Books Like...

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.

'Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism' by Temple Grandin is a captivating exploration of autism through the lens of the author's personal experiences and insights. Grandin, a high-functioning autistic woman, delves into her unique way of thinking, emphasizing her visual thought process and how it shapes her perception of the world. The book not only provides a glimpse into Grandin's life and career achievements but also offers valuable information on autism diagnoses, treatments, and education, making it an enlightening read for both individuals with autism and those seeking to understand the condition better.

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.

'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.

Improbable as it may seem, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and rock icon Patti Smith were the closest of friends from the time they arrived in Manhattan in the late 1960s. This memoir is about their friendship, their artistic coming of age, and a very particular time and place, Manhattan in the late 60s and early 70s. Patti Smith's writing has a very poetic quality to it, unsurprisingly, being an incredible lyricist and poet. The book delves into the NYC art scene of the late 60's and early 70s, providing a glimpse into the artistic and cultural time of that era.

'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.

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.

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.

"My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey" by Jill Bolte Taylor is a non-fiction memoir detailing the author's experience of suffering a massive stroke and her subsequent journey of recovery. Taylor, a neuroscientist, provides fascinating insights into the world of neurology as she recounts her symptoms and recovery process. The book delves into the complexities of the human brain, exploring the differences between the right and left brain functions, and how Taylor learned to integrate both sides as she healed. Through Taylor's personal narrative, readers gain a unique perspective on brain trauma and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Medium Raw: A Bloody Valentine to the World of Food and the People Who Cook by Anthony Bourdain is a collection of essays that delves into the world of food, celebrity chefs, and relationships. Bourdain's writing style walks the line between sardonic and sincere, offering insights into his opinions on various culinary events and personalities. The book showcases Bourdain's ability to critique the food industry while also expressing admiration for those who excel in it. Through his vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, Bourdain shares his passion for food, travel, and the act of cooking, all while maintaining his signature brash and honest voice.