The best 24 Autobiography books

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1
Autobiography Books: Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

Eat, Pray, Love

Elizabeth Gilbert
One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia
3.6 (61 ratings)
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What's Eat, Pray, Love about?

Eat, Pray, Love (2006) is the story of a year-long journey around the world in pursuit of pleasure in Italy, spiritual devotion in India, and finally a balance of the two in Indonesia. With refreshing candor and humor, this bestselling memoir charts a courageous path of self-discovery.

Who should read Eat, Pray, Love?

  • Foodies after an indulgent tale of finding pleasure in eating
  • Yogis ready to be inspired by a story of commitment to prayer and meditation
  • Romantics who swoon at stories of love after loss

2
Autobiography Books: All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot

All Creatures Great and Small

James Herriot
4.3 (113 ratings)
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What's All Creatures Great and Small about?

All Creatures Great and Small (1972) is a semi-autobiographical chronicle of the life and adventures of young veterinarian James Herriot during the 1930s and ’40s. Blending humor, warmth, and vivid storytelling, it beautifully captures the challenges and joys of veterinary practice in rural England. Ultimately, it offers a delightful and heartfelt portrayal of the bond between humans and animals as well as the enduring spirit of community.

Who should read All Creatures Great and Small?

  • Veterinarians and veterinary students
  • Animal lovers and nature enthusiasts
  • Anyone interested in a cozy, nostalgic story

3
Autobiography Books: Born Standing Up by Steve Martin

Born Standing Up

Steve Martin

What's Born Standing Up about?

Born Standing Up is a memoir by legendary comedian Steve Martin. In this engaging and honest book, Martin reflects on his journey to stardom in the world of stand-up comedy. From his early days working at Disneyland to selling out arenas across the country, he shares insights, humorous anecdotes, and the challenges he faced along the way. It's a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the life of a comedic genius.

Who should read Born Standing Up?

  • Aspiring comedians looking for insight into the stand-up comedy world
  • Fans of Steve Martin interested in his personal and professional journey
  • Individuals seeking inspiration and lessons on pursuing a creative passion

4
Autobiography Books: Five Presidents by Clint Hill

Five Presidents

Clint Hill

What's Five Presidents about?

Five Presidents by Clint Hill provides a unique insider's perspective on the lives and legacies of five American presidents: Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and Ford. Through captivating anecdotes and firsthand accounts, Hill offers a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most pivotal moments in US history, shedding light on the personalities and leadership styles of these influential leaders.

Who should read Five Presidents?

  • History enthusiasts who are interested in the lives and experiences of U.S. presidents

  • Readers who enjoy behind-the-scenes accounts of significant political events

  • Individuals who want to gain insights into the challenges and decisions faced by those in positions of power


5
Autobiography Books: Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson

Furiously Happy

Jenny Lawson

What's Furiously Happy about?

Furiously Happy (2015) is a hilarious and heartfelt memoir by Jenny Lawson. Through her witty and unapologetic writing, Lawson shares her experiences with mental illness and shows that it's possible to find joy and purpose in life, even in the darkest moments. With laugh-out-loud anecdotes and raw honesty, this book challenges the stigma surrounding mental health and celebrates the power of being furiously happy.

Who should read Furiously Happy?

  • Those dealing with mental health challenges
  • People who want to gain a better understanding of mental illness
  • Individuals looking for a humorous and relatable account of living with mental health issues

6
Autobiography Books: Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama

Dreams from My Father

Barack Obama

What's Dreams from My Father about?

Dreams from My Father is a memoir by Barack Obama that delves into his early life, family history, and the journey of self-discovery. It explores themes of race, identity, and belonging, as Obama reflects on his upbringing and the influence of his absent father. The book offers a unique perspective on the complexities of race relations and the American experience.

Who should read Dreams from My Father?

  • Readers who are curious about Barack Obama's personal and family history

  • Individuals interested in exploring themes of identity, race, and belonging

  • Those who enjoy memoirs and want to gain insights into the life of a future U.S. president


7
Autobiography Books: Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh

What's Hyperbole and a Half about?

