Ah, memoirs. Those interesting stories that offer a glimpse into someone else’s life, experiences, and wisdom.
This year, there are some incredible memoirs you simply can’t miss.
Whether you’re looking for the latest releases or timeless classics, this list has got you covered. So, grab a cozy blanket, a cup of your favorite beverage, and let’s dive into the best memoirs to read this year.
Best Memoir Books From 2024
Here are the freshest, most readable memoirs from 2024.
The Fruit Cure by Jacqueline Alnes (2024)
This memoir follows Jacqueline Alnes, a Division One runner, through her health crises and discovery of fruitarianism. Alnes unpacks the highs and lows of her journey towards better health while critiquing diet culture and the misleading health messages pervasive in today’s media.
Only Say Good Things by Crystal Hefner (2024)
Crystal Hefner, widow of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, provides a candid look into her life with Hugh Hefner. Her memoir reveals the strict rules, competitive hierarchies, and toxic dynamics of life in the Playboy mansion, and chronicles her journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
What Have We Here? by Billy Dee Williams (2024)
Iconic actor Billy Dee Williams shares the story of his life and career, from his historic roles to his legendary status in the Star Wars franchise. His memoir explores the barriers he broke as a Black actor in Hollywood and his unique experiences in the film industry.
Here After by Amy Lin (2024)
Amy Lin’s memoir recounts the devastating loss of her husband, Kurtis, and her own subsequent health crisis. “Here After” explores their life together and delves into the realities of memory and the grieving process, offering a poignant reflection on love and loss.
The House of Hidden Meanings: A Memoir by RuPaul (2024)
Drag icon RuPaul delves into his life story, from his childhood in San Diego to his rise to fame. With his trademark wit, RuPaul shares insights into his family relationships, his journey to becoming a cultural phenomenon, and his experiences in love and life.
My Mama, Cass: A Memoir by Owen Elliot-Kugell (2024)
This memoir details the life and achievements of Cass Elliot, the famous singer from the Mamas and the Papas, as narrated by her daughter Owen Elliot-Kugell. It provides an intimate look at Cass Elliot’s personal and artistic journey, exploring her impact on music and the challenges she faced along the way.
Famous Memoirs Published in 2010s
The 2010s brought us some unforgettable memoirs that continue to resonate with readers. These books offer a diverse range of experiences and insights, making them essential reads.
Becoming by Michelle Obama (2018)
Becoming is an intimate and inspiring memoir by former First Lady Michelle Obama. She shares her journey from the South Side of Chicago to the White House, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at her life. Michelle’s writing is warm and engaging, making you feel you’re having a conversation with a close friend. This memoir is a powerful testament to the importance of staying true to oneself.
Educated by Tara Westover (2018)
Tara Westover’s Educated is a gripping tale of self-invention and the transformative power of education. Raised in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho, Tara never set foot in a classroom until she was seventeen. Her quest for knowledge took her all the way to Cambridge University, challenging everything she knew about herself and her family. Tara’s story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, making Educated a must-read.
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi (2016)
When Breath Becomes Air is a deeply moving memoir by Paul Kalanithi, a neurosurgeon who faced his own mortality after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Paul’s reflections on life, death, and what makes life worth living are profound and thought-provoking. This memoir is a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of living each day to the fullest.
The Girl with Seven Names by Hyeonseo Lee (2015)
Hyeonseo Lee’s “The Girl with Seven Names” is a gripping memoir about her escape from North Korea. Hyeonseo’s journey is fraught with danger and uncertainty, but her determination to find freedom never wavers. Her story sheds light on the harsh realities of life in North Korea and the courage it takes to break free. This memoir is an eye-opening and inspiring read.
H is for Hawk by Helen Macdonald (2014)
Helen Macdonald’s “H is for Hawk” is a unique memoir that intertwines her grief over her father’s death with her experience of training a goshawk. Helen’s writing is poetic and introspective, exploring themes of loss, nature, and healing. This memoir is a beautiful and thought-provoking exploration of the human-animal bond.
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed (2012)
Cheryl Strayed’s Wild is a memoir about her solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail after the death of her mother and the collapse of her marriage. Cheryl’s writing is raw and honest, capturing her journey of self-discovery and healing. This memoir is a powerful reminder of the importance of facing one’s fears and finding strength in the face of adversity.
Good Memoirs Published in 2000s
The 2000s were a rich decade for memoirs, with many books capturing the essence of personal struggle and triumph. Here are some standout memoirs from that era.
