Non-fiction can be enlightening, offering glimpses into the real world, from history and science to self-help and personal growth. But for newcomers, this genre can be a bit intimidating to jump into. To soften the way, here are ten great non-fiction books that are both interesting and accessible, perfect for someone beginning their journey into the world of non-fiction books.
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
Sapiens is a great place to begin for those interested in how humans evolved and how our species constructed the modern world. Harari’s narrative is an anthropological, historical and sociological story about how humans developed. The book has a challenging point of view but is written in a digestible manner, which makes it a perfect entry point for beginners.
Why it’s great for beginners: Harari maintains a conversational tone throughout and sprinkles in some fascinating anecdotes, ensuring that even readers who don’t normally gravitate toward history or science remain engaged.
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
If you’re looking to improve your day-to-day life, Atomic Habits is an absolute must-read. In this best-selling book, James Clear offers actionable advice on how to establish good habits, break bad ones, and master the small changes that lead to significant results. Its simple framework and practical advice make the book well-suited to newcomers.
Why it’s great for newcomers: Clear’s second book is filled with down-to-earth examples and simple-to-follow frameworks, so the concepts are straightforward and accessible to anyone, even if they’ve never opened a self-help book.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s memoir is an inspiring tale of her path from Chicago’s South Side to the White House. Becoming is an intensely intimate and inspiring tale about identity, ambition, and resilience. It is both entertaining and emotionally resonant for beginners.
Why it’s a good one for beginners: Obama’s conversational style and the compelling nature of the stories he tells make this a straightforward read for those new to the world of non-fiction.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
This gripping narrative recounts the life of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were harvested without her consent and used for landmark scientific research. Skloot combines science, ethics, and personal history in an informative and deeply moving way.
Why it’s a good one for beginners: The human interest aspect , mixed with scientific discovery, makes this a fun read for someone not used to reading non-fiction.
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Viktor Frankl’s enduring classic explores the significance of finding purpose in life in the face of unbearable suffering. It’s both a memoir and a manual for understanding the resilience of the human spirit.
Why it’s good for beginner readers: The author writes concisely and profoundly, so the book is easy to follow, even at the heart of a deeply complex topic.
Educated by Tara Westover
Tara Westover’s memoir details her transformation from an oppressed child in a survivalist family in the mountains of rural Idaho to a PhD from the gates of Cambridge University. Educated: A Memoir, Tara Westover — A harrowing tale about a life that nearly none of us can imagine.
Why it’s awesome for beginners: Westover’s vivid storytelling and emotionally charged narrative make this book challenging, even for readers new to memoirs.
Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman’s landmark work investigates the two systems that direct our thinking: the quick, instinctive System 1 and the slow, logical System 2. Kahneman makes complex psychological concepts accessible, making for a fascinating read.
Why it’s good for a beginner: The book features many real-world examples and experiments that showcase the theories in action, so readers will not be bored.
The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle
Mindfulness has no ties like words, but for those bent on writing the same, The Power of Now is a digital, spiritual self-help book. Tolle’s teachings are basic and yet timeless, providing readers with methods to reduce stress and find internal peace.
Why it’s good for beginners: The book’s chatty tone and straightforward explanations make it a terrific introduction to spiritual concepts.
I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai’s memoir tells the story of how, against the threat of the Taliban, she bravely advocated education for girls in Pakistan. Her story is inspiring and eye-opening; it reminds us that education and activism are powerful.
Why it’s a great one for beginners: Malala’s simple, earnest writing makes this an easy read with great power.
Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou
In this investigative thriller based on a true story, we learn about Theranos, a Silicon Valley startup that claimed to put a finger-stick blood test in every arm and then made the market wait. Journalist John Carreyrou’s dogged investigation brings the scandal to life.
Why it’s great for beginners: The book’s rapid-fire narrative and enthralling plot make it feel less like a work of conventional non-fiction and more like a novel.
Advice for Readers New to Non-Fiction
- Select Subjects That Fascinate You: Non-fiction encompasses an array of topics, so begin with titles that resonate with your curiosity, be it history, psychology, self-discovery, or memoirs.
- Read at Your Own Pace: Non-fiction tends to be denser than fiction. Take your time; digest the content as you see fit.
- Start with Shorter Books: If fat volumes daunt you, tackle shorter works first to build confidence and momentum.
- Switch It Up: Rotate heavier and lighter reads to vary your reading experience and keep it fresh.
- Interact with the Material: Write notes, underline important details, or talk with friends about the book to help you process and remember the content.
- Try Different Types: Non-fiction is not just one long book. Check out audiobooks, podcasts, or documentaries adapted from non-fiction works. These formats usually make complex topics more digestible and fun.
- Set Realistic Goals: Avoid striving to read too quickly. Reading and completing even one powerful non-fiction piece can be an arduous feat, and it might gamify the beauty of this genre.
Diving into non-fiction doesn’t need to be scary. This curated list of beginner-friendly books is a great way to ease into the genre and find a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Books provide us with different perspectives and outlooks, helping us think in new ways. Whether you are looking for a way to grow, understand the world better, or enjoy a good story, there’s something here for everyone. Happy reading!