Hyperbole and a Half is a hilarious and heartfelt collection of comics and essays that delves into the author's own experiences with depression and anxiety. Allie Brosh uses her unique blend of humor and honesty to explore the complexities of mental health, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh perspective on the subject.

Who should read Hyperbole and a Half?

  • Readers who enjoy humorous and relatable stories
  • Those interested in exploring mental health and personal struggles through a humorous lens
  • People who appreciate insightful and candid reflections on everyday life

8
Autobiography Books: Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali

Infidel

Ayaan Hirsi Ali

What's Infidel about?

Infidel is a memoir by Ayaan Hirsi Ali that recounts her journey from a strict Muslim upbringing in Somalia to her eventual rejection of the faith and her fight for women's rights. It offers a powerful critique of Islam and sheds light on the challenges faced by those who dare to question their religious beliefs.

Who should read Infidel?

  • Readers who are curious about the experiences of a woman raised in a conservative Muslim family
  • Individuals who are interested in the intersection of religion, culture, and personal freedom
  • Those seeking a thought-provoking and candid exploration of the challenges and triumphs of a non-conformist

9
Autobiography Books: Just Kids by Patti Smith

Just Kids

Patti Smith

What's Just Kids about?

'Just Kids,' a memoir by Patti Smith, chronicles her deep and formative relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. Set in the vibrant art scene of 1960s and 1970s New York City, the book delves into their youthful dreams, struggles, and eventual success in the pursuit of artistic expression. It is a beautifully written tribute to their friendship and the bohemian spirit of that era.

Who should read Just Kids?

  • Individuals who are interested in the creative worlds of art and music
  • Readers who enjoy memoirs and personal stories
  • People who are drawn to tales of friendship, love, and artistic inspiration

10
Autobiography Books: The Princess Diarist by Carrie Fisher

The Princess Diarist

Carrie Fisher

What's The Princess Diarist about?

The Princess Diarist is a memoir by Carrie Fisher that delves into her experience filming the original Star Wars trilogy. Filled with personal diary entries and reflections, Fisher offers a candid and witty account of her time as Princess Leia, as well as her secret affair with co-star Harrison Ford. It provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the iconic film series and explores Fisher's own journey to self-discovery.

Who should read The Princess Diarist?

  • Star Wars fans looking for behind-the-scenes insights
  • Those interested in Carrie Fisher's personal experiences and reflections
  • People who enjoy candid and witty memoirs

11
Autobiography Books: Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs

Running with Scissors

Augusten Burroughs

What's Running with Scissors about?

Running with Scissors (2002) is a memoir by Augusten Burroughs that chronicles his unconventional and often chaotic upbringing. With dark humor and raw honesty, Burroughs recounts his experiences growing up with a mentally unstable mother and her eccentric psychiatrist. The book offers a unique and sometimes shocking insight into the complexities of family and resilience.

Who should read Running with Scissors?

  • Readers who enjoy dark humor and quirky memoirs
  • Those with an interest in unconventional and dysfunctional family dynamics
  • Individuals who appreciate candid and raw storytelling

What's Let's Pretend This Never Happened about?

Let's Pretend This Never Happened is a memoir by Jenny Lawson that takes readers on a hilarious and unconventional journey through her life. With a unique blend of wit and honesty, Lawson shares outrageous and absurd anecdotes that will make you laugh out loud while also touching on deeper themes of family, mental health, and acceptance. It's a book that reminds us that sometimes the most extraordinary stories are found in the most ordinary lives.

Who should read Let's Pretend This Never Happened?

  • Humor-loving individuals who enjoy quirky and irreverent storytelling
  • People looking for a light-hearted and entertaining break from reality
  • Those who appreciate candid and honest accounts of life’s absurdities

13
Autobiography Books: Twelve Years a Slave by Solomon Northup

Twelve Years a Slave

Solomon Northup

What's Twelve Years a Slave about?

Twelve Years a Slave is a powerful memoir by Solomon Northup that recounts his harrowing experience as a free black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the antebellum United States. The book exposes the brutal reality of slavery and serves as an important historical document.