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls (2005)
The Glass Castle is an unforgettable memoir by Jeannette Walls. It recounts her unconventional and often harrowing upbringing in a dysfunctional family. Despite the chaos, Jeannette’s story is one of resilience and hope. Her writing is candid and interesting, drawing readers into her world and making them root for her survival and success.
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert (2006)
Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love is a memoir that struck a chord with readers around the world. After a painful divorce, Elizabeth embarks on a journey of self-discovery, traveling to Italy, India, and Indonesia. Her quest for pleasure, spirituality, and balance is both relatable and inspiring. This memoir is a beautiful reminder of the healing power of travel and self-reflection.
A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah (2007)
In A Long Way Gone, Ishmael Beah recounts his harrowing experiences as a child soldier in Sierra Leone. This memoir is a powerful and heartbreaking account of the impact of war on children. Ishmael’s story is one of survival and redemption, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit even in the darkest of times.
The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion (2005)
Joan Didion’s The Year of Magical Thinking is a profound memoir about the year following the sudden death of her husband, John Gregory Dunne. Joan’s writing is both analytical and deeply emotional, capturing the surreal experience of grief. This memoir is a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the process of mourning.
Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs (2002)
Running with Scissors is Augusten Burroughs’ darkly humorous memoir about his unconventional and chaotic childhood. Augusten’s writing is sharp and witty, offering readers a candid look at his life with his mentally ill mother and her eccentric psychiatrist. This memoir is a testament to the power of humor and resilience in the face of adversity.
My Life in France by Julia Child (2006)
Julia Child’s My Life in France is a delightful memoir about her years in France with her husband, Paul. Julia’s writing is warm and engaging, capturing her passion for French cuisine and her journey to becoming a celebrated chef. This memoir is a charming and inspiring look at the life of a culinary icon.
Top Memoirs Published in 1990s
The 1990s produced some of the most influential memoirs that continue to be celebrated today. These books offer timeless wisdom and unforgettable stories.
Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt (1996)
Angela’s Ashes is Frank McCourt’s poignant memoir about his impoverished childhood in Limerick, Ireland. Frank’s storytelling is both heartbreaking and humorous, capturing the essence of his struggles and triumphs. This memoir is a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.
The Liars’ Club by Mary Karr (1995)
Mary Karr’s The Liars’ Club is a gritty and interesting memoir about her turbulent childhood in East Texas. Mary’s writing is raw and unflinching, offering readers an honest look at her family’s dysfunction and her own journey to make sense of it all. This memoir is a powerful exploration of memory and identity.
A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers (1999)
Dave Eggers’ A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius is a memoir that lives up to its ambitious title. After the sudden deaths of his parents, Dave must raise his younger brother. His writing is innovative and deeply personal, blending humor and grief in a way that resonates with readers. This memoir is a testament to the power of creativity and resilience.
Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom (1997)
Tuesdays with Morrie is Mitch Albom’s touching memoir about his conversations with his former college professor, Morrie Schwartz, who is dying of ALS. Mitch’s writing is heartfelt and insightful, capturing the wisdom and warmth of Morrie’s teachings. This memoir is a beautiful reflection on life, love, and the importance of human connection.
Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen (1993)
Susanna Kaysen’s Girl, Interrupted is a candid memoir about her time in a psychiatric hospital in the 1960s. Susanna’s writing is raw and introspective, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of mental illness. This memoir is a powerful exploration of identity, sanity, and the thin line between the two.
Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris (1999)
David Sedaris’ Me Talk Pretty One Day is a hilarious and poignant memoir about his life and his experiences learning French. David’s writing is sharp and witty, filled with humorous anecdotes and keen observations. This memoir is a delightful read that highlights the absurdities of life and the power of humor.
Popular Memoirs Published in 1980s
The 1980s saw the publication of several memoirs that have become classics. These books offer unique perspectives and timeless insights.
The Color of Water: A Black Man’s Tribute to His White Mother by James McBride (1986)
James McBride’s The Color of Water is a beautiful tribute to his mother, Ruth. This memoir explores Ruth’s life as a white Jewish woman who married a Black man and raised twelve children in a time of racial prejudice. James’s writing is heartfelt and moving, capturing the complexity of his mother’s identity and the strength of their family’s bond.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou (1983)
Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is a powerful memoir about her early years. Maya’s writing is lyrical and evocative, capturing the pain and triumphs of her childhood. This memoir is a profound exploration of identity, resilience, and the power of literature to heal.
