25 best autobiographies you have to read in 2024

As a book enthusiast, I am thrilled to delve into this captivating collection of autobiographies that offer a profound glimpse into the lives of some of the most intriguing personalities of our time. Each of these books is a testament to the resilience, courage, and unique experiences that have shaped their authors’ lives.

If you’re searching for an ideal gift or aiming to relax by a blazing hearth (with perhaps some chestnuts crackling nearby), there’s no better embodiment of the festive season than a fresh, new book.

Instead of immersing ourselves in the imaginative worlds of fiction during the winter break, some prefer to remain rooted in the actual world. That’s where this diverse collection of autobiographies becomes particularly appealing.

For any interest, be it sports legends, famous actors, or groundbreaking innovators, you’ll find countless autobiographies that cater to your preferences.

Stores such as Waterstones and Amazon are stocked with a variety of books, ranging from timeless classics like Becoming by Michelle Obama to the latest sensations like Miranda Hart’s I Haven’t Been Entirely Honest with You.

Here’s a selection of highly recommended autobiographies for Christmas, along with suggestions for both physical and digital purchasing options. Let’s dive in!

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Best autobiographies at a glance:

I Haven’t Been Entirely Honest with You, Miranda Hart | from £11.99
Dancing in the Rain, Amy Dowden | from £12.99
The Third Gilmore Girl, Kelly Bishop | from £10.99
All That Matters, Chris Hoy | £17.99
Diddly Squat: Home to Roost, Jeremy Clarkson | £11
Open, Andre Agassi | £10.99
Everything I Know About Love, Dolly Alderton | £10.99
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou | from £2.99
Wild Swans, Jung Chang | from £4.49
The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion | from £6.99
The Princess Diarist, Carrie Fisher | £10.99
The Diary of a Young Girl, Anne Frank | from £9.49
All Creatures Great and Small, James Herriot | from £10.99
This is Going to Hurt, Adam Kay | from £5.99
Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela | from £6.99
I’m Glad My Mom Died, Jennette McCurdy | from £11.99
Becoming, Michelle Obama | from £7.99
Madly, Deeply: The Diaries of Alan Rickman, Alan Rickman | from £7.50
Just Kids, Patti Smith | £12.34
What I ate in One Year, Stanley Tucci | from £16.99
I Am Malala, Malala Yousafzai | from £8.54
Crying In H Mart, Michelle Zauner | £9.99
Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing, Matthew Perry | £25
The Woman in Me, Britney Spears | £12.50
Love, Pamela, Pamela Anderson | from £10.99

Best autobiographies to read in 2024

I Haven’t Been Entirely Honest with You, Miranda Hart

Initially well-known for her successful BBC comedy sitcom, Miranda, Miranda Hart experienced a challenging decade in her personal life. Now, for the first time, she shares her journey through illness, recovery, and self-discovery in her book titled “I Haven’t Been Entirely Honest With You.” In this revealing work, she delves into various aspects of her healing process by consulting experts such as neuroscientists, therapists, sociologists, and more. The book offers practical techniques and insights that helped her find inner peace. It also includes uplifting philosophies, characteristic of Hart’s optimistic outlook on life.

Dancing in the Rain: My story of hope, courage and resilience, Amy Dowden

Amy Dowden, a professional dancer from Strictly Come Dancing, shares her life journey battling breast cancer and Crohn’s disease in this uplifting book. From nurturing her dance dreams in the Welsh Valleys to gracing the bright lights of prime-time TV, Dowden invites us into her highs and lows. She candidly discusses her teenage struggles with a severe illness and her recent chemotherapy sessions, all while emphasizing that her resilient spirit and dance aspirations remain undeterred.

The Third Gilmore Girl, Kelly Bishop

It’s here, Gilmore Girls enthusiasts! After much anticipation, Kelly Bishop, famously known as Emily Gilmore, has decided to share her experiences during her tenure as the beloved matriarch of Hertford, Connecticut. She also invites us on a journey through her illustrious career – from earning a Tony Award for her role in the original Broadway cast of A Chorus Line to delivering an unforgettable performance as Jennifer Grey’s mother in Dirty Dancing.

