The Greatest Russian, British "Nonfiction" Books Since 2010

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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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  1. 76. Good Vibes, Good Life by Vex King

    This self-help book offers readers a guide to embracing positivity and self-love to transform their lives. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating good vibes through practices such as gratitude, mindfulness, and the law of attraction. The author shares personal anecdotes and practical advice to help individuals overcome negativity, improve their relationships, and achieve greater happiness and success. By focusing on self-care, positive thinking, and the power of belief, the book encourages readers to unlock their full potential and live a life filled with purpose and joy.

    The 10271st Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 77. Art Matters by Neil Gaiman

    "Art Matters" is a collection of essays and speeches that delve into the importance and impact of creativity in our lives. The book champions the idea that art, in all its forms, is a crucial aspect of the human experience, serving as a vehicle for expression, a means of communication, and a catalyst for change. Through personal anecdotes and persuasive arguments, the author encourages readers to embrace their own artistic impulses and to recognize the transformative power of storytelling. The work is a call to action, urging society to acknowledge the value of imagination and to support the arts as a fundamental component of culture and personal growth.

    The 10271st Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 78. Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake

    "Entangled Life" explores the fascinating world of fungi and their intricate relationships with other organisms. From the underground networks that connect trees and plants to the role of fungi in shaping ecosystems, the book delves into the hidden realms of mycelium and its impact on our planet. With captivating storytelling and scientific insights, the author reveals the astonishing diversity and resilience of fungi, challenging our understanding of life itself.

    The 10303rd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 79. Behind The Mask by Tyson Fury

    "Behind The Mask" is an autobiography that delves into the life of a renowned heavyweight boxer, chronicling his journey from a challenging childhood to the pinnacle of the boxing world. The book offers a candid look at his battles with mental health issues, including depression and addiction, which contrast sharply with his public persona and success in the ring. It's a story of resilience and redemption, as he shares his personal struggles and the path to recovery, providing an inspirational tale of overcoming adversity and reclaiming glory, both in the sport he loves and in his personal life.

    The 10337th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 80. 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 10337th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 81. Mudlarking by Lara Maiklem

    The book is a captivating exploration of the River Thames and its hidden treasures, as the author takes readers on a journey through time and history by unearthing objects washed up along the river's shores. With each artifact offering a unique glimpse into London's past, the narrative weaves personal anecdotes with historical insights, revealing the lives of those who walked the riverbanks before us. From Roman relics to Victorian toys, the collection of items discovered through the practice of mudlarking provides a tangible connection to the city's rich and layered history, inviting readers to ponder the stories embedded within these remnants of bygone eras.

    The 10337th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 82. Humble Pi by Matt Parker

    The book is a delightful and humorous exploration of the world of mathematical errors and blunders, where the author, a mathematician, takes readers on a journey through historical and contemporary instances where mistakes in math have led to consequences ranging from the trivial to the catastrophic. With a light-hearted tone, the book examines real-life scenarios and anecdotes where a miscalculation, a forgotten minus sign, or a computational glitch has had significant impacts on engineering, economics, and everyday life, emphasizing the importance of mathematical accuracy while also celebrating the inherent fallibility of human endeavors in the realm of numbers.

    The 10337th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 83. 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 10337th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 84. Pandora's Jar by Natalie Haynes

    "Pandora's Jar" delves into the world of Greek mythology from a fresh perspective, focusing on the often-misrepresented stories of women within these ancient tales. The book reexamines the narratives of figures such as Medusa, Helen of Troy, and the titular Pandora, challenging the traditional views that have frequently cast them as villains or victims. Through a combination of scholarly analysis and engaging storytelling, the author brings to light the complexities of these female characters, exploring their roles and significance in a way that resonates with contemporary discussions on gender and power. The book serves as both a reclamation of these mythological women's stories and a critique of how their legacies have been shaped by centuries of retelling.

