8 Memoirs That Are As Thrilling As Fiction

Shweta Malik
Sep 11, 2024

Educated By Tara Westover

Westover’s escape from a strict, isolated upbringing to earning a PhD is packed with intense personal struggles and breakthroughs, making it a gripping story of transformation.

The Glass Castle By Jeannette Walls

Walls describes a wild and unstable childhood with her unconventional parents, filled with dramatic ups and downs that read like a dramatic novel.

Born A Crime By Trevor Noah

Noah shares his life growing up under apartheid in South Africa with humor and insight, creating a compelling and often funny narrative that feels like a page-turning novel.

Wild By Cheryl Strayed

Strayed’s solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail, following personal losses and struggles, is a thrilling and emotional journey, much like an adventurous novel.

Can't Hurt Me By David Goggins

Goggins tells his story of overcoming incredible physical and mental challenges, offering a high-energy and inspiring read similar to a high-stakes thriller.

The Liars' Club By Mary Karr

Karr’s memoir about her chaotic childhood is both darkly humorous and gripping, making it a fascinating and intense read like a dramatic story.

Into the Wild By Jon Krakauer

Krakauer’s recounting of Christopher McCandless’s ill-fated adventure in Alaska combines suspense and tragedy, creating a gripping narrative akin to an adventure novel.

When Breath Becomes Air By Paul Kalanithi

Kalanithi’s reflections on his life as a neurosurgeon facing terminal cancer offer a deep and moving story that feels as powerful as a well-written novel.

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