The Greatest British, Irish "Nonfiction, Biography" Books Since 2000

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Nonfiction

Biography

Biography is a genre of literature that focuses on the life story of a person, typically a historical figure or a celebrity. It provides a detailed account of the subject's life, including their upbringing, achievements, struggles, and personal relationships. Biographies can be written in various formats, including memoirs, autobiographies, and third-person narratives. This category of books offers readers an opportunity to gain insight into the lives of notable individuals and their impact on society.

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  1. 26. Lady In Waiting by Anne Glenconner

    "Lady in Waiting" is a captivating memoir that offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a woman who served as a maid of honor at the Queen's Coronation and as a lady-in-waiting to Princess Margaret. Set against the backdrop of the British aristocracy, the book reveals the personal trials and tribulations of her own life, including her marriage to an unpredictable and unfaithful husband, her role in the royal household, and her unique friendship with the Princess. The narrative is a blend of humor, heartache, and historical insight, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the events and personalities that shaped the latter half of the 20th century from a perspective close to the crown.

    The 10367th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Airhead by Emily Maitlis

    "Airhead" is a compelling behind-the-scenes look at the fast-paced world of broadcast journalism from the perspective of a seasoned news presenter. The book offers a collection of anecdotes and insights, revealing the complexities and challenges of reporting on major news events. The author shares her experiences interviewing a wide range of high-profile figures, navigating the unpredictable nature of live television, and the meticulous preparation involved in delivering news to the public. Through personal stories and reflections, the book provides a candid exploration of the author's career and the ever-evolving landscape of the media industry.

    The 10367th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Spitfire by John Nichol

    "Spitfire" is a compelling tribute to an iconic fighter plane and the brave individuals who flew it during World War II. The book delves into the history and impact of the Spitfire, interweaving personal accounts from the pilots who experienced the aircraft's capabilities first-hand. Through interviews and extensive research, the narrative captures the technical advancements, the intense dogfights, and the emotional human stories behind the machine, offering a vivid portrayal of the aerial battles that shaped the outcome of the war and the enduring legacy of the Spitfire in British aviation history.

    The 10441st Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. This Much Is True by Miriam Margolyes

    In "This Much Is True," the author presents a candid and humorous autobiography that delves into her life as a celebrated actress and storyteller. With a career spanning decades in theater, film, and television, she shares personal anecdotes and reflections on her professional journey, her identity, and her experiences with fame and the arts. Known for her wit and no-nonsense attitude, the author offers readers an intimate look at the highs and lows of her life, her outspoken views on various issues, and the colorful encounters she's had with notable personalities throughout her vibrant career.

    The 10476th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Giving up the Ghost by Hilary Mantel

    "Giving up the Ghost" is a memoir that explores the author's life from her childhood in northern England, her struggles with chronic illness, to her journey as a successful writer. The book delves into her complex relationship with her parents, her experience with the supernatural, her struggle with endometriosis, and her exploration of her own identity. The narrative is a poignant exploration of the author's life, filled with introspection, humor, and resilience.

    The 10851st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Moondust: In Search of the Men Who Fell to Earth by Andrew Smith

    This book is a poignant exploration of the experiences of the twelve men who walked on the moon between 1969 and 1972. The author travels across America to meet with the surviving astronauts, discussing their lives before, during, and after their lunar missions. The narrative also delves into the cultural and historical context of the moon landings, examining their impact on society and the astronauts' personal lives. The book is a blend of science, history, and personal reflection, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in human history.

    The 10868th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. My Father and other Working-Class Football Heroes by Gary Imlac

    The book is a poignant memoir about a professional football player in the 1950s and 1960s, as told by his son. It explores the harsh realities of the football world during this era, including low wages, lack of security, and the stark contrast to the glamorous, high-earning industry it is today. The narrative also delves into the author's personal journey of discovering his father's football career after his death, revealing a touching and personal portrayal of a father-son relationship.

    The 10873rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Samuel Pepys: The Unequalled Self by Claire Tomalin

    This biography provides a thorough and engaging look into the life of Samuel Pepys, a 17th-century English naval administrator and Member of Parliament, who is most famous for the diary he kept for a decade. The book explores his personal and professional life, his relationships, his work in the navy, his experiences during events like the Great Fire of London and the plague, as well as his interests in science, music, and theater. It offers a detailed and vivid portrait of Pepys and his times, revealing him as a complex, flawed, yet immensely likable character.

    The 10977th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download