“20 Best Inspiring and Must-Read Autobiographies for Personal Growth and Enlightenment”

Autobiographies have been around for centuries, and they are an excellent resource for individuals who are looking to improve themselves. However, there is something special about autobiographies. These books provide the reader with the opportunity to learn from the experiences of others and gain valuable insights into how they can improve their own lives.

Here are some of the best autobiographies to read:

1. Becoming, by Michelle Obama

“Becoming,” the autobiography of former First Lady Michelle Obama, has garnered widespread praise. In this autobiography, Obama takes the reader on a journey through her life, from her early life on the South Side of Chicago to her presidency. With honesty, humor, and insight, Obama shares her personal and professional experiences, as well as her hopes and dreams for the future.

One of the most striking aspects of “Becoming” is Obama’s ability to connect with readers on a personal level. Despite her high-profile status, she writes in a way that feels relatable and down-to-earth. She shares her struggles with self-doubt and the challenges she faced in balancing motherhood, work, and public service. By sharing these experiences, Obama reminds us that we all have our own journeys and that it’s okay to stumble along the way.

Another strength of “Becoming” is Obama’s willingness to be vulnerable. She shares candidly about her marriage to Barack Obama, including the ups and downs of their relationship and the sacrifices they made for each other. She also opens up about the difficulties of being a black woman in America and the prejudice and discrimination she has faced throughout her life.

Despite these challenges, Obama remains optimistic and determined. She shares her passion for community service and her belief in the power of education to transform lives. Throughout the book, she encourages readers to find their own voices and to use their experiences to make a positive difference in the world.

Overall, “Becoming” is an interesting and inspiring autobiography that gives a new look at some of the most important issues of our time. It is sure to appeal to a wide range of readers because it is interesting and easy to read. Whether you are interested in politics, social justice, or simply the power of the human spirit, “Becoming” is a must-read book that will leave you feeling empowered and inspired.

2. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

The Diary of a Young Girl is one of the most famous self-help autobiographies of all time. The book is a moving and potent account of Anne Frank’s life while the Nazis ruled the Netherlands, written by a young Jewish girl. The book is an important reminder of the dreads of war and the resilience of the goodness of humanity.

When Anne Frank was 13 years old, she started keeping a diary and kept it up for two years until the Nazis detained her family. The memoir gives a unique look into the life of a young girl who grew up in unusual conditions. Anne writes about her hopes, fears, and dreams, and she describes the daily struggles of life in hiding.

Despite the hardships she faced, Anne remained optimistic and hopeful. She wrote, “Despite everything, I continue to believe that humans are truly good at heart.” This statement is a powerful reminder of the value of optimism and hope in trying times. The Diary of a Young Girl is also an important historical document. It provides a firsthand account of the persecution of Jews during the Holocaust and the impact of the war on ordinary people. The book serves as a reminder of the significance of tolerance and understanding, as well as a caution against the perils of prejudice and hatred.

The story of Anne Frank has inspired millions of people worldwide. Her diary has been translated into more than seventy languages, and millions of copies have been distributed. The book has also been adapted into several films and plays, and it continues to be an important part of the curriculum in schools around the world.

In conclusion, The Diary of a Young Girl is a powerful and inspiring self-help autobiography that everyone should read. The story of Anne Frank shows how strong the human spirit can be and how important faith is when things are hard. The book is a reminder of how important it is to be tolerant and understanding, as well as a warning about how dangerous prejudice and hatred can be. Anne Frank’s legacy continues to inspire generations of people around the world, and her story will never be forgotten.

3. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

The very first book of Maya Angelou’s seven-volume memoirs, titled “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” was published in 1969. In this memoir, Angelou takes the reader on a voyage through her childhood and early adulthood in the segregated South of the 1930s and 1940s, where she grew up.

