons spent lying on the beach or by the pool — chilly January days just a mere memory... And there's nothing that says holiday quite like a new book.

Autobiographical writing is a skill that is hard to master. Done well, it can give you a behind the scenes peek into the world of your favourite star, or give you an insight into historical events and cultural context that would otherwise be near impossible to understand.

While books can make some of the best gifts for others they also can be a great gift for yourself — especially if you're looking to take a break from the screens that surround us in modern life. We love the experience of going into a bookshop, looking at all the covers and picking out a few new titles. But life can get busy, and it can be tricky to find the time to continue to support your local bookshop. Shopping from a site like Bookshop.org also lets you support independent bookshops from home.

Having said that, reading a physical book isn't the only way to enjoy these amazing stories.

Getting a Kindle can be a great way to carry lots of books round with you if you're travelling, and you can often download books for a much lower cost. Listening to audiobooks is also a great way to stay on top of your reading when you're on the go. Amazon Audible lets you download books onto your phone and listen as you go, and it's also running a 30-day UK free trial right now.

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Here's our list of the best autobiographies that you should read in your lifetime.

Looking for better ways to experience your favourite audiobook? Check out guides to the best wireless earbuds , best AirPod alternatives , and the best smart speakers . For more on audio, take a look at the best DAB radios .

Best autobiographies at a glance:

• Open, Andre Agassi | £10.99
• Everything I Know About Love, Dolly Alderton | £10.99
• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou | from £4.99
• Wild Swans, Jung Chang | from £4.49
• The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion | from £6.99
• The Princess Diarist, Carrie Fisher | £10.99
• The Diary of a Young Girl, Anne Frank | from £9.49
• All Creatures Great and Small, James Herriot | from £9.49
• This is Going to Hurt, Adam Kay | from £5.99
• Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela | from £6.99
• I'm Glad My Mom Died, Jennette McCurdy | from £11.99
• Dreams From My Father, Barack Obama | £9.99
• Becoming, Michelle Obama | from £7.99
• Madly, Deeply: The Diaries of Alan Rickman, Alan Rickman | from £7.50
• Just Kids, Patti Smith | £12.34
• Wild, Cheryl Strayed | £8.99
• Taste, Stanley Tucci | from £1.99
• Educated, Tara Westover | £10.99
• I Am Malala, Malala Yousafzai | from £8.54
• Crying In H Mart, Michelle Zauner | £9.99
• Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing, Matthew Perry | £20.99
• The Woman in Me, Britney Spears | £12.50
• Love, Pamela, Pamela Anderson | from £10.99
• Finding Me, Viola Davis | from £5.99

Best autobiographies to read in 2024

Open, andre agassi.

Written in 2009, this is the autobiography of the American former World No.1 tennis player, Andre Agassi. Written in collaboration with JR Moehringer from a collection of hundreds of hours of tapes, this memoir gives top insight into the life of a professional sportsperson.

Agassi's was a career of fierce rivalries and it's fascinating to hear these from the perspective of an insider. Like many high-performing careers, in sport children are singled out for their talent at a young age, and Agassi describes the intensity of training for himself and his fellow tennis players in their collective pursuit of excellence.

This book would make a great present for any tennis fan, and gives an interesting insight into the man behind the nickname 'The Punisher'.

Buy Open by Andre Agassi for £10.99 at Waterstones

Everything I Know About Love, Dolly Alderton

Everything I Know About Love follows Times columnist Dolly Alderton through her early life and 20s. It tackles themes of dating, love, friendship as Alderton comes of age and grows into herself. Dispersed with recipes in the style of Nora Ephron's Heartburn, the book gained a cult following since it was published in 2018 and won a National Book Award (UK) for best autobiography of the year.

Alderton's memoir has also now been turned into a BBC TV show which follows a fictionalised version of Alderton and her friends as they navigate life in London.

Buy Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton for £10.99 at Foyles

I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou

I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings is the first of seven autobiographies Angelou wrote about her life. It follows her childhood, beginning when she's just three years old and spanning to when she is 16 — from her time as a child to when she had a child herself. The book follows the young Maya as she and her brother Bailey are moved between family members following the separation of her parents.

Discussing themes of racism, sexual assault and displacement, the expertly crafted narrative is widely taught in schools here and in the US. Written in the aftermath of the death of Martin Luther King Jr in 1968, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings became an instant classic and is a must-read.

Buy I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou from £4.99 at Amazon

Wild Swans, Jung Chang

Slightly different from traditional first person autobiographies, in this book Jung Chang tells the stories of three generations of women in her own family — her grandmother, her mother and herself. At a time when China is becoming increasingly isolated from the rest of the world, this book provides vital context into the 20th century history of the country.

Through the stories of her grandmother who was given to a warlord as a concubine, and her mother who was a young idealist during the rise of Communism, she captures moments of bravery, fear, and ultimately survival.

The book, which is banned in China, has sold more than 13 million copies worldwide and is as beautifully written as it is educationally fascinating.

Buy Wild Swans by Jung Chang from £4.49 at Amazon

The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion

Published in 2005 when it went on to win Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography, this book follows Didion in the year after her the death of her husband of nearly 40 years, John Gregory Dunne. In this harrowing depiction of grief, love and loss, Didion turns her personal experience into one that is universally relatable.

Didion and Donne's adopted daughter Quintana fell ill days before his death and was still in hospital when he died. Didion recounts her experience caring for her throughout the book, all while going through her own grief.

While not an easy read, this is an incredibly powerful one.

Buy The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion from £6.99 at Amazon

The Princess Diarist, Carrie Fisher

This might be an obvious choice for any Star Wars fan, but we think the appeal of this book stretches far beyond just that. Made up of the diaries Fisher wrote when she was 19 years old and first started playing Princess Leia, the book was released shortly before her death in 2016.

Any peak behind the scenes of such a well-known franchise is bound to be popular, and this examines her experience as a young adult thrust into the world of fame and sex. Unlike her deeply person earlier memoir Wishful Drinking, in which Fisher described her struggles with mental illness, The Princess Diarist is full of bombshell revelations and funny punchlines, making for an enjoyable read.

Buy The Princess Diarist by Carrie Fisher for £10.99 at Foyles

The Diary of a Young Girl, Anne Frank

The title of this book is clever because in so many ways, Anne Frank's diary is just that — the diary of a young girl. But it is also a vital account of history.

Starting on her 13th birthday, Anne writes about her life with her family living in Amsterdam from 1942 to 1944. Alongside other Jews, Anne and her family go into hiding to escape persecution from the Nazis. She deals with all the feeling teenagers experience growing up, but also grapples with her isolation, lack of freedom, and trying to understand what is happening in the world around her.

Important reading for young people and adults alike, Anne's writing brings home the realities of human suffering levelled upon the Jewish people by the Nazis. Anne's father Otto Frank was the only member of her family to survive the Holocaust, and he published his daughter's diary in line with her wishes.

Buy The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank from £9.49 at Bookshop.org

All Creatures Great and Small, James Herriot

This book would make a great gift for the animal lover in your life, or any fan of the great outdoors. In it, James Herriot recounts his experiences as a newly qualified vet working in the Yorkshire Dales in the 1930s.

The first in his series of memoirs, All Creatures Great and Small finds Herriot in situations where there are high stakes, and more often than not some hilarity (think escaped pigs!). In the years since their first publication, the books have become classics.

If you want more of All Creatures Great and Small, there is also a TV adaptation to get stuck into.

Buy All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot from £8.54 at Bookshop.org

This is Going to Hurt, Adam Kay

This autobiography follows Adam Kay through his years as a junior doctor specialising in obstetrics and gynaecology and working within the NHS. It will have you crying of laughter and sorrow as the young doctor finds himself helping people from all walks of life, all while his own personal life falls into disarray.

Kay's debut publication was the bestselling non-fiction title of 2018 in the UK and stayed at the top of the charts for weeks.

This is Going to Hurt was adapted into a limited drama series by the BBC earlier this year starring Ben Whishaw, which used elements of the book to explore wider themes around health and the NHS.

Buy This is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay from £5.99 at Amazon

Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela

This autobiography hardly needs an introduction. It tells the life story of former South African President and antiapartheid revolutionary Nelson Mandela, covering his childhood, education and the 27 years he spent in prison.

Mandela is internationally praised for overcoming enormous persecution and struggle, rebuilding South Africa's society as President. The film adaptation of his autobiography stars Idris Elba as Mandela, and was released shortly after his death.

The Kindle edition and paperback copy of this book starts from just £6.99.

Buy Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela from 99p at Amazon

I'm Glad My Mom Died, Jennette McCurdy

Jennette McCurdy's memoir has been one of the most talked about books of 2022. A former child star best know for her role on Nickelodeon's iCarly in the USA, McCurdy's memoir describes her experience growing up in the limelight with an abusive parent.

The book's title has, unsurprisingly, been a big talking point, but it addresses an issue faced by many who write about their life experiences — how do you write about your true experience without damaging your relationships? In this frank and often funny book, McCurdy describes the emotional complexity of receiving abuse from someone you love.

Buy I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy from £11.99 at Amazon

Dreams From My Father, Barack Obama

Published nearly 15 years before he became President of the United States, Barack Obama's first memoir is a deep exploration into identity and belonging. In this book which begins with him learning about his father's death, Obama explores his own relationship with race as the son of a Black Kenyan father and a white American mother.

Written with his recognisable voice, Obama travels back to Kansas where his mother's family is from (they later moved to Hawaii where Obama spent most of his childhood) before making the journey to Kenya.

This makes an interesting read not only to learn more about the background of a man who holds such an important place in America's history, but also in shedding light on how we all relate to our own parentage and what makes us who we are.

Buy Dreams From My Father by Barack Obama for £9.99 at Waterstones

Becoming, Michelle Obama

America's former First Lady Michelle Obama recounts experiences of her life in this record breaking autobiography, from growing up on the south side of Chicago with her parents and brother, to attending Princeton University and Harvard Law School before returning to Chicago as a qualified lawyer. It was whilst working at a law firm in the city that she met her husband Barack Obama.

Obama uses her elegant story telling to take us along on the incredible journey she went on, as an accomplished lawyer, daughter, wife and mother to becoming First Lady. This is an autobiography that lets you see history from the insider's perspective and is definitely a must read.

Buy Becoming by Michelle Obama from £7.99 at Amazon

Madly, Deeply: The Diaries of Alan Rickman, Alan Rickman

Alan Rickman was much loved for his roles in fan favourite films, such as Hans Gruber in Die Hard and Professor Severus Snape in the Harry Potter series. This collection of diary entries, written with the intention of being made public and published after his death, give his witty insights into his day-to-day life but also his take on world events.

The book is filled not only with delightful showbiz gossip, but also with snippets of hidden moments — from his disbelief and grief at the sudden death of actor and friend Natasha Richardson, to the relief he feels that the costume for Severus Snape still fits.

Buy Madly, Deeply: The Diaries of Alan Rickman by Alan Rickman from £7.79 at Amazon

Just Kids, Patti Smith

On its release in 2010, Patti Smith's memoir won the US National Book Award for Nonfiction. In many ways it is a love letter to her life long friend, the artist Robert Mapplethorpe. In Just Kids, she recounts their meeting, romance and how they continued to inspire and encourage each other in their artistic pursuits for the rest of their lives.

This story which so vividly depicts life is, however, overshadowed by Mapplethorpe's death. Read for a vivid description of the New York art scene in the late '60s.

Buy Just Kids by Patti Smith for £12.34 at Bookshop.org

Wild, Cheryl Strayed

In this autobiography, Cheryl Strayed writes about hiking the Pacific Coast Trail, from the Mojave Desert in California to Washington State in the Pacific North West. In total, Strayed walks over a thousand miles on her own and in the process, she walked back to herself.

This memoir is beautifully written, moving between stories from the trail to those about Strayed's childhood, her struggles with heroin use and the sudden death of her mother — the main motivation for her walk. Full of suspense, warmth and humour, this book will make you think about your life and your family, and probably make you want to go on a walk.

Wild was adapted into a film in 2014, produced by and starring Reese Witherspoon.

Buy Wild by Cheryl Strayed for £8.99 at Waterstones

Taste, Stanley Tucci

Stanley Tucci has long been beloved for his nuanced and charming acting performances, but in the last few years has gained popularity for his true love — food. Between his CNN series Searching for Italy making us all cross eyed with food envy, and his cookbook The Tucci Table written with wife Felicity Blunt, there's no getting away from the fact that Stanley Tucci is giving Italian food an even better name than it had already.

But there's a good reason for Tucci's renewed love of food and his devotion to these passion projects. He was diagnosed with oral cancer in 2018 which left him unable to eat for several months, and even after he was able to eat again, his sense of taste was changed. In this memoir, he recounts his early relationship with food in his grandparent's kitchen and at his parent's table, and how his relationship with food has shaped all the loves of his life.

We recommend having a bowl of pasta in front of you while you read this!

Buy Taste by Stanley Tucci from £6.99 at Amazon

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Educated, Tara Westover

This is a frankly astonishing memoir in which Tara Westover recounts how she came from a Mormon fundamentalist background without a birth certificate or any schooling, and ended up studying for her PhD at the University of Cambridge.

Westover gives readers a peak behind the curtain into the lifestyle of a group who do everything they can to stay away from the outside world. She recounts the experience of herself and her siblings as they grew up in an environment where they were often injured and didn't have access to medical help.

The juxtaposition of loving her family and yet needing to escape is acutely described, and she writes so cleverly about the complex subject matter, often admitting that her version of events may not be the correct one. Westover expertly uses her own story to examine themes of religion, love and above all education - and we promise you won't be able to put it down.

Buy Educated by Tara Westover for £10.99 at Foyles

I Am Malala, Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai's story is undeniably an incredible one. After the Taliban took over in Swat Valley in Pakistan where she was born, Yousafzai was prevented from going to school. Despite being just a child herself, she became outspoken on girls' right to learn and in 2012, she was shot in the head by a masked gunman while on the bus to school.

After the attack Yousafzai moved to the UK with her family. In this autobiography, she describes the importance of female education, starting the Malala Fund, and receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014. This book will leave you inspired.

Buy I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai from £8.54 at Bookshop.org

Crying In H Mart, Michelle Zauner

Michelle Zauner is an Asian-American singer-songwriter and guitarist best known as lead of the band Japanese Breakfast. In this memoir, Zauner explores her relationship with her Korean heritage and how her mother's death forced her to reckon with the side of herself she had all but lost.

At the heart of this book about love, loss and grief is food. It acts as a constant dialogue between Zauner and her mother, as well as an enduring connection with her Korean heritage. This makes for a highly emotional and thought-provoking read.

Buy Crying In H Mart by Michelle Zauner for £9.99 at Waterstones

Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing, Matthew Perry

Last year, we were saddened by the news that Friends actor Matthew Perry had sadly passed away, his autobiography, Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing had become a bestseller the year before.

In Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing, Perry takes the reader behind the scenes of the most successful sitcom of all time (Friends), and he opens up about his private struggles with addiction. The book is honest and moving, with plenty of Perry's trademark humour, too.

Buy Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry for £20.99 at Waterstones

The Woman in Me, Britney Spears

If the reviews of Britney Spears's autobiography are anything to go by — "The easiest 5 stars I've given" — The Woman in Me is sure to be a hit with Spears fans.

For the first time in a book, Spears is sharing her truth with the world: The Woman in Me tackles themes of fame, motherhood, survival and freedom, and Spears doesn't shy away from speaking about her journey as one of the world's biggest pop stars.

Buy The Woman in Me by Britney Spears for £12.50 at Waterstones

Love, Pamela, Pamela Anderson

We might think we know Pamela Anderson as the bombshell in Baywatch, Playboy's favourite cover girl, and, more recently, making makeup-free appearances on red carpets – looking beautiful as she does so; she's an icon and an activist, and now we can read all about her in her own words for the first time.

Anderson uses a mixture of poetry and prose to speak about her childhood, career, and how she lost control of her own narrative.

Buy Love, Pamela by Pamela Anderson from £10.99 at Amazon

Finding Me, Viola Davis

Naturally, we're big Viola Davis fans over on RadioTimes.com — we've loved her in everything from The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes to The Woman King and The Help, so her autobiography Finding Me is right up our street.

In this book, we meet Davis when she's a little girl in an apartment in Central Falls, Rhode Island, and we journey with her to her stage career in New York City and beyond.

Buy Finding Me by Viola Davis from £5.99 at Amazon

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The best biographies to read in 2023

• Nik Rawlinson

Discover what inspired some of history’s most familiar names with these comprehensive biographies

The best biographies can be inspirational, can provide important life lessons – and can warn us off a dangerous path. They’re also a great way to learn more about important figures in history, politics, business and entertainment. That’s because the best biographies not only reveal what a person did with their life, but what effect it had and, perhaps most importantly, what inspired them to act as they did.

Where both a biography and an autobiography exist, you might be tempted to plump for the latter, assuming you’d get a more accurate and in-depth telling of the subject’s life story. While that may be true, it isn’t always the case. It’s human nature to be vain, and who could blame a celebrity or politician if they covered up their embarrassments and failures when committing their lives to paper? A biographer, so long as they have the proof to back up their claims, may have less incentive to spare their subject’s blushes, and thus produce a more honest account – warts and all.

That said, we’ve steered clear of the sensational in selecting the best biographies for you. Rather, we’ve focused on authoritative accounts of notable names, in each case written some time after their death, when a measured, sober assessment of their actions and impact can be given.

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Best biographies: At a glance

• Best literary biography: Agatha Christie: A Very Elusive Woman by Lucy Worsley | £20
• Best showbiz biography: Let’s Do It: The Authorised Biography of Victoria Wood | £6.78
• Best political biography: Hitler by Ian Kershaw | £14

How to choose the best biography for you

There are so many biographies to choose from that it can be difficult knowing which to choose. This is especially true when there are several competing titles focused on the same subject. Try asking yourself these questions.

Is the author qualified?

Wikipedia contains potted biographies of every notable figure you could ever want to read about. So, if you’re going to spend several hours with a novel-sized profile it must go beyond the basics – and you want to be sure that the author knows what they’re talking about.

That doesn’t mean they need to have been personally acquainted with the subject, as Jasper Rees was with Victoria Wood. Ian Kershaw never met Adolf Hitler (he was, after all, just two years old when Hitler killed himself), but he published his first works on the subject in the late 1980s, has advised on BBC documentaries about the Second World War, and is an acknowledged expert on the Nazi era. It’s no surprise, then, that his biography of the dictator is extensive, comprehensive and acclaimed.

Is there anything new to say?

What inspires someone to write a biography – particularly of someone whose life has already been documented? Sometimes it can be the discovery of new facts, perhaps through the uncovering of previously lost material or the release of papers that had been suppressed on the grounds of national security. But equally, it may be because times have changed so much that the context of previous biographies is no longer relevant. Attitudes, in particular, evolve with time, and what might have been considered appropriate behaviour in the 1950s would today seem discriminatory or shocking. So, an up-to-date biography that places the subject’s actions and motivations within a modern context can make it a worthwhile read, even if you’ve read an earlier work already.

Does it look beyond the subject?

The most comprehensive biographies place their subject in context – and show how that context affected their outlook and actions or is reflected in their work. Lucy Worsley’s new biography of Agatha Christie is a case in point, referencing Christie’s works to show how real life influenced her fiction. Mathew Parker’s Goldeneye does the same for Bond author Ian Fleming – and in doing so, both books enlarge considerably on the biography’s core subject.

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1. Let’s Do It: The Authorised Biography of Victoria Wood by Jasper Rees: Best showbiz biography

Price: £6.78 | Buy now from Amazon

It’s hardly surprising Victoria Wood never got around to writing her own autobiography. Originator of countless sketches, songs, comedy series, films, plays, documentaries and a sitcom, she kept pushing back the mammoth job of chronicling her life until it was too late. Wood’s death in 2016 came as a surprise to many, with the entertainer taking her final bow in private at the end of a battle with cancer she had fought away from the public eye.

In the wake of her death, her estate approached journalist Jasper Rees, who had interviewed her on many occasions, with the idea of writing the story that Wood had not got around to writing herself. With their backing, Rees’ own encounters with Wood, and the comic’s tape-recorded notes to go on, the result is a chunky, in-depth, authoritative account of her life. It seems unlikely that Wood could have written it more accurately – nor more fully – herself.

Looking back, it’s easy to forget that Wood wasn’t a constant feature on British TV screens, that whole years went by when her focus would be on writing or performing on stage, or even that her career had a surprisingly slow start after a lonely childhood in which television was a constant companion. This book reminds us of those facts – and that Wood wasn’t just a talented performer, but a hard worker, too, who put in the hours required to deliver the results.

Let’s Do It, which takes its title from a lyric in one of Wood’s best-known songs, The Ballad of Barry & Freda, is a timely reminder that there are two sides to every famous character: one public and one private. It introduces us to the person behind the personality, and shows how the character behind the characters for which she is best remembered came to be.

Key specs – Length: 592 pages; Publisher: Trapeze; ISBN: 978-1409184119

Let's Do It: The Authorised Biography of Victoria Wood

2. the chief: the life of lord northcliffe, britain’s greatest press baron by andrew roberts: best business biography.

