7 Beautiful Autobiographies from 2020

Must-Read Autobiographies of 2020

What a year it's been! If there were ever a perfect time to dive into a hilariously relatable, beautifully moving, or perspective-changing true story, it would be now. Whether you need a new virtual book club pick or you’re looking for some books to self-isolate with, here’s a brilliant selection of hot-off-the-press memoirs to choose from:

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson

Award-winning journalist and LGBTQIA+ activist George M. Johnson’s ‘memoir manifesto’ is a beautiful exploration of identity and sexuality. While it will naturally appeal to the young adult audience, Johnson’s storytelling and frank emotional honesty will touch the hearts of anyone who reads it. He explores the joys and challenges Black queer boys face as he shares experiences from his own growing-up years. A testimony and love letter to those who identify with him, Johnson’s book will undoubtedly have a life-changing impact on its readership.

Untamed by Glennon Doyle

Is it a memoir? A self-help book? A call-to-action? It’s all that and more. Doyle isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but she resonates deeply with enough women that Untamed has basically spent the entire year on the New York Times Bestseller list. Beloved celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Oprah, Adele, Drew Barrymore, Kelly Clarkson and Kirsten Bell have raved about this book. Reese Witherspoon even picked it for her book club. This book covers so many aspects of life and the female experience, I’m convinced even the contrarians and haters probably highlighted a few things or shed a tear at least once. In what has been a universally difficult season of life, the “we can do hard things”-mantra of Untamed has captivated hearts and minds everywhere.

The Boy Between: A Mother and Son’s Journey From a World Gone Grey by Josiah Hartley & Amanda Prowse

Written by a mother and her son, this vulnerable, moving, much-needed memoir explores the way depression affects them individually and their relationship. Josh shares the story of his mental health rapidly declining into suicidal thoughts at university. His mother, an award-winning novelist, shares her story of grappling with ways to help him and the heart-wrenching pain of a mother watching her son suffering and fearing he may succeed in taking his life. Josh and Amanda amplify the voices of so many who feel shame and loneliness around the topic of mental health. Their message is clear: you are not alone and there is hope.

The Beauty in the Breaking by Michelle Harper

Working as a Black woman in a field dominated by white men, Harper takes us on a journey through her experiences as an ER physician. As she works to heal others, she ends up teaching herself how to heal. Each story she tells about a patient possesses a life lesson that points her towards self-compassion, learning how to reconcile her own pain and cope with broken and flawed systems. Harper’s thought-provoking, compelling writing will stick with readers long after they put down her words.

Conditional Citizens by Laila Lalami

Laila Lalami was born and raised in Morocco who pursued graduate studies in the U.S. where she eventually married an American and became a naturalized citizen. In a series of articulate essays she essentially explores the question “Does having citizenship as an immigrant ensure that society and the government treat you equally?” Lalami gives both well-researched answers and deeply personal accounts of what it means to belong in America when you possess the privileges of citizenship and all its ideals, but face the reality of being a female, Arab, Muslim in a country where white supremacy is ever-present.

Everything Beautiful in Its Time: Seasons of Love and Loss by Jenna Bush Hager

This sentimental, heart-warming collection of reminiscences is a tribute to the Bush family and the love and respect they share for each other. Bush-Hager writes with love, kindness, self-deprecating humor, faith, and gratitude. Covering the year she lost three grandparents, Bush-Hager reflects on the beauty of the little things in life and what truly matters. Nostalgic and uplifting, this memoir is a delight to curl up with.

Nala’s World: One Man, His Rescue Cat, a Bike Ride around the Globe by Dean Nicholson 

If you’re an animal lover, you need to discover the heartwarming true story of a man and his cat. Dane Nicholson began a mission to cycle around the world. Three months into his journey he met an unlikely companion. Nicholson takes in an abandoned kitten and together they travel the world visiting refugee camps, rescuing other animals, and relishing in the kindness of strangers. With over 750,000 followers on Instagram, these two have a devoted fan-following and are finally sharing an in-depth look into their inspiring and adorable adventures together. 

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