All That Matters: The Inspirational and Uplifting Memoir of Hope, Chris Hoy

Sir Chris Hoy’s emotional memoir delves into his journey of dealing with a terminal cancer diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of cherishing life’s significant moments. He reflects on the hurdles encountered during both his professional and personal life, sharing how his loved ones have supported him in overcoming these obstacles.

Diddly Squat: Home to Roost, Jeremy Clarkson

This holiday season, you have an opportunity to get the latest installment of the Diddly Squat series by TV personality-turned-farmer Jeremy Clarkson. Join him once more on his farm as this tale presents more than a few hurdles: “The spring barley crop didn’t grow, neither did the oil seed rape or durum wheat. Then the oats turned gray like a hearing aid and the mushrooms became moldy.” However, his spirit remains undaunted, and he continues to learn from these experiences, so let’s wait and see how things unfold for him next.

Open, Andre Agassi

2009 marked the publication of “Open: An Autobiography,” co-authored by Andre Agassi and JR Moehringer. This memoir was compiled from countless hours of recorded conversations, offering a unique perspective on the life experiences of a renowned tennis player in the professional circuit.

It’s captivating to learn about Agassi’s career, filled with intense rivalries, from the unique vantage point of an insider. Much like other high-achieving careers, young talents are often identified in sports such as tennis, and Agassi recounts the demanding training regimes he and his peers underwent in their relentless quest for greatness.

This book would make a great present for any tennis fan, and gives an interesting insight into the man behind the nickname ‘The Punisher’.

Everything I Know About Love, Dolly Alderton

The book titled Everything I Know About Love narrates the journey of Dolly Alderton, a former Times columnist, as she navigates her youth and twenties. It delves into topics such as relationships, love, and friendships, mirroring Alderton’s personal growth and self-discovery. Interspersed with recipes reminiscent of Nora Ephron’s Heartburn, the book has garnered a dedicated fanbase since its release in 2018 and was awarded the National Book Award (UK) for the best autobiography of the year.

The memoir penned by Alderton has likewise been adapted into a BBC television series, depicting a dramatized rendition of Alderton and her companions’ adventures in London, as they grapple with the complexities of city life.

I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou

I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings is the first installment in a series of seven autobiographical works penned by Angelou, delving into her personal experiences. This book covers her life from age three to sixteen, chronicling events from early childhood up until she became a mother herself. Throughout the narrative, we follow young Maya and her brother Bailey as they are shuffled between family members following their parents’ separation.

Explore themes such as racism, sexual violence, and displacement, this compelling narrative is often studied in schools across here and the U.S. Written following the tragic demise of Martin Luther King Jr in 1968, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings quickly gained acclaim and remains a vital read.

Wild Swans, Jung Chang

Instead of typical first-person autobiographies, Jung Chang’s book narrates the tales of three generations of women within her own family – her grandmother, mother, and herself. During a period when China is growing more detached from global affairs, this book offers essential insights into 20th century Chinese history.

She narrates tales from her grandmother’s life, taken as a concubine by a warlord, and her mother’s experiences during the emergence of Communism, portraying instances of courage, dread, and ultimately resilience.

The book, which is banned in China, has sold more than 13 million copies worldwide and is as beautifully written as it is educationally fascinating.

The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion

2005 saw the publication of a book that later earned the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography. This book delves into the life of Didion during the year following the death of her husband, John Gregory Dunne, who had been with her for nearly four decades. In this emotionally raw account, Didion transforms her personal journey through grief, love, and loss into a tale that resonates with many.

Quintana, the child adopted by Didion and Donne, took sick just a few days prior to his passing, and she remained in the hospital until his death. In the book, Didion shares her account of looking after her during this time, as she herself was grappling with her own sorrow.

While not an easy read, this is an incredibly powerful one.

The Princess Diarist, Carrie Fisher

For a Star Wars enthusiast, this might seem an apparent pick, but we believe its charm transcends merely Star Wars fandom. Composed of diaries penned by Fisher at age 19 while portraying Princess Leia for the first time, this book was published just prior to her passing in 2016.

Exploring the backstage life of a widely recognized franchise is always intriguing, and this account delves into the author’s journey through fame and adult life during her youthful years. In contrast to her previous memoir, Wishful Drinking, which detailed her battles with mental health issues, The Princess Diarist is brimming with shocking disclosures and humorous wit, offering a delightful reading experience.