Lord Northcliffe wasn’t afraid of taking risks – many of which paid off handsomely. He founded a small paper called Answers to Correspondents, branched out into comics, and bought a handful of newspapers. Then he founded the Daily Mail, and applied what he’d learned in running his smaller papers on a far grander scale. The world of publishing – in Britain and beyond – was never the same again. The Daily Mail was a huge success, which led to the founding of the Daily Mirror, primarily for women, and his acquisition of the Observer, Times and Sunday Times.

By then, Northcliffe controlled almost half of Britain’s daily newspaper circulation. Nobody before him had ever enjoyed such reach – or such influence over the British public – as he did through his titles. This gave him sufficient political clout to sway the direction of government in such fundamental areas as the establishment of the Irish Free State and conscription in the run-up to the First World War. He was appointed to head up Britain’s propaganda operation during the conflict, and in this position he became a target for assassination, with a German warship shelling his home in Broadstairs. Beyond publishing, he was ahead of many contemporaries in understanding the potential of aviation as a force for good, as a result of which he funded several highly valuable prizes for pioneers in the field.

He achieved much in his 57 years, as evidenced by this biography, but suffered both physical and mental ill health towards the end. The empire that he built may have fragmented since his passing, with the Daily Mirror, Observer, Times and Sunday Times having left the group that he founded, but his influence can still be felt. For anyone who wants to understand how and why titles like the Daily Mail became so successful, The Chief is an essential read.

Key specs – Length: 556 pages; Publisher: Simon & Schuster; ISBN: 978-1398508712

The Chief: The Life of Lord Northcliffe Britain's Greatest Press Baron

3. goldeneye by matthew parker: best biography for cinema fans.

The name Goldeneye is synonymous with James Bond. It was the title of both a film and a video game, a fictional super weapon, a real-life Second World War plan devised by author Ian Fleming, and the name of the Jamaican estate where he wrote one Bond book every year between 1952 and his death in 1964. The Bond film makers acknowledged this in 2021’s No Time To Die, making that estate the home to which James Bond retired, just as his creator had done at the end of the war, 75 years earlier.

Fleming had often talked of his plan to write the spy novel to end all spy novels once the conflict was over, and it’s at Goldeneye that he fulfilled that ambition. Unsurprisingly, many of his experiences there found their way into his prose and the subsequent films, making this biography as much a history of Bond itself as it is a focused retelling of Fleming’s life in Jamaica. It’s here, we learn, that Fleming first drinks a Vesper at a neighbour’s house. Vesper later became a character in Casino Royale and, in the story, Bond devises a drink to fit the name. Fleming frequently ate Ackee fish while in residence; the phonetically identical Aki was an important character in You Only Live Twice.

Parker finds more subtle references, too, observing that anyone who kills a bird or owl in any of the Bond stories suffers the spy’s wrath. This could easily be overlooked, but it’s notable, and logical: Fleming had a love of birds, and Bond himself was named after the ornithologist James Bond, whose book was on Fleming’s shelves at Goldeneye.

So this is as much the biography of a famous fictional character as it is of an author, and of the house that he occupied for several weeks every year. So much of Fleming’s life at Goldeneye influenced his work that this is an essential read for any Bond fan – even if you’ve already read widely on the subject and consider yourself an aficionado. Parker’s approach is unusual, but hugely successful, and the result is an authoritative, wide-ranging biography about one of this country’s best-known authors, his central character, an iconic location and a country in the run-up to – and immediately following – its independence from Britain.

Key specs – Length: 416 pages; Publisher: Windmill Books; ISBN: 978-0099591740

Goldeneye: Where Bond was Born: Ian Fleming's Jamaica

4. hitler by ian kershaw: best political biography.

The latter portion of Adolf Hitler’s life, from his coming to power in 1933 to his suicide in 1945, is minutely documented, and known to a greater or lesser degree by anyone who has passed through secondary education. But what of his earlier years? How did this overlooked art student become one of the most powerful and destructive humans ever to have existed? What were his influences? What was he like?

Kershaw has the answers. This door stopper, which runs to more than 1,000 pages, is an abridged compilation of two earlier works: Hitler 1889 – 1936: Hubris, and Hitler 1936 – 1946: Nemesis. Yet, abridged though it may be, it remains extraordinarily detailed, and the research shines through. Kershaw spends no time warming his engines: Hitler is born by page three, to a social-climbing father who had changed the family name to something less rustic than it had been. As Kershaw points out, “Adolf can be believed when he said that nothing his father had done pleased him so much as to drop the coarsely rustic name of Schicklgruber. ‘Heil Schicklgruber’ would have sounded an unlikely salutation to a national hero.”

There’s no skimping on context, either, with each chapter given space to explore the political, economic and social influences on Hitler’s development and eventual emergence as leader. Kershaw pinpoints 1924 as the year that “can be seen as the time when, like a phoenix arising from the ashes, Hitler could begin his emergence from the ruins of the broken and fragmented volkisch movement to become eventually the absolute leader with total mastery over a reformed, organisationally far stronger, and internally more cohesive Nazi Party”. For much of 1924, Hitler was in jail, working on Mein Kampf and, by the point of his release, the movement to which he had attached himself had been marginalised. Few could have believed that it – and he – would rise again and take over first Germany, then much of Europe. Here, you’ll find out how it happened.

If you’re looking for an authoritative, in-depth biography of one of the most significant figures in modern world history, this is it. Don’t be put off by its length: it’s highly readable, and also available as an audiobook which, although it runs to 44 hours, can be sped up to trim the overall running time.

Key specs – Length: 1,072 pages; Publisher: Penguin; ISBN: 978-0141035888

5. Stalin’s Architect: Power and Survival in Moscow by Deyan Sudjic: Best historical biography

Boris Iofan died in 1976, but his influence can still be felt today – in particular, through the architectural influences evident in many mid-century buildings across Eastern Europe. Born in Odessa in 1891, he trained in architecture and, upon returning to Russia after time spent in Western Europe, gained notoriety for designing the House on the Embankment, a monumental block-wide building containing more than 500 flats, plus the shops and other facilities required to service them.

“Iofan’s early success was based on a sought-after combination of characteristics: he was a member of the Communist Party who was also an accomplished architect capable of winning international attention,” writes biographer Deyan Sudjic. “He occupied a unique position as a bridge between the pre-revolutionary academicians… and the constructivist radicals whom the party saw as bringing much-needed international attention and prestige but never entirely trusted. His biggest role was to give the party leadership a sense of what Soviet architecture could be – not in a theoretical sense or as a drawing, which they would be unlikely to understand, but as a range of built options that they could actually see.”

Having established himself, much of the rest of his life was spent working on his designs for the Palace of the Soviets, which became grander and less practical with every iteration. This wasn’t entirely Iofan’s fault. He had become a favourite of the party elite, and of Stalin himself, who added to the size and ambition of the intended building over the years. Eventually, the statue of Lenin that was destined to stand atop its central tower would have been over 300ft tall, and would have had an outstretched index finger 14ft long. There was a risk that this would freeze in the winter, and the icicles that dropped from it would have been a significant danger to those going into and out of the building below it.

Although construction work began, the Palace of the Soviets was never completed. Many of Iofan’s other buildings remain, though, and his pavilions for the World Expos in Paris and New York are well documented – in this book as well as elsewhere. Lavishly illustrated, it recounts Iofan’s life and examines his work in various stages, from rough outline, through technical drawing, to photographs of completed buildings – where they exist.

Key specs – Length: 320 pages; Publisher: Thames and Hudson; ISBN: 978-0500343555

Stalin's Architect: Power and Survival in Moscow

6. agatha christie: a very elusive woman by lucy worsley: best literary biography.

Agatha Christie died in 1976 but, with more than 70 novels and 150 short stories to her name, she remains one of the best-selling authors of all time. A new biography from historian Lucy Worsley is therefore undoubtedly of interest. It’s comprehensive and highly readable – and opinionated – with short chapters that make it easy to dip into and out of on a break.

Worsley resists the temptation to skip straight to the books. Poirot doesn’t appear until chapter 11 with publication of The Mysterious Affair at Styles, which Christie wrote while working in a Torquay hospital. Today, Poirot is so well known, not only from the books but from depictions in film and television, that it’s easy to overlook how groundbreaking the character was upon his arrival.

As Worsley explains, “by choosing to make Hercule Poirot a foreigner, and a refugee as well, Agatha created the perfect detective for an age when everyone was growing surfeited with soldiers and action heroes. He’s so physically unimpressive that no-one expects Poirot to steal the show. Rather like a stereotypical woman, Poirot cannot rely upon brawn to solve problems, for he has none. He has to use brains instead… There’s even a joke in his name. Hercules, of course, is a muscular classical hero, but Hercule Poirot has a name like himself: diminutive, fussy, camp, and Agatha would show Poirot working in a different way to [Sherlock] Holmes.” Indeed, where Holmes rolls around on the floor picking up cigar ash in his first published case, Poirot, explains Worsley, does not stoop to gather clues: he needs only his little grey cells. Worsley’s approach is thorough and opinionated, and has resulted not only in a biography of Christie herself, but also her greatest creations, which will appeal all the more to the author’s fans.

As with Matthew Parker’s Goldeneye, there’s great insight here into what influenced Christie’s work, and Worsley frequently draws parallels between real life events and episodes, characters or locations in her novels. As a result of her experiences as a medical volunteer during the First World War, for example, during which a rigid hierarchy persisted and the medics behaved shockingly, doctors became the most common culprit in her books; the names of real people found their way into her fiction; and on one occasion Christie assembled what today might be called a focus group to underpin a particular plot point.

Worsley is refreshingly opinionated and, where events in the author’s life take centre stage, doesn’t merely re-state the facts, but investigates Christie’s motivations to draw her own conclusions. This is particularly the case in the chapters examining Christie’s disappearance in 1926, which many previous biographers have portrayed as an attempt to frame her husband for murder. Worsley’s own investigation leads to alternative conclusions, which seem all the more plausible today, when society has a better understanding of – and is more sympathetic towards – the effects of psychological distress.

Key specs – Length: 432 pages; Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton; ISBN: 978-1529303889

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Best Autobiographies

by Michelle Obama

An intimate, powerful, and inspiring memoir by the former First Lady of the United States

In a life filled with meaning and accomplishment, Michelle Obama has emerged as one of the most iconic and compelling women of our era. As First Lady of the United States of America—the first African American to serve in that role—she helped create the most welcoming and inclusive White House in history, while also establishing herself as a powerful advocate for women and girls in the U.S. and around the world, dramatically changing the ways that families pursue healthier and more active lives, and standing with her husband as he led America through some of its most harrowing moments. Along the way, she showed us a few dance moves, crushed Carpool Karaoke, and raised two down-to-earth daughters under an unforgiving media glare.

In her memoir, a work of deep reflection and mesmerizing storytelling, Michelle Obama invites readers into her world, chronicling the experiences that have shaped her—from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive balancing the demands of motherhood and work, to her time spent at the world’s most famous address. With unerring honesty and lively wit, she describes her triumphs and her disappointments, both public and private, telling her full story as she has lived it—in her own words and on her own terms. Warm, wise, and revelatory, Becoming is the deeply personal reckoning of a woman of soul and substance who has steadily defied expectations—and whose story inspires us to do the same.

Our favourite quote from Becoming

Now I think it’s one of the most useless questions an adult can ask a child—What do you want to be when you grow up? As if growing up is finite. As if at some point you become something and that’s the end.

Bird by Bird

By anne lamott.

For a quarter century, more than a million readers—scribes and scribblers of all ages and abilities—have been inspired by Anne Lamott’s hilarious, big-hearted, homespun advice. Advice that begins with the simple words of wisdom passed down from Anne’s father—also a writer—in the iconic passage that gives the book its title:

“Thirty years ago my older brother, who was ten years old at the time, was trying to get a report on birds written that he’d had three months to write. It was due the next day. We were out at our family cabin in Bolinas, and he was at the kitchen table close to tears, surrounded by binder paper and pencils and unopened books on birds, immobilized by the hugeness of the task ahead. Then my father sat down beside him, put his arm around my brother’s shoulder, and said, ‘Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird.’”

An essential volume for generations of writers young and old, Bird by Bird is a modern classic. This twenty-fifth anniversary edition will continue to spark creative minds for years to come.

Our favourite quote from Bird by Bird

For some of us, books are as important as almost anything else on earth. What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat, rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet or excite you. Books help us understand who we are and how we are to behave. They show us what community and friendship mean; they show us how to live and die.

by Stephen King

This special edition of Stephen King's highly acclaimed, million-copy blockbuster exposes the experiences, habits, and convictions that have influenced him and his writing, and is very instructive and informative to any aspiring writer.

After the release of Stephen King's On Writing, Entertainment Weekly said, "Long live the King." This superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. Part memoir, part master class by one of the best-selling authors of all time, this superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. King's counsel is based on his vivid experiences from infancy through his emergence as a writer, from his early struggles to his well publicized near-fatal accident in 1999—and how the inextricable link between writing and living aided his recovery. On Writing will inspire and excite everyone who reads it—fans, authors, and anybody who enjoys a well-told narrative. It is brilliantly constructed, accessible, and encouraging.

Our favourite quote from On Writing

Books are a uniquely portable magic.

When Breath Becomes Air

By paul kalanithi.

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER.

This inspiring, exquisitely observed memoir finds hope and beauty in the face of insurmountable odds as an idealistic young neurosurgeon attempts to answer the question What makes a life worth living?

At the age of thirty-six, on the verge of completing a decade’s worth of training as a neurosurgeon, Paul Kalanithi was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. One day he was a doctor treating the dying, and the next he was a patient struggling to live. And just like that, the future he and his wife had imagined evaporated. When Breath Becomes Air chronicles Kalanithi’s transformation from a naïve medical student “possessed,” as he wrote, “by the question of what, given that all organisms die, makes a virtuous and meaningful life” into a neurosurgeon at Stanford working in the brain, the most critical place for human identity, and finally into a patient and new father confronting his own mortality.

What makes life worth living in the face of death? What do you do when the future, no longer a ladder toward your goals in life, flattens out into a perpetual present? What does it mean to have a child, to nurture a new life as another fades away? These are some of the questions Kalanithi wrestles with in this profoundly moving, exquisitely observed memoir.

Paul Kalanithi died in March 2015, while working on this book, yet his words live on as a guide and a gift to us all. “I began to realize that coming face to face with my own mortality, in a sense, had changed nothing and everything,” he wrote. “Seven words from Samuel Beckett began to repeat in my head: ‘I can’t go on. I’ll go on.’” When Breath Becomes Air is an unforgettable, life-affirming reflection on the challenge of facing death and on the relationship between doctor and patient, from a brilliant writer who became both.

Our favourite quote from When Breath Becomes Air

You can’t ever reach perfection, but you can believe in an asymptote toward which you are ceaselessly striving.

by Tara Westover

An unforgettable memoir about a young girl who, kept out of school, leaves her survivalist family and goes on to earn a PhD from Cambridge University Born to survivalists in the mountains of Idaho, Tara Westover was seventeen the first time she set foot in a classroom. Her family was so isolated from mainstream society that there was no one to ensure the children received an education, and no one to intervene when one of Tara’s older brothers became violent. When another brother got himself into college, Tara decided to try a new kind of life. Her quest for knowledge transformed her, taking her over oceans and across continents, to Harvard and to Cambridge University. Only then would she wonder if she’d traveled too far, if there was still a way home.

“Beautiful and propulsive . . . Despite the singularity of [Tara Westover’s] childhood, the questions her book poses are universal: How much of ourselves should we give to those we love? And how much must we betray them to grow up?”—Vogue

“Westover has somehow managed not only to capture her unsurpassably exceptional upbringing, but to make her current situation seem not so exceptional at all, and resonant for many others.”—The New York Times Book Review

Our favourite quote from Educated

You can love someone and still choose to say goodbye to them,” she says now. “You can miss a person every day, and still be glad that they are no longer in your life.

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

By maya angelou.

Maya Angelou’s debut memoir is a modern American classic beloved worldwide. Her life story is told in the documentary film And Still I Rise, as seen on PBS’s American Masters.

Here is a book as joyous and painful, as mysterious and memorable, as childhood itself. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings captures the longing of lonely children, the brute insult of bigotry, and the wonder of words that can make the world right. Maya Angelou’s debut memoir is a modern American classic beloved worldwide.

Sent by their mother to live with their devout, self-sufficient grandmother in a small Southern town, Maya and her brother, Bailey, endure the ache of abandonment and the prejudice of the local “powhitetrash.” At eight years old and back at her mother’s side in St. Louis, Maya is attacked by a man many times her age—and has to live with the consequences for a lifetime. Years later, in San Francisco, Maya learns that love for herself, the kindness of others, her own strong spirit, and the ideas of great authors (“I met and fell in love with William Shakespeare”) will allow her to be free instead of imprisoned.

Poetic and powerful, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings will touch hearts and change minds for as long as people read.

“I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings liberates the reader into life simply because Maya Angelou confronts her own life with such a moving wonder, such a luminous dignity.”—James Baldwin

Our favourite quote from I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.

Autobiography of a Yogi

By paramahansa yogada.

Autobiography of a Yogi is at once a beautifully written account of an exceptional life and a profound introduction to the ancient science of Yoga and its time-honored tradition of meditation. Profoundly inspiring, it is at the same time vastly entertaining, warmly humorous and filled with extraordinary personages. Self-Realization Fellowship's editions, and none others, include extensive material added by the author after the first edition was published, including a final chapter on the closing years of his life.

Selected as "One of the 100 Best Spiritual Books of the Twentieth Century", Autobiography of a Yogi has been translated into more than 50 languages, and is regarded worldwide as a classic of religious literature. Several million copies have been sold, and it continues to appear on best-seller lists after more than sixty consecutive years in print.

Our favourite quote from Autobiography of a Yogi

Live quietly in the moment and see the beauty of all before you. The future will take care of itself...

The Autobiography of Malcolm X

By malcolm x.

In the searing pages of this classic autobiography, originally published in 1964, Malcolm X, the Muslim leader, firebrand, and anti-integrationist, tells the extraordinary story of his life and the growth of the Black Muslim movement. His fascinating perspective on the lies and limitations of the American Dream, and the inherent racism in a society that denies its nonwhite citizens the opportunity to dream, gives extraordinary insight into the most urgent issues of our own time. The Autobiography of Malcolm X stands as the definitive statement of a movement and a man whose work was never completed but whose message is timeless. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand America.

Our favourite quote from The Autobiography of Malcolm X

So early in my life, I had learned that if you want something, you had better make some noise.

Long Walk to Freedom

By nelson mandela.

The autobiography of global human rights icon Nelson Mandela is "riveting...both a brilliant description of a diabolical system and a testament to the power of the spirit to transcend it" (Washington Post).

Nelson Mandela was one of the great moral and political leaders of his time: an international hero whose lifelong dedication to the fight against racial oppression in South Africa won him the Nobel Peace Prize and the presidency of his country. After his triumphant release in 1990 from more than a quarter-century of imprisonment, Mandela was at the center of the most compelling and inspiring political drama in the world. As president of the African National Congress and head of South Africa's antiapartheid movement, he was instrumental in moving the nation toward multiracial government and majority rule. He is still revered everywhere as a vital force in the fight for human rights and racial equality.

Long Walk to Freedom is his moving and exhilarating autobiography, destined to take its place among the finest memoirs of history's greatest figures. Here for the first time, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela told the extraordinary story of his life -- an epic of struggle, setback, renewed hope, and ultimate triumph.

The book that inspired the major motion picture Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.

Our favourite quote from Long Walk to Freedom

No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.

Sam Walton: Made in America

By sam walton.

Meet Sam Walton, a genuine American folk hero cut from the homespun fabric of America's heartland, who transformed a single dime store in a hardscrabble cotton town into Wal-Mart, the world's largest retailer. Sam, the unchallenged merchant king of the late twentieth century, never lost contact with the average man.

Finally, some unforgettable words. Genuinely humble, but self-assured in his objectives and accomplishments. Sam expresses his thoughts in an honest, off-the-shoulder manner. Sam Walton chronicles the inspiration, heart, and optimism that propelled him to lasso the American Dream in a storey rich with anecdotes and the "rules of the road" of both Main Street and Wall Street.

Our favourite quote from Sam Walton: Made in America

Great ideas come from everywhere if you just listen and look for them. You never know who’s going to have a great idea.

Born a Crime

By trevor noah.

Trevor Noah’s unlikely path from apartheid South Africa to the desk of The Daily Show began with a criminal act: his birth. Trevor was born to a white Swiss father and a black Xhosa mother at a time when such a union was punishable by five years in prison. Living proof of his parents’ indiscretion, Trevor was kept mostly indoors for the earliest years of his life, bound by the extreme and often absurd measures his mother took to hide him from a government that could, at any moment, steal him away. Finally liberated by the end of South Africa’s tyrannical white rule, Trevor and his mother set forth on a grand adventure, living openly and freely and embracing the opportunities won by a centuries-long struggle.

Born a Crime is the story of a mischievous young boy who grows into a restless young man as he struggles to find himself in a world where he was never supposed to exist. It is also the story of that young man’s relationship with his fearless, rebellious, and fervently religious mother—his teammate, a woman determined to save her son from the cycle of poverty, violence, and abuse that would ultimately threaten her own life.

