Non-Fiction Books to Make You Think
There is a huge selection of non-fiction books out there that are well worth a read, even if you consider yourself more of a fiction fanatic or perhaps not a reader at all! These five options in particular are thought provoking and insightful choices that do not read as lectures!
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings
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Maya Angelou is a well-known poet and in fact, she has been quoted on many occasions recently in connection with the Black Lives Matter movement. “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” is the first in her seven-volume memoir. It is an incredibly powerful read at any point but in the current climate it is particularly compelling. The distinctive and excellent writing creates vivid images of a life facing prejudice and offers a unique perspective that will outlive your initial reading of the book.
On My Own Two Feet: The Journey from Losing My Legs to Learning the Dance of Life
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Amy Purdy is a Paralympic medallist in snowboarding, but her journey was far from easy. Purdy had her legs amputated after being diagnosed with bacterial meningitis when she was 19. However, she did not let this obstacle slow her stride and she went on to win three Paralympic medals, compete on Dancing With the Stars and co-found the Adaptive Action Sports organisation. Her uplifting memoir is inspiring in its vulnerability and immensely powerful in its honesty.
Shout
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Laurie Halse Anderson is perhaps better known for her award-winning novel “Speak”, but her memoir-in-verse “Shout” is equally worth a read. Despite the two decades that elapsed between their publications, Halse Anderson tackles sexual assault in the same powerful and skilled manner in both. However, “Shout” it is not a work of fiction, but instead a fierce memoir that raises important topics and questions. The array of options available when it comes to biographies and autobiographies is vast, but very few are written in poetic style and even fewer will have such a moving and impactful influence as this one.
This Star Won’t Go Out: The Life and Words of Esther Grace Earl
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Most of us are familiar with John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars” but you may not know of Esther Earl to whom Green dedicated the book. “This Star Won’t Go Out: The Life and Words of Esther Grace Earl” is a collection of the journals, fiction, letters, and sketches of Esther Grace Earl who passed away from thyroid cancer in 2010. The book also includes poignant essays from her family members and friends that add to what is ultimately an incredibly sad and yet inspirational read that will definitely change the way you find yourself thinking.
It’s NOT OK to Feel Blue (and other lies)
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This book is a fantastic collection of writing from well-known figures and celebrities. Each contribution varies in length and style and just like every individual’s mental health is unique, the entries that make up this phenomenal book are too. It is a fantastic option for settling in and reading for hours if the mood strikes. However, the diversity within the pages mean it is also a great book for picking up every now and then to read a few entries at a time, so do not let the length of this book turn you off it! Scarlett Curtis, the writer behind the idea for the anthology is also to thank for “Feminists Don’t Wear Pink (and other lies)” that is well worth a read too.
Are you a fan of non-fiction books?
Check out some more of our top non-fiction books here.