Looking for a new read to add to your list that is a little more true-to-life? Look no further, because this roundup of 12 non-fiction books that everyone should read is perfect for you! From true stories about historic events to the clever and hilarious words of your favorite comedians, you’re bound to learn something new from one of these bestselling non-fiction books.

The Library Book by Susan Orlean

In this well-researched read, New Yorker reporter Susan Orlean tells the story of the Los Angeles Public Library fire of 1986. By tracing the library’s rich history, Orlean is able to show just how much of an impact it had on the community surrounding it. Through its vivid descriptions and determined investigation into the mysterious fire, The Library Book is the perfect read for book lovers everywhere.

Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies, and a Conspiracy to Protect Predators by Ronan Farrow

An amazing work of investigative journalism, Ronan Farrow exposes a corrupt group of celebrities and politicians who are determined to cover up the truth no matter the cost. Through this thrilling and true tale of espionage and secrecy, Farrow brings to light eye-opening revelations about the wealthy abusing their power in ways you would have never thought possible.

Dear Girls: Intimate Tales, Untold Secrets & Advice for Living Your Best Life by Ali Wong

Dear Girls is comedian Ali Wong’s guidebook for living your best life. Full of fierce and funny moments and advice, this bestseller provides a refreshing perspective of living life as a young woman in a fast-paced world. While the letters that make up this book are addressed to her daughters, they provide enlightening universal insight for readers of all kinds.

The Way I Heard It by Mike Rowe

In this memoir by executive producer and host of the podcast The Way I Heard It, Mike Rowe recounts entertaining personal stories and hilarious previous episodes of his famous podcast. Full of hysterical interactions with celebrities and emotional behind-the-scenes moments that will keep you laughing until you cry.

Conversations with RBG: Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Life, Love, Liberty, and Law by Jeffrey Rosen

In this interesting array of stories, Jeffrey Rosen discusses his favorite memories and past conversations with his close friend Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. RBG shows her level-headed character through her role in each chapter as she shares important and intelligent advice about subjects ranging from Supreme Court case Roe v. Wade to love and marriage. A heart-warming story of an unusual friendship, Conversations with RBG digs deep into the life of the American hero Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

In this award-winning memoir, author Tara Westover tells her story of growing up unable to attend school and how she managed to eventually go on to earn a Ph.D. from Cambridge University. Through her vivid reflection of how she overcame her early life cut off from society by her family, Westover shares an inspiring message to people who feel like all of the odds are working against them.

Me: Elton John Official Autobiography by Elton John

Me is a beautiful autobiography that reveals the colorful and inspiring story about the famous singer’s life. Elton John provides an inside look into his childhood, struggles with drug addiction and his ultimate rehabilitation. Me is the encouraging tale of a man who found love amongst his overwhelming fame and the mistakes of his past. 

Do You Mind If I Cancel?: (Things That Still Annoy Me) By Gary Janetti

This book of essays by successful comedy writer Gary Janetti takes you hilariously through the struggle of a man doing his best to find himself amongst the mundane moments of life. Janetti’s brazen and clever words bring his comedic stories to life in a way that will leave you laughing all the way through. 

Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don’t Know by Malcolm Gladwell

This bestselling non-fiction book by Malcolm Gladwell tackles questions regarding how we should talk to strangers and why it is important to avoid the misunderstandings we often fall into when talking to strangers. In Talking to Strangers, Gladwell pulls together interviews with psychologists, court transcripts, and so much more in order to address the misconceptions we form concerning our interactions with people we do not know.

Touched by the Sun by Carly Simon

Carly Simon tells of a chance moment that brought Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and her together, forming an unusual friendship. Touched by the Sun is a beautiful rendition of what it means to be friends in two completely separate worlds.

 Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson

Lawyer Bryan Stevenson tells his story of searching for justice for those who are barred from finding it for themselves. Through his retelling of one of his first cases, the case of Walter McMillian, a young man who was convicted for a crime he did not commit, Stevenson provides an important insight into the world of political conspiracy and racial injustice that is often hidden behind closed doors.

The Body: A Guide For Occupants by Bill Bryson

Bill Bryson brings to life something that we often take for granted, the human body. By guiding us through the everyday workings of the human body, Bryson reiterates the importance of understanding the unique ways that humans can be resilient even in the toughest of moments.

(Feature image courtesy of @flatiron_books)

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