Best Nonfiction Books

The Sixth Extinction is a profound analysis of the current global extinction event, predicted to be the most catastrophic in history. Elizabeth Kolbert, a New Yorker writer, explores the reasons for the event, the species that have already vanished, and how human activities have altered life on Earth in unprecedented ways. This Pulitzer Prize-winning book is a moving and comprehensive account of the disappearances that are happening right now, compelling us to question what it means to be human in the face of ecological catastrophe.

This thought-provoking work delves into American history and presents a powerful new framework for understanding the nation's current crisis. Through personal narratives and reimagined history, the author addresses the falsehood of "race" and its damaging effects on black men and women. Written as a letter to his son, this emotionally charged book sheds light on the past, confronts the present, and offers a hopeful vision for the future.

This memoir delves into the intensely personal yet universal experience of loss and grief, exploring the portrait of a marriage and a life in good times and bad. After losing their only daughter, Joan Didion and her husband face a series of traumatic events that challenge their understanding of death, illness, marriage, and memory. This book is an act of literary bravery, offering electric honesty and passion that will speak to anyone who has loved deeply.

Discover the inspiring story of a young girl born into the harsh wilderness of Idaho and raised by survivalists who shunned modern medicine and education. Despite lacking any formal schooling, she taught herself enough to gain admittance into Brigham Young University, leading her on a journey of self-invention that took her across oceans and continents to prestigious universities. Educated is a powerful memoir about the transformative power of knowledge and the struggle for self-discovery.

This influential book was published in 1962 and sparked a movement to protect the environment. Written by Rachel Carson, it exposes the harmful effects of DDT and led to changes in laws regarding our air, land, and water. Carson's powerful words and concern for the future of our planet launched the environmental movement, making it a landmark book of the twentieth century.

Discover the remarkable story of Henrietta Lacks, a poor black tobacco farmer whose cells were taken without her knowledge in 1951, becoming one of the most important tools in medicine. Her cells have been bought and sold by the billions for medical advancements, but her story and legacy remain virtually unknown. This New York Times bestseller tackles the collision between ethics, race, and medicine, and the daughter consumed with questions about the mother she never knew. A riveting tale of scientific discovery and faith healing that will leave you questioning the ethics of medical advancements.

This gripping nonfiction book explores the brutal murder of a Kansas family and the subsequent investigation, trial, and execution of the killers. With meticulous detail and astounding empathy, Truman Capote reconstructs the events and personalities surrounding the crime, including the truly chilling young killers. In Cold Blood is a masterful example of literary journalism that will leave readers breathless.

Discover the power of introverts with this insightful book. Susan Cain explores how society undervalues introverts and their contributions, from Rosa Parks to Steve Wozniak. Through research and real-life stories, Quiet charts the rise of the Extrovert Ideal and introduces successful introverts who often thrive in quiet environments. Prepare to see introverts in a new light and gain a fresh perspective on how we view ourselves and others.

This poignant memoir follows Maya and her brother as they are sent to live with their grandmother in a small Southern town, facing abandonment and prejudice. After a traumatic incident and years of struggle, Maya learns to liberate herself through self-love, the support of others, and great literature. Poetic and powerful, this book is a timeless standout in the genre of memoir.

Discover a proven framework for improving every day with Atomic Habits. Written by one of the world’s foremost experts in habit formation, James Clear, this instant New York Times bestseller offers practical strategies on how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results. Drawing on biology, psychology, and neuroscience, Clear distills complex topics into simple behaviors that can be easily applied to daily life and work. Whether you want to overcome a lack of motivation, design your environment for success, or simply achieve your goals, Atomic Habits will reshape the way you think about progress and give you the tools you need to transform your habits.