Meaningful Nonfiction Books Based on True Stories

A person reading a book

Life is a paradox that many courageously attempt to ponder. There are many inconsistencies and contradictions, which may hinder an individual’s journey. But, despite the confusing aspects, it is still filled with things and opportunities waiting to be discovered.

Thus, many stories mirror the paradoxical quality of life. These tales become a reflection of a person’s drive, ambition, and way of living. At present, there are hundreds of thousands of books, typically under nonfiction, that tell true stories that bring so much meaning and enlightenment to others. That said, let us get to know some great books that are completely based on real events to inspire and bring out the best in you.

Know My Name: A Memoir by Chanel Miller

This award-winning book serves as a medium that helps people change their perceptions of sexual assault. Miller chronicled her personal experiences, from being assaulted by Brock Allen Turner while at Stanford to winning the fight by putting her abuser in jail. The trauma, oppression, and intense emotions that she felt after the horrible event was also illuminated in the book. Thus, Know My Name is a touching yet inspiring book that also calls into question the typical ideologies on acceptable things and reveals the truth to the thunderous reality of healing.

Real Prison Real Freedom by Rosser McDonald

Real Prison Real Freedom tells the anecdote of a notorious Texas inmate written by award-winning reporter Rosser Mcdonald. The author comprehensively wrote the biography of Rickie Smith, whom he had interviewed 30 years ago. It unravels how the most violent inmate converges with the despair and misery in the prison system and with their jail warden. Smith expressed his desire for freedom despite knowing it’s impossible and jail officials have told him that he will remain in prison. However, a shocking turn of events also surprises Smith.

Lessons in Surviving Suicide: A Letter to My Daughter by Vonne Solis

Author Vonne Solis put into writing her personal experiences of grief in this remarkable part memoir and part self-help book Lessons in Surviving Suicide: A Letter to My Daughter. After losing her beloved daughter to suicide, there were loads of questions with no concrete answers that swarmed her mind. But, as time goes by, answers, reflections, and acceptance start to emerge. Thus, this book becomes a guide to every bereaved parent on finding a way to manage the pain, accept the loss, and achieve healing.

Somebody’s Daughter: A Memoir by Ashley C. Ford

This bestselling book captures the heartfelt journey of searching for identity and purpose and dealing with complex familial love. Ashley C. Ford grew up aware of the absence of her father while dealing with her distressed relationship with her mother. With her difficult childhood and adolescence experiences, she sincerely desires another shoulder to lean on, specifically her father’s. However, he was imprisoned for the reason that Ashley didn’t know. Entering adolescence without knowing how to manage the changes in her life and her body, as well as how to better her relationship with her mom, she began to rebel. Ashley’s life takes an unfortunate turn and allowing her to discover why her father is imprisoned. And, the truth shook her down.

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

Crying in H Mart is a critically acclaimed book penned by Michelle Zauner. It revolves around her personal experiences growing up as a Korean-American in Oregon, as well as her thriving with the typical Asian parent expectations. She narrates how they temporarily lived and bonded in her grandmother’s little apartment in Seoul and how she gradually lost her “Koreanness” as she grew up. However, after her mother was diagnosed with cancer, she began to rekindle her whole identity as an Asian American and allowed her to reacquire the wonderful things bestowed by her mom.

Going There by Katie Couric

Katie Couric wrote a moving, raw, and humorous book containing her personal life story. Going There is an excellent anecdote of a modern woman that successfully touches the hearts and draws intense emotions from the readers. Her impressive journey to fame, success, and stardom was traced back to her humble beginnings as a daughter of a journalist that inspired her every step of the way.

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