23 best autobiographies that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime
Autobiographies hold a unique and captivating allure. They provide readers with an intimate window into the real-life, thoughts, and experiences of extraordinary individuals, as seen through their own eyes at critical moments of history and culture. The best memoirs can be a blend of so many genres: they can feel like a page-turning thriller, an inspirational story that serves as a mental health-boosting self-help guide or be a witty and hilarious read.
In a time when most of us are looking for a compelling distraction from the endless social media doom scrolling, an autobiography written by a beloved figure has the ability to capture your imagination and transport you to a wild world. Some of the best autobiographies of all time are the first-hand life stories from pop stars, fashion designers, and political activists. So, we've rounded up an edit of the best autobiographies that range from classics to pop culture celebrity reads – and as varied as they are, they all deserve a thorough read, at least once in your lifetime.
Compiling this list was tricky, but there were some that just had to be included without question. Anne Frank's The Diary of a Young Girl and Nelson Mandela's Long Walk to Freedom are both high up on our must-read list, for their honest and often heart wrenching descriptions of living through extreme discrimination and will stay with you long after you’ve finished.
Elsewhere, we’ve included some of the best autobiographies that have been written over the course of the past few years - and which have gone on to smash records and be reported on worldwide. Case in point: Price Harry’s Spare and I’m Glad My Mom Died – two titles which continue to be discussed heatedly across the globe.
Classic autobiographies such as A Moveable Feast and the more recent My Year of Magical Thinking are ones you will want to savour every page of – and don’t read Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime without being prepared to laugh out loud wherever you are.
Ahead, our edit of the best autobiographies and biographies of all time available as audiobooks, paperback, hardback and on Kindle.
Best autobiographies 2023
Malala. When has a first name been so universally renowned, a word use to denote strength and superhuman resolve. Her autobiography is an extraordinary memoir that resonates as a beacon of courage and determination. Malala's unyielding pursuit of education, even in the face of such danger, demonstrates her unbreakable spirit. She transports readers to a world where the simple act of going to school is an act of revolution. Through her depiction of the chaos that ensued when the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley, her personal journey of become intertwined, showcasing the power of education to uplift communities. Her account of surviving an assassination attempt and her continued advocacy for girls' education leave an indelible impact. One young voice can ignite change, reminding us that even in the darkest times, a single spark can illuminate an entire world.
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Best autobiographies 2023
When Becoming was published it was a global literary event, selling over 17 million copies and counting. What must it feel like to be in the heart of the storm, standing by the side of a President whilst trying to raise a family and maintain your identity. Former First Lady Michelle Obama writes as elegantly as she speaks, her powerful voice shines through this intimate revelation of a life both extraordinary and relatable. With grace and candour, she invites readers into her journey from the South Side of Chicago to the White House. Her narrative is an ode to resilience, family, and self-discovery, showing how personal growth shapes public impact. Obama's insights into her role as First Lady and her advocacy for education and empowerment works seamlessly alongside the more intimate anecdotes that makes reading this feel like a conversation with a close friend, who just happens to be one of the most recognisable women alive.
Best autobiographies 2023
If this is the first time you have heard of this book, where have you been hiding? It has spent a mammoth YEAR on the New York Times Bestseller list since it was published, selling millions of copies worldwide. A raw, courageous, and controversial memoir that confronts the aftermath of loss in complicated relationships. McCurdy's unfiltered prose delves into the complexity of grief and the healing process, painting a vivid picture of her emotional journey. Her vulnerability is visceral as she grapples with conflicted emotions and explores her own identity in the shadow of her mother's death. McCurdy's candid storytelling captures the nuances of pain, anger, and eventual acceptance. With honesty and insight, she invites readers to accompany her on a path of self-discovery and resilience.
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Best autobiographies 2023
In the UK, Spare is the fastest selling non-fiction book ever, breaking all records. Whatever your views on the royal family, why this book was written and indeed how this book was written, we felt compelled to include it given the huge amount of interest and the conversations it sparked. We at @thebibliofilles both had very different reactions to it, the prose is disjointed in parts but the insight it gave into being one of the most recognisable faces on the plant, talked about in the world’s press every day was astounding. To go through the loss of a parent under the scrutiny and gaze of millions is a singular experience that Spare details intimately. Prince Harry is at times jaw-droppingly honest about his life, from going to the army to meeting his wife and this is a book that will continue to be referenced and discussed for many years.