The stories collected here are by turns hilarious, dramatic, and deeply affecting. Whether subsisting on caterpillars for dinner during hard times, being thrown from a moving car during an attempted kidnapping, or just trying to survive the life-and-death pitfalls of dating in high school, Trevor illuminates his curious world with an incisive wit and unflinching honesty. His stories weave together to form a moving and searingly funny portrait of a boy making his way through a damaged world in a dangerous time, armed only with a keen sense of humor and a mother’s unconventional, unconditional love.

Our favourite quote from Born a Crime

We tell people to follow their dreams, but you can only dream of what you can imagine, and, depending on where you come from, your imagination can be quite limited.

The Diary of a Young Girl

By anne frank.

Discovered in the attic in which she spent the last years of her life, Anne Frank’s remarkable diary has since become a world classic—a powerful reminder of the horrors of war and an eloquent testament to the human spirit.

In 1942, with Nazis occupying Holland, a thirteen-year-old Jewish girl and her family fled their home in Amsterdam and went into hiding. For the next two years, until their whereabouts were betrayed to the Gestapo, they and another family lived cloistered in the “Secret Annex” of an old office building. Cut off from the outside world, they faced hunger, boredom, the constant cruelties of living in confined quarters, and the ever-present threat of discovery and death. In her diary Anne Frank recorded vivid impressions of her experiences during this period. By turns thoughtful, moving, and amusing, her account offers a fascinating commentary on human courage and frailty and a compelling self-portrait of a sensitive and spirited young woman whose promise was tragically cut short.

Our favourite quote from The Diary of a Young Girl

How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.

by Patti Smith

It was the summer Coltrane died, the summer of love and riots, and the summer when a chance encounter in Brooklyn led two young people on a path of art, devotion, and initiation.

Patti Smith would evolve as a poet and performer, and Robert Mapplethorpe would direct his highly provocative style toward photography. Bound in innocence and enthusiasm, they traversed the city from Coney Island to Forty-Second Street, and eventually to the celebrated round table of Max’s Kansas City, where the Andy Warhol contingent held court. In 1969, the pair set up camp at the Hotel Chelsea and soon entered a community of the famous and infamous, the influential artists of the day and the colorful fringe. It was a time of heightened awareness, when the worlds of poetry, rock and roll, art, and sexual politics were colliding and exploding. In this milieu, two kids made a pact to take care of each other. Scrappy, romantic, committed to create, and fueled by their mutual dreams and drives, they would prod and provide for one another during the hungry years.

Just Kids begins as a love story and ends as an elegy. It serves as a salute to New York City during the late sixties and seventies and to its rich and poor, its hustlers and hellions. A true fable, it is a portrait of two young artists’ ascent, a prelude to fame.

Our favourite quote from Just Kids

No one expected me. Everything awaited me.

by Cheryl Strayed

At twenty-two, Cheryl Strayed thought she had lost everything. In the wake of her mother’s death, her family scattered and her own marriage was soon destroyed. Four years later, with nothing more to lose, she made the most impulsive decision of her life. With no experience or training, driven only by blind will, she would hike more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail from the Mojave Desert through California and Oregon to Washington State—and she would do it alone.

Told with suspense and style, sparkling with warmth and humor, Wild powerfully captures the terrors and pleasures of one young woman forging ahead against all odds on a journey that maddened, strengthened, and ultimately healed her.One of the Best Books of the Year: NPR, The Boston Globe, Entertainment Weekly, Vogue, St. Louis Dispatch

Our favourite quote from Wild

The universe, I'd learned, was never, ever kidding. It would take whatever it wanted and it would never give it back.

Let My People Go Surfing

By yvon chouinard.

In his long-awaited memoir, Yvon Chouinard-legendary climber, businessman, environmentalist, and founder of Patagonia, Inc.-shares the persistence and courage that have gone into being head of one of the most respected and environmentally responsible companies on earth. From his youth as the son of a French Canadian blacksmith to the thrilling, ambitious climbing expeditions that inspired his innovative designs for the sport's equipment, Let My People Go Surfing is the story of a man who brought doing good and having grand adventures into the heart of his business life-a book that will deeply affect entrepreneurs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Our favourite quote from Let My People Go Surfing

The more you know, the less you need.

by Phil Knight

In this candid and riveting memoir, for the first time ever, Nike founder and board chairman Phil Knight shares the inside story of the company’s early days as an intrepid start-up and its evolution into one of the world’s most iconic, game-changing, and profitable brands.

Young, searching, fresh out of business school, Phil Knight borrowed fifty dollars from his father and launched a company with one simple mission: import high-quality, low-cost running shoes from Japan. Selling the shoes from the trunk of his Plymouth Valiant, Knight grossed eight thousand dollars that first year, 1963. Today, Nike’s annual sales top $30 billion. In this age of start-ups, Knight’s Nike is the gold standard, and its swoosh is more than a logo. A symbol of grace and greatness, it’s one of the few icons instantly recognized in every corner of the world.

But Knight, the man behind the swoosh, has always been a mystery. Now, in a memoir that’s surprising, humble, unfiltered, funny, and beautifully crafted, he tells his story at last. It all begins with a classic crossroads moment. Twenty-four years old, backpacking through Asia and Europe and Africa, wrestling with life’s Great Questions, Knight decides the unconventional path is the only one for him. Rather than work for a big corporation, he will create something all his own, something new, dynamic, different. Knight details the many terrifying risks he encountered along the way, the crushing setbacks, the ruthless competitors, the countless doubters and haters and hostile bankers—as well as his many thrilling triumphs and narrow escapes. Above all, he recalls the foundational relationships that formed the heart and soul of Nike, with his former track coach, the irascible and charismatic Bill Bowerman, and with his first employees, a ragtag group of misfits and savants who quickly became a band of swoosh-crazed brothers.

Together, harnessing the electrifying power of a bold vision and a shared belief in the redemptive, transformative power of sports, they created a brand, and a culture, that changed everything.

Our favourite quote from Shoe Dog

Don’t tell people how to do things, tell them what to do and let them surprise you with their results.

Kitchen Confidential

By anthony bourdain.

A deliciously funny, delectably shocking banquet of wild-but-true tales of life in the culinary trade from Chef Anthony Bourdain, laying out his more than a quarter-century of drugs, sex, and haute cuisine—now with all-new, never-before-published material.

New York Chef Tony Bourdain gives away secrets of the trade in his wickedly funny, inspiring memoir/expose. Kitchen Confidential reveals what Bourdain calls "twenty-five years of sex, drugs, bad behavior and haute cuisine."

Our favourite quote from Kitchen Confidential

Your body is not a temple, it's an amusement park. Enjoy the ride.

by Lee Iacocca

“Vintage Iacocca . . . He is fast-talking, blunt, boastful, and unabashedly patriotic. Lee Iacocca is also a genuine folk hero. . . . His career is breathtaking.”—Business Week

He’s an American legend, a straight-shooting businessman who brought Chrysler back from the brink and in the process became a media celebrity, newsmaker, and a man many had urged to run for president.

The son of Italian immigrants, Lee Iacocca rose spectacularly through the ranks of Ford Motor Company to become its president, only to be toppled eight years later in a power play that should have shattered him. But Lee Iacocca didn’t get mad, he got even. He led a battle for Chrysler’s survival that made his name a symbol of integrity, know-how, and guts for millions of Americans.

In his classic hard-hitting style, he tells us how he changed the automobile industry in the 1960s by creating the phenomenal Mustang. He goes behind the scenes for a look at Henry Ford’s reign of intimidation and manipulation. He recounts the miraculous rebirth of Chrysler from near bankruptcy to repayment of its $1.2 billion government loan so early that Washington didn’t know how to cash the check.

Our favourite quote from Iacocca

Get all the education you can then go out and do something - do anything.

The Story of My Experiments with Truth

By mahatma gandhi.

"My purpose," Mahatma Gandhi writes of this book, "is to describe experiments in the science of Satyagraha, not to say how good I am." Satyagraha, Gandhi's nonviolent protest movement (satya = true, agraha = firmness), came to stand, like its creator, as a moral principle and a rallying cry; the principle was truth and the cry freedom. The life of Gandhi has given fire and fiber to freedom fighters and to the untouchables of the world: hagiographers and patriots have capitalized on Mahatma myths. Yet Gandhi writes: "Often the title [Mahatma, Great Soul] has deeply pained me. . . . But I should certainly like to narrate my experiments in the spiritual field which are known only to myself, and from which I have derived such power as I possess for working in the political field."

Clearly, Gandhi never renounced the world; he was neither pacifist nor cult guru. Who was Gandhi? In the midst of resurging interest in the man who freed India, inspired the American Civil Rights Movement, and is revered, respected, and misunderstood all over the world, the time is proper to listen to Gandhi himself — in his own words, his own "confessions," his autobiography.

Gandhi made scrupulous truth-telling a religion and his Autobiography inevitably reminds one of other saints who have suffered and burned for their lapses. His simply narrated account of boyhood in Gujarat, marriage at age 13, legal studies in England, and growing desire for purity and reform has the force of a man extreme in all things. He details his gradual conversion to vegetarianism and ahimsa (non-violence) and the state of celibacy (brahmacharya, self-restraint) that became one of his more arduous spiritual trials. In the political realm he outlines the beginning of Satyagraha in South Africa and India, with accounts of the first Indian fasts and protests, his initial errors and misgivings, his jailings, and continued cordial dealings with the British overlords.

Gandhi was a fascinating, complex man, a brilliant leader and guide, a seeker of truth who died for his beliefs but had no use for martyrdom or sainthood. His story, the path to his vision of Satyagraha and human dignity, is a critical work of the twentieth century, and timeless in its courage and inspiration.

Our favourite quote from The Story of My Experiments with Truth

Remember that all through history, there have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they seem invincible. But in the end, they always fall. Always.

by Dr. Edith Eva Eger

t’s 1944 and sixteen-year-old ballerina and gymnast Edith Eger is sent to Auschwitz. Separated from her parents on arrival, she endures unimaginable experiences, including being made to dance for the infamous Josef Mengele. When the camp is finally liberated, she is pulled from a pile of bodies, barely alive.

The horrors of the Holocaust didn’t break Edith. In fact, they helped her learn to live again with a life-affirming strength and a truly remarkable resilience. The Choice is her unforgettable story.

Our favourite quote from The Choice

Our painful experiences aren’t a liability—they’re a gift. They give us perspective and meaning, an opportunity to find our unique purpose and our strength.

The Yellow House

By sarah m. broom.

Ivory Mae Broom, Sarah M. Broom's mother, acquired a shotgun house in the then-promising New Orleans East area in 1961 and constructed her world inside of it. The Space Race was in full swing, and the area was home to a large NASA facility, so postwar optimism looked inevitable. Ivory Mae remarried Sarah's father, Simon Broom, after being widowed; their united family grew to twelve children. But, six months after Sarah's birth, Simon died, and the Yellow House became Ivory Mae's thirteenth and most rambunctious child.

Sarah M. Broom's The Yellow House is a novel of tremendous ambition, telling the story of her family and their connection to home over a hundred years in a neglected part of one of America's most mythologized towns. This is the narrative of a mother's battle against entropy in her home, and of a prodigal daughter who left home only to return to face the tug of home, even after Hurricane Katrina wiped the Yellow House off the map. The Yellow House, guided skillfully by one of New Orleans' native daughters, widens the geography of the city to include the experiences of its lesser-known residents, demonstrating how persistent motivations of kin, pride, and familial love resist and defy erasure. The Yellow House is a magnificent memoir of place, class, racism, the creeping rot of injustice, and the internalized guilt that frequently follows, set in the gap between tourist guides' "Big Easy" and the New Orleans in which Broom was up. It's a powerful, transforming narrative told by an unrivalled new voice of astounding clarity, authority, and strength.

Our favourite quote from The Yellow House

Distance lends perspective, but it can also shade, misinterpret.

The White Album

By joan didion.

First published in 1979, The White Album records indelibly the upheavals and aftermaths of the 1960s. Examining key events, figures, and trends of the era―including Charles Manson, the Black Panthers, and the shopping mall―through the lens of her own spiritual confusion, Joan Didion helped to define mass culture as we now understand it. Written with a commanding sureness of tone and linguistic precision, The White Album is a central text of American reportage and a classic of American autobiography.

Our favourite quote from The White Album

We tell ourselves stories in order to live...We look for the sermon in the suicide, for the social or moral lesson in the murder of five. We interpret what we see, select the most workable of the multiple choices. We live entirely, especially if we are writers, by the imposition of a narrative line upon disparate images, by the "ideas" with which we have learned to freeze the shifting phantasmagoria which is our actual experience.

Born to Run

By bruce springsteen.

“Writing about yourself is a funny business…But in a project like this, the writer has made one promise, to show the reader his mind. In these pages, I’ve tried to do this.” —Bruce Springsteen, from the pages of Born to Run ‍

In 2009, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band performed at the Super Bowl’s halftime show. The experience was so exhilarating that Bruce decided to write about it. That’s how this extraordinary autobiography began.

Over the past seven years, Bruce Springsteen has privately devoted himself to writing the story of his life, bringing to these pages the same honesty, humor, and originality found in his songs.

He describes growing up Catholic in Freehold, New Jersey, amid the poetry, danger, and darkness that fueled his imagination, leading up to the moment he refers to as “The Big Bang”: seeing Elvis Presley’s debut on The Ed Sullivan Show . He vividly recounts his relentless drive to become a musician, his early days as a bar band king in Asbury Park, and the rise of the E Street Band. With disarming candor, he also tells for the first time the story of the personal struggles that inspired his best work, and shows us why the song “Born to Run” reveals more than we previously realized. ‍

Born to Run will be revelatory for anyone who has ever enjoyed Bruce Springsteen, but this book is much more than a legendary rock star’s memoir. This is a book for workers and dreamers, parents and children, lovers and loners, artists, freaks, or anyone who has ever wanted to be baptized in the holy river of rock and roll.

Rarely has a performer told his own story with such force and sweep. Like many of his songs (“Thunder Road,” “Badlands,” “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” “The River,” “Born in the U.S.A.,” “The Rising,” and “The Ghost of Tom Joad,” to name just a few), Bruce Springsteen’s autobiography is written with the lyricism of a singular songwriter and the wisdom of a man who has thought deeply about his experiences.

Our favourite quote from Born to Run

We honor our parents by carrying their best forward and laying the rest down. By fighting and taming the demons that laid them low and now reside in us.

When They Call You A Terrorist

By patrisse cullors.

A poetic and powerful memoir about what it means to be a Black woman in America—and the co-founding of a movement that demands justice for all in the land of the free.

Raised by a single mother in an impoverished neighborhood in Los Angeles, Patrisse Khan-Cullors experienced firsthand the prejudice and persecution Black Americans endure at the hands of law enforcement. For Patrisse, the most vulnerable people in the country are Black people. Deliberately and ruthlessly targeted by a criminal justice system serving a white privilege agenda, Black people are subjected to unjustifiable racial profiling and police brutality. In 2013, when Trayvon Martin’s killer went free, Patrisse’s outrage led her to co-found Black Lives Matter with Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi.

Condemned as terrorists and as a threat to America, these loving women founded a hashtag that birthed the movement to demand accountability from the authorities who continually turn a blind eye to the injustices inflicted upon people of Black and Brown skin.

Championing human rights in the face of violent racism, Patrisse is a survivor. She transformed her personal pain into political power, giving voice to a people suffering in equality and a movement fueled by her strength and love to tell the country—and the world—that Black Lives Matter. ‍

When They Call You a Terrorist is Patrisse Khan-Cullors and asha bandele’s reflection on humanity. It is an empowering account of survival, strength and resilience and a call to action to change the culture that declares innocent Black life expendable.

Our favourite quote from When They Call You A Terrorist

What is the impact of not being valued? How do you measure the loss of what a human being does not receive?

Personal History

By katharine graham.

In lieu of an unrevealing Famous-People-I-Have-Known autobiography, the owner of the Washington Post has chosen to be remarkably candid about the insecurities prompted by remote parents and a difficult marriage to the charismatic, manic-depressive Phil Graham, who ran the newspaper her father acquired. Katharine's account of her years as subservient daughter and wife is so painful that by the time she finally asserts herself at the Post following Phil's suicide in 1963 (more than halfway through the book), readers will want to cheer. After that, Watergate is practically an anticlimax.

Our favourite quote from Personal History

The nicest thing you did was to take me seriously when a lot of people wouldn’t have, but not too seriously, which was just right.

by Jack Welch

Reg Jones, the former CEO of General Electric, stepped into Jack Welch's office over 20 years ago and embraced him in a bear hug. Reg responded, "Congratulations, Mr. Chairman." It was a watershed moment in the history of American business. So starts the narrative of a self-made man and self-described renegade who prospered in one of the most tumultuous and economically prosperous periods in American history while maintaining a distinct leadership style. Jack Welch scans the landscape of his career as the CEO of one of the world's largest and most successful organizations in what is the most anticipated book on business management of our time.

Our favourite quote from Jack

Control your own Destiny or somebody else will.

by Roxane Gay

From the New York Times bestselling author of Bad Feminist : a searingly honest memoir of food, weight, self-image, and learning how to feed your hunger while taking care of yourself. ‍

“I ate and ate and ate in the hopes that if I made myself big, my body would be safe. I buried the girl I was because she ran into all kinds of trouble. I tried to erase every memory of her, but she is still there, somewhere. . . . I was trapped in my body, one that I barely recognized or understood, but at least I was safe.” ‍

In her phenomenally popular essays and long-running Tumblr blog, Roxane Gay has written with intimacy and sensitivity about food and body, using her own emotional and psychological struggles as a means of exploring our shared anxieties over pleasure, consumption, appearance, and health. As a woman who describes her own body as “wildly undisciplined,” Roxane understands the tension between desire and denial, between self-comfort and self-care. In Hunger, she explores her past—including the devastating act of violence that acted as a turning point in her young life—and brings readers along on her journey to understand and ultimately save herself.

With the bracing candor, vulnerability, and power that have made her one of the most admired writers of her generation, Roxane explores what it means to learn to take care of yourself: how to feed your hungers for delicious and satisfying food, a smaller and safer body, and a body that can love and be loved—in a time when the bigger you are, the smaller your world becomes.

Our favourite quote from Hunger

What does it say about our culture that the desire for weight loss is considered a default feature of womanhood?

by Kiese Laymon

Kiese Laymon, a genre-bending writer and novelist, investigates what the weight of a lifetime of secrets, lies, and deceit does to a black body, a black family, and a society on the verge of moral collapse in this stunning and intriguing memoir.

Kiese Laymon is an unafraid author. In his pieces, he weaves personal anecdotes with astute analysis to reflect on the status of American culture as well as his own experiences with abuse, which evoke mixed emotions of guilt, excitement, perplexity, and humiliation. Laymon asks us to contemplate the ramifications of growing up in a country preoccupied with development but uninterested in the unpleasant task of grappling with our past.

Laymon writes eloquently and honestly about growing up as a hard-headed black son in Jackson, Mississippi, to a difficult and bright black mother. Laymon chronicles his complicated connection with his mother, grandmother, anorexia, obesity, sex, writing, and eventually gambling, from his early memories of sexual assault to his suspension from college to his journey to New York as a young college lecturer. Laymon asks himself, his mother, his nation, and us to confront the terrifying possibility that few in this country know how to responsibly love, and even fewer want to live under the weight of actually becoming free, by attempting to name secrets and lies he and his mother spent a lifetime avoiding.

Heavy is a defiant yet vulnerable personal narrative that illuminates national failures. It's an insightful, often comical exploration of weight, identity, art, friendship, and family that starts with a perplexing childhood and continues through twenty-five years of haunting implosions and long reverberations.

Our favourite quote from Heavy

America seems filled with violent people who like causing people pain but hate when those people tell them that pain hurts.

The Complete Persepolis

By marjane satrapi.

Here, in one volume: Marjane Satrapi's best-selling, internationally acclaimed graphic memoir.

Persepolis is the story of Satrapi's unforgettable childhood and coming of age within a large and loving family in Tehran during the Islamic Revolution; of the contradictions between private life and public life in a country plagued by political upheaval; of her high school years in Vienna facing the trials of adolescence far from her family; of her homecoming--both sweet and terrible; and, finally, of her self-imposed exile from her beloved homeland. It is the chronicle of a girlhood and adolescence at once outrageous and familiar, a young life entwined with the history of her country yet filled with the universal trials and joys of growing up.

Edgy, searingly observant, and candid, often heartbreaking but threaded throughout with raw humor and hard-earned wisdom--Persepolis is a stunning work from one of the most highly regarded, singularly talented graphic artists at work today.

Our favourite quote from The Complete Persepolis

It's fear that makes us lose our conscience. It's also what transforms us into cowards.

The Glass Castle

By jeannette walls.

‍ The perennially bestselling, extraordinary, one-of-a-kind, “nothing short of spectacular” ( Entertainment Weekly ) memoir from one of the world’s most gifted storytellers. ‍

The Glass Castle is a remarkable memoir of resilience and redemption, and a revelatory look into a family at once deeply dysfunctional and uniquely vibrant. When sober, Jeannette’s brilliant and charismatic father captured his children’s imagination, teaching them physics, geology, and how to embrace life fearlessly. But when he drank, he was dishonest and destructive. Her mother was a free spirit who abhorred the idea of domesticity and didn’t want the responsibility of raising a family.

