By Jack Marflak :
When you think of the most popular genres in book publishing today, you may think of romance which is the most popular. You might also consider historical fiction, thrillers, or even fantasy. Memoirs may not come immediately to mind. However, they are the number one best selling category in non-fiction.
I have always been a fan of classics, history, and historical fiction. However, in recent years, I’ve come to appreciate the numerous selection of memoirs.
These five memoirs are a great place to start if you are new to the genre. They are in no particular order. Enjoy one or all of them at your leisure. Perhaps you will become a fan as I did.
1. Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner: Korean culture has exploded in recent years with Korean TV, pop music and cuisine becoming popular. Michelle Zauner, known as the lead of Japanese Breakfast, explores her Korean-American identity and grief after losing her mother to cancer. The memoir delves into themes of cultural heritage and connection, using the author’s love for Korean food as a poignant lens through which she views her relationship with her mother and discovers her own strength and identity.
2. Educated by Tara Westover: This was one of my first memoirs that really lit the fire under me to read more. Westover details her journey from growing up in an isolated and survivalist family in rural Idaho to pursuing higher education, eventually earning a PhD from Cambridge University. Her narrative explores themes of self-invention and resilience, and it delves into the conflicts between familial loyalty and personal growth, challenging the limitations of her upbringing.
3. Know My Name by Chanel Miller: In this powerful memoir, Chanel Miller, previously known anonymously as Emily Doe, tells her story as the survivor of a notorious sexual assault case at Stanford University. Miller offers a compelling account of her personal trauma and resilience, highlighting systemic issues in the legal system and advocating for change, while finding her voice and identity in reclaiming her story.
4. Solito by Javier Zamora: This memoir recounts Zamora’s harrowing journey as a nine-year-old boy traveling unaccompanied from El Salvador to the United States. His narrative offers an insightful reflection on the immigrant experience, filled with danger, hope, and resilience, as he navigates the treacherous route in pursuit of reunion with his family and dreams of a better life. This one’s a must read in today’s current climate.
5. Becoming by Michelle Obama: One of our most popular first ladies in recent times Michelle Obama shares her journey from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago through her years in the White House. The memoir reflects on her work, her role as a first lady, and her efforts to balance public life with personal aspirations. It’s a deeply