Best autobiographies 2023
From one of the greatest leaders the world has ever known, taking us through one of the most important turning points in recent history. This monumental autobiography distils the spirit of resilience and the triumph of justice. From his childhood in rural South Africa to his decades-long fight against apartheid, Mandela's narrative is one of courage and unwavering conviction. His steadfast commitment to freedom and equality resonates through every page, portraying a life inextricably linked with his nation's struggle. The book chronicles not just the trials of imprisonment, but the power of forgiveness and reconciliation that led to South Africa's transformation. This is a book that serves as a living testimony of history, whilst providing a masterclass in leadership and the power needed to heal an entire country.
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Best autobiographies 2023
What person alive has not worn or seen the Nike sign? Selling over 25 million copies, the autobiography of the Nike founder and CEO is the embodiment of the ultimate American dream, which seeps with passion and resilience. With candid sincerity, Knight takes readers on a rollercoaster journey through the company's inception, sharing the highs, lows, and relentless determination that shaped its success. Shoe Dog isn't just about business; it explores entrepreneurship and the power of unwavering ambition. Knight's vivid storytelling captures the struggles of building a company from the ground up, showcasing the risks and sacrifices involved. His blend of personal anecdotes, industry insights, and a touch of humour crafts an engaging narrative that resonates with aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone fascinated by the genesis of iconic brands.
Best autobiographies 2023
This is one of those books that you will think about for years after reading it. When it was released there wasn’t a coffee or bookshop that didn’t have people discussing Educated. This captivating memoir unfolds like a journey from darkness to enlightenment. Raised in a strict and isolated household, Westover's quest for knowledge becomes a transformative odyssey. Her story exquisitely depicts the power of education to liberate the mind and the soul. Through her remarkable resilience, she navigates a path from ignorance to self-discovery, challenging deeply ingrained beliefs. The prose is both haunting and hopeful, capturing the dichotomy of her experiences. Educate is an unflinching exploration of the human capacity for change, illustrating how learning can dismantle barriers and shatter confines. Westover's story resonated with us at @thebibliofilles long after the last page.
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Best autobiographies 2023
When this was published in 2017, it launched Lockwood’s career and received rave reviews internationally. Priestdaddy is a riotous and introspective memoir that delves into the eccentric world of her unconventional family, led by her father—a former Lutheran priest turned Catholic. Lockwood's razor-sharp wit and irreverent prose create a unique lens through which to explore themes of religion, family dynamics, and personal identity. The narrative balances humour with poignant observations, offering a nuanced look at the intersection of faith and doubt. Lockwood's candid portrayal of her family's quirks and complexities reveals a universal truth about the complexity of love and relationships. As she navigates the absurdities of her upbringing and grapples with her own journey, readers are treated to a refreshingly honest, hilarious, and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience.
Best autobiographies 2023
Cecily Tyson was an award winning and ground breaking American actress, known for her portrayal of fierce characters. Her autobiography has inspired so many, from fellow actors to politicians (Obama says she shaped the course of history), a powerful and candid memoir that traces the remarkable journey of an iconic thespian. Tyson recounts her life from humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazing figure in the entertainment industry, and she doesn’t hold back from the challenges she faced as a Black woman in Hollywood and her unyielding commitment to roles that defied stereotypes. Through her introspection, she sheds light on the personal sacrifices, professional triumphs, and the profound impact of her work on representation. At her core she was a storyteller and this reads like a propulsive thriller, resonating with authenticity, honesty, and a deep sense of purpose.
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Best autobiographies 2023
The Diary of a Young Girl by Ann Frank
One of the most imprtant books ever published which everyone should read, The Diary of a Young Girl is a book that we at @thebibliofilles hold so close to our hearts. An enduring and indelible testament to the human spirit's resilience amid the heaviest of darkness. This diary represents the power of literature, both on the world and on societies understanding of history. Through Anne's intimate musings, the Holocaust's horrors are humanized in the searing voice of a Jewish child never to grow old. Her poignant insights, penned within the confines of her secret annex her family were hiding in during the World War, offer a stark contrast to the outside world's cruelty. This true story is a heartrending portrayal of a girl coming of age amidst adversity, her dreams and fears echoing across generations. Anne's voice is a beacon, illuminating the importance of remembrance, tolerance, and the pursuit of a better world. A timeless, haunting masterpiece that will affect every single reader long after they have finished the final page.
