Wanting to divert from fiction? If not, head to our romance, crime, fantasy and mystery book guides.
If so, you’re in the right place!
Here are the answers to the burning questions you likely have about the non-fiction genre, as well as what we think the best non-fiction books are…
What defines a non-fiction book?
A non-fiction book presents factual information and real events, focusing on truth and reality rather than imaginative storytelling.
Who is the best non-fiction author?
This is such a subjective question; some of the best-selling non-fiction authors include James Baldwin, Truman Capote, Stephen Hawking and Michelle Obama.
What is the most sold non-fiction book in the world?
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, first published in 1937 and edited & republished in 1960, has sold over 100 million copies worldwide.
The best non-fiction books to read in 2024:
Still not sure where to start when it comes to non-fiction? Here are a few recommendations…
01
I’m Glad My Mum Died by Jennette McCurdy
Child actor Jennette McCurdy details her life in this heartbreaking yet hilarious memoir. Even if you’re not familiar with Jennette’s work (she starred in the Nickelodeon shows iCarly and Sam & Cat), her memoir – which recounts the abuse her mother put her through – is full of refreshing candour and dark humour; essentially, it’s a must-read non-fiction book.
02
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k by Mark Manson
If you’re looking for a self-help book that isn’t overbearingly positive and actually helps you overcome whatever it is you’re going through, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k is for you. Filled with hard but honest truths as well as academic research, after reading Mark Manson’s book, you’ll definitely start to live a more contented, grounded life.
03
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Her husband may have been President of the United States but Michelle Obama’s own story is seriously fascinating. In her inspirational memoir, she details her childhood, her time at Princeton University and Harvard Law School and, obviously, her experience as First Lady.
04
In Cold Blood by Truman Capote
In 1959, four members of the Clutter family were murdered in the small town of Holcomb in Kansas. Truman Capote quickly travelled to Kansas to write about the harrowing crime and even though the killers were caught six weeks after the murders, Truman spent six years working on this book. When it was finally published, In Cold Blood chronicled the murders as well as the investigation that led to the capture, trial and execution of the killers. Today, the book is still considered a pioneer in the true-crime genre.
05
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
It may be the best-selling non-fiction book but Think and Grow Rich is extremely polarising. It offers advice on how to stay positive during hard times as well as tips on how to get rich. You’ll either love or hate this book – there’s no in between.
06
A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking
Science enthusiasts, if you’ve not already read A Brief History of Time, please do so immediately. Written by one of the most brilliant theoretical physicists in history, the book explores some of the ‘big questions’ (like how did the universe begin, does time always flow forward, and are there other dimensions in space?) but in layman’s terms – making these complex concepts easy for anyone to understand.
07
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Title sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Yes, the Julia Roberts film was actually based on this non-fiction book. Eat, Pray, Love detailsElizabeth Gilbert’s response to going through an early midlife crisis: she got rid of her belongings, quit her job, and undertook a yearlong journey around the world, ultimately taking self-discovery to the next level. It’s a fascinating and moving read.