The title of the book comes from a line in the poem “Sympathy” by Paul Laurence Dunbar. Maya Angelou uses this line as a metaphor for the struggles and hardships that black people in America face. Angelou feels like the bird in the cage because of the social and cultural boundaries that keep her from living a full and free life.

Angelou uses vivid and poetic language throughout the book to talk about her life, from the trauma of being raped as a child to the happiness of finding her love for literature and the arts. Despite the difficulties she endures, Angelou’s spirit remains intact. She demonstrates resiliency and fortitude in the face of adversity, as well as compassion and empathy for those around her. The significance of identity and self-acceptance is among the most powerful themes in “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” Angelou fights to make peace with her ethnicity, her gender, and her traumatic past, but ultimately finds solace in her sense of self-worth and her community ties. She also touches on the broader themes of racism, sexism, and poverty, showing how these systemic issues affect not only her own life but also the lives of those around her.

Overall, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” is a groundbreaking autobiography that has had a major influence on readers around the world. With its beautiful writing, honest stories, and strong themes, it has become a masterpiece of American literature and a source of inspiration for many readers. Angelou’s message of hope, resilience, and self-love still speaks to people and shows that the human spirit can overcome even the most difficult situations.

4. I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Christina Lamb and Malala Yousafzai

I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Out for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban is a powerful book co-written by Malala Yousafzai and Christina Lamb. This book tells the story of Malala, who grew up in the Swat Valley of Pakistan and became a prominent champion for girls’ education (and a target of the Taliban) on a global scale.

Malala grew up in a family that valued education and helped her follow her dreams, even though it was hard for girls to do so in her community. At the age of 11, when the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley, she began speaking out against their efforts to deny women access to education. Malala fought for education even though it was dangerous, and she became a symbol of hope for girls all over the world. The Taliban shot Malala in the cranium on her way home from school in 2012, due to her activism. She miraculously lived through the attack and went on to become an even stronger advocate for girls’ education. For this, she was recognized around the world and given the Nobel Peace Prize.

The book shows how the Taliban have changed Pakistan’s culture and politics, as well as how they have affected the country as a whole. It also shows how brave and strong Malala is, since she wouldn’t shut up even when her life was in danger.

“I Am Malala” is a powerful reminder of the importance of education and the bravery of those who fight for it. Malala’s story serves as an inspiration to girls around the world, demonstrating the power of one person to make a difference and change the world. The book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in human rights, social justice, or how the human spirit can overcome even the hardest problems.

5. The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley and Malcolm X

Malcolm X and Alex Haley wrote “The Autobiography of Malcolm X.” It is a powerful autobiography. The book tells the story of how Malcolm X went from being a troubled kid in Michigan to a civil rights leader and supporter of Black nationalism and self-determination.

Malcolm X went from being a small-time criminal and drug addict to a strong voice for social justice and equality. The book explores his conversion to Islam and his time spent as a minister for the Nation of Islam, as well as his eventual break from the organization and his evolution towards a more inclusive and diverse understanding of black liberation.

Throughout the book, Malcolm X’s uncompromising message on race and politics is made clear. He is critical of white supremacy and systemic racism, and he advocates for black people to reclaim their heritage and culture. He also speaks out against the violence and oppression faced by black people in America and the need for direct action to achieve social change.

One of the most interesting things about “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” is how openly and honestly it talks about Malcolm X’s personal life, including his struggles with drugs and racism. The book shows how strong and determined he was, as well as how much he cared about the cause of black liberation.

The book is also notable because Alex Haley wrote it with Malcolm X. Haley talked to Malcolm X for a long time and helped shape the book’s story. This collaboration allows for a rich and nuanced portrait of Malcolm X as well as an exploration of the broader themes of race, identity, and social justice.

“The Autobiography of Malcolm X” is still a powerful and important piece of writing that shows how one of the most important civil rights leaders in the United States lived and what he left behind. Malcolm X’s message of black empowerment and self-determination continues to resonate with readers around the world, and his story serves as an inspiration to those fighting for social justice and equality today.

6. Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela

The late Nelson Mandela, a well-known figure in southern Africa, wrote the exciting biography, Long Walk to Freedom. The book from 1994 tells the story of Mandela’s lifetime, from when he was a child living in a small rural village to when he became South Africa’s first democratically elected president. It is still one of the most important self-help autobiographies of all time, and it tells a vivid story of Mandela’s life and of South Africa’s history.

Mandela was born into a royal household in the South African small village of Mvezo. During his childhood, he lived in poverty and was kept separate from other people. He was the first in his family to receive a formal education and went on to pursue law at university. While in college, Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANC), a political party that struggled against South Africa’s segregation system, which was a form of institutionalized prejudice.

Mandela was sent to Robben Island, a maximum-security prison for political prisoners, because he fought against apartheid. During his 27 years in prison, he became an international symbol of optimism and inspiration for millions of people. The book tells in detail about Mandela’s time in prison, including the hard things he had to go through and the friendships he made with other prisoners.

After his release from prison in 1990, Mandela became an influential leader in the fight against apartheid. In 1994, he was selected as the first black president of South Africa. This was after he had worked with the government to make a peaceful transition to democracy. The book gives a fascinating look at Mandela’s style of leadership and his dedication to peace and forgiveness.

One of the most important lessons in “A Long Walk to Freedom” is how important it is to keep going even when things get hard. Mandela’s life was full of struggle and hardship, but he never gave up on his goal of making South Africa a better place. The book is an inspiring account of one person’s determination to overcome great odds and change the world.

In conclusion, Long Walk to Freedom is a must-read autobiography for anyone who wants to get better and learn more about what makes people tick. It serves as a strong reminder of the importance of standing up to injustice and never giving up despite adversity. Nelson Mandela’s life and legacy continue to inspire people around the world, and this book is a fitting tribute to one of the most remarkable individuals of our time.

7. “The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin” by Benjamin Franklin

The memoirs of Benjamin Franklin, one of the most important people in American history, is a great way to learn and get ideas. In this book, Franklin shares his life story and the life lessons he picked up along the way. He talks about how he went from being poor to rich, how he became a writer and inventor, and how he helped start the United States. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve themselves and their understanding of American history.

8. Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama

Dreams from My Father is the memoir written by Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States. It is a powerful and moving book. The book tells Obama’s life story in an honest and deeply personal way, from his childhood in Hawaii and Indonesia to his time as a community organizer in Chicago.

The central theme of the book is Obama’s search for identity and belonging. Born to a Kenyan father and an American mother, Obama struggled to find his place in the world and understand his mixed heritage. He writes candidly about the challenges he faced growing up, including racism and feelings of isolation.

The book also explores Obama’s journey to discover his roots and connect with his father’s side of the family. He travels to Kenya to meet his relatives and learn about his father’s life, a journey that ultimately helps him to better understand his own identity.

Throughout the book, Obama grapples with questions of race and inequality and the ways in which they shape the experiences of people of color in America. He reflects on the significance of empathy and understanding in establishing a better society and the role that community organizing plays in bringing about social change.

One of the most powerful aspects of “Dreams from My Father” is Obama’s writing style, which is both engaging and lyrical. He is good at telling stories, and his memoir is full of vivid details and deep thoughts about what it means to be human.

The book also shows how Obama thinks about politics and the values that will shape his presidency. His dedication to social justice, equality, and empathy is clear throughout the book, and it is a powerful reminder of how important these values are in our society.

“Dreams from My Father” is required reading for anyone interested in Obama’s life and legacy, as well as those who want to understand the complexities of race and identity in the United States. It is a powerful and motivating autobiography detailing the life of one of the most influential politicians in the United States.

9. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

Trevor Noah, a comedian from South Africa, wrote the captivating biography “Born a Crime.” The book details his childhood in South Africa during the era of apartheid, where he was born to a black mother and a white father, an unlawful union at the time.