    The 10412th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 85. 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 10412th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 86. The Ruin Of All Witches by Malcolm Gaskill

    This historical work delves into the chilling tale of a 17th-century New England witch hunt, exploring the tragic case of a husband and wife accused of witchcraft in a Puritan settlement. The narrative weaves a rich tapestry of colonial America, where fear and superstition reigned, leading to a harrowing sequence of events that culminated in a trial and execution. Through meticulous research, the book sheds light on the societal and religious tensions of the time, offering a poignant examination of human nature, justice, and the destructive power of paranoia and zealotry in a community gripped by a witchcraft panic.

    The 10447th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 87. 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 10447th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 88. Empireland by Sathnam Sanghera

    The book is a thought-provoking exploration of the British Empire's enduring impact on modern Britain. It delves into the ways in which imperialism has shaped the nation's psyche, politics, economy, and identity, often in ways that are overlooked or forgotten. Through a combination of personal memoir, historical analysis, and contemporary observation, the author challenges readers to confront the legacies of colonialism, including racism and cultural appropriation, and to recognize how the empire's influence permeates various aspects of British life, from its institutions to its global relationships. The work serves as a call to acknowledge and address this complex inheritance in order to better understand present-day Britain.

    The 10447th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 89. And Away… by Bob Mortimer

    "And Away..." is a memoir that offers a candid and humorous look into the life of a beloved British comedian. From his upbringing in the North of England to his struggles with health and the eventual rise to fame, the book provides a series of anecdotes and reflections that paint a vivid picture of his journey. Known for his offbeat humor and comedic timing, the author shares tales of his childhood, his formative years, and the various odd jobs he held before finding his calling in the world of comedy. The memoir is not just a collection of funny stories; it's also a heartfelt account of overcoming adversity, including a life-threatening heart condition, which adds depth and resilience to his narrative.

    The 10447th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 90. The Anglo Saxons by Marc Morris

    This historical work delves into the rich and complex era of the Anglo-Saxons, spanning from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. It explores the formation of English identity, culture, and language through the intermingling of indigenous Britons with invading Germanic tribes. The narrative illuminates the lives of kings and commoners, the establishment of Christianity, and the enduring legacies of this formative period. Through a blend of archaeological findings, historical documents, and engaging storytelling, the book offers a vivid portrait of a society that laid the foundational stones of modern England.

    The 10447th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 91. Otherlands by Thomas Halliday

    "Otherlands" is a captivating journey through the deep history of Earth, exploring the myriad landscapes and ecosystems that have existed across the planet's vast geological timescales. The book takes readers on a tour of ancient worlds, from the teeming rainforests that once covered Antarctica to the coral reefs of the Silurian period, painting vivid pictures of long-extinct creatures and the environments they inhabited. Through a blend of scientific insight and evocative narrative, the author reconstructs lost worlds, providing a window into the Earth's past and a reflection on the transient nature of life and the enduring processes of evolution and extinction.

    The 10495th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 92. The War On The West by Douglas Murray

    The book in question critically examines the contemporary discourse surrounding Western civilization, arguing that there is an ongoing cultural and ideological assault against Western values, history, and identity. The author contends that this attack is manifesting in various spheres, including education, politics, and media, and is characterized by a rejection of the West's contributions to the world and an emphasis on its historical wrongs. The narrative suggests that this pervasive negativity threatens the very fabric of Western societies, undermining their achievements and moral confidence, and calls for a reevaluation of the West's legacy in a more balanced and appreciative light.

    The 10495th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 93. Period Power by Maisie Hill

    "Period Power" is a transformative guide that aims to enlighten and empower individuals with uteruses by providing a comprehensive understanding of menstrual health and the menstrual cycle. The book delves into the science of hormones, offers practical advice on how to navigate different phases of the cycle, and encourages readers to harness the potential of their hormonal fluctuations for improved physical and mental well-being. By debunking myths and fostering a positive conversation around periods, the book seeks to eradicate stigma and provide readers with the tools to take charge of their health, improve their relationships, and optimize their lives according to the natural rhythms of their bodies.