All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot (1981)
James Herriot’s All Creatures Great and Small is a delightful memoir about his life as a veterinarian in the Yorkshire Dales. James’s writing is warm and humorous, filled with charming anecdotes about his animal patients and their owners. This memoir is a heartwarming celebration of life’s simple pleasures and the bond between humans and animals.
The Road from Coorain by Jill Ker Conway (1989)
Jill Ker Conway’s The Road from Coorain is a captivating memoir about her childhood on a remote sheep station in Australia. Jill’s writing is vivid and evocative, capturing the harsh beauty of the Australian landscape and the challenges of rural life. This memoir is a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and the quest for knowledge.
West with the Night by Beryl Markham (1983)
Beryl Markham’s West with the Night is an adventurous memoir about her life as a pilot and horse trainer in Kenya. Beryl’s writing is poetic and exhilarating, capturing the thrill of flight and the beauty of the African landscape. This memoir is a timeless testament to courage and the spirit of adventure.
The Woman Warrior: Memoirs of a Girlhood Among Ghosts by Maxine Hong Kingston (1989)
Maxine Hong Kingston’s “The Woman Warrior” is a groundbreaking memoir that blends autobiography with Chinese folklore. Maxine’s writing is lyrical and imaginative, exploring her experiences growing up as a Chinese-American woman. This memoir is a powerful exploration of identity, culture, and the power of storytelling.
Best Memoirs of All Time
Finally, let’s look at some of the best memoirs of all time. These books have left an indelible mark on readers and continue to be celebrated for their powerful storytelling.
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
Anne Frank’s The Diary of a Young Girl is one of the most famous memoirs ever written. Anne’s diary, written while she was in hiding during the Holocaust, offers a poignant and powerful glimpse into the life of a young girl facing unimaginable horrors. Her writing is both heartbreaking and hopeful, making this memoir a timeless testament to the human spirit.
Night by Elie Wiesel
Elie Wiesel’s Night is a harrowing account of his experiences in Nazi concentration camps during the Holocaust. Elie’s writing is stark and powerful, capturing the horrors he endured and the resilience of the human spirit. This memoir is a profound reminder of the atrocities of war and the importance of remembrance.
Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime is a captivating memoir about his upbringing in apartheid South Africa. Trevor’s writing is witty and insightful, offering readers a unique perspective on race and identity. This memoir is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of race and history.
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Jeannette Walls’ The Glass Castle is a memoir that continues to resonate with readers. Jeannette’s story of growing up in a dysfunctional family is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Her writing is candid and interesting, making this memoir a powerful testament to resilience and the strength of the human spirit.
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
Cheryl Strayed’s Wild is a memoir about her solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. Cheryl’s writing is raw and honest, capturing her journey of self-discovery and healing. This memoir is a powerful reminder of the importance of facing one’s fears and finding strength in the face of adversity.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X and Alex Haley
The Autobiography of Malcolm X is a profound and influential memoir that chronicles Malcolm X’s life and his journey from a troubled youth to a prominent civil rights leader. Malcolm’s writing is powerful and thought-provoking, offering deep insights into race, identity, and social justice. This memoir is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the civil rights movement.
Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom is an inspiring memoir about his life and his struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Mandela’s writing feels dignified and powerful, capturing his journey from a young activist to the first Black president of South Africa. This memoir is a testament to the power of perseverance, justice, and reconciliation.
The Diary of Anaïs Nin by Anaïs Nin
Anaïs Nin’s diary is a deeply personal and introspective memoir that spans several decades of her life. Anaïs’s writing is lyrical and evocative, capturing her experiences as a writer, lover, and thinker. This memoir is a profound exploration of creativity, passion, and the complexities of human relationships.
There you have it, my writerly friend.
A comprehensive list of the best memoirs to read this year.
Whether you’re looking for the latest releases or timeless classics, these memoirs offer something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into these incredible stories and let them inspire and move you.
Who knows, maybe you’ll even write your own memoir one day. And, if you do, let me know, because I’d love to read it.
And finally, whether you’re writing a novel or a memoir, always remember that the story comes first. Focus on:
- Creating engaging characters
- Penning interesting plots
- Structuring solid settings
A tool like Fictionary helps you turn your draft into an interesting story readers love. So, with a strong narrative foundation, your writing can truly shine.