Noah’s story is about how he stays strong and determined as he moves through a complicated and often dangerous social world. He writes honestly about the racism and violence he faced as a mixed-race child, as well as his struggles with poverty and domestic abuse.

The book also explores Noah’s relationship with his mother, who is a central figure in the book. She is a strong and determined woman who instilled in Noah a love of language and a belief in the power of education. Her unwavering love and support motivate Noah’s life, and her influence is evident throughout the entire book.

In “Born a Crime,” Noah uses the wit and humor that are his trademarks to talk about tough issues like race, identity, and social justice. He writes with compassion and insight, highlighting the ways in which apartheid-era South Africa continues to impact the lives of people today.

One of the most interesting things about the book is how it looks at language and how it shapes identity. Noah, who learned to speak various languages, such as English, Afrikaans, and several African languages, contemplates how language can be used to exclude and divide individuals.

Overall, “Born a Crime” is an interesting and well-thought-out memoir that gives a unique look at growing up in South Africa during the time of apartheid. Noah’s story is interesting and deeply moving, and his message of hope and persistence shows how strong the human spirit can be.

10. Open by Andre Agassi

“Open” is an intimate and revealing memoir by legendary tennis player Andre Agassi. The book provides a candid and personal account of his life and career, from his childhood growing up in Las Vegas to his years as a top-ranked professional athlete.

At its core, “Open” is a story of self-discovery and self-acceptance. Agassi writes openly about his struggles with identity and the pressure to succeed, as well as his battles with addiction and depression. He also reflects on the complicated relationships he has had with his family, including his demanding father and his tumultuous marriage to fellow tennis player Steffi Graf.

Agassi’s description of how hard professional tennis is on the body and the mind is one of the most interesting parts of the book. He writes vividly about the physical toll of training and competing at the highest level, as well as the mental and emotional challenges of dealing with the pressure to win.

Throughout the book, Agassi tries to figure out what his life has been about and what role tennis has played in it. He reflects on the ways in which his experiences on the court have shaped him as a person and the lessons he has learned about perseverance, resilience, and the importance of following one’s own path.

Overall, “Open” is an impressive and exciting memoir that provides a rare look at the life of one of the finest athletes of all time. Agassi’s writing is interesting and true, and his story shows the power of hard work and finding yourself.

11. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

“When Breath Becomes Air” is a touching and powerful memoir by neurosurgeon Paul Kalanithi. The book offers a moving account of Kalanithi’s life and his battle with terminal lung cancer.

The book opens with Kalanithi’s diagnosis at the age of 36, just as he is completing his residency in neurosurgery. As he comes to terms with his diagnosis, he reflects on the ways in which his medical training has prepared him for his own mortality.

Kalanithi’s writing is both thoughtful and poignant, as he grapples with the complex issues of life, death, and what it means to be human. He writes candidly about his fears and hopes as well as the ways in which his illness has changed his perspective on life.

Throughout the book, Kalanithi talks about what he has learned as both a doctor and a patient, giving a unique look at how medicine and the human experience fit together. He writes beautifully about the importance of empathy and compassion in medicine and the limits of science in the face of death.

One of the most persuasive aspects of the book is its exploration of what it means to live a meaningful life. Kalanithi thinks about how his illness has made him face this question and the lessons he has learned about how important love, relationships, and finding a purpose are.

Overall, “When Breath Becomes Air” is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking autobiography that gives a deep look at what it means to be human. His message of hope and strength in the face of trouble shows how strong the human spirit is, and his writing is honest and beautiful.

12. Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed

“Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” is a riveting and deeply personal memoir by Cheryl Strayed. After the death of her mother and the dissolution of her marriage, the author hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, a 2,650-mile journey from California to Washington.

