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Educated by Tara Westover is a memoir recounting the author's tumultuous childhood growing up in Idaho in a dysfunctional family. Tara's father, a strict Mormon and anti-government supporter, forbids her from attending school, leading her to work in the family's scrap yard instead. Despite the isolation and abuse she faces at home, Tara eventually breaks free and pursues education, earning scholarships and grants to study at prestigious universities like Cambridge and Harvard. The book delves into themes of familial dysfunction, survivalism, mental illness, and the transformative power of education.

If you liked Educated, here are the top 100 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
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    The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a memoir that delves into Walls' tumultuous childhood growing up in poverty with two unstable and neglectful parents. Walls details astounding anecdotes of her unconventional upbringing, showcasing a family that lived an offbeat, nonconformist lifestyle. The book portrays the struggles of the author and her siblings as they navigate through a challenging and unusual childhood, fending for themselves and raising each other while their parents prioritize their own desires over responsibilities.

    Walls' writing style is described as compelling, emotional, and honest, drawing readers into her story with vivid descriptions and a witty voice. The book offers a window into a world that many readers may never experience, shedding light on themes of resilience, forgiveness, and love in the face of adversity. The narrative unfolds through a series of shocking and heart-wrenching events, leaving readers both saddened and inspired by the author's journey from a difficult past to an uncertain future.

    I WAS SITTING IN a taxi, wondering if I had overdressed for the evening, when I looked out the window and saw Mom rooting through a Dumpster. It was just after dark. A blustery March wind whipped the ...

  2. Trevor Noah's memoir, "Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood," offers a unique perspective on growing up during and after apartheid in South Africa. Through a series of vignettes, Noah intertwines seemingly unrelated stories to illuminate the forces that shaped his childhood. The book delves into the complexities of race and culture in South Africa, providing insights into the author's upbringing, his family dynamics, and the societal norms that influenced his life.

    Sometimes in big Hollywood movies they’ll have these crazy chase scenes where somebody jumps or gets thrown from a moving car. The person hits the ground and rolls for a bit. Then they come to a stop ...

  3. #3

    I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
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    Jennette McCurdy's memoir, 'I'm Glad My Mom Died', delves into her harrowing experiences with childhood abuse, manipulation, and the struggles of being a child star. The writing is described as straightforward and brutally honest, not shying away from the darker aspects of her life. Readers are taken on an emotional journey through Jennette's traumatic past, from her mother's abusive behavior to her battle with an eating disorder, all while navigating the complexities of fame and Hollywood.

    The book is praised for its candid and vivid descriptions of Jennette's life, showcasing her resilience and courage in sharing her story with the world. Readers are left with a deep understanding of the challenges she faced growing up in the shadow of a narcissistic parent and the toll that child stardom took on her mental and emotional well-being.

    THE PRESENT IN FRONT OF me is wrapped in Christmas paper even though it’s the end of June. We have so much paper left over from the holidays because Grandpa got the dozen-roll set from Sam’s Club even...

  4. #4

    Know My Name by Chanel Miller
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    'Know My Name' by Chanel Miller is a powerful memoir that chronicles her journey as a sexual assault survivor, her experience with the legal system, and her fight for justice. Through raw and sincere storytelling, Miller sheds light on the emotional distress and pain she endured, while also highlighting the flaws within society, the court system, and the treatment of victims of sexual assault. Her writing style is described as luminous, crystalline, and deeply impactful, providing readers with a gripping narrative that exposes the harsh realities of assault and the challenges faced by survivors.

    I AM SHY. In elementary school for a play about a safari, everyone else was an animal. I was grass. I’ve never asked a question in a large lecture hall. You can find me hidden in the corner of any exe...

  5. Wild by Cheryl Strayed is a memoir about the author's decision to hike the Pacific Crest Trail as a way of dealing with grief and trauma. Cheryl embarks on this solo journey to confront her emotions, understand herself, and find healing. The book delves into Cheryl's personal struggles, including the loss of her mother and a self-destructive divorce, intertwined with her physical trek through the wilderness. Through introspection and self-discovery, Cheryl navigates her past and present, ultimately finding peace and renewed strength.

    My solo three-month hike on the Pacific Crest Trail had many beginnings. There was the first, flip decision to do it, followed by the second, more serious decision to actually do it, and then the long...