Best autobiographies 2023
This is one of the most powerful and thought-provoking books we at @thebibliofilles have ever read, and we urge every single reader to buy a copy. Miller was the anonymous victim in a rape trial, and her victim impact statement went globally viral, inspiring, and empowering millions of victims. An unflinching memoir that redefines courage and reclaims agency, written with innate power, Miller chronicles her harrowing journey as a survivor of sexual assault, transcending the confines of victimhood to waking up an internet phenomenon, capturing the rollercoaster of emotions. With remarkable vulnerability, she peels back the layers of trauma, exposing the scars inflicted by both the crime and the justice system. Her resilience shines as she reclaims her identity and narrative. Miller's narrative is a force of nature, the ending so hopeful, the change she brought so important, you will find yourself recommending it to everyone you know.
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Best autobiographies 2023
Joan Didion was a literary legend, and her memoir is one of her most acclaimed books, winning a National Book Award and being in the final shortlist for the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Critics Circle Award. The Year of Magical Thinking is an emotionally charged account of Didion facing the unthinkable. In the wake of her husband's sudden death and her daughter's serious illness, Didion offers a raw and unflinching account of the human experience of loss. Through her precise prose, she dissects the complexities of mourning, grappling with the irrational hope that her husband might return. Balancing vulnerability with intellectual rigor, Didion's exploration of grief's labyrinthine nature is haunting and deeply moving. Her unvarnished introspection resonates with anyone who has faced loss, which is why it is still such a popular autobiography. illuminating the strange and unpredictable ways we cope with tragedy and offering the reader hope.
Best autobiographies 2023
Sometimes a book is so powerful that it can enter into societies psyche, its very title becoming part of our language. With over 10 million copies sold worldwide, this memoir changed so many lives, sending travellers to India and Bali and inspiring so many to reset their priorities. Elizabeth Gilbert's soul-searching memoir is a captivating journey of self-discovery. She had everything a modern woman was supposed to want--husband, country home, successful career--but instead of feeling happy and fulfilled, she was consumed by panic and confusion. This book charts her year-long expedition across Italy, India, and Indonesia, searching for balance, spirituality, and healing after a painful divorce. Gilbert's candid introspection, peppered with humour and vulnerability, invites readers into her personal odyssey. While some may find privilege in her ability to embark on such a voyage, the universal pursuit of happiness and purpose makes her story hugely relatable.
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Best autobiographies 2023
So many readers have raved about the hilarity, wit and keen observations made in this popular autobiography from such a beloved TV personality. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah is a remarkable memoir that seamlessly blends humour, insight, and poignant reflection. Noah's storytelling prowess shines as he depicts the tumult of his upbringing in apartheid-era South Africa as a mixed-race child, born to a black mother and a white father. He is incredibly open about his experiences with racial and cultural identity, poverty, and the absurdities of prejudice. His ability to find joy and comedy in even the darkest moments adds a layer of relatability and accessibility, making this an enjoyable read even with a serious subject matter. Through the lens of his own life, Noah illuminates broader themes of resilience, social injustice, and the power of laughter to transcend adversity.
Claire Clifton ColesBest autobiographies 2023
A classic autobiography from one of the most important writers of the last century, a moveable feast was published posthumously and received a huge amount of praise and adoration. Paris comes alive as the backdrop to a mesmerizing account of the author's formative years. With his inimitable, exquisite prose, Hemingway paints a vivid picture of 1920s Paris, where artistic luminaries converge. His recollections are a literary time capsule, transporting readers to cafes, bookshops, and conversations with Gertrude Stein, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and more. Amidst the artistic fervour, Hemingway reflects on his struggles, successes, and the bittersweet romance with his first wife, Hadley. The narrative's simplicity belies its depth, capturing the essence of a transformative era and the pursuit of creative authenticity. You will want to devour this like we did at @thebibliofilles - a poignant, reflective work, A Moveable Feast offers a glimpse into the life of a literary giant and the era that shaped him.
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Best autobiographies 2023
When this was published you could not go onto a train, bus, or plane without someone reading this book. Adam Kay's This Is Going To Hurt is a gut-wrenchingly hilarious and eye-opening memoir that peels back the curtain on life as a doctor in the NHS.. From heartbreaking moments to laugh-out-loud escapades, he offers an unfiltered look at the highs and lows of the profession. Beyond the humour, the book also addresses the gruelling demands and bureaucratic hurdles faced by healthcare professionals. Kay's witty anecdotes and razor-sharp humour provide a unique perspective on the challenges and absurdities of working in the medical field, which is why this also resonated with international readers.