Strayed’s writing is both raw and poetic as she describes the physical and emotional challenges of her journey. She tells the truth about how hard it is to carry a heavy pack, deal with bad weather, and deal with blisters and other injuries. But she also thinks about how the trail changes her in deep ways, giving her a sense of healing and self-discovery.

Strayed mixes her own story with thoughts about nature and the meaning of life all through the book. She writes eloquently about the ways in which the trail teaches her to find beauty and meaning in the world, even in the midst of pain and loss.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is Strayed’s honesty and vulnerability. She writes candidly about her mistakes and regrets, including her struggles with drug addiction and infidelity. But she also offers insights into the ways in which these experiences have shaped her and the lessons she has learned about forgiveness, acceptance, and the power of self-forgiveness.

Overall, “Wild” is a compelling autobiography that demonstrates the strength of the human spirit. Strayed’s prose is eloquent and sincere, and her story is a potent reminder of how we can find courage and meaning in the face of adversity.

13. Educated by Tara Westover

“Educated” by Tara Westover is a fascinating memoir about how she went from living in a small mountain town in Idaho to getting a PhD from Cambridge University. The book is a powerful example of how education and the human spirit can change people’s lives.

Westover’s upbringing was characterized by extreme poverty and isolation. Her family followed a strict religious ideology that rejected mainstream society and education, leaving Westover and her siblings with little formal education or exposure to the outside world. Despite these obstacles, Westover was determined to continue her education, and she enlisted at Brigham Young University.

The book is a compelling account of Westover’s struggles to deal with both the emotional effects of her hard childhood and the academic world. She writes honestly about how hard it was to figure out how to fit her new experiences with the beliefs of her family and to break away from the cycles of abuse and trauma that had shaped her early life.

Westover’s writing is both lyrical and powerful, as she explores the complex themes of identity, family, and the search for meaning. She writes honestly about how education has changed her and what she has learned about the importance of self-discovery, resilience, and seeking knowledge.

One of the most interesting things about the book is that it looks at how faith, education, and identity all fit together. Westover writes beautifully about how her education has challenged and broadened her beliefs while also recognizing how important the values and traditions of her upbringing were.

Overall, “Educated” is a beautiful and unforgettable memoir that makes you think deeply about what it means to be human. Westover’s writing is smart and honest, and her story shows how important education is and how strong the human spirit is in the face of hardship.

14. The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion

Joan Didion’s “The Year of Magical Thinking” is a touching and deeply moving memoir about how she dealt with grief and mourning after her husband died suddenly. The book is a powerful meditation on loss, memory, and the human capacity for resilience.

Didion’s writing is both elegant and clear as she thinks about what happened before her husband died and after she had an emotional breakdown. She writes honestly about the ways in which grief can distort our perceptions of reality, leading us to cling to irrational beliefs and magical thinking as a way of coping with our pain.

Throughout the book, Didion weaves together her own story with thoughts on how grief works and how complicated relationships are. She writes candidly about the ways in which grief can be isolating and disorienting, but also about the ways in which it can bring people together and deepen our understanding of the human experience.

Didion’s analysis of the link between memory and grief is one of the most convincing parts of the book. She writes eloquently about the ways in which our memories of the past can shape our experiences of the present and the challenges of coming to terms with the loss of a loved one.

Overall, “The Year of Magical Thinking” is a beautiful and deeply moving memoir that shows how the human spirit can survive loss and disaster. Didion’s writing is both perceptive and compassionate, and her narrative is a potent reminder of the ability to find meaning and purpose in adversity.

15. Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

“Crying in H Mart” is an emotional and profoundly personal memoir by Michelle Zauner that explores the complexities of identity, family, and grief. The book is a powerful meditation on the power of food and music to connect us to our past and shape our sense of self.

As the daughter of a Korean mother and an American father, Zauner writes about her childhood in a way that is both vivid and insightful. She writes honestly about how hard it is to live in two different cultures and how her mother’s illness and death forced her to face the complicated parts of who she is.