Who should read Twelve Years a Slave?

  • Readers who are interested in the history of slavery in America
  • Individuals who enjoy memoirs and personal narratives
  • Those who want to gain a deeper understanding of human resilience and the strength of the human spirit

14
Autobiography Books: Wishful Drinking by Carrie Fisher

Wishful Drinking

Carrie Fisher

What's Wishful Drinking about?

Wishful Drinking is a candid and witty memoir by Carrie Fisher, best known for her role as Princess Leia in Star Wars. In this book, Fisher shares her personal struggles with addiction, mental illness, and the ups and downs of her Hollywood upbringing. With humor and honesty, she reflects on her unconventional life and offers insight into the challenges she has faced.

Who should read Wishful Drinking?

  • Individuals who are fans of Carrie Fisher and her work
  • People who enjoy memoirs that are candid and humorous
  • Readers who are interested in stories about overcoming personal struggles

15
Autobiography Books: Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling

Why Not Me?

Mindy Kaling

What's Why Not Me? about?

Why Not Me? is a memoir by Mindy Kaling that delves into her personal and professional journey in the entertainment industry. With her signature wit and charm, Kaling shares anecdotes and reflections on topics such as friendship, dating, and self-confidence. Through her book, she inspires readers to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams with determination and humor.

Who should read Why Not Me??

  • Readers who enjoy personal, humorous, and relatable memoirs
  • People looking for inspiration and insights into navigating the entertainment industry
  • Fans of Mindy Kaling's work in TV, comedy, and writing

16
Autobiography Books: Yes Please by Amy Poehler

Yes Please

Amy Poehler

What's Yes Please about?

Yes Please is a memoir by actress and comedian Amy Poehler. Through a series of humorous and candid essays, Poehler shares personal anecdotes, reflections, and insights on her career, family, and friendships. She invites readers to embrace their authenticity and pursue their passions while navigating the unpredictable journey of life. With wit and wisdom, Yes Please is a delightful and inspiring read.

Who should read Yes Please?

  • Readers who enjoy humorous and insightful memoirs
  • Fans of Amy Poehler and her work in comedy and entertainment
  • Those looking for inspiration and motivation from a successful and empowering woman

17
Autobiography Books: An Unquiet Mind by Kay Redfield Jamison

An Unquiet Mind

Kay Redfield Jamison

What's An Unquiet Mind about?

An Unquiet Mind is a memoir by Kay Redfield Jamison that offers a raw and honest account of her experience living with bipolar disorder. Jamison takes the reader on a journey through her highs and lows, providing valuable insights into the challenges and complexities of mental illness. This book is a compelling exploration of the link between creativity and mental illness, and a testament to the power of resilience and self-awareness.

Who should read An Unquiet Mind?

  • Individuals who want to gain a deeper understanding of bipolar disorder and mental illness

  • Those who are personally affected by bipolar disorder, either as a patient or a loved one

  • People who are interested in the intersection of mental health and creativity


18
Autobiography Books: Brain on Fire by Susannah Cahalan

Brain on Fire

Susannah Cahalan

What's Brain on Fire about?

Brain on Fire is a gripping memoir by Susannah Cahalan that chronicles her sudden descent into madness and the long, difficult journey to regain her life. Cahalan recounts her terrifying experience of being misdiagnosed with a severe mental illness, only to discover that she was actually suffering from a rare autoimmune disease. This compelling and thought-provoking book sheds light on the complexities of the human brain and the flaws in our medical system.

Who should read Brain on Fire?

  • Readers who are interested in personal stories of overcoming medical challenges

  • Those curious about the mysteries of the human brain and the complexities of neurological disorders

  • Individuals who enjoy memoirs that offer a unique and insightful perspective on the human experience


19
Autobiography Books: Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins

Can't Hurt Me

David Goggins

What's Can't Hurt Me about?

Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins is a powerful memoir that chronicles the author's journey from a troubled childhood to becoming a Navy SEAL and ultra-endurance athlete. Goggins shares his remarkable story of overcoming immense physical and mental challenges, and provides practical strategies for building mental toughness and achieving personal greatness. This book will inspire you to push beyond your limits and embrace discomfort in pursuit of your goals.