The Walls children learned to take care of themselves. They fed, clothed, and protected one another, and eventually found their way to New York. Their parents followed them, choosing to be homeless even as their children prospered. ‍

The Glass Castle is truly astonishing—a memoir permeated by the intense love of a peculiar but loyal family.

Our favourite quote from The Glass Castle

You should never hate anyone, even your worst enemies. Everyone has something good about them. You have to find the redeeming quality and love the person for that.

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

By frederick douglass.

Frederick Douglass was born as a slave. After changing his owners several times, he got lucky with one of their wifes, she treated him well and taught him to read and to write.

Eventually he managed to escape and became an American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. Frederick Douglass became a national leader of the abolitionist movement in Massachusetts and New York, gaining note for his oratory and incisive antislavery writings.

He was the most influential African American of the 19th century. In Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, one of three Autobiographies he wrote about his struggles and experiences.

Our favourite quote from Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

I have observed this in my experience of slavery, - that whenever my condition was improved, instead of its increasing my contentment, it only increased my desire to be free, and set me to thinking of plans to gain my freedom. I have found that, to make a contented slave, it is necessary to make a thoughtless one. It is necessary to darken his moral and mental vision, and, as far as possible, to annihilate the power of reason. He must be able to detect no inconsistencies in slavery; he must be made to feel that slavery is right; and he can be brought to that only when he ceased to be a man.

Direct from Dell

By michael dell.

Michael Dell, a freshman at the University of Texas in Austin, drove away from his parents' Houston home in a BMW he had purchased by selling newspaper subscriptions. Three personal laptops sat in the backseat. He is now the chairman and CEO of Dell Computer Corporation, a $30 billion firm that is the world's second largest computer producer and marketer. Dell Computer is the envy of its competitors, having been founded on a deceptively simple premise: to offer high-performance computer systems directly to the end customer. Dell's stock has risen more than 90,000 percent in the previous decade, and the company now sells more than $35 million worth of equipment every day.

Our favourite quote from Direct from Dell

I started the business with a simple question: How can we make the process of buying a computer better?

Losing My Virginity

By richard branson.

"Oh, screw it, let's do it."

That's the philosophy that has allowed Richard Branson, in slightly more than twenty-five years, to spawn so many successful ventures. From the airline business (Virgin Atlantic Airways), to music (Virgin Records and V2), to cola (Virgin Cola), to retail (Virgin Megastores), and nearly a hundred others, ranging from financial services to bridal wear, Branson has a track record second to none.

Losing My Virginity is the unusual, frequently outrageous autobiography of one of the great business geniuses of our time. When Richard Branson started his first business, he and his friends decided that "since we're complete virgins at business, let's call it just that: Virgin." Since then, Branson has written his own "rules" for success, creating a group of companies with a global presence, but no central headquarters, no management hierarchy, and minimal bureaucracy.

Many of Richard Branson's companies--airlines, retailing, and cola are good examples--were started in the face of entrenched competition. The experts said, "Don't do it." But Branson found golden opportunities in markets in which customers have been ripped off or underserved, where confusion reigns, and the competition is complacent.

Our favourite quote from Losing My Virginity

I can honestly say that I have never gone into any business purely to make money. If that is the sole motive then I believe you are better off not doing it. A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts.

Built from Scratch

By bernie marcus, arthur blank & bob andelman.

When a friend told Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank that, "You've just been hit in the ass by a golden horseshoe," they thought he was crazy. After all, both had just been fired. What the friend, Ken Langone, meant was that they now had the opportunity to create the kind of wide-open warehouse store that would help spark a consumer revolution through low prices, excellent customer service, and wide availability of products. ‍

Built from Scratch is the story of how two incredibly determined and creative people-and their associates-built a business from nothing to 761 stores and $30 billion in sales in a mere twenty years. ‍

Built from Scratch tells many colorful stories associated with The Home Depot's founding and meteoric rise; shows that a company can be a tough, growth-oriented competitor and still maintain a high sense of responsibility to the community; and provides great lessons useful to people in any business, from start-ups to the Fortune 500.

Our favourite quote from Built from Scratch

The key is not to make the sale. The key is to cultivate the customer.” At The Home Depot, cultivating the customer is much more important than creating a bottom line. We teach our associates that if you can save a customer money, do it. We’re not looking to fleece the customer. If I can save them $100, why not do it? That reflects one of our values: caring for the customer. Care for them today and they’ll be back tomorrow.

I Love Capitalism!: An American Story

By ken langone.

Iconoclastic entrepreneur and New York legend Ken Langone tells the compelling story of how a poor boy from Long Island became one of America's most successful businessmen. Ken Langone has seen it all on his way to a net worth beyond his wildest dreams. A pillar of corporate America for decades, he's a co-founder of Home Depot, a former director of the New York Stock Exchange, and a world-class philanthropist (including $200 million for NYU's Langone Health). In this memoir he finally tells the story of his unlikely rise and controversial career. It's also a passionate defense of the American Dream -- of preserving a country in which any hungry kid can reach the maximum potential of his or her talents and work ethic. In a series of fascinating stories, Langone shows how he struggled to get an education, break into Wall Street, and scramble for an MBA at night while competing with privileged competitors by day. He shares how he learned how to evaluate what a business is worth and apply his street smarts to 8-figure and 9-figure deals . And he's not shy about discussing, for the first time, his epic legal and PR battle with former NY Governor Eliot Spitzer. His ultimate theme is that free enterprise is the key to giving everyone a leg up. As he writes: This book is my love song to capitalism. Capitalism works! And I'm living proof -- it works for everybody. Absolutely anybody is entitled to dream big, and absolutely everybody should dream big. I did. Show me where the silver spoon was in my mouth. I've got to argue profoundly and passionately: I'm the American Dream.

Our favourite quote from I Love Capitalism!: An American Story

by Elie Wiesel

Night is Elie Wiesel's masterpiece, a candid, horrific, and deeply poignant autobiographical account of his survival as a teenager in the Nazi death camps. This new translation by Marion Wiesel, Elie's wife and frequent translator, presents this seminal memoir in the language and spirit truest to the author's original intent. And in a substantive new preface, Elie reflects on the enduring importance of Night and his lifelong, passionate dedication to ensuring that the world never forgets man's capacity for inhumanity to man.

Night offers much more than a litany of the daily terrors, everyday perversions, and rampant sadism at Auschwitz and Buchenwald; it also eloquently addresses many of the philosophical as well as personal questions implicit in any serious consideration of what the Holocaust was, what it meant, and what its legacy is and will be.

Our favourite quote from Night

Human suffering anywhere concerns men and women everywhere.

Confessions of an Advertising Man

By david ogilvy.

David Ogilvy was an advertising genius. At the age of 37, he founded the New York-based agency that later merged to form the international company known as Ogilvy & Mather. Regarded as the father of modern advertising, Ogilvy was responsible for some of the most memorable advertising campaigns ever created. Confessions of an Advertising Man is the distillation of all the Ogilvy concepts, tactics, and techniques that made this international best-seller a blueprint for sound business practice. If you aspire to be a good manager in any business, this seminal work is a must-read.

Our favourite quote from Confessions of an Advertising Man

The consumer isn't a moron. She is your wife.

I Am Malala

By malala yousafzai.

I come from a country that was created at midnight. When I almost died it was just after midday. ‍

When the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley in Pakistan, one girl spoke out. Malala Yousafzai refused to be silenced and fought for her right to an education.

On Tuesday, October 9, 2012, when she was fifteen, she almost paid the ultimate price. She was shot in the head at point-blank range while riding the bus home from school, and few expected her to survive.

Instead, Malala's miraculous recovery has taken her on an extraordinary journey from a remote valley in northern Pakistan to the halls of the United Nations in New York. At sixteen, she has become a global symbol of peaceful protest and the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate .

I Am Malala is the remarkable tale of a family uprooted by global terrorism, of the fight for girls' education, of a father who, himself a school owner, championed and encouraged his daughter to write and attend school, and of brave parents who have a fierce love for their daughter in a society that prizes sons.

Our favourite quote from I Am Malala

We realize the importance of our voices only when we are silenced.

The Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant

By ulysses s. grant.

Ulysses S. Grant's Personal Memoirs is his autobiography, which focuses mostly on his military experience during the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War.

Our favourite quote from The Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant

I would not have the anniversaries of our victories celebrated, nor those of our defeats made fast days and spent in humiliation and prayer; but I would like to see truthful history written. Such history will do full credit to the courage, endurance and soldierly ability of the American citizen, no matter what section of the country he hailed from, or in what ranks he fought. The justice of the cause which in the end prevailed, will, I doubt not, come to be acknowledged by every citizen of the land, in time. For the present, and so long as there are living witnesses of the great war of sections, there will be people who will not be consoled for the loss of a cause which they believed to be holy. As time passes, people, even of the South, will begin to wonder how it was possible that their ancestors ever fought for or justified institutions which acknowledged the right of property in man.

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23 best autobiographies that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime

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Autobiographies hold a unique and captivating allure. They provide readers with an intimate window into the real-life, thoughts, and experiences of extraordinary individuals, as seen through their own eyes at critical moments of history and culture. The best memoirs can be a blend of so many genres: they can feel like a page-turning thriller, an inspirational story that serves as a mental health-boosting self-help guide or be a witty and hilarious read.

In a time when most of us are looking for a compelling distraction from the endless social media doom scrolling, an autobiography written by a beloved figure has the ability to capture your imagination and transport you to a wild world. Some of the best autobiographies of all time are the first-hand life stories from pop stars, fashion designers, and political activists. So, we've rounded up an edit of the best autobiographies that range from classics to pop culture celebrity reads – and as varied as they are, they all deserve a thorough read,  at least  once in your lifetime.

Compiling this list was tricky, but there were some that just had to be included without question. Anne Frank's The Diary of a Young Girl  and Nelson Mandela's Long Walk to Freedom  are both high up on our must-read list, for their honest and often heart wrenching descriptions of living through extreme discrimination and will stay with you long after you’ve finished.

Elsewhere, we’ve included some of the best autobiographies that have been written over the course of the past few years - and which have gone on to smash records and be reported on worldwide. Case in point: Price Harry’s Spare and I’m Glad My Mom Died – two titles which continue to be discussed heatedly across the globe.

Classic autobiographies such as A Moveable Feast and the more recent My Year of Magical Thinking are ones you will want to savour every page of – and don’t read Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime without being prepared to laugh out loud wherever you are.

Ahead, our edit of the best autobiographies and biographies of all time available as audiobooks, paperback, hardback and on Kindle.

Best autobiographies 2023

I am Malala

Malala. When has a first name been so universally renowned, a word use to denote strength and superhuman resolve. Her autobiography is an extraordinary memoir that resonates as a beacon of courage and determination. Malala's unyielding pursuit of education, even in the face of such danger, demonstrates her unbreakable spirit. She transports readers to a world where the simple act of going to school is an act of revolution. Through her depiction of the chaos that ensued when the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley, her personal journey of become intertwined, showcasing the power of education to uplift communities. Her account of surviving an assassination attempt and her continued advocacy for girls' education leave an indelible impact. One young voice can ignite change, reminding us that even in the darkest times, a single spark can illuminate an entire world.

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When Becoming was published it was a global literary event, selling over 17 million copies and counting. What must it feel like to be in the heart of the storm, standing by the side of a President whilst trying to raise a family and maintain your identity. Former First Lady Michelle Obama writes as elegantly as she speaks, her powerful voice shines through this intimate revelation of a life both extraordinary and relatable. With grace and candour, she invites readers into her journey from the South Side of Chicago to the White House. Her narrative is an ode to resilience, family, and self-discovery, showing how personal growth shapes public impact. Obama's insights into her role as First Lady and her advocacy for education and empowerment works seamlessly alongside the more intimate anecdotes that makes reading this feel like a conversation with a close friend, who just happens to be one of the most recognisable women alive.

I’m Glad My Mom Died

If this is the first time you have heard of this book, where have you been hiding? It has spent a mammoth YEAR on the New York Times Bestseller list since it was published, selling millions of copies worldwide. A raw, courageous, and controversial memoir that confronts the aftermath of loss in complicated relationships. McCurdy's unfiltered prose delves into the complexity of grief and the healing process, painting a vivid picture of her emotional journey. Her vulnerability is visceral as she grapples with conflicted emotions and explores her own identity in the shadow of her mother's death. McCurdy's candid storytelling captures the nuances of pain, anger, and eventual acceptance. With honesty and insight, she invites readers to accompany her on a path of self-discovery and resilience.

In the UK, Spare is the fastest selling non-fiction book ever, breaking all records. Whatever your views on the royal family, why this book was written and indeed how this book was written, we felt compelled to include it given the huge amount of interest and the conversations it sparked. We at @thebibliofilles both had very different reactions to it, the prose is disjointed in parts but the insight it gave into being one of the most recognisable faces on the plant, talked about in the world’s press every day was astounding. To go through the loss of a parent under the scrutiny and gaze of millions is a singular experience that Spare details intimately. Prince Harry is at times jaw-droppingly honest about his life, from going to the army to meeting his wife and this is a book that will continue to be referenced and discussed for many years.

A Long Walk to Freedom

From one of the greatest leaders the world has ever known, taking us through one of the most important turning points in recent history. This monumental autobiography distils the spirit of resilience and the triumph of justice. From his childhood in rural South Africa to his decades-long fight against apartheid, Mandela's narrative is one of courage and unwavering conviction. His steadfast commitment to freedom and equality resonates through every page, portraying a life inextricably linked with his nation's struggle. The book chronicles not just the trials of imprisonment, but the power of forgiveness and reconciliation that led to South Africa's transformation. This is a book that serves as a living testimony of history, whilst providing a masterclass in leadership and the power needed to heal an entire country.

What person alive has not worn or seen the Nike sign? Selling over 25 million copies, the autobiography of the Nike founder and CEO is the embodiment of the ultimate American dream, which seeps with passion and resilience. With candid sincerity, Knight takes readers on a rollercoaster journey through the company's inception, sharing the highs, lows, and relentless determination that shaped its success. Shoe Dog isn't just about business; it explores entrepreneurship and the power of unwavering ambition. Knight's vivid storytelling captures the struggles of building a company from the ground up, showcasing the risks and sacrifices involved. His blend of personal anecdotes, industry insights, and a touch of humour crafts an engaging narrative that resonates with aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone fascinated by the genesis of iconic brands.

This is one of those books that you will think about for years after reading it. When it was released there wasn’t a coffee or bookshop that didn’t have people discussing Educated. This captivating memoir unfolds like a journey from darkness to enlightenment. Raised in a strict and isolated household, Westover's quest for knowledge becomes a transformative odyssey. Her story exquisitely depicts the power of education to liberate the mind and the soul. Through her remarkable resilience, she navigates a path from ignorance to self-discovery, challenging deeply ingrained beliefs. The prose is both haunting and hopeful, capturing the dichotomy of her experiences. Educate is an unflinching exploration of the human capacity for change, illustrating how learning can dismantle barriers and shatter confines. Westover's story resonated with us at @thebibliofilles long after the last page.

Priest Daddy

When this was published in 2017, it launched Lockwood’s career and received rave reviews internationally. Priestdaddy is a riotous and introspective memoir that delves into the eccentric world of her unconventional family, led by her father—a former Lutheran priest turned Catholic. Lockwood's razor-sharp wit and irreverent prose create a unique lens through which to explore themes of religion, family dynamics, and personal identity. The narrative balances humour with poignant observations, offering a nuanced look at the intersection of faith and doubt. Lockwood's candid portrayal of her family's quirks and complexities reveals a universal truth about the complexity of love and relationships. As she navigates the absurdities of her upbringing and grapples with her own journey, readers are treated to a refreshingly honest, hilarious, and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience.

Just As I Am

Cecily Tyson was an award winning and ground breaking American actress, known for her portrayal of fierce characters. Her autobiography has inspired so many, from fellow actors to politicians (Obama says she shaped the course of history), a powerful and candid memoir that traces the remarkable journey of an iconic thespian. Tyson recounts her life from humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazing figure in the entertainment industry, and she doesn’t hold back from the challenges she faced as a Black woman in Hollywood and her unyielding commitment to roles that defied stereotypes. Through her introspection, she sheds light on the personal sacrifices, professional triumphs, and the profound impact of her work on representation. At her core she was a storyteller and this reads like a propulsive thriller, resonating with authenticity, honesty, and a deep sense of purpose.

The Diary of a Young Girl by Ann Frank

One of the most imprtant books ever published which everyone should read, The Diary of a Young Girl is a book that we at @thebibliofilles hold so close to our hearts. An enduring and indelible testament to the human spirit's resilience amid the heaviest of darkness. This diary represents the power of literature, both on the world and on societies understanding of history. Through Anne's intimate musings, the Holocaust's horrors are humanized in the searing voice of a Jewish child never to grow old. Her poignant insights, penned within the confines of her secret annex her family were hiding in during the World War, offer a stark contrast to the outside world's cruelty. This true story is a heartrending portrayal of a girl coming of age amidst adversity, her dreams and fears echoing across generations. Anne's voice is a beacon, illuminating the importance of remembrance, tolerance, and the pursuit of a better world. A timeless, haunting masterpiece that will affect every single reader long after they have finished the final page.

Know My Name

This is one of the most powerful and thought-provoking books we at @thebibliofilles have ever read, and we urge every single reader to buy a copy. Miller was the anonymous victim in a rape trial, and her victim impact statement went globally viral, inspiring, and empowering millions of victims. An unflinching memoir that redefines courage and reclaims agency, written with innate power, Miller chronicles her harrowing journey as a survivor of sexual assault, transcending the confines of victimhood to waking up an internet phenomenon, capturing the rollercoaster of emotions. With remarkable vulnerability, she peels back the layers of trauma, exposing the scars inflicted by both the crime and the justice system. Her resilience shines as she reclaims her identity and narrative. Miller's narrative is a force of nature, the ending so hopeful, the change she brought so important, you will find yourself recommending it to everyone you know.

The Year of Magical Thinking

Joan Didion was a literary legend, and her memoir is one of her most acclaimed books, winning a National Book Award and being in the final shortlist for the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Critics Circle Award. The Year of Magical Thinking is an emotionally charged account of Didion facing the unthinkable. In the wake of her husband's sudden death and her daughter's serious illness, Didion offers a raw and unflinching account of the human experience of loss. Through her precise prose, she dissects the complexities of mourning, grappling with the irrational hope that her husband might return. Balancing vulnerability with intellectual rigor, Didion's exploration of grief's labyrinthine nature is haunting and deeply moving. Her unvarnished introspection resonates with anyone who has faced loss, which is why it is still such a popular autobiography. illuminating the strange and unpredictable ways we cope with tragedy and offering the reader hope.

Eat Pray Love

Sometimes a book is so powerful that it can enter into societies psyche, its very title becoming part of our language. With over 10 million copies sold worldwide, this memoir changed so many lives, sending travellers to India and Bali and inspiring so many to reset their priorities. Elizabeth Gilbert's soul-searching memoir is a captivating journey of self-discovery. She had everything a modern woman was supposed to want--husband, country home, successful career--but instead of feeling happy and fulfilled, she was consumed by panic and confusion. This book charts her year-long expedition across Italy, India, and Indonesia, searching for balance, spirituality, and healing after a painful divorce. Gilbert's candid introspection, peppered with humour and vulnerability, invites readers into her personal odyssey. While some may find privilege in her ability to embark on such a voyage, the universal pursuit of happiness and purpose makes her story hugely relatable.

Born A Crime

So many readers have raved about the hilarity, wit and keen observations made in this popular autobiography from such a beloved TV personality. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah is a remarkable memoir that seamlessly blends humour, insight, and poignant reflection. Noah's storytelling prowess shines as he depicts the tumult of his upbringing in apartheid-era South Africa as a mixed-race child, born to a black mother and a white father. He is incredibly open about his experiences with racial and cultural identity, poverty, and the absurdities of prejudice. His ability to find joy and comedy in even the darkest moments adds a layer of relatability and accessibility, making this an enjoyable read even with a serious subject matter. Through the lens of his own life, Noah illuminates broader themes of resilience, social injustice, and the power of laughter to transcend adversity.

A Moveable Feast

A classic autobiography from one of the most important writers of the last century, a moveable feast was published posthumously and received a huge amount of praise and adoration. Paris comes alive as the backdrop to a mesmerizing account of the author's formative years. With his inimitable, exquisite prose, Hemingway paints a vivid picture of 1920s Paris, where artistic luminaries converge. His recollections are a literary time capsule, transporting readers to cafes, bookshops, and conversations with Gertrude Stein, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and more. Amidst the artistic fervour, Hemingway reflects on his struggles, successes, and the bittersweet romance with his first wife, Hadley. The narrative's simplicity belies its depth, capturing the essence of a transformative era and the pursuit of creative authenticity. You will want to devour this like we did at @thebibliofilles - a poignant, reflective work, A Moveable Feast offers a glimpse into the life of a literary giant and the era that shaped him.

This is Going to Hurt

When this was published you could not go onto a train, bus, or plane without someone reading this book. Adam Kay's This Is Going To Hurt is a gut-wrenchingly hilarious and eye-opening memoir that peels back the curtain on life as a doctor in the NHS.. From heartbreaking moments to laugh-out-loud escapades, he offers an unfiltered look at the highs and lows of the profession. Beyond the humour, the book also addresses the gruelling demands and bureaucratic hurdles faced by healthcare professionals. Kay's witty anecdotes and razor-sharp humour provide a unique perspective on the challenges and absurdities of working in the medical field, which is why this also resonated with international readers.