Throughout the book, Zauner weaves together her personal story with reflections on the power of food and music to connect us to our heritage and shape our sense of self. She writes eloquently about the ways in which the tastes and smells of Korean cuisine can evoke powerful memories and emotions and the role that music played in helping her process her grief.

One of the most interesting things about the book is that it looks at how complicated mother-daughter relationships are. Zauner is honest about how hard it was for her to meet both her own goals and her mother’s expectations. She also talks about how their different cultures affected their relationship.

Overall, “Crying in H Mart” is a powerful and deeply affecting memoir that offers a testament to the power of food, music, and family to shape our sense of self and connect us to our past. Zauner’s writing is both smart and kind, and her story is a powerful reminder that we can find meaning and connection even in the most difficult situations.

16. Know My Name: A Memoir by Chanel Miller

Chanel Miller’s powerful and deeply personal memoir, “Know My Name,” is about what happened after she was sexually assaulted and how hard it was for her to heal and get better. The book is a testimony to the fortitude of the human spirit and a call to action for a society that far too frequently fails to acknowledge the humanity and dignity of survivors of sexual violence. Miller’s writing is both raw and eloquent as she reflects on the trauma of her assault and the ways in which it upended her life. She writes honestly about the problems she had with the criminal justice system and the attention her case got from the media. She also talks about how her assault changed her relationships and how she felt about herself.

Miller’s personal story is intertwined with her ideas about the larger social and cultural factors that lead to a culture of sexual violence. She writes with a lot of passion about the need for systemic change and how important it is to listen to and believe sexual assault survivors.

Miller’s research into how language and stories can help people heal and get better is one of the most interesting things about the book. She writes beautifully about how telling her story has given her back her voice and power, as well as how language can be used to keep oppressive systems in place or change them.

Overall, “Know My Name” is a gripping and deeply moving autobiography that shows how the human spirit can survive trauma and injustice. Miller’s writing is both perceptive and compassionate, and her story is a striking reminder of how we can work to create a more just and compassionate society.

17. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

“On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft” by Stephen King is a must-read for any aspiring writer or fan of the horror author. The book is both a memoir and a guide to writing. It gives a fascinating look into King’s life and creative process, as well as useful advice for writers who want to get better.

King’s writing is both interesting and insightful. He writes about his childhood, his struggles with addiction, and how some of his most famous books were inspired. He also gives practical advice about writing, like how important it is to read a lot and how important it is to edit and rewrite.

King’s emphasis on how important honesty and originality are in writing is one of the most interesting things about the book. He writes passionately about the need for writers to tell the truth, to write from a place of personal experience, and to trust their own voice.

Throughout the book, King tells stories and gives advice from his own life and work, from his early days when he was struggling to make ends meet to how he came to write his famously scary stories. He also gives advice on the nuts and bolts of writing, such as how important it is to set the scene and build characters.

Overall, “On Writing” is an interesting and inspiring book that gives a unique look into the mind of one of the most successful writers of our time. King’s writing is both interesting and full of useful information, and his advice on how to write well is both useful and inspiring. Whether you’re a fan of King’s work or simply looking to improve your own writing skills, this book is sure to leave a lasting impact.

18. This Is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay

“This Is Going to Hurt” by Adam Kay is a powerful and poignant memoir that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of working as a novice doctor in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Kay shares the highs and lows of his six-year career as a doctor through a series of diary entries. He gives an honest and often scary account of the challenges and pressures that people in the healthcare industry face.

Kay’s writing is both interesting and sympathetic because it shows what a junior doctor goes through every day, from working long hours and not getting enough sleep to the emotional toll of dealing with life-and-death situations. He also gives a harsh review of the NHS, pointing out that chronic underfunding and staffing shortages have led to a lot of healthcare workers getting tired of their jobs and losing faith in them.