Best autobiographies 2023
This book is so achingly cool and contemporary and is a timeless snapshot of an iconic time in New York. Patti Smith's award winning Just Kids is an exquisite coming of age memoir that unveils her unique journey through the vibrant New York City art scene of the 1960s and 70s. With lyrical prose, Smith recounts her intimate relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, painting a vivid portrait of their artistic collaboration and deep bond. The book beautifully captures their struggles, dreams, and the fervent energy of a creative generation. Smith's storytelling is both poetic and honest, immersing readers in a world where bohemian ideals intersect with the realities of ambition and love. A mesmerising blend of autobiography and cultural history, Just Kids is a timeless tribute to friendship, art, and the unrelenting pursuit of artistic expression.
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Best autobiographies 2023
We had to include this autobiography as it a raw and compelling ace of a memoir that made huge waves when it was published. With unvarnished honesty, Agassi bares his soul, recounting his rise from a reluctant prodigy to a tennis icon. The narrative's power lies in Agassi's candid revelations – his love-hate relationship with the sport, family dynamics, and internal battles. The book unflinchingly tackles his struggles with identity and the pressures of fame, painting a vivid picture of both the exhilarating highs and crushing lows of professional tennis. Agassi's prose is as intense as his playing style, gripping readers with every page. A tale of redemption, resilience, and self-discovery, written with the ghostwriter who went on to write Spare with Prince Harry.
Best autobiographies 2023
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings
Let us count the ways we love Maya Angelou. It would be impossible to quantify the lasting legacy of this literary titan, and no list of the best autobiographies is complete without the masterpiece that is I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, which resonates with profound strength and vulnerability. The first volume of a seven-part autobiography, Angelou explores the complexities of racism, identity, and womanhood. Her prose dances off the page, every word exactly where it needs to be. Her resilience in the face of adversity is astonishing, overcoming a painful childhood of extreme poverty and cruelty, paints a vivid picture of her coming-of-age journey to greatness. The narrative's raw honesty exposes both the scars of prejudice and the triumphs of the human spirit, a symphony of pain and triumph, each page a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery. Angelou’s words echo through generations, urging us to confront our past and strive for a more just future.
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Best autobiographies 2023
This graphic autobiography broke so many barriers and is widely regarded as one of the best books of the century. Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi is a captivating graphic memoir that navigates the tumultuous history of Iran through a personal lens. Satrapi's evocative black-and-white illustrations and poignant storytelling capture her coming-of-age amidst the Iranian Revolution and its aftermath. Through her eyes, readers witness the cultural shifts, political upheavals, and individual struggles that shaped her identity. The memoir's intimate portrayal of family dynamics and friendships amidst adversity adds depth to the historical context. By combining the personal and political, Satrapi creates a vivid narrative that humanizes complex events and will stay with you long after the final page.
Best autobiographies 2023
The Chiffon Trenches - André Leon Talley
André Leon Talley was a renowned and important fixture on the fashion scene, a celebrated journalist, creative director and editor-at-large of Vogue. The Chiffon Trenches is a must-read autobiography giving readers intimate insight into the world of runways and magazine politics. Talley's storytelling weaves a tapestry of glamour, ambition, and the complexities of the industry. From his early days to his tenure at Vogue, he reflects on his experiences with remarkable candour. The book not only explores the highs of his career but also looks at the challenges he faced as a trailblazing African American figure. The prose is as elegant as the garments he describes in this behind-the-scenes look at an iconic era.
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Best autobiographies 2023
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Surely one of the most important autobiographies ever published, and now a literary classic. The Autobiography of Malcolm X is an unfiltered and searing chronicle of a transformative life. Malcolm X's journey from a troubled youth to a charismatic civil rights leader is powerfully captured in his own words, as told to Alex Haley, the author of Roots. Through candid reflections, he exposes the systemic racism, injustice, and personal struggles that shaped his evolution. The book serves as a testament to Malcolm X's unwavering commitment to black empowerment and his unapologetic critique of societal inequalities. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about America's history while highlighting the potential for radical change. A compelling blend of autobiography and social commentary, this work remains a pivotal and thought-provoking exploration of identity, activism, and justice, its one we at @thebibliofilles think about years after reading.
Best autobiographies 2023
Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner is a profoundly moving memoir published in 2021, that weaves together themes of grief, identity, and cultural heritage. Zauner's lyrical prose offers a poignant exploration of growing up mixed race, her relationship with her mother, who battled cancer, and the complex connections between food, memory, and family. Through her heartfelt storytelling, she navigates the emotional landscape of loss and the quest to understand her Korean heritage. The book is a bittersweet journey of self-discovery, touching on the universal experiences of longing, belonging, and the impact of cultural assimilation. With vulnerability and grace, Zauner creates an intimate tapestry that resonates with anyone who has grappled with their past while forging their own path.
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