Patti Smith

This book is so achingly cool and contemporary and is a timeless snapshot of an iconic time in New York. Patti Smith's award winning Just Kids is an exquisite coming of age memoir that unveils her unique journey through the vibrant New York City art scene of the 1960s and 70s. With lyrical prose, Smith recounts her intimate relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, painting a vivid portrait of their artistic collaboration and deep bond. The book beautifully captures their struggles, dreams, and the fervent energy of a creative generation. Smith's storytelling is both poetic and honest, immersing readers in a world where bohemian ideals intersect with the realities of ambition and love. A mesmerising blend of autobiography and cultural history, Just Kids is a timeless tribute to friendship, art, and the unrelenting pursuit of artistic expression.

We had to include this autobiography as it a raw and compelling ace of a memoir that made huge waves when it was published. With unvarnished honesty, Agassi bares his soul, recounting his rise from a reluctant prodigy to a tennis icon. The narrative's power lies in Agassi's candid revelations – his love-hate relationship with the sport, family dynamics, and internal battles. The book unflinchingly tackles his struggles with identity and the pressures of fame, painting a vivid picture of both the exhilarating highs and crushing lows of professional tennis. Agassi's prose is as intense as his playing style, gripping readers with every page. A tale of redemption, resilience, and self-discovery, written with the ghostwriter who went on to write Spare with Prince Harry.

I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings

Let us count the ways we love Maya Angelou. It would be impossible to quantify the lasting legacy of this literary titan, and no list of the best autobiographies is complete without the masterpiece that is I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, which resonates with profound strength and vulnerability. The first volume of a seven-part autobiography, Angelou explores the complexities of racism, identity, and womanhood. Her prose dances off the page, every word exactly where it needs to be. Her resilience in the face of adversity is astonishing, overcoming a painful childhood of extreme poverty and cruelty, paints a vivid picture of her coming-of-age journey to greatness. The narrative's raw honesty exposes both the scars of prejudice and the triumphs of the human spirit, a symphony of pain and triumph, each page a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery. Angelou’s words echo through generations, urging us to confront our past and strive for a more just future.

This graphic autobiography broke so many barriers and is widely regarded as one of the best books of the century. Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi is a captivating graphic memoir that navigates the tumultuous history of Iran through a personal lens. Satrapi's evocative black-and-white illustrations and poignant storytelling capture her coming-of-age amidst the Iranian Revolution and its aftermath. Through her eyes, readers witness the cultural shifts, political upheavals, and individual struggles that shaped her identity. The memoir's intimate portrayal of family dynamics and friendships amidst adversity adds depth to the historical context. By combining the personal and political, Satrapi creates a vivid narrative that humanizes complex events and will stay with you long after the final page.

The Chiffon Trenches - André Leon Talley

André Leon Talley was a renowned and important fixture on the fashion scene, a celebrated journalist, creative director and editor-at-large of Vogue. The Chiffon Trenches is a must-read autobiography giving readers intimate insight into the world of runways and magazine politics. Talley's storytelling weaves a tapestry of glamour, ambition, and the complexities of the industry. From his early days to his tenure at Vogue, he reflects on his experiences with remarkable candour. The book not only explores the highs of his career but also looks at the challenges he faced as a trailblazing African American figure. The prose is as elegant as the garments he describes in this behind-the-scenes look at an iconic era.

The Autobiography of Malcolm X

Surely one of the most important autobiographies ever published, and now a literary classic. The Autobiography of Malcolm X is an unfiltered and searing chronicle of a transformative life. Malcolm X's journey from a troubled youth to a charismatic civil rights leader is powerfully captured in his own words, as told to Alex Haley, the author of Roots. Through candid reflections, he exposes the systemic racism, injustice, and personal struggles that shaped his evolution. The book serves as a testament to Malcolm X's unwavering commitment to black empowerment and his unapologetic critique of societal inequalities. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about America's history while highlighting the potential for radical change. A compelling blend of autobiography and social commentary, this work remains a pivotal and thought-provoking exploration of identity, activism, and justice, its one we at @thebibliofilles think about years after reading.

Crying in H Mart

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner is a profoundly moving memoir published in 2021, that weaves together themes of grief, identity, and cultural heritage. Zauner's lyrical prose offers a poignant exploration of growing up mixed race, her relationship with her mother, who battled cancer, and the complex connections between food, memory, and family. Through her heartfelt storytelling, she navigates the emotional landscape of loss and the quest to understand her Korean heritage. The book is a bittersweet journey of self-discovery, touching on the universal experiences of longing, belonging, and the impact of cultural assimilation. With vulnerability and grace, Zauner creates an intimate tapestry that resonates with anyone who has grappled with their past while forging their own path.

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35 Of The Best Autobiographies To Get Stuck Into, From Britney Spears' To Julia Fox's

Though fiction is perfect for escapism , occasionally somebody's real life story is just as captivating, fascinating and dramatic as stories of make believe.

This is proven time and time again when a bombshell autobiography is released and its contents subsequently dominate conversations, newspaper columns and magazine front covers. Looking for proof? Look no further to pop icon Julia Fox 's best-selling autobiography, Down The Drain or Jennette McCurdy's divisive I'm Glad My Mom Died.

Whether it's from someone who has lived a life in the public eye and has finally decided to put their experiences into words for the first time, or somebody accelerated to prominence from a single, extraordinary incident which they want to recount in full, there's a reason autobiographies top the bestseller charts again and again.

From Michele Obama 's to Malala Yousafzai's and Shonda Rhime's here are some must-read autobiographies that should be fixtures on your bookshelves.

Down the Drain - Julia Fox

One of the most outspoken pop icons of our time, Julia Fox reveals all in this authentic memoir detailing her life so far. From a troubled childhood which forced her to grow up early to toxic relationships and addictions that temporarily controlled her life to finally making it out on the other side.

The House of Hidden Meanings - RuPaul

Quite literally the biggest name in drag queen stardom, RuPaul bares all in his autobiography which tells his lived experience of going from poverty to discovering the power of performance and self-acceptance.

Through navigating difficul relationships with his parents to moulding his identity in the drag scenes of Atlanta and New York and his marriage with his husband Georges LeBar, no detail is left out.

Audible The Woman in Me - Britney Spears

One of the most highly anticipated autobiographies in contemporary times, Britney Spears' The Woman In Me is all about the musician taking control of her own narrative, after being denied of it, for so long. From the highs and lows of her career to her conservatorship, Spears brings for an insightiful and emotional read.

Takeaway: Stories From A Childhood Behind The Counter - Angela Hui

Having grown up in rural Wales above her family’s Chinese takeaway shop, Angela Hui looks at the bitter reality of racism in the UK while showcasing the importance of food and culture in this memoir. If you love Takeaway as much as we do, be sure to check out the Migration Museum in Lewisham, which currently has an immersive recreation of the family business for an exhibition which was co-curated by Hui.

I'm Glad My Mom Died - Jennette McCurdy

Nickelodeon child star Jenette McCurdy wrote this heartbreaking memoir centred around the difficult relationship she had with her abusive mother, who died of cancer in 2013. Divided into the before and aftermath of her death, the narrative dives into the story of McCurdy’s career, including a disturbing producer she worked with, her struggle with mental health, and the turbulent grieving process she experienced. It’s definitely not a light read by any means, but one that will stick with you forever.

The Lonely City: Adventures in the Art of Being Alone - Olivia Laing

By exploring famous artists’ lives, scientific research, and Laing's own lived experiences with solitude, this international bestseller takes a poignant look at what it means to feel alone. Ultimately, she reframes loneliness as a way to connect, which makes this surprisingly comforting. While this masterpiece was written in 2016, it is an even more powerful read post-lockdown. If you’re still struggling mentally from the aftermath of COVID, this is definitely one for you…

Crying in H Mart - Michelle Zauner

Zauner, the singer behind indie-pop band Japanese Breakfast, writes this thoughtful memoir about identity and loss. She was one of the very few Asian Americans at her school in Oregon, and as she grew older, she began to feel less and less connected to her Korean heritage – until she turned 25 and her mum was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Ultimately, it was this grief that led her to embrace her family’s culture in a way she never had before.

Brown Baby: A Memoir of Race, Family and Home - Nikesh Shukla

From the author who edited The Good Immigrant , Shukla's B rown Baby is a memoir everyone needs on their bookshelf. Hilarious at times, heartbreaking at others, and informative from the outset and throughout, this book remains hopeful while discussing a breadth of potentially heavy topics like love, grief, and fatherhood.

Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic - Alison Bechdel

The inspiration behind the Olivier Award nominated musical of the same name, Fun Home is a truly phenomenal graphic memoir that looks at the strained relationship between the author and her gay father, who passed away just two weeks after she came out to him. Bechdel handles tragedy with care, painting a thoroughly three dimensional portrait of her complicated father, while managing to inject humour into what could have easily been a solely bleak story.

I Heard What You Said - Jeffrey Boakye

Boakye reflects on his experience as both a Black student and a Black teacher in Britain, analysing racism in the education system and offering an exploration into how we can work to dismantle white supremacy in classrooms and beyond.

Virago I Might Regret This: Essays, Drawings, Vulnerabilities and Other Stuff - Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson, Broad City co-creator and the mastermind behind A League of Their Own, was going through a break-up when she decided to take a road trip across the US by herself. Her journey (both literally and figuratively) is captured with this collection of essays and musings. Join her on the ride and get inspired to channel Abbi and savour solitude.

Persepolis: The Story of an Iranian Childhood - Marjane Satrapi

Satrapi invites us into her childhood growing up amidst the Iranian Revolution up to her early adult years in Austria with this critically acclaimed graphic memoir. Persepolis is a must-read for everyone, especially for those of us in the West. We also highly recommend the animated film of the same name that was adapted from this book.

Orion I Am Malala - Malala Yousafzai

Everyone knows her name, but Malala's 2013 autobiography details the events in her life up to and after she was shot in the head by the Taliban in her home country of Pakistan. From blogging anonymously for the BBC under a pseudonym to campaign for girls education, through to the last thing she remembers before a gunman stormed her school bus and shot her, the autobiography is inspirational, riveting and hopeful.

Becoming - Michelle Obama

One of the bestselling memoirs of recent times, Michelle Obama's book is a page-turner. The former First Lady recounts her upbringing in Chicago, her successful career as a lawyer, meeting her husband Barack Obama, moving into the White House and 'breaking royal protocol' with the Queen with equal doses of humility and pride.

Ebury Press How To Be a Woman - Caitlin Moran

On the bookshelves of many young women up and down the UK, the Times columnist recounts her own personal experiences while weaving them into discussions about womanhood and feminism. From abortion to weddings to pubic hair, there are no stones left unturned.

Canongate Books Reasons to Stay Alive - Matt Haig

Haig starts Reasons To Stay Alive with the worst moment of his life: the mental health breakdown in his early twenties that almost drove him to suicide. With hindsight, the author writes of all the reasons he's so glad he is still alive, which he wasn't able to consider or appreciate when in the depths of crippling depression.

Penguin Classics The Autobiography of Malcolm X - Malcolm X

A result of the many hours of interviews between the civil rights leader and journalist Alex Haley, this must-read book documents Malcolm's childhood, including the murder of his father at the hands of the Ku Klux Klan, his rise in the Nation of Islam and the differences in his activism compared to Martin Luther King. The autobiography was published in 1965, months after the giant of the civil rights movement was shot dead.

Simon & Schuster UK Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKE - Phil Knight

The co-founder and creator of Nike explains how he became the architect of one of the most coveted, recognisable and - still - very profitable consumer brands in this honest memoir.

Viking A Promised Land - Barack Obama

The long-awaited memoir of the 44th president of the United States was released at the end of 2020 chronicling the life and times of the first Black president of the United States.

Viking Know My Name: The Survivor of the Stanford Sexual Assault Case Tells Her Story - Chanel Miller

Four years after her powerful victim impact statement against convicted sex offender and Stanford university swimmer Brock Turner went viral, Chanel Miller waived her right to anonymity to tell her story of being a sexual assault survivor. Credited with changing the conversation about rapes on college campuses, Miller's brave memoir became a bestseller.

Olivia Blair is Entertainment Editor (Luxury) at Hearst UK, working across ELLE, Esquire and Harper's Bazaar. Olivia covers all things entertainment and has interviewed the likes of Margot Robbie, Emma Stone, Michaela Coel and Ryan Gosling over the years.

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50 Fabulous Biographies & Autobiographies For Those Who Love a Book About a True Story

By LoveReading | Posted: 2nd November 2023 | Updated: 16th February 2024

Oh we love a great biography and autobiography here at LoveReading. What's better than a literary genre that focuses on the life stories and experiences of real individuals. Real stories. Real lives. Real pain. Real learns. 

If your favourite is an autobiography, a written account of a person's own life, narrated by that person, then we have added here some of our favourites of all time. We've also added some of the newly published titles hitting the shelves this Autumn ready for your Christmas shopping!

Biography more your thing? A written account of a person's life story, but it is authored by someone other than the subject of the biography. We've got plenty of those too. 

Autumn is the time of year that celebrities publish their memoirs ready for the Christmas market. Whether you're wanting to learn more about your favourite actor, singer, comedian or TV star; or you're intrigued about people's lives once the cameras have been put away, the celebrity autobiographies may appeal to you.

Now her 13-year long conservatorship has come to an end, Britney Spears has taken the opportunity to share her story in her own words. The much buzzed about memoir The Woman in Me  is a moving story about freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith and hope. Fans of Britney Spears and those who followed the #FreeBritney campaign will appreciate one of the greatest pop performers telling her story on her own terms. 

The recent unexpected and terribly sad passing of actor Matthew Perry will be a loss to his myriad of fans. Always open about his troubles, his memoir,  Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing is just as candid as you'd expect. Recorded as saying he wanted to be remembered for helping people, his unflinchingly honest, moving, and uproariously funny book delivers a powerful message of hope and persistence. Although out of stock at the time of writing this, you can add it to your wishlist ready for when it next becomes available. 

Comedy legend and national treasure Billy Connolly wrote his first full-length autobiography Windswept & Interesting last year, and this year he releases  Rambling Man , a joyful new book that explores a free spirit philosophy and shares Big Yin's ramblings and from his lifetime on the road. It's truly a global adventure with the wittiest possible travel companion. 

Also no stranger to the autobiography, Dawn French released Dear Fatty in 2009, followed by the interactive non-fiction Me. You. A Diary and Me. You. Not A Diary in 2017 and 2018 consecutively. This year, the Vicar of Dibley star shares all the mistakes she's made in her life in The Twat Files  and celebrates the fact that these mistakes are what make us gloriously human. 

Is it really Christmas without hearing from the Mistletoe & Wine singer Cliff Richard? While this isn't a festive tune, A Head Full of Music  shares the 30 songs that form the soundtrack to Richard's life, with memories and stories about the ways they've moved him and the legendary artists he has met.

Catch up with farmer-in-progress Jeremy Clarkson at Diddly Squat Farm with his latest book  Diddly Squat: Pigs Might Fly . Since taking the tractor wheel three years ago Jeremy has had his work cut out, as documented on the hilarious TV show and in his first book Diddly Squat: 'Til The Cows Come Home . Another year on the farm and Jeremy is still knee-deep in mud and endless challenges.

Politics your thing? There are tons of autobiographies of political figures, including former Prime Ministers and Members of Parliament providing an insight into the country's political history. Arguing for a radical rethink of how we approach our politics and public life, former Home Secretary and Prime Minister Theresa May confronts a series of issues where the abuse of power led to devastating results.

Another searing insider account of ten extraordinary years in Parliament comes from Rory Stewart in Politics On the Edge . Candid, uncompromising and darkly humorous, this is his story of the absurdities and realities of political life today.

The remarkable, and in her time scandalous, seventeenth-century writer Margaret Cavendish's life is explored in Francesca Peacock's biography Pure Wit . In these lively pages, we discover fascinating details of Cavendish’s flamboyant life, and her work too, which covered a remarkable range of prescient topics, from why marriage is bad for women and lesbian love, to scientific and philosophical subjects. Quite simply a must read for anyone interested in history, literature and fabulous women who refuse to play by the book. 

No Ordinary Day by Matt Johnson and John Murray is eye-opening and thought-provoking throughout. Read the shocking history and ongoing fight for justice after the murder of Police Constable Yvonne Fletcher in 1984. Described by Liz Robinson as "provocative and gripping" and awarded a LoveReading Star Book , this compelling read comes highly recommended by us. 

History in the making, The War Came To Us by Christopher Miller is a breath-taking exploration of Ukraine's past, present, and future, and a heart-breaking account of the war against Russia, written by the leading journalist of the conflict. In a war of propaganda, this book offers both context and truth and is riveting, informative and heart-breaking in equal measure. 

Royal Family

If you are an avid royalist, you might not want to read Spare by Prince Harry. However, you might have seen the onslaught of media coverage and, much like Britney Spears' autobiography, you may wish to hear Prince Harry's perspective in his own words and make up your own mind. Regardless of opinion, it more than earned its place in our list as earlier this year it became the UK's fastest selling non-fiction title ever when it sold 400,000 copies on its first day of publication.

In The Palace Papers , bestselling author Tina Brown takes readers on a tour de force journey that shows the Queen's stoic resolve as she coped with the passing of Princess Margaret, the Queen Mother and her partner for seven decades, Prince Philip, and triumphed in her Jubilee years even as the family dramas raged around her.

In  Shakespeare,  Dame Judi Dench opens up for the very first time about every Shakespearean role she has played throughout her seven-decade career. She guides us through Shakespeare's plays with incisive clarity, revealing the secrets of her rehearsal process and inviting us to share in her triumphs, disasters, and backstage shenanigans. Instructive and witty, provocative and inspiring, this is ultimately Judi's love letter to Shakespeare, or rather, The Man Who Pays The Rent.

In  A Memoir of My Former Self  Hilary Mantel tells her story from her unique childhood to her all-consuming fascination with Thomas Cromwell that grew into the Wolf Hall Trilogy. This autobiography reveals the shape of Mantel's life in her own dazzling words, 'messages from people I used to be.' Compelling, often very funny, always luminous, it is essential reading from one of our greatest writers. 

The authoritative and illuminating biography of T. E. Lawrence - the man who inspired the iconic film Lawrence of Arabia - is delivered and makes this list thanks to the world's greatest living explorer Ranulph Fiennes. He can claim a true insight into the kind of life that Lawrence lived - bold and adventurous to the end.

Twenty years after leaving London, Nina Stibbe is back in town with her dog, Peggy. Together they take up lodging in the house of writer Deborah (Debby) Moggach in Camden for 'a year-long sabbatical'. Whether you fell for Nina in Love, Nina or you read her multi-award winning Reasons to be Cheerful , this is one read you won't want to miss out on.

Take a look at the man behind James Bond in Ian Fleming by Nicholas Shakespeare, or uncover  The Secret Life of John le Carré  in their respective biographies. With unprecedented access to both world famous authors their books cast fresh light on their subjects, whether through new material or information that they didn't want shared whilst alive. 

Inspirational Life Stories

Now two of our absolute fave autobiographies of all time have to be mentioned here. We love reading autobiographies of individuals who have overcome significant challenges or achieved extraordinary feats and they don't come much better than Educated by Tara Westover. An inspiring tale from one incredible individual that blew our mind. 

Equally,  In The Shadow of the Mountain  by Silvia Vasquez-Lavado is an incredible and inspirational story of triumph through adversity. As one of the first women in the world to climb the Seven Summits, this is a vivid an honest story that cemented it's place in our Star Books category. 

Looking for more practical inspiration? Then why not take advice from the Terminator himself? Arnold Schwarzenegger's Be Useful  contains the seven rules to follow in order to realise your true purpose in life. Inspired by his own journey and ceaseless reinvention, written in his uniquely earnest and blunt voice, this book takes readers through Arnold's toolkit for a meaningful life. 

Are you wanting 2024 to be the year that you finally achieve those long put off goals? Diary of a CEO  by Steven Bartlett shares a set of principles he's noticed through his own successes and failures in life as well as those people he's interviewed on his podcast. 

Talking of epic feats and epic failures, there are few people in the world who are quite as divisive as Elon Musk. Walter Isaacson, author of Steve Jobs and other bestselling biographies had two years of unprecedented access to this mercurial and powerful man and has penned an astonishingly intimate story of Elon Musk , the most fascinating and controversial innovator of our era.

We hope you enjoy this collection of LoveReading's best biographies and autobiographies, curated especially for you in time for Christmas 2023. It's a Christmas cracking list.

Strong Female Character

£9.89 £10.99

Adventureholic

Neil Laughton

£18.00 £20.00

The Woman in Me

Britney Spears

£22.50 £25.00

Abroad in Japan

Chris Broad

Not Available

£15.29 £16.99

The Secret Life of John le Carré

Adam Sisman

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Went to London, Took the Dog: A Diary

Nina Stibbe

Ian Fleming: The Complete Man

Nicholas Shakespeare

£27.00 £30.00

The Twat Files

Dawn French

£19.80 £22.00

Rambling Man

Billy Connolly

A Memoir of My Former Self

Hilary Mantel

Lawrence of Arabia

Ranulph Fiennes

Shakespeare

Dame Judi Dench

No Ordinary Day

Matt Johnson

£10.79 £11.99

The Bletchley Girls War, Secrecy, Love and Loss: the Women of Bletchley Park Tell Their Story

Tessa Dunlop

£11.69 £12.99

Windward Family

Alexis Keir

£8.09 £8.99

Making it Up as I Go Along

Marian Keyes

Undercurrent

Natasha Carthew

Going Infinite

Michael Lewis

Crossing the Line

John Sutherland

£8.99 £9.99

Blue A Memoir - Keeping the Peace and Falling to Pieces

Black Teacher

Beryl Gilroy

£17.09 £18.99

Walter Isaacson

£25.20 £28.00

Seventy Times Seven

The Infiltrators

Norman Ohler

A Head Full of Music

Cliff Richard

Friendaholic

Elizabeth Day

The Diary of a CEO

Steven Bartlett

From Mohair Suits to Kinky Boots

Geoff Deane

Sally Huband

One Fine Day

Ian Marchant

The War Came To Us

Christopher Miller

Pure Wit The Revolutionary Life of Margaret Cavendish

Francesca Peacock

£25.19 £27.99

The Jive Talker

Samson Kambalu

Terry Pratchett: A Life With Footnotes

Rob Wilkins

Getting Better

Michael Rosen

Miriam Margolyes

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The Olive Farm

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Meet Me in Buenos Aires

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Educated: A memoir

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The Success Myth

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Diddly Squat: 'Til The Cows Come Home

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Diddly Squat: Pigs Might Fly

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Do you love to hear all about a person's life, especially those that have had extraordinary experiences? Take your pick of the best autobiographies written by some of our favourite people here at The Works. You'll find the latest celebrity and comedian autobiographies here as well as autobiographies from people who have had interesting lives.

Pull on your wellies, grab your flat cap and join Jeremy Clarkson in this hilarious and fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the farm we're all obsessed with . . . An idyllic spot offering picturesque views across the Cotswolds, bustling hedgerows and natural springs. Until one day, Jeremy decided he would do the farming itself. After all, how hard could it be? . . . Faced with suffocating red tape, biblical weather, local objections, a global pandemic and his own frankly staggering ignorance of how to 'do farming', Jeremy soon realises that turning the farm around is going to take more than splashing out on a massive tractor. Fortunately, there's help at hand from a large and (mostly) willing team, including girlfriend Lisa, Kaleb the Tractor Driver, Cheerful Charlie, Ellen the Shepherd and Gerald, his Head of Security and Dry Stone Waller. And yet while the farm may be called Diddly Squat for good reason, Jeremy soon begins to understand that it's worth a whole lot more to him than pounds, shillings and pence . . . Product Information: • ISBN: 9780241464502 • Author: Jeremy Clarkson • Publisher: Michael Joseph • Format: Hardback • Pages: 224 • Dimensions: 24 x 16.2 x 2.6 cm

Adam Kay returns and will once again have you in stitches in his painfully funny and startlingly powerful follow-up to his first book. In his most honest and incisive book yet, he reflects on what's happened since hanging up his scrubs and examines a life inextricably bound up with medicine. Battered and bruised from his time on the NHS frontline, Kay looks back, moves forwards and opens up some old wounds. Product Information: • ISBN: 9781398700390 • Author: Adam Kay • Publisher: Orion Publishing • Format: Paperback • Pages: 304 • Dimensions: 19.6 x 12.8 x 3cm

Hollywood legend and British national treasure Sir Michael Caine shares the wisdom, stories, insight and skills that life has taught him in his remarkable career - and now his 85th year. One of our best-loved actors Michael Caine has starred in a huge range of films - including all-time favourites - from the classic British movies Alfie, Zulu and The Italian Job to the Hollywood blockbusting Dark Knight trilogy, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Hannah and Her Sisters and Cider House Rules. Caine has excelled in every kind of role - with a skill that's made it look easy.He knows what success takes - he's made it to the top of his profession from the toughest beginning. But as he says 'Small parts can lead to big things. And if you keep doing things right, the stars will align when you least expect it.' Now in his 85th year he wants to share everything he's learned.With brilliant new insight into his life and work and with his wonderful gift for story, this is Caine at his wise and entertaining best. Product Information:  • ISBN: 9781473689329 • Author: Michael Caine • Publisher: Hodder Paperbacks • Format:  Paperback • Pages: 304 • Dimensions: 12.8 x 2.2 x 19.6 cm

From declaring my love to Vanessa Redgrave to being fed cockroaches by Steve Buscemi, from turnip-based comedy with Blackadder to being farted on by Arnold Schwarzenegger, from Graham Norton's sofa to Alan Cumming's campervan, my life has been (and continues to be) a riotous adventure. Oh Miriam! has been such a constant refrain in my life, said in all kinds of tones - laughs, surprised gasps and orgasmic sighs (I'm hoping for all those from you as you read on!) - that it had to be the title of this book. And with a castlist that stretches from Churchill to di Caprio, Dahl to Dietrich, Princess Margaret to Maggie Smith, I've got so much more to tell you and so much more to say. My chapters range from 'How to Stay Married' to 'Don't Let the Bastards Get You Down'. Discover how to break the thickest conversational ice; why swearing is actually good for you (though not on the Today programme); the unexpected things I actually learnt at school and what my Spice Girl name would be. Not to mention my Tale of the Unexpected and my very own Vagina Monologue. Buckle up and join me on another unforgettable adventure, but this time through my heart and head...  Product Information:  • ISBN:  9781399803359 • Author: Miriam Margolyes • Publisher:  John Murray • Format:  Hardback • Pages:  336 • Dimensions: 15.29 x 1.78 x 23.39 cm 

The Boy Who Drew Auschwitz presents a rare living testimony through the eyes of a child who had the unique ability to observe and remember every detail around him and chose to document it all. Thomas Geve was just 15 years old when he was liberated from Buchenwald concentration camp on 11 April 1945. It was the third concentration camp he had survived. Upon arrival at Auschwitz- Birkenau, Thomas was separated from his mother and left to fend for himself in the men’s camp of Auschwitz I, at the age of 13. During the 22 months he was imprisoned, he was subjected to, and forced to observe first-hand, the inhumane world of Nazi concentration camps. On his eventual release Thomas felt compelled to capture daily life in the death camps in more than eighty profoundly moving drawings. Infamous scenarios synonymous with this dark period of history were portrayed in poignant but simplistic detail with extraordinary accuracy. Despite the unspeakable events he experienced, Thomas decided to become an active witness and tell the truth about life in the camps. He has spoken to audiences from around the world and continues to raise awareness about the Holocaust.  Product Information:  • ISBN:  9780008406394 • Author:  Thomas Geve • Publisher:  HarperCollins • Format:  Paperback • Pages:  352 • Dimensions: 12.9 x 2.7 x 19.8 cm

Eddy de Wind, a Dutch doctor and psychiatrist, was shipped to Auschwitz with his wife Friedel, whom he had met and married at the Westerbork labour camp in the Netherlands. At Auschwitz, they made it through the brutal selection process and were put to work. Each day, each hour became a battle for survival. For Eddy, this meant negotiating with the volatile guards in the medical barracks. For Friedel, it meant avoiding the Nazis’ barbaric medical experiments. As the end of the war approached and the Russian Army drew closer, the last Nazis fled, taking many prisoners with them, including Friedel. Eddy hid under a pile of old clothes and stayed behind. Finding a notebook and pencil, he began to write with furious energy about his experiences. Last Stop Auschwitz is an extraordinary account of life as a prisoner, a near real-time record of the daily struggle to survive but also of the flickering moments of joy Eddy and Friedel found in each other - passing notes through the fence, sometimes stealing a brief embrace. Documenting the best and the worst of humanity, it is a unique and timeless story that reminds us of what we as humans are capable of, but that there is hope, even in Hell. Thought to be the only complete book written within Auschwitz itself, it will linger with you long after the final page has been turned. Product Information:  • ISBN:  9781804995730 • Author:  Eddy de Wind • Publisher:  Doubleday • Format:  Paperback • Pages:  272 • Dimensions: 14.4 x 2.7 x 22.2 cm

At the age of sixty, and having lived with Parkinson’s disease for over ten years, Guy Deacon CBE set out on one last adventure: to drive solo from his home in the UK 18,000 miles and through twenty-five countries to Cape Town on the southern tip of Africa. This incredible journey, across Europe and down the full length of Africa, took the former British Army officer over twelve months. Along the way, he broke down five times, underwent one emergency evacuation, and took 3,650 prescription pills. There are only a handful of vehicles each year which attempt this difficult journey; many never complete it. Ongoing conflicts in Libya, South Sudan, Mozambique and many other countries make any journey exceptionally dangerous. In central Africa, road conditions, particularly in the rainy season, often make the going treacherous. Further hazards include illegal checkpoints, extortion, contaminated fuel and a lack of services. Guy drove, lived and slept in his VW Transporter, often in remote spots, hundreds of miles from the nearest village or town. Reliant on patchy GPS, he often got lost. His journey was, quite simply, an incredible feat by a man travelling alone with Stage 3 Parkinson’s disease, when simply putting on a pair of shoes can take half an hour. But not only did Guy’s journey fulfil a childhood dream to drive the length of Africa, his mission was also to raise global awareness of Parkinson’s disease, for which there is currently still no cure. Product Information:  • ISBN: 9781802471885 • Author: Guy Deacon • Publisher: Ad Lib Publishers Ltd • Format:  Paperback • Pages: 240 • Dimensions: 20 x 13 x 2cm

From the detective who helped catch the Golden State Killer, a memoir about investigating America's toughest cold cases, and the rewards - and toll - of a life spent solving crime. For a decade, from 1973, The Golden State Killer stalked and murdered Californians in the dead of night, leaving entire communities afraid to turn off the lights. Then he vanished, and the case remained unsolved. In 1994, when cold-case investigator Paul Holes came across the old file, he swore he would unmask GSK and finally give these families closure. Twenty-four years later, Holes fulfilled that promise, identifying 73-year-old Joseph J. DeAngelo. Headlines blasted around the world: one of America's most prolific serial killers had been caught. That case launched Paul's career into the stratosphere, turning him into an icon in the true-crime world. But while many know the story of the capture of GSK, until now, no one has truly known the man behind it all.  Product Information: • ISBN:  9781472270399 • Author:  Paul Holes • Publisher:  Wildfire • Format:  Paperback • Pages:  288 • Dimensions:  12.9 x 2.4 x 19.8 cm

Global superstar, songwriter, singer and Princess of Pop Britney Spears tells all in her heartfelt and honest memoir that portrays her rise to fame, tumultuous relationship with her father, controversial conservatorship, widely documented mental health struggles and so much more. Battling with a parent to take control of your own life at the age of 39 seems impossible. But this is where superstar Britney Spears found herself, 13 years into a conservatorship constructed by her father. In June 2021, the whole world was listening as she spoke in open court for the first time, delivering a bombshell statement in which she described the complex legal arrangement as abusive and condemned the actions of her own father, Jamie. The impact of voicing her truth was undeniable, and it changed the course of her life and the lives of countless others. The Woman in Me reveals for the first time her incredible journey and the strength at the core of one of the greatest performers in pop music history. Written with remarkable candour and humour, Spears's ground-breaking book illuminates the enduring power of music and love and the importance of a woman telling her own story, on her own terms, at last. Product Information:  • ISBN: 9781398522541  • Author: Britney Spears • Publisher: Gallery UK • Format:  Paperback • Pages: 288 • Dimensions:  13 x 1.7 x 19.8cm

Heiress. Party girl. Problem child. Model. Reality star. Self-created. Icon. “The future belongs to girls who refuse to do as they’re told.” Heiress. Party girl. Problem child. Model. Reality star. The labels attached to Paris Hilton. Entrepreneur. Innovator. Survivor. Activist. Daughter. Sister. Wife. Mother. The roles Paris embraces as a fully realised woman. Paris Hilton rose to fame as the It Girl of the aughts and despite coming of age under the scrutiny of a tabloid culture that that wrote her off “famous for being famous”, she built her own global empire and became a modern icon beloved around the world. Now, with courage, honesty, and humour, Paris is ready to share her side of the story. Paris: The Memoir reveals the truth about her privileged yet traumatic upbringing, takes us to wild parties, follows the success and love she found on her own terms and shares new stories that chart her difficult road to motherhood; stories that reveal the truth about the woman you think you know. Welcome back to Paris. Product Information: • ISBN: 9780008524500 • Author: Paris Hilton • Publisher: Harper Collins • Format: Paperback • Pages: 368 • Dimensions: 19.8 x 12.9 x 2.6cm

So, I’ve written a book. I have decided to write these stories just as I have always done, in my own hand. The joy that I have felt from chronicling these tales is not unlike listening back to a song that I’ve recorded and can’t wait to share with the world, or reading a primitive journal entry from a stained notebook, or even hearing my voice bounce between the Kiss posters on my wall as a child.  From hitting the road with Scream at 18 years old, to my time in Nirvana and the Foo Fighters, jamming with Iggy Pop or playing at the Academy Awards or dancing with AC/DC and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, drumming for Tom Petty or meeting Sir Paul McCartney at Royal Albert Hall, bedtime stories with Joan Jett or a chance meeting with Little Richard, to flying halfway around the world for one epic night with my daughters…the list goes on.  I look forward to focusing the lens through which I see these memories a little sharper for you with much excitement.  Product Information: • ISBN: 9781398503724 • Author: Dave Grohl • Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK • Format: Paperback • Pages: 384 • Dimensions: 19.8 x 13 x 2.7 cm

BAFTA-winning actor, creator of a myriad of unforgettable characters from Lady Whiteadder to Professor Sprout, Miriam Margolyes, OBE, is the nation's favourite (and naughtiest) treasure. Now, at the age of 80, she has finally decided to tell her extraordinary life story - and it's well worth the wait. Find out how being conceived in an air-raid gave her curly hair; what pranks led to her being known as the naughtiest girl Oxford High School ever had and why Bob Monkhouse was the best (male) kiss she's ever had. From declaring her love to Vanessa Redgrave to being told to be quiet by the Queen, this book is packed with brilliant, hilarious stories. With a cast list stretching from Scorsese to Streisand, a cross-dressing Leonardo di Caprio to Isaiah Berlin, This Much Is True is as warm and honest, as full of life and surprises, as its inimitable author. Product Information: • ISBN: 9781529379907 • Author: Miriam Margolyes • Publisher: John Murray • Format: Paperback • Pages: 448 • Dimensions: 19.6 x 12.8 x 3.2 cm

Paul Merson’s wonderfully moving and brutally honest memoir of battling addiction for three decades. For twenty-one years Paul Merson played professional football. He won two First Division titles with Arsenal and was one of the finest players of his generation. But for thirty years Paul Merson has also been an addict. Alcohol, drugs, gambling: a desperately unenviable cocktail of addictions and depression which has plagued his entire adult life and driven him to the verge of suicide. ‘I’ve come to realise that I’m powerless over alcohol … I’m an alcoholic. My drinking and gambling have left a lot of wreckage.’ Until recently the drinking and gambling were still raging. ‘I wanted to kill myself. I couldn’t go on anymore. I just couldn’t see a way out.’ Then something clicked. ‘One day, I was walking home from the pub late on a Sunday evening, and I thought to myself: I’ve had enough of feeling like this, every day of my life. I rang up Alcoholics Anonymous the next day, and since then I haven’t had a drink.’ Hooked will kick-start a crucial national conversation about addiction, depression and the damage they wreak. Product Information: • ISBN: 9781472282569 • Author: Paul Merson • Publisher: Headline • Format: Paperback • Pages: 304 • Dimensions: 13.02 x 1.91 x 20 cm

A definitive and intriguing biography of Max Verstappen, Formula 1's superstar, Lewis Hamilton's great rival and the three-time winner of the World Drivers' Championship. No Hollywood scriptwriter could possibly have envisioned the breathless, adrenaline-pumping climax to the 2021 Formula 1 season. On the very last lap of the final race of an unbelievably arduous and controversial season, Red Bull's Max Verstappen nervelessly overtook the seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes to clinch the first place that thrust the young prodigy to the narrowest of victories and to his first World Drivers' title. He followed up by taking the 2022 and 2023 titles as well. Verstappen may only be 26 years of age, but the Dutch motorsport sensation has an incredible record in F1. This young man has already left an indelible mark on the sport. The son of F1 driver Jos, Verstappen junior quickly stepped out of his father's shadow: his youthful charisma, ferocious speed, fearless driving style and refusal to back down mark him out as a true champion. And the phenomenal success of Netflix's Drive to Survive documentary series has elevated his worldwide popularity still further. Widely respected motorsport writer and F1 insider Mark Hughes is perfectly placed to write the most authoritative narrative on Verstappen's incredible rise through the ranks to F1 glory. Hughes' immaculate credentials and first-rate access enable him to generate fresh and fascinating insights, and to paint a fully-rounded and richly-textured portrait of one of the most exciting young sportsmen on the planet.  Product Information:  • ISBN:  9781472299048 • Author:  Mark Hughes • Publisher:  Headline • Format:  Paperback • Pages:  352 • Dimensions:   15.4 x 3.6 x 23.6 cm

The long-awaited return of the comedy national treasure... Blockbusters, Baywatch… Mastermind, Moonlighting… Porridge, Parkinson… Peter Kay takes you on a journey into the wonders of TV –back to the days when Dusty Bin was a household name, Robin of Sherwood was a pin-up and the Brookside siege was the event of the year. For a young telly-loving Peter growing up in Bolton, TV meant Sunday bath nights with a black-and-white portable, the unbridled excitement of the new Christmas TV guide and his elderly neighbour’s inconvenient hearing problem. Here, for the first time, he collects his TV memories and adventures together in this brilliant book. Join Peter as he finds success on the small screen, leaving his own unique footprint in the golden age of TV: from making tea at Granada Studios and marching along to ‘(Is This the Way to) Amarillo’ to hanging out in the Rovers Return, having run-ins with Bernard Manning and starring in possibly the worst Doctor Who episode of all time. You’ll go behind the scenes of the legendary Phoenix Nights, take The Road to Nowhere with Max & Paddy and discover how Peter created his BAFTA-winning performance in Car Share. So sit back and enjoy a journey through the wonderful world of television. Endearing, sidesplittingly funny and utterly unforgettable – T.V. sees Peter Kay at his vivid, nostalgic and hilarious best.  Product Information:  • ISBN:  9780008623319 • Author: Peter Kay • Publisher: HarperCollins • Format:  Paperback • Pages:  320 • Dimensions:  15.9 x 3.6 x 24 cm

Get Changed is for the countless women out there who are wondering whether they know who they are anymore. Loss of identity is an experience all too familiar to Instagram style guru and professional stylist Kat Farmer. In her own life, she found that fashion helped her regenerate herself and rediscover her confidence. In Get Changed, Kat's authentic, down-to-earth voice, trademark humour, and insights into some of her personal anxieties make you feel like she's right there in the room with you. The book delivers the personal stylist experience to readers, a step-by-step practical guide to building the ultimate new wardrobe. Borrowing from the structure of a recipe book, the prep, the ingredients and the method, Kat breaks down the process with easy-to-remember tips and tricks; the reader will come away inspired and confident that they can build a wardrobe of clothes they love. Most importantly, Kat will show that finding your confidence again and discovering the new you can be as simple as getting changed. The book covers all the basics - sorting out and assessing your current wardrobe, working out what works for your body type and your lifestyle, how to shop successfully, key wardrobe pieces (crucially that will work together) all tackled with Kat's helpful, warm and funny approach. Product Information: • ISBN: 9781784727789 • Author: Kat Farmer • Publisher: Mitchell Beazley • Format: Hardback • Pages: 256 • Dimensions: 21.4 x 17.2 x 2.6cm

The story of pop legend Dusty Springfield from the people who knew her, from her troubled childhood to 60s mod queen and enduring music icon. Dusty Springfield was one of our greatest pop singers. From 60s hits like ‘I Only Want to be With You’, ‘Son of a Preacher Man’ and ‘You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me’ to her 80s collaboration with the Pet Shop Boys and beyond, she was a musical pioneer and the very essence of authentic white soul. A member of the US Rock and Roll and UK Music Halls of Fame, international polls have named Dusty among the best female pop artists of all time. Twenty-five years after her passing, she continues to fascinate and inspire. This classic biography is based on over forty-five original interviews with close friends and people who worked with her, including Sir Tom Jones, Lulu, legendary arranger Ivor Raymonde, and the late, great Atlantic Records trio, Jerry Wexler, Tom Dowd and Arif Mardin, with whom she recorded her classic album Dusty In Memphis. The book fully explores her life and legacy, from a troubled Home Counties childhood to 60s mod queen and solo star, to her struggles with addiction and mental health issues, to her status as an influential LGBT heroine and enduring pop icon.  Product Information:  • ISBN:  9781789295863 • Author:  Lucy O'Brien • Publisher:  Michael O'Mara • Format:  Paperback • Pages:  304 • Dimensions:  12.9 x 2.2 x 19.8 cm

The seven rules to follow to realise your true purpose in life-distilled by Arnold Schwarzenegger from his own journey of ceaseless reinvention and extraordinary achievement, and available for absolutely anyone. The world's greatest bodybuilder. The world's highest paid movie star. The leader of the world's sixth largest economy. That these are the same person sounds like the setup to a joke. But this is no joke. This is Arnold Schwarzenegger. And this did not happen by accident. Arnold's stratospheric success happened as part of a process. As the result of clear vision, big thinking, hard work, direct communication, resilient problem-solving, open-minded curiosity, and a commitment to giving back. All of it guided by the one lesson Arnold's father hammered into him above all: be useful. As Arnold conquered every realm he entered, he kept his father's adage close to his heart. Written with his uniquely earnest, blunt, powerful voice, BE USEFUL takes readers on an inspirational tour through Arnold's toolkit for a meaningful life. Arnold shows us how to put those tools to work, in service of whatever fulfilling future we can dream up for ourselves. He brings his insights to vivid life with compelling personal stories, life-changing successes and life-threatening failures alike--some of them famous, some told here for the first time ever. Too many of us struggle to disconnect from our self-pity and connect to our purpose. At an early age, Arnold forged the mental tools to build the ladder out of the poverty and narrow-mindedness of his rural Austrian hometown, tools he used to add rung after rung from there. Now he has shared that wisdom with all of us. As he puts it, no one is going to come rescue you -- you only have yourself. The good news, it turns out, is that you are all you need.  Product Information:  • ISBN:  9781529146530 • Author: Arnold Schwarzenegger • Publisher:  Ebury Edge • Format:  Hardback • Pages:  288 • Dimensions: 14.4 x 2.8 x 22.2 cm

Buying Autobiographies

Autobiographies are one of the most popular genres of non-fiction books. They provide inspiration, entertainment and insight into some incredible stories. We've pulled together some FAQs to help you find the best autobiographies. 

What is the difference between an Autobiography and a Biography?

An autobiography is a self-written account of one's own life, while a biography is a written narrative of someone's life, often penned by another author.

What makes a good autobiography to read?

A good autobiography is dependent on what you are looking for. Some people like funny autobiographies, while others look for compelling tales of adventure that will inspire them. Whatever the genre, all autobiographies will feel authentic and have a compelling narrative and vivid descriptions that make you feel like you are there.

The best autobiographies of all time: memorable memoirs

Amazing stories about amazing people.

No matter how content you are with your own life - and we sincerely hope that you are - there is nothing like peaking into the world of someone else. And, as our best autobiography list proves, some people have lived lives that are far from the mundane.

Here we list some of our favourite autobiographies, mostly from the world of entertainment. The ones that really get under the skin of their subjects - because they are written by the person who knows them the most, themselves.

UPDATE: Autobiographies don't get much more important than Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Published in 1969, it has gone on to be just the first part in a seven-book series that charts the poet and civil rights activist's life.

From rock stars that will surely outlive us all to chefs who are achingly truthful about their craft to mystery writers whose lives are more adventurous than the stories they wrote, these are a selection of the best autobiographies of all time.

Best autobiographies

1 . On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

On Writing is everything you could want from a Stephen King book, it just so happens that it’s based on the author himself. It mixes autobiography with essential tips on writing and then ends things with his graphic recollection of his near-death experience of being hit by a van. It shouldn’t work, given its disparate elements, but it really does and it’ll provide plenty of inspiration for those who have ever wanted to put pen to paper.

Key details: King’s hatred of adverbs: “I believe the road to hell is paved with adverbs, and I will shout it from the rooftops. To put it another way, they're like dandelions.” Well, it made us chuckle… loudly.

2 . Kitchen Confidential: Adventures In The Culinary Underbelly By Anthony Bourdain

The late, hard-living New Yorker’s deliciously snarky, straight-talking memoir – an extended remix of a New Yorker article titled ‘Don’t Eat Before Reading This’ – explains his passionate relationship with food and, more spicily, the frequently grim reality of working in a top restaurant.

Key details: Never eat fish on a Monday. Don’t order steak well done. And remember that sweating away in that Michelin-starred kitchen are “wacked-out moral degenerates, dope fiends, refugees, a thuggish assortment of drunks, sneak thieves, sluts and psychopaths”.

3 . If Chins Could Kill: Confessions Of A B-Movie Actor By Bruce Campbell

Jut-jawed Campbell is the star of the Evil Dead trilogy, and supporting turns in all sorts of other cult films and TV shows. This anecdote-stuffed sleeper hit provides a knowing, gossipy peek into Hollywood life from the perspective of a man perpetually working in the independent nooks and low-budget crannies.

Key details: The fake blood-spattered tales from the Evil Dead set. And David Duchovny’s chronic flatulence problem.

4 . Agatha Christie: An Autobiography by Agatha Christie

With murder mysteries back in fashion and Agatha Christie gently parodied on the big screen with recent movie See How They Run, it’s a great time to get stuck into her autobiography. The book is great as not only do you get an understanding of the inspiration of her famous characters but it turns out her personal life was just as exciting as any of the plots she came up with for her books.

Key details: Agatha Christie is a big fan of poisoning in her books and it turns out this stems from her time as a nurse in World War 1 as a medicine dispenser.

5 . A Moveable Feast By Ernest Hemingway

Published posthumously in 1964, one of Hemingway’s best-loved works recounts his time as an expat in France between the World Wars. Cue much boozing and cerebral, croissant crumb-covered café pow-wows with compadres James Joyce, Gertrude Stein, Pablo Picasso, Ford Madox Ford, Ezra Pound and, famously, F Scott Fitzgerald. Part-road trip, part-love letter to Paris, part-paean to friendship, all in his famous muscular sentences.

Key details: The big man’s hair-growing contest with Stein, and penis-measuring contest with Fitzgerald.

6 . Cash: The Autobiography By Johnny Cash

He walked the line. And wrote them, too. The rugged country legend tells his story in world-weary style, from his harsh childhood on a cotton farm to his amphetamine and painkiller addictions, attempted suicide and spiritual awakening. Admirably honest and humbling, it’s as effortlessly badass as the Man In Black was himself.

Key details: The casual chaos of stories including Cash starting a forest fire with a car and nearly getting disembowelled by an ostrich.

7 . I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

The first and most influential of Maya Angelou's seven-instalment biography series is I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. It recounts the early years of the poet and civil rights activist, from age 3 to 16. Published in 1969, it has gone on to be banned in multiple US states for its content, which includes the harsh realities of rape and racism. It's an important read.

8 . Just Kids by Patti Smith

Patti Smith is one of the best poets and lyricists of her generation and this book proves she has an eye for a story, too. This memoir is based on her friendship with renowned photographer Robert Mapplethorpe (he shot the classic picture of Smith that’s on Horses, her debut album). She met him the day she arrived in New York and a story of how they both influenced each other’s art is just superb.

Key details: Patti Smith promised Mapplethorpe the day before he died that she would one day write about their story. 20 years later she did just that.

9 . The Kid Stays In The Picture: A Notorious Life By Robert Evans

“Success! Scandal! Sex! Tragedy! Infamy! And that’s just the first chapter…” A better-than-fiction Hollywood memoir from the sadly departed perma tanned bad boy producer of The Godfather and Chinatown. A brilliant raconteur, Evans spins stories of A-list womanising, cocaine use and murder charges.

Key details: In Evans’ short-lived acting days, the cast and crew of The Sun Also Rises – including writer Ernest Hemingway – demanded Evans be fired, but studio exec Darryl F Zanuck said, “The kid stays in the picture.” Evans recalls: “Acting was OK, but I realised what I really wanted was to be the guy who said, ‘The kid stays in the picture.’”

10 . Persepolis: The Story Of Childhood by Marjane Satrapi

Given the situation in Iran right now, this graphic novel autobiography by Marjane Satrapi has never been so pertinent. At its heart, Persepolis is a story about childhood, albeit one which witnesses Iran’s move from a Westernised regime, which was implemented by the Shah, to the strict Islamic Revolution. The book offers a brilliant base understanding of what it’s like in a country which undergoes dramatic shifts and the effects this has on everyday people.

Key details: The black-and-white panelling of the graphic novel are simple and stark, something that contrasts with the complex story that’s told.

11 . Life By Keith Richards

He’s done enough hard-living to fell several elephants, but Keef’s still hanging on in there. Seven decades of rock, roll, riffs and recklessness are documented in this disarmingly honest memoir: from his Dartford boyhood and discovery of the blues to the decade that catapulted the Stones from back-room bar band to stadium behemoths – plus his relationships with drink, drugs, Mick Jagger and women.

Key details: Richards’ impish voice is always endearing, even when talking about Jagger’s appendage, but it’s his all-consuming love of music that really shines through.

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34 of literature's greatest opening paragraphs

Top 10 Autobiographies 📝📚📢

Written by: Laura

February 9, 2024

Time to read 28 min

Autobiographies offer a unique lens into the extraordinary lives of fascinating individuals, capturing their real-life stories in their own words. In our curated list of the top 10 autobiographies, we delve into a world where life lessons and intimate details converge , revealing the unflinching honesty of each author. Each memoir is not just an essential read but a journey through the diverse tapestry of human resilience, creativity and triumph. Join us as we explore these must-read autobiographies, each a celebration of an inspiring, beautifully written testament to the human spirit.

1. T.V.: Big Adventures on the Small Screen by Peter Kay

Peter Kay, a cherished figure in popular culture, presents his long-awaited memoir, T.V.: Big Adventures on the Small Screen . This book is a love letter to the television era that shaped his early life and acting career. Kay takes us on a nostalgic trip through the shows that captivated a nation, from Blockbusters to Porridge . His witty narrative combines side-splitting humour with an intimate portrait of his ascent in the world of television, taking you behind the scenes of some his best loved shows, from Phoenix Nights to Car Share . This bestselling memoir is not just about a comedian's rise to fame; it's a heart-warming reflection on the extraordinary life of a man whose humour and charm left an indelible mark on the small screen, and on the nation.

An extract:

“ Miss Wild was our neighbour on the right when I was growing up. She always seemed very old to me and looked like Mother Teresa on stilts. Sometimes I’d watch her from my bedroom window, ambling around her backyard, struggling to rotate wet washing through a big Victorian mangle.

A spinster, and ex-baker, she’d occasionally make us a family apple pie, which my mum would graciously accept then scrape straight into the kitchen bin. ‘That’s a bit tight,’ I’d whinge, gutted to see my favourite pudding disappearing into the bin bag. ‘I was just warming up my custard.’

‘I know,’ she said, shaking her head sympathetically. ‘I feel bad but we just don’t know if her apples are ripe.’

There was a power cut once so my mum went round to see if she was alright. ‘Are you okay?’ she asked. ‘There’s been a power cut.’ Then Miss Wild said, ‘Well, I thought there had been, but then the bus went past with its lights on.’

You couldn’t write it. Well, saying that, I just did.

But the main thing that sticks in my mind about Miss Wild was she was hard of hearing and would watch TV with the volume turned up full blast. It was so loud that it was easier for us to watch our TV with her sound through the wall. If she changed channel, so did we. And it was pointless banging on the wall, as she couldn’t hear us.

When she died we got her big old wooden-cased TV, so we went to being a two TV family. Very posh.

Mind you, her TV was out of the ark. It used to take about ten minutes to warm up. From a little tiny dot in the middle of the screen and then eventually, if we were lucky, we’d slowly get a full picture. Usually, my dad had to slap the side of the TV with the palm of his hand. It’d then turn either magenta or light green. But hey, it was a free TV.

The one thing I did love about it was that it had these huge buttons that’d leave an imprint on your finger when you pushed them to change channel. There were only four: they had written on them BBC1, BBC2, ITV and then the fourth one was just a star. Channel 4 was the stuff dreams were made of in 1977. And if we’d known they’d be producing shite like Naked Attraction one day, it probably still would be.

The really great thing about these big buttons was that if you twizzled them left or right you could tune the TV into other channels. I could get a visual haze of HTV or Yorkshire. I used to think that was amazing.

I’d shout to my dad, ‘Look, it’s Yorkshire TV!’

‘Where? What am I looking at? I can’t see anything.’

The picture was ghostly. In fact it was crap, but it felt like contraband, which made it all the more thrilling to me."

2. Rebel Rising by Rebel Wilson

In Rebel Rising , Rebel Wilson, the scene-stealing star known for her roles in Pitch Perfect and Bridesmaids , shares her stirring autobiography. Her memoir candidly recounts her journey from a young girl with big dreams to a Hollywood sensation. Wilson's path wasn't always smooth; she faced numerous personal and career challenges, including mental health struggles and industry stereotypes. Her story is a powerful ode to self-acceptance and unflinching honesty, infused with her signature humour. This moving memoir teaches us about strength in the face of adversity and the importance of embracing our own story, making it an essential read for anyone seeking laughter and inspiration.

3. What It Takes: My Playbook on Life and Leadership by Sarina Wiegman

Sarina Wiegman, renowned for her ground-breaking role in women’s football, unveils her experiences in What It Takes: My Playbook on Life and Leadership . As one of the most successful coaches in football history, Wiegman's memoir is an inspiring autobiography that transcends the pitch. It details her rise from a passionate player to leading national teams to historic victories. Her story is a profound narrative of determination and visionary leadership, highlighting her unique approach to coaching and mentorship. Wiegman's story is not just about sports; it's about shattering glass ceilings and setting new standards in a traditionally male-dominated arena, making it essential reading for aspiring leaders in any field.

“ Sunday 16 July, opening game of Euro 2017 in the Netherlands

The Netherlands Vs. Norway

As soon as I open my eyes, I know the day I’ve been waiting for has finally come. At precisely six o’clock in the evening we’re scheduled to kick off the opening game of Euro 2017 against Norway and the Galgenwaard stadium in Utrecht will be filled to the rafters. This day marks the beginning of our journey towards fulfilling our ultimate dream. Our primary objective is to play our best football for our supporters.

When I rise from bed, the significance of the occasion strikes me with full force. Memories of my own days playing football as a young girl come flooding back to me. I remember the time when I first started playing the sport at the age of six. Back then, women’s football had only just been acknowledged by the KNVB, the Royal Dutch Football Association. However, even as a young girl, it was still impossible to join a club. Undeterred, I boldly cut off my hair and joined anyway. Despite the fact that it was technically illegal, my parents always let me play football. And now, as I stand on the cusp of a new chapter in my footballing journey, the Dutch women’s national football team – universally known as the Leeuwinnen – are poised to play in the Euros to a capacity crowd on home soil.

The magnitude of the moment isn’t lost on me, and I can’t help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the path that has led me to this point.

It makes me happy, prompting me to reach out to my father with a message of heartfelt gratitude. I express my appreciation for the fact that we’re both alive to witness this day and share with him just how fantastic it feels to be a part of it all. As I type out the words, a surge of emotion overtakes me. It’s something truly special. The sheer excitement is simply indescribable. Indeed, this is just the beginning – a thrilling new chapter in my life that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.

As we board the coach for the brief journey from our training camp in Zeist, the atmosphere is palpable, full of anticipation for the upcoming match at Galgenwaard. Observing the team, I’m struck by their unwavering focus, each player with their own unique approach to achieving optimal concentration.

The concept of ‘focus’ is set to play a critical role this day. Several months earlier I sought the expertise of an eye specialist as I was starting to have difficulty reading. Because of my aversion to glasses I opted to try contact lenses, despite the specialist’s warning that my eyes are too sensitive to wear them. As might be expected, the specialist’s prediction proves accurate, but I find myself grappling with the question of how far I’m willing to go to avoid wearing glasses. Will I be able to reconcile this dilemma on the day of the match?

The road from Zeist to the stadium is badly congested, and I can make out a long line of cars stretching into the distance. I can’t help but wonder why everyone has to be on the road at that moment. Suddenly it hits me. They’re all heading to the stadium car park to catch the shuttle buses that will take them the short distance to the game. They’re on their way to cheer us on!

As we take the Galgenwaard exit and make a left turn towards the stadium, a wave of excitement washes over me. The sight of thousands of spirited Dutch fans congregating on the stadium concourse, eagerly anticipating our performance, gives me goosebumps. The euphoria that surges through my body is indescribable. It’s a momentous day for women’s football in the Netherlands, and I feel privileged to be a part of it. When I survey my surroundings, I realise that I’m not the only one moved by the scenes outside. Tears are welling in the eyes of the players and coaching staff. This remarkable and emotional moment will go down in football history. Today’s the day we’ve been waiting for!

Amid the throngs of people I spot my husband Marten. It’s an uncanny coincidence that, out of the thousands of people present, he’s the one I notice first. It feel as if fate is telling me something."

4. Down the Drain by Julia Fox

In Down the Drain , Julia Fox, known for her striking role in Uncut Gems and her influential presence in pop culture, presents a penetrating account of her tumultuous life. This bestselling memoir goes beyond the glitz and glamour, revealing the intimate details of her struggles. From a challenging childhood split between Italy and New York City to overcoming addiction and adversity, Fox's narrative is raw and profoundly authentic. Her transformation from a troubled past to a fashion icon and actress is evidence of her resilience and the power of staying true to oneself. Her story resonates with anyone who has faced life's trials with unflinching honesty and emerged stronger.

“The American Dream

The year is 1996 and I just landed in the grand metropolis of New York City. The moment we step off the plane and my little feet hit the pavement, I drop my suitcase and cross myself. “Grazie a Dio,” I whisper under my breath. On the plane ride, I had asked my dad, “If the plane gets in an accident, will we all die?” To which he casually replied, “Duh.” The remainder of the flight was spent in silent prayer, my gaze affixed to the ominous, boundless ocean beneath us. Despite my basic knowledge of the English language, I feel more comfortable speaking my native tongue. I was born in Italy and have spent the last few years in Saronno, a small town in the province of Varese, where the city eerily feels like the remnants of what was once a charming little town. But I see past the shitty graffiti coating the pastel pink–colored walls. To me, it’s home.

I’m no stranger to this sprawling city. I’ve already been here more times than I can count. I was two months old the first time we made the transatlantic trek to visit my dad’s family. I even lived here for a while, before disaster struck. But today feels like the very first time. It’s like I’m seeing this place through brand-new eyes. And after the mess that went down last time, this is a fresh start, a chance to wipe the slate clean and try again.

It’s early September and the humidity hangs heavy in the air, clinging to my skin like a sweet sticky veil. As soon as I step outside, I’m hit by a wave of commotion that overwhelms each of my senses. Everyone talks so loud, and they’re not polite at all. Whether they are greeting each other or telling each other to “Get the fuck out of the way,” they make sure to cause a scene. I wave at the strange people passing by, and they stare back at me with confusion and alarm. “Do I know you?!” one woman demands. My dad yanks me away and tells me to stop doing that. This is going to be a tough habit to break. I can’t imagine walking past someone without acknowledging them, not to mention it’s rude. But I don’t say this out loud, I keep my observations to myself. I just nod, trying my best to absorb any little bit of information to make this transition easier. For him.

My dad summons a yellow taxi cab with a wave of his hand, as if he were a magician. He tosses my little red suitcase, stuffed with my most precious possessions, into the trunk, and I climb onto the tan leather seats that are cracked and reek of cigarette smoke. My dad tells him the address and the driver, sporting a turban and aviator sunglasses, lets out a thick cloud of smoke. “Fifty bucks.”

“Fifty bucks?!” My dad shakes his head.

As we sit in silence crossing the boroughs on our way to Manhattan, I immediately notice how all the billboards advertising movies depict guns and violence. And strangely, there’s no naked women. In Italy, it’s perfectly normal to glance up at a billboard and have a big pair of bronzed oily tits successfully sell you sunscreen at eight a.m. on a January morning.

Everything is so colossal here. The towering buildings cast shadows that stretch as far as my wide eyes can see, while the people, who look nothing alike, bustle around as if part of some grand dance. I’m a provincial girl from a small town where everything seems miniature in  comparison. I feel miniature too, but not in an insignificant way. I feel small in a way that feels exciting, like   I   have yet to be discovered."

5. Ticket to the World: My 80s Story by Martin Kemp

Martin Kemp, an emblematic figure of the 80s music and style revolution, recaptures this vibrant era in Ticket to the World: My 80s Story . Kemp, known for his role in Spandau Ballet and as a symbol of the decade's New Romantics cultural transformation, offers readers a beautifully written trip through the neon-lit streets of 80s pop culture. His memoir is a nostalgic celebration of the era's music, fashion, and the exuberant spirit of change. Kemp shares his personal growth amidst the backdrop of this dynamic decade, providing a personal portrait of an artist at the forefront of a cultural shift, making this book an essential read for fans of 80s culture and music.

“ When I first started this book, I had this idea to mark the names of the Blitz Kids somehow. A motif, a little gimmick to remind you just how often they cropped up over the course of the decade. An asterisk or a [BK] each time I named one; some small tag to denote ‘BLITZ KID’.

To spare your sanity and mine I decided against it in the end. Instead, you will simply have to endure me acting like a proud dad sat next to you at a school play, nudging you in the arm every 40 seconds to whisper in your ear, ‘See that one? They’re one of ours too …’

I can’t help it. I wish I could but, in recalling all of what’s contained in this book, it still astonishes me just how much of the decade we remember as the 80s was formed by such a tiny group.

We went by many names at the start of the decade, when no one knew what to make of us. The Blitz Kids. The Dandies in Hand-Me-Downs. The Cult with No Name.

Eventually we became known as the New Romantics. That was the name that stuck and the name that would echo around the globe as the years marched on.