Despite the heavy subject matter, Kay’s memoir is also infused with humor and humanity as he shares personal anecdotes and reflections on his experiences as a doctor. He offers insights into the complex dynamics of working in a hospital, from the camaraderie and support among colleagues to the frustration and bureaucracy that can make it difficult to provide quality care.

Ultimately, “This Is Going to Hurt” is a powerful reminder of the vital role that healthcare workers play in our society and the urgent need to address the systemic issues facing the NHS. Kay’s writing makes you think and makes you laugh, so anyone interested in healthcare, social justice, or just the human experience should read it.

19. A Promised Land by Barack Obama

Barack Obama’s memoir, “A Promised Land,” is a fascinating and insightful look at his early life, his political career, and his time as president. Obama’s life up to the conclusion of his first term as president of the United States is covered in the first volume of a two-volume biography.

In “A Promised Land,” Obama tells the story of how he grew up in Hawaii and Indonesia, how he started his political career in Chicago, and how he became the first black president of the United States. Along the way, he gives an insider’s view of the most important events and challenges of his presidency, such as the economic recession, healthcare reform, the killing of Osama bin Laden, and the Arab Spring.

Obama’s writing is both interesting and deep, as he thinks about how his personal and political experiences have shaped his life. He tells the truth about his relationships with his family, friends, and political advisors, as well as how he got along with world leaders like Vladimir Putin, Angela Merkel, and Nelson Mandela.

In the book, Obama also talks about how hard it is to run a country. He talks about the limits of presidential power and how hard it is to navigate a polarized political landscape. He also gives a nuanced look at what is causing political polarization in the U.S. and what the opportunities and limits of democracy are in the 21st century.

Ultimately, “A Promised Land” is a fascinating and illuminating book that provides a fresh perspective on one of the more influential presidents in U.S. history. Obama’s writing is both personal and thought-provoking, which makes it a must-read for anyone interested in politics, history, or the human experience.

20. Maybe I Don’t Belong Here: A Memoir of Race, Identity, Breakdown and Recovery by David Harewood

“Maybe I Don’t Belong Here” by David Harewood is a moving and thought-provoking memoir that explores the author’s experiences with race, identity, mental health, and recovery. Harewood is a British actor who is known best for his roles in film, television, and theatre, including his portrayal of David Estes in the popular television series “Homeland.”

In this honest and deeply personal memoir, Harewood talks about his life as the son of a Jamaican father and a British mother growing up in Birmingham, England. He talks about the problems he had as a young black child growing up in a mostly white community. For example, he talks about the racism and discrimination he faced at school and in his daily life.

Harewood also writes about his mental health problems, such as a breakdown he had when he was in his early 20s. He talks about how his mental health problems affected his work and personal life, as well as how he overcame them and learned more about himself.

Throughout the book, Harewood struggles with questions about who he is and where he belongs as he deals with race, class, and nationality. He talks about what he thinks about the role of black actors in Hollywood and the entertainment business. He also talks about why representation and diversity are important in the arts.

Perhaps I don’t belong. This autobiography offers a new perspective on the intersection of race, identity, and mental health. Harewood’s writing is both insightful and captivating, making it essential reading for anyone interested in these vital issues.

Conclusion:

In the end, autobiographies are a unique way for readers to learn about the lives and experiences of other people. They provide a personal account of the author’s life, struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. Autobiographies can be both inspiring and helpful because they have lessons and points of view that can help readers figure out how to live their own lives.

Autobiographies also serve as a historical record of people and events, offering a first-hand account of a particular time or place. They help us learn more about people and what they did for society, as well as about the time and place where they lived.

Also, writing an autobiography can be cathartic and therapeutic for the author, giving them a chance to think about their life and make sense of what happened to them. Autobiographies can also be left to future generations as a legacy, giving them a look into the life of a loved one or ancestor.

Overall, autobiographies are a valuable literary genre that offers readers a unique and personal perspective on the lives of others, as well as an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth.