Must-Have Memoirs for History Lovers

A Centenarian’s Journey: From Covered Wagon to Buzz Bombs to Bald Eagles

Virginia Foley navigates the challenges of growing up in Minneapolis in the 1920s/1930s, ultimately volunteering with the Red Cross during World War II, which changes the trajectory of her life[1].


White House by the Sea: A Century of the Kennedys at Hyannis Port

A sweeping history of the Kennedy dynasty, this book explores its lasting impact on American politics and culture[1].


Unbroken Bonds of Battle: A Modern Warrior’s Book of Heroism, Patriotism, and Friendship

This memoir presents inspiring tales of friendship and heroism among those who defend freedom, making it a beautiful keepsake[1].


Pledging My Time: Conversations with Bob Dylan Band Members

Featuring over 40 interviews, this book provides an insider perspective on Bob Dylan's career from the musicians who worked closely with him[1].


Once Our Lives

A true story of four generations of Chinese women, illuminating how their lives were shaped by ancient traditions and upheavals amidst personal curses[1].


The 50 Best Memoirs of the Past 50 Years

A curated list by The New York Times book critics, showcasing outstanding memoirs published since 1969[2].


The Woman Warrior: By Maxine Hong Kingston

This memoir intertwines stories and experiences of being the American-born daughter of Chinese immigrants, exploring themes of feminism and identity[2].


Fun Home: By Alison Bechdel

A graphic memoir depicting a complex relationship with her father, exploring themes of identity and sexuality, inspired by his suicide[2].


Men We Reaped: By Jesmyn Ward

A moving tribute to five young black men from her life, reflecting on themes of grief, loss, and survival in a context of systemic issues[2].


How We Fight for Our Lives: By Saeed Jones

This memoir recounts the author’s coming-of-age as a young black gay man in the American South, blending tragedy and joy in his experiences[2].


Night: By Elie Wiesel

A harrowing account of the author's experiences in Nazi concentration camps, seminal for understanding the Holocaust’s impact[9].


The Year of Magical Thinking: By Joan Didion
The Year of Magical Thinking: By Joan Didion

A profound exploration of grief and mourning following the sudden death of her husband[3].

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Educated: By Tara Westover

This memoir tells of her pursuit of education despite growing up in a strict, survivalist family in Idaho, highlighting themes of resilience and transformation[3].


Becoming: By Michelle Obama

The former First Lady's memoir that chronicles her life from the South Side of Chicago to her years in the White House, emphasizing personal growth and advocacy[3].


The Fire Next Time: By James Baldwin

A profound examination of race relations in America, consisting of two personal essays that remain influential[4].


The Color of Water: By James McBride

A narrative intertwining the author's experience with his mother’s story, exploring themes of race, faith, and identity in America[3].


Know My Name: By Chanel Miller

This memoir recounts the author’s experience as the victim of a high-profile sexual assault case, reclaiming her identity and voice[3].


The Heart Has Its Reasons: Wallis Warfield Simpson

A memoir that sheds light on the abdication crisis surrounding Edward VIII's marriage to the American divorcée, providing insight into historical events[4].


The Devil in the White City: By Erik Larson

A gripping narrative intertwining the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair with the story of a serial killer, focusing on themes of ambition and morality[9].


Lives Other Than My Own: By Emmanuel Carrère

This work captures the complexities of human experiences through the lens of suffering and resilience following a tsunami[2].


Heavy: By Kiese Laymon

A powerful exploration of race, family, and self-identity in America, addressing personal as well as broader societal issues[3].


The Liars’ Club: By Mary Karr

A coming-of-age memoir of childhood in a dysfunctional Texas family during the 1960s, rich with humor and vivid storytelling[2].


Wild: By Cheryl Strayed

A memoir detailing the author’s journey of self-discovery through hiking the Pacific Crest Trail after personal tragedies[3].


A Life in Pieces: By James Frey

A controversial memoir about his struggles with addiction and recovery, blending raw honesty with fictional elements[3].


Cockroaches: By Scholastique Mukasonga

A memoir recounting the horrors of the Rwandan genocide, emphasizing personal loss and resilience[3].


Patrick’s Story: The True Story of America’s First Casualty of the War on Terror

An insightful memoir chronicling the heroic life and tragic death of a soldier during the early days in Iraq[3].


Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup: By John Carreyrou

A gripping exposé on the fall of the Theranos company, highlighting ambition and deception[3].


Minor Characters: By Joyce Johnson

A memoir reflecting on her relationship with Jack Kerouac, capturing the beat generation's essence and complexities[9].


Between the World and Me: By Ta-Nehisi Coates

A poignant letter to his son about the realities of being black in America, exploring heritage and dignity[3].


Autobiography of a Face: By Lucy Grealy

A deeply personal account of living with the physical effects of cancer and the accompanying journey of identity[3].


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