The Diary of a Young Girl, Anne Frank

The title of this book is ingenious, as Anne Frank’s diary serves as a journal penned by a young girl; however, it is more than just a personal record – it is an essential historical narrative.

From Anne’s 13th birthday onwards, Anne chronicles her life with her family in Amsterdam between 1942 and 1944. Just like many other Jewish families, Anne and hers seek refuge by hiding due to the oppression from the Nazis. During this time, she navigates the usual ups and downs of adolescence, while also confronting feelings of isolation, confinement, and seeking to comprehend the world events unfolding around her.

A valuable read for both young and old, Anne’s works offer a poignant portrayal of the harsh truths of human hardship inflicted on the Jewish community by the Nazis. Remarkably, Anne’s father, Otto Frank, was the lone survivor from her family during the Holocaust. In accordance with her wishes, he later published Anne’s diary as a testament to her experiences.

All Creatures Great and Small, James Herriot

This book is perfect for anyone who adores animals or appreciates nature. Inside, you’ll find stories by James Herriot about his days as a veterinarian in the Yorkshire Dales during the 1930s.

Initiating his collection of memoirs, All Creatures Great and Small places Herriot amidst critical scenarios, frequently peppered with humorous incidents such as loose pigs. Over time, these stories have solidified into beloved classics.

If you want more of All Creatures Great and Small, there is also a TV adaptation to get stuck into.

This is Going to Hurt, Adam Kay

This autobiography chronicles Adam Kay’s journey during his tenure as a junior doctor specializing in obstetrics and gynaecology within the NHS. It is an emotional rollercoaster that will make you laugh and cry, as the young doctor navigates through helping diverse individuals, while his own personal life becomes increasingly chaotic.

In the United Kingdom during 2018, Kay’s first published work was the number one selling non-fiction book and held that position for numerous weeks on the bestseller list.

Earlier this year, the BBC released a drama series based on the book “This Is Going to Hurt,” with Ben Whishaw in the cast. The series delved into broader topics related to healthcare and the National Health Service (NHS) using various aspects from the book.

Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela

In essence, this autobiography speaks for itself. It chronicles the extraordinary life journey of Nelson Mandela, a renowned figure who served as former President of South Africa and was a key player in the fight against apartheid. From his early years through to his education, and notably the 27 years he endured in prison, this book provides a captivating account of his remarkable life story.

As a passionate cinephile, I can’t help but marvel at the power of cinema to immortalize real-life heroes like Nelson Mandela. Known worldwide for his unyielding resilience against immense oppression and adversity, he rebuilt South Africa’s society as its President. The silver screen adaptation of his autobiography cast Idris Elba in the lead role, with the movie premiering not long after Mandela’s passing – a fitting tribute to an extraordinary man who inspired millions.

The Kindle edition and paperback copy of this book starts from just £6.99.

I’m Glad My Mom Died, Jennette McCurdy

Jennette McCurdy’s memoir has been a hot topic this year. Known for her character on the popular Nickelodeon series iCarly in the U.S., McCurdy’s book recounts her challenging upbringing under an abusive parent while navigating fame as a child star.

Discussing the title of the book has sparked much conversation, given that it touches on a common challenge for authors sharing their personal stories: finding a balance between truthfully recounting one’s experiences without potentially harming relationships. In her candid and frequently humorous work, McCurdy delves into the intricate emotional landscape of being subjected to abuse by someone you hold dear.

Becoming, Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama, America’s previous First Lady, shares tales from her life in an unprecedented autobiography. The book traces her journey from growing up in Chicago’s South Side with her parents and sibling, to her studies at Princeton University and Harvard Law School, and finally her return to Chicago as a practicing lawyer. It was during her career at a city law firm that she crossed paths with her future husband, Barack Obama.

Barack Obama narrates his captivating tale of transformation, from a distinguished attorney to the esteemed role of First Lady. This autobiography offers a unique, behind-the-scenes look at history and is undeniably worth your time.

Madly, Deeply: The Diaries of Alan Rickman, Alan Rickman

Alan Rickman was adored for his memorable performances in beloved films like Die Hard’s Hans Gruber and Harry Potter’s Professor Severus Snape. Posthumously published, this collection of diary entries offers a witty perspective on his personal experiences as well as his thoughts on global happenings.