I still think of the New Romantics as the last great pop culture, even now. It’s a cliché to say that we were in the right place at the right time. We were, but I don’t think that paints the full picture. It says nothing of our attitude. We embodied the prevailing mindset of that era. It wasn’t greed that drove us, but a sense of self. Of individuality. Of learning early that we were one-in-a-trillion life forces with endless possibility at the edge of our fingertips if we’d only just tip forward and make a grab for it.

We were a vision of hope. A vision of ambition. We were brighter than the cameras of our day could capture and we left a hell of a legacy.

80s pop culture changed the world – artistically, technologically, politically, socially. So when you think back and laugh at your backcombed hair, your smeared turquoise eyeshadow, your shoulder pads and your puffy taffeta dress, you should know that it was more than just some weird fashion. However you engaged with it, you were part of the future.

It might feel a lifetime ago now – for some of you, it possibly was – but there’s a reason Gen Z are obsessing over Kate Bush and the sounds of ‘Running Up That Hill’ in the 2020s. There’s a reason TikTok is overrun with 80s aesthetic challenges, SoundCloud is filled with synth-pop and YouTube is filled with Rick Astley. They are plundering it in much the same way that the New Romantics plundered everything and anything that had gone before them – to take it and make it their own.

The 1980s made me. I can go pound for pound with anyone who wants to highlight awful outfits, ridiculous hair and pretentious poses. I have crates of photos I’d be happy to leave locked in a vault until 3030. But I loved the 1980s and I want you to love them too.

So here, between these covers, is my attempt to record the decade as I lived it. If you were there, I want you to recall it. To reach out, touch it.

If you weren’t, I hope I can do it justice. The lessons the era taught me are the ones I have strived to pass on to my own kids as a father now. To be open, to explore, to welcome everything as it comes to you. To love life as it is but to always push forward onto greater things.

Whether it’s just for you, or whether it’s for the world at large, the lesson of the 80s is simple: it’s all there – and it’s all there for you."

6. Dying of Politeness by Geena Davis

In Dying of Politeness , Geena Davis, an acclaimed actress and a staunch advocate for gender equality, offers an incisive portrait of her life in Hollywood. Known for iconic roles that have spanned decades, Davis's memoir goes beyond her successful career to reveal her relentless pursuit of empowerment and representation in the film industry. Her book is a compelling blend of personal anecdotes and professional milestones, highlighting her journey of self-discovery and advocacy. Davis's unyielding dedication to challenging industry norms and her passion in addressing issues of gender disparity make her memoir not just a reflection of a star's life but a powerful autobiography about fighting for change.

“ My journey to Badassery

I toyed with the idea of writing a book a number of years ago and started jotting down things I could include. I just went back to look at my notes and saw that the very first thing I wrote down was “Mrs. Morgan’s lawn.”

I’ve never known a Mrs. Morgan, nor do I have any memories of her lawn. Our lawn, yes. I remember one day when I was a kid, our neighbor Mrs. Perkins called my mother to tell her there was something seriously wrong with me. My dad had set me up in the side yard with the power mower, and I was pretending the blades of grass were enemy soldiers that I was mowing down in a ferocious battle. Naturally I had to speak up above the roar of the motor as I gave orders to my troops. But to Mrs. Perkins, at least, it looked very odd to see a young girl shoving a big lawn mower around while angrily bellowing at the grass.

Actually, there were a lot of calls to my mother to say that something must have been wrong with me.

I kicked ass onscreen way before I did so in real life. The roles I’ve played have taken me down paths I never could have imagined when I dreamed of becoming an actor. They have helped transform me, slowly, in fits and starts, into someone of power. As my career progressed, I went all the way from playing a soap star in her underwear in Tootsie, to a housewife-turned-road warrior in Thelma & Louise, to a baseball phenomenon in A League of Their Own, to the first female president of the United States in Commander in Chief, and more. For everything I put into each of those roles, I’ve taken away far more. Acting has changed me every single time I’ve had the great good fortune to do it.

Some movies I’ve been in have even inspired the people watching them to feel more empowered—like, you know, Earth Girls Are Easy.

I’ve been blessed to practice living a different life onscreen—a bolder, freer, and more authentic one than my own. And though my characters were bold before I was, that boldness rubbed off on me, and transformed me into a fledgling—then full-fledged—badass. (I figure I’m permitted to call myself that because the magazine  The Mary Sue  ran an article in 2013 with the headline “Geena Davis Is the Most Badass Badass to Ever Badass.”)"

7. Rise by Siya Kolisi

Rise  by Siya Kolisi is more than just an autobiography; it's a beacon of hope and a story of triumph. Kolisi, the first black captain of the South African rugby team, narrates his incredible life story from the poverty-stricken streets of Zwide township to the pinnacle of international rugby. His memoir is a profound demonstration of perseverance and leadership, showcasing how he overcame immense hardship and societal barriers to achieve sporting glory. Kolisi's story is not just about his success on the field; it's about his impactful social contributions, notably through The Kolisi Foundation, packaged in an inspiring autobiography that resonates with themes of resilience and positive change.

"Yokohama, Japan, 2 November 2019

It’s not every day that the President himself addresses us before a match. Then again, it’s not every day that we’re playing in a World Cup Final.

‘Many people did not believe that you would come to this hour of destiny,’ says Tata. Most people know him as Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, but to me he’s just Tata. The room we are in is usually a place of noise and energy; it’s where team meetings are held, where last night the coaching staff handed out our jerseys one by one with hugs and words of encouragement. Now it’s so quiet I could hear a pin drop. ‘But you are at that moment of destiny: for yourselves, as individual players, and for the country. Go out there on that pitch and play your hearts out. Play the best game that you have ever played.’

Play the best game that you have ever played.

His words stay with me as we file out of the room, through the hotel lobby and onto the bus. I smile at the fans held back behind roped barriers, cheering and clapping as we come past. Their presence, and Tata’s, remind me that back home the entire country will be watching. People of every race, colour and creed will for a few hours, all come together to will us on with every fibre of their beings.

The bus wends its way through the traffic. Everyone’s got their headphones on, lost in whatever music they use to help get themselves in the right frame of mind for such a momentous occasion. The stadium appears to our left, a hulking stone monolith swarming with green and white: our fans and England’s, spectators buzzing with the excitement of being at the match of a lifetime, people who’ve dropped everything and spent small fortunes to fly halfway round the world.

In through a side entrance, down to an underground area, off the bus and through the corridors to our dressing room, immaculately prepared by the logistics guys. We each have our own personal cubicle in which our kit is laid out, and on the big tables in the middle are trays of food: last-minute energy for anyone who wants it. A whiteboard in the corner has the warm-up times written on it, each one down to the minute: 17.09 kickers out, 17.14 hookers out, 17.21 props out.

The physios strap us up: ankles, knees, wrists, shoulders, heads, wherever we need it. Our coach Rassie Erasmus – in the lucky white shirt that he’s been wearing ever since we played Namibia in the pool stage, five straight wins ago and counting – gives us one last team talk.

‘To be in a World Cup Final is a big thing. You might have been in the Currie Cup final: that’s good. You might have been in a Super Rugby final: that’s great. But a World Cup Final – this is the one place where you can’t have a regret. If you don’t leave everything out there, you’ve wasted your whole lives leading up to this point.’ Coach Rassie pauses, careful as always to get his words exactly right. ‘If you lose a lineout, jump up and go and make the next tackle. If you miss a tackle, jump up and go and do the next cleanout. If you miss a high ball, go up for the next one. You don’t have the right to worry about your mistakes. If you worry about your mistakes, you’re cocky, you’ve got an ego problem. Because you’re not representing yourselves today. It’s not about you.’

He looks at me, coach to captain. ‘You are fighting, Siya, for the next lightie in Zwide to not suffer like you suffered.’ A flash in my mind, no more, of a childhood during which leading my country in a World Cup Final seemed as remote and unlikely as walking on the moon. Coach Rassie turns to our outside centre Lukhanyo Am. ‘Lukhanyo, you are tackling for the boy who didn’t get the opportunities that you eventually got.’

There are nods, murmurs of assent. Everyone agrees 100 per cent with what he’s saying. I’ve been playing rugby for 20 years – schoolboy, age-group, provincial, franchise, international – and I’ve never played for a team as united in its desire to win as this one. From the moment Coach Rassie took over 18 months ago, he looked not just for good players but ones who have a bit of ‘dog’ in them: men who refuse to give up, who go to the well for each other time and again, who always have each other’s backs. I trust each of them absolutely and completely."

8. How to Build a Car by Adrian Newey

In How to Build a Car , Adrian Newey, the world-renowned Formula One designer, shares the high-speed journey of his successful career. This autobiography offers an in-depth look at Newey's innovative approach to F1 car design, blending technical mastery with personal anecdotes. From his early sketches at the age of 12 to engineering some of the fastest cars in F1 history for drivers including David Coulthard, Mika Hakkinen and Sebastian Vettel, Newey's story is a testament to innovation and hard work in the pursuit of excellence. His memoir is not just about the cars but also about the man behind them, making it an essential read for fans of racing, design and engineering.

“ B orn in 1958, I came of age in a world infatuated with the motorcar: Scalextric, Formula One, The Monte Carlo Rally. At 10 years old I watched a Lamborghini tumble down a mountainside and Mini Coopers pull off The Italian Job. And when Kowalski slapped his Dodge Charger into fifth and accelerated away from the cops in Vanishing Point, I yelled in amazement, ‘He’s got another gear!’ and then slid down in my seat as what felt like the whole of the cinema turned to glare at me.

I devoured Autosport, the weekly ‘bible’ for all things motorsport. I was glued to the radio during the 1968 London-to-Sydney Marathon. By the age of six I’d decided my future lay in motor sport. I was 12 when I knew I wanted to design racing cars.

My passions were forged at home. Situated at the end of a rural lane on the outskirts of Stratford-upon Avon, our house backed onto a smelly pig farm, and it was from there that my father, Richard, ran a veterinary practice with his business partner, Brian Rawson. The practice combined pet surgeries with farm visits for bigger animals, and from an early age I was a dab hand at passing buckets of water and lengths of rope. I’ve seen enough newborn livestock to last me a lifetime.

My mother, Edwina, was attractive; quite the catch. She’d been an ambulance driver during the war and met my dad when she brought her unwell Pyrenean Mountain Dog into his practice. Her father had taken an instant dislike to her new beau. ‘That man will only cross my doorstep over my dead body,’ he said. The day before he and my dad were due to visit for the first time, he died of a heart attack.

I was born on Boxing Day. The rather far-fetched tale I was told involved my mother and father driving around Colchester, complete with a midwife in the back of the car, when my mother’s waters broke. Different times, of course, but I’m not sure that even in those days you were assigned a midwife just in case you gave birth, and why on earth she would have been with them on Boxing Day, I couldn’t possibly say. But anyway, my father knocked on a door, they were taken in by strangers, and my mother gave birth there and then. My very first crib was in a chest of drawers."

9. Tales from the Dance Floor by Sacha Lord

In Tales from the Dance Floor , Sacha Lord, a pivotal figure in Manchester's music scene, unveils his extraordinary experiences through the evolution of modern music culture. From The Haçienda to The Warehouse Project, Lord's memoir is a vibrant chronicle of his experiences shaping some of the UK's most iconic music events. His story is a vivid tapestry of creativity, spirit and the transformative power of music. Through his eyes, readers experience the pulsating energy of Manchester's nightlife and its impact on popular culture. Lord's narrative is not just about the music; it's about the innovation that propelled a cultural movement, making it a must-read autobiography for any music enthusiast.

10. Inshallah United: A Story of Faith and Football by Nooruddean Choudry

In Inshallah United: A Story of Faith and Football , Nooruddean Choudry, known as Noz, intertwines his life story with his passion for Manchester United, offering a unique perspective on football, faith and identity. Born in 1979 to a Pakistani family in Manchester, Choudry's memoir is a heartfelt exploration of growing up as a Muslim in a city where football is akin to religion. His narrative captures themes of belonging and cultural integration, as he navigates his dual identity as a devout Muslim and a die-hard football fan. Choudry's story is a compelling demonstration of the unifying power of football and its role in shaping personal and communal identities, making it a deeply moving autobiography.

I don’t understand football fans who arrive at a game at the latest possible moment. Like, if you gave them a magic switch that instantly transported them from their sofa to their seat just before kickoff, they would snap your hand off quicker than you could say ‘hot Bovril’. It makes zero sense to me. It’s like wanting to immediately skip to Christmas Day with your choc-laden advent calendar unopened or celebrating Eid al-Fitr without a single day of Ramadan. What is the joy in anything without the anticipation? So much of life is ultimately an anti-climax, so why not relish the great wind of excitement that carries you there?

I love everything about matchday – even the bits I don’t. Maybe it’s because I missed out on the formative dad/lad experience of going to the game with my old man, but I’m never giddier than when I’m making my way to Old Trafford. Especially if it’s a night game, and especially if it’s so cold that you’re breathing out pretend cigarette smoke. Those are my favourite nights. I don’t even care if it’s raining; in fact, I think I prefer a mild drizzle. The dazzling red and white lights spill all over the floor and make it feel even more special. Forget Blackpool illuminations, give me Old Trafford when it’s pissing it down and the end of your nose is dripping like a leaky tap. Only Wilmslow Road’s Curry Mile, with its assault of colourful neon, looks better on a wet night.

Whenever an international Red asks me for any tips about visiting Old Trafford, I always offer them two pieces of advice. Firstly, take out your AirPods – this is a journey you may well experience a number of times if you’re lucky, but never again for the first time, so leave all your senses fully open to savouring it properly. Secondly, get off the tram or bus far earlier than the closest stop. Make your walk to the ground as long as your age and abilities allow. Because that’s when you experience the true sense of pilgrimage. The slow build-up of smells and sounds and human traffic that culminate outside the stadium. Whether it’s the sizzle and unmistakable whiff of frying onions, or the manic street preachings of Red News and United We Stand fanzine sellers, it’s the matchday ritual that’s the thing, not the actual game.

Now, I won’t say going to a United game is exactly a divine experience – so as to neatly tie together the two themes of this book – that would be hack and fundamentally untrue. I don’t walk to the mosque in fervent anticipation of the Imam producing a world-class performance that we’ll all rave about afterwards. I don’t look forward to catching up with the other prayers later on Mufti of the Day presented by Sheikh Ghari Al-Lineker. And we don’t all join in with the Muezzin when he recites the Call to Prayer, holding our keffiyehs aloft, and giving out a big cheer when he’s done. That said, there are at least some similarities, and they have far more to do with the journey than the destination. It’s the genuine sense of brother and sisterhood that comes from experiencing a collective focus and belief. Faith is a personal condition; religion is a communal act.

I like walking to Friday prayers for the same reason I like walking to the game: it gives me an overwhelming sense of belonging. People of all backgrounds and races and nationalities and cultures are all joined together by at least one singular identity that unites them all. We’re not all the same and there’s a heart-swelling beauty in that. Whether it’s mosque or match, I love the way the congregation starts to funnel into a bigger and bigger mass as you meander along the streets and walkways. More and more people join your parade, all different but all the same, until you reach your full number – to watch Bruno Fernandes shank an overhit pass out of play, or a Muslim elder pull a frown when he hears change dropping into the collection box instead of something that folds.

I hate it when I arrive late at Old Trafford, or halfway through the sermon at mosque. I’m flustered. My head and my heart are not where they need to be. And I feel like I’ve missed out on the most important bit – doing it together. Walking together, arriving together, believing together. Fundamentally, I think we all want to belong to something bigger than ourselves. To have an identity that resonates with others and makes us whole. Thank Allah, I do."

These top 10 autobiographies reveal the incredible diversity and depth of human experiences; from the challenges of early life to the heights of successful careers, each story is a testament to strength, creativity and transformation. We invite you to explore these real-life stories for their rich tapestry of inspiration and invaluable life lessons. Autobiographies have the unique power to not only tell a story but to profoundly enrich and inspire our own lives. We hope you enjoy.

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The 40+ Best Autobiographies Ever Written, Ranked By Readers

There's something profoundly compelling about delving into the firsthand accounts of individuals who've shaped our world. The best autobiographies ever written afford us a unique glimpse into the minds and hearts of those who've lived extraordinary lives. Through their words, we're invited to experience their joys, sorrows, triumphs, and failures, bridging the gap between history and humanity in the most intimate way possible.

Among the countless stories that have been shared, The Diary of A Young Girl by Anne Frank and Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela stand out as monumental. Anne Frank's diary offers a heart-wrenching perspective of life during the Holocaust that's both deeply personal and universally resonant. On the other hand, Mandela's autobiography tells a tale of resilience and dedication to justice that inspired a nation and the world. These works not only chronicle significant historical events but also serve as testaments to the indomitable spirit of their authors.

Compiling a list of the best autobiographies of all time was a labor of love for a group of book enthusiasts, passionate about bringing remarkable narratives to the forefront. After careful consideration, these selections were then presented to readers, who cast their votes, ensuring that the final list is reflective of stories that resonate deeply and inspire continuously. Cast your votes below to update these rankings.

The Diary of a Young Girl

• First Published : 1947
• Subjects : Netherlands in World War II, Otto Frank, World War II, Hannah Pik-Goslar, Sol Kimel

Angela's Ashes

• First Published : 1996-09-05
• Subjects : Frank McCourt

The Story of My Experiments with Truth

• First Published : 1927
• Subjects : Nonviolent resistance

Long Walk to Freedom

• First Published : 1994
• Subjects : Human rights, World, Nelson Mandela, Politics, International relations

The Autobiography of Malcolm X

• First Published : 1965
• Subjects : Security, African American, African American studies, Black, Islam

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

• First Published : 1791
• Subjects : Philosophy, Pennsylvania, Education, World, Biography

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Book Reviews

'a wilder shore' charts the course of a famous bohemian marriage.

Maureen Corrigan

A Wilder Shore Penguin Random House hide caption

As a portrait of a marriage, it’s bizarre. I’m talking about the dual portrait John Singer Sargent painted in 1885 of Fanny and Robert Louis Stevenson.

Louis, whose first novel, Treasure Island , had been published two years earlier, is captured pacing in a darkened room. Tall and thin, Louis looks every inch like an "insane stork," which is how fellow writer Henry Adams described him. Louis stares out beyond the confines of the portrait at us, the viewers, as if to share an idea he’s just had.

Fanny sits barefoot on a chair at the opposite end of the room, all but shrouded, like a piece of furniture, in a golden Indian sari. No fool, Fanny recognized Sargent’s depiction as yet another attempt by an admirer of her husband’s to diminish her. “I am but a cipher under the shadow,” she complained to Sargent.

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Camille Peri’s lively and substantive dual biography of the Stevensons, called A Wilder Shore , whisks those obscuring draperies off Fanny and restores her to full personhood. But, Peri aims for something even more ambitious than a feminist recovery of a mostly forgotten wife of a famous writer. In her “Introduction,” Peri describes her book as: “an intimate window into how [the Stevensons] lived and loved — a story that is at once a travel adventure, a journey into the literary creative process, and, I hope, an inspiration for anyone seeking a freer, more unconventional life.”

“Inspiration” is something of a quaint term these days in lit crit circles and, yet, it’s always been an abiding draw of biographies. Speaking for myself, after reading A Wilder Shore , I’m inspired to do two things: I want to reread Robert Louis Stevenson’s three great works of fiction: Treasure Island , Kidnapped and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde . And, I want to schedule a séance with Fanny to get some one-on-one instruction on how to live more fearlessly as a woman.

Peri opens A Wilder Shore with a scene that could have been written by Louis but, instead, was lived by Fanny: In the summer of 1875, she and her three children and their governess rushed aboard a train in San Francisco to cross the country and catch a ship in New York harbor that would carry them to Belgium.

This was no pleasure trip: To reach their destination the little band rode a wagon through floodwaters, but Fanny was desperate to escape her humiliating marriage to a prospector who lived openly with his mistress. With the little money she’d earned by sewing, Fanny planned to enroll herself and her teenaged daughter in art school.

Hurtling into the unknown put the 36-year-old, still-married mother of three in the orbit of Robert Louis Stevenson — a sickly Scottish writer who was 10 years her junior. It was love at first sight, at least for Louis. Peri says that:

Fanny likely saw their affair as something that could not last. For him, though, sexual intimacy with Fanny was not simply a romp with an older woman. It cemented his emotional commitment to her — a kind of role reversal that is striking for a Victorian man.

Peri details how the bohemian relationship that evolved between Fanny and Louis included other such gender role reversals: The frail “Louis was what the Scots call a “handless” man,” she writes. During the couple’s honeymoon spent squatting in an abandoned silver mine in California, it was Fanny who “out of scraps of wood and packing crates ... nailed together furniture.” Of course, the Stevensons’ union caused dismay among Louis’ friends who disparaged Fanny for her age, her American-ness, her short hair and cigarette smoking, and, most virulently, her olive skin.

As convincing as she is about the progressive relationship between the Stevensons, Peri is also clear-eyed about the fact that Fanny still got the somewhat shorter end of the stick. While Louis respected Fanny as his best critic, he also assumed she would handle the mundane household routine and provide nursing care.

Louis’ undiagnosed illness — he chronically coughed up blood — did have the “upside” of broadening the couple’s life through travel in search of a healthier climate. They spent their final years together before Louis’ death in 1894 at the age of 44, in Samoa. Fanny lived on for 20 more years, writing, traveling and attracting male protégés. No doubt her contemporaries derided her for that, too; but, thanks to Peri’s vivid biography, Fanny has the last fearless laugh.