    The 10554th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 94. People Who Eat Darkness by Richard Lloyd Parry

    This book is a gripping true-crime narrative that delves into the mysterious disappearance of a young British woman in Tokyo. The investigation unfolds into a harrowing journey through Japan's shadowy underworld, exposing the cultural and legal intricacies that complicated the search and captivated a nation. The author meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to the disappearance, the intense investigation that followed, and the eventual arrest and trial of the suspect. Through interviews, court documents, and a deep understanding of Japanese society, the narrative not only tells the story of a tragic loss but also explores themes of justice, obsession, and the impact of crime on families and communities.

    The 10900th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 95. The Psychopath Test by Jon Ronson

    This book explores the complex world of psychopathy, delving into how the condition is diagnosed and what it means for both individuals and society. Through a series of intriguing interviews and encounters with people labeled as psychopaths, as well as with those involved in identifying them, the author investigates the validity and impact of the psychopath diagnosis. The narrative raises critical questions about the reliability of the psychopath test, the nature of mental health diagnosis, and the ethical implications of labeling someone as a psychopath, all while maintaining a balance between humor, skepticism, and empathy.

    The 10913th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 96. Time Warped by Claudia Hammond

    This book delves into the intriguing nature of how humans perceive time, blending psychology, neuroscience, and personal anecdotes to explore why time seems to fly by or drag on under different circumstances. The author examines various phenomena, such as how anticipation or dread can warp our sense of time, why our lives seem to speed up as we age, and the ways in which memory plays a crucial role in our perception of time's passage. Through engaging storytelling and scientific analysis, the book offers insights into not only how our brains perceive time but also how we can manage our time more effectively to enhance our well-being and live in the present.

    The 10925th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 97. The Wavewatcher's Companion by Gavin Pretor-Pinney

    "The Wavewatcher's Companion" by Gavin Pretor-Pinney is a captivating exploration of waves in all their forms, from the crashing waves of the ocean to the invisible waves of sound and light. With a mix of scientific knowledge and poetic prose, the author takes readers on a journey through the fascinating world of waves, revealing their beauty, power, and influence on our everyday lives. From the physics behind wave formation to the cultural significance of waves in art and literature, this book offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the wonders of the natural world.

    The 11029th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 98. Christianity by Diarmaid MacCulloch

    This book provides a comprehensive history of Christianity, tracing its evolution from its beginnings as a Jewish sect to its role as a global religion. The author explores the development of Christian doctrine, the establishment of the institutional church, and the series of reformations and counter-reformations that have shaped its form and practice over two millennia. The narrative also delves into the cultural, political, and social influences that have influenced the religion's spread and transformation, offering insights into the diverse and complex ways Christianity has interacted with different societies around the world.

    The 11029th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 99. Adventures In The Anthropocene: A Journey To The Heart Of The Planet We Made by Gaia Vince

    "Adventures in the Anthropocene: A Journey to the Heart of the Planet We Made" takes readers on a captivating exploration of the Earth's current epoch, the Anthropocene, where human activities have become the dominant force shaping the planet. Through vivid storytelling and immersive experiences, the author delves into various corners of the world, from the depths of the Amazon rainforest to the bustling streets of Mumbai, to uncover the profound impact of human actions on the environment. With a blend of scientific research, personal narratives, and thought-provoking insights, this book offers a compelling and urgent call to action to address the challenges of our rapidly changing planet.

    The 11052nd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 100. The House Of The Dead by Daniel Beer

    "The House of the Dead" explores the brutal reality of life in Siberian penal colonies during the nineteenth century, where the Russian Empire sent thousands of prisoners to endure incredibly harsh conditions. The book provides a detailed historical account, drawing on a wealth of archival material and personal stories to illuminate the lives of these exiles. It examines the impact of exile on the transformation of Russia, revealing how the penal system influenced both the society and the political landscape, including the rise of revolutionary movements. Through its vivid narrative, the book paints a comprehensive picture of suffering, survival, and the human capacity to adapt in one of the most inhospitable places on earth.

    The 11067th 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