  6. #6
    Angela's Ashes
    Book 1 in the series:Frank McCourt

    Angela's Ashes - Frank McCourt by Frank McCourt
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    Angela's Ashes is a powerful memoir by Frank McCourt that delves into his childhood growing up in poverty in Limerick, Ireland. The book vividly portrays the struggles faced by the McCourt family, including extreme poverty, alcoholism, and loss of siblings. Despite the bleak circumstances, McCourt's writing style combines humor with tragedy, offering a poignant and emotional account of his upbringing.

    The narrative follows Frank McCourt from his boyhood to his late teens, chronicling the hardships and adversities he faced while highlighting moments of resilience and hope. Through McCourt's honest and raw storytelling, readers are immersed in the bleak yet sometimes hopeful world of a poverty-stricken Irish family, offering a unique perspective on survival, family dynamics, and the impact of poverty on childhood.

    My father and mother should have stayed in New York where they met and married and where I was born. Instead, they returned to Ireland when I was four, my brother, Malachy, three, the twins, Oliver an...

  7. #7

    The Wanderess And Her Suitcase by Meara O'Hara
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    The Wanderess and her Suitcase by Meara O'Hara is a memoir that follows a young woman's journey through the US while confronting the trauma and memories of her past growing up in a cult. The book delves into the protagonist's experiences under a violent cult leader, highlighting her resilience and inner strength as she navigates through her traumatic childhood into adulthood.

    The author, Meara O'Hara, presents her story with a blend of self-awareness, honesty, strength, and vulnerability. Through her narrative, she explores the emotional impact of her upbringing in a cult, offering readers a glimpse into her personal struggles and growth. The writing style captures the reader's attention by weaving together themes of trauma, abuse, family dysfunction, forgiveness, and personal transformation.


  8. #8

    Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
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    'Crying in H Mart' by Michelle Zauner is a poignant memoir that delves into the author's journey through grief and self-discovery following her mother's battle with cancer. Through heartfelt storytelling and rich descriptions of food and Korean heritage, Zauner navigates the complexities of familial relationships, cultural identity, and the profound impact of loss. The book beautifully captures the author's emotional turmoil, personal growth, and the enduring bond between a mother and daughter, making it a compelling and moving read for those seeking a deeper understanding of love, grief, and the power of memory.

    H Mart is a supermarket chain that specializes in Asian food. The H stands for han ah reum, a Korean phrase that roughly translates to “one arm full of groceries.” H Mart is where parachute kids flock...

  9. #9

    Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
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    Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens is a captivating tale that follows the life of Kya, known as the Marsh Girl, who grows up alone in the marshlands of North Carolina. The story weaves between Kya's lonely childhood, her interactions with the townspeople, and a murder mystery that implicates her. The novel beautifully portrays Kya's deep connection to nature, her struggles with isolation, and her journey to find acceptance and love amidst suspicion and adversity. The plot alternates between past and present, building suspense and intrigue as the mysteries of Kya's life unfold, ultimately culminating in a satisfying and emotional resolution.

    The writing style in Where the Crawdads Sing is praised for its lyrical and descriptive nature, painting vivid pictures of the marshlands and capturing the essence of Kya's solitary existence. The author, Delia Owens, skillfully incorporates themes of survival, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships, creating a story that is both poignant and engaging. The novel delves into Kya's growth from a young girl abandoned by her family to a strong, independent woman who navigates life's challenges with courage and grace.

    Marsh is not swamp. Marsh is a space of light, where grass grows in water, and water flows into the sky. Slow-moving creeks wander, carrying the orb of the sun with them to the sea, and long-legged bi...

  10. #10

    Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs
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    "Running with Scissors" by Augusten Burroughs is a memoir recounting the author's tumultuous childhood and adolescence. Living with a mentally ill mother, he is sent to live with her psychiatrist, Dr. Finch, where he navigates bizarre and dysfunctional relationships, including a love affair with an older man. The book is a darkly humorous and candid portrayal of a dysfunctional family dynamic, exploring themes of abuse, resilience, and survival. Burroughs' writing style blends humor and honesty to create a unique and engaging narrative that delves into the author's unusual life experiences.

    Y MOTHER IS STANDING IN FRONT OF THE BATHROOM MIRror smelling polished and ready; like Jean Naté, Dippity Do and the waxy sweetness of lipstick. Her white, handgunshaped blow-dryer is lying on top of ...

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