Who should read Can't Hurt Me?

  • Individuals seeking to break through mental and physical barriers

  • Those looking for inspiration and motivation to overcome challenges

  • Readers interested in personal development and self-improvement


20

What's My Family and Other Animals about?

My Family and Other Animals is a delightful memoir by Gerald Durrell that takes us on a humorous and heartwarming journey to the Greek island of Corfu. Through his vivid storytelling, Durrell introduces us to his eccentric family and the myriad of animals they encounter, making for an entertaining and insightful read about the wonders of the natural world and the bonds of family.

Who should read My Family and Other Animals?

  • Animal lovers and nature enthusiasts

  • People who enjoy humorous and entertaining memoirs

  • Those interested in the unique experiences of an eccentric British family living abroad


21
Autobiography Books: Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

Persepolis

Marjane Satrapi

What's Persepolis about?

Persepolis is a graphic memoir by Marjane Satrapi that tells the story of her childhood and early adulthood in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. Through beautiful black-and-white illustrations, Satrapi depicts her personal experiences and provides a unique insight into the political and social changes that took place in her country. It is a powerful and thought-provoking book that offers a glimpse into a world that is often misunderstood.

Who should read Persepolis?

  • Readers who enjoy graphic novels and memoirs

  • Individuals interested in learning about Iranian culture and history

  • Those who appreciate coming-of-age stories with a unique perspective


22
Autobiography Books: Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs

Running with Scissors

Augusten Burroughs

What's Running with Scissors about?

Running with Scissors is a memoir by Augusten Burroughs that delves into his unconventional and often chaotic upbringing. From living with his eccentric and unstable mother to being sent to live with her unorthodox psychiatrist, Burroughs shares his unique and sometimes disturbing experiences with humor and honesty. The book offers a raw and compelling exploration of family, mental illness, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Who should read Running with Scissors?

  • People interested in memoirs and personal stories

  • Readers who enjoy dark humor and unconventional narratives

  • Those curious about mental health and dysfunctional family dynamics


23
Autobiography Books: The Complete Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

The Complete Persepolis

Marjane Satrapi

What's The Complete Persepolis about?

The Complete Persepolis is a graphic memoir by Marjane Satrapi that offers a unique glimpse into life in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. Through beautiful black-and-white illustrations, Satrapi shares her coming-of-age story, depicting the challenges, humor, and resilience she and her family experienced. It's a powerful and thought-provoking book that sheds light on a complex period in history.

Who should read The Complete Persepolis?

  • Readers who enjoy autobiographical graphic novels

  • Individuals interested in Iranian history and culture

  • Those looking for a thought-provoking exploration of personal identity and societal norms


24
Autobiography Books: The Princess Diarist by Carrie Fisher

The Princess Diarist

Carrie Fisher

What's The Princess Diarist about?

The Princess Diarist is a memoir by Carrie Fisher that delves into her experience filming the iconic Star Wars franchise. Filled with excerpts from the diaries she kept at the time, Fisher offers a candid and witty account of her time as Princess Leia, as well as her secret affair with co-star Harrison Ford. It's a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at a beloved film series and the life of a young actress thrust into the spotlight.

Who should read The Princess Diarist?

  • Star Wars fans who want an inside look at the making of the original trilogy

  • People interested in Carrie Fisher's personal experiences and reflections on fame

  • Readers who enjoy candid and humorous memoirs


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Autobiography Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Autobiography book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Eat, Pray, Love as the ultimate read on Autobiography.

What are the Top 10 Autobiography books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
  • All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot
  • Born Standing Up by Steve Martin
  • Five Presidents by Clint Hill
  • Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson
  • Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama
  • Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh
  • Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali
  • Just Kids by Patti Smith
  • The Princess Diarist by Carrie Fisher

Who are the top Autobiography book authors?

When it comes to Autobiography, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Elizabeth Gilbert
  • James Herriot
  • Steve Martin
  • Clint Hill
  • Jenny Lawson