The book abounds not just in entertaining celebrity tidbits, but also in glimpses into secretive episodes – from his shocked and sorrowful reaction to the unexpected demise of actress and friend Natasha Richardson, to his joy that the costume for Severus Snape remains wearable.

Just Kids, Patti Smith

Released in 2010, Patti Smith’s memoir titled “Just Kids” was awarded the US National Book Award for Nonfiction. In essence, this book can be seen as a heartfelt tribute to her lifelong friend, the artist Robert Mapplethorpe. Throughout the narrative, she shares their initial encounter, their romantic relationship, and how they mutually motivated and supported each other in their artistic journeys until the end of their lives.

This story which so vividly depicts life is, however, overshadowed by Mapplethorpe’s death. Read for a vivid description of the New York art scene in the late ’60s.

What I Ate in One Year, Stanley Tucci

Stanley Tucci has been adored for years due to his nuanced and endearing acting skills, but recently he’s gained a significant following because of his genuine passion – food. His CNN series “Searching for Italy” leaves us all craving more, while his cookbook “The Tucci Table”, co-written with wife Felicity Blunt, has made Italian cuisine even more appealing than ever before. Essentially, Stanley Tucci is enhancing the already stellar reputation of Italian food.

However, there’s a compelling backstory behind Tucci’s rekindled passion for food and his dedication to these endeavors. In 2018, he was diagnosed with oral cancer, which temporarily left him unable to eat, and even when he could, his taste buds were significantly altered. This second memoir, following Taste, chronicles a year of eating experiences – in restaurants, kitchens, film sets, press events, at home, and abroad. These culinary adventures were shared with friends, family, strangers, and occasionally enjoyed alone.

We recommend having a bowl of pasta in front of you while you read this!

Hey there, literature lovers! Check out the top Kindle discounts and Audible special offers we have this month.

I Am Malala, Malala Yousafzai

The remarkable tale of Malala Yousafzai unfolds as follows: Born in the Swat Valley of Pakistan, her life took a dramatic turn when the Taliban assumed control. This unfortunate event led to her being barred from attending school. However, even at such a tender age, she emerged as an eloquent advocate for girls’ education rights. In 2012, while on her way to school, she was tragically shot by an unidentified gunman.

Following the assault, Yousafzai relocated to the United Kingdom along with her family. In her memoir, she emphasizes the significance of women’s education, founding the Malala Fund, and being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014. This book is bound to inspire you.

Crying In H Mart, Michelle Zauner

Michelle Zauner is a prominent Asian-American musician, recognized as the frontwoman for the band Japanese Breakfast. In this memoir, she delves into her connection with her Korean roots and the impact of her mother’s passing, which compelled her to confront aspects of herself she had largely overlooked.

In essence, food serves as a recurring conversation and lasting bond between the author and her mother, intertwining deeply with her Korean roots, forming the core of this book about love, loss, and grief. The result is an intensely emotional and contemplative reading experience.

Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing, Matthew Perry

In the previous year, it was deeply regrettable when we learned of the tragic passing of Matthew Perry, who had portrayed in Friends. Interestingly, his autobiography, titled “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing,” had already topped the bestseller list the year prior.

In Friends, Lovers, and One Massive Predicament, author Perry delves into the backstage world of the most triumphant sitcom ever made (Friends), revealing his personal battles with substance abuse. This heartfelt and funny book offers an authentic and emotional account, sprinkled with Perry’s characteristic wit.

The Woman in Me, Britney Spears

Based on the glowing reviews of Britney Spears’ autobiography, it seems she has earned a well-deserved five stars – indicating that “The Woman in Me” is likely to resonate strongly with her devoted fanbase.

For the first time, Spears reveals her personal experiences in a book entitled “The Woman in Me”. This work delves into topics such as celebrity life, motherhood, endurance, and liberation. Spears is candid about her odyssey as one of the globe’s most prominent pop artists.

Love, Pamela, Pamela Anderson

Although many people may recognize Pamela Anderson primarily from Baywatch, Playboy magazine covers, or her recent red carpet appearances without makeup – each one stunning – she’s not just a pretty face; she’s also an influential figure and activist. Now, for the first time, you can learn more about her through her own perspective in a new book.

In my critique, I’d say: Anderson skillfully weaves together verse and storytelling to explore her personal journey spanning her upbringing, professional life, and the relinquishment of her own tale.

2024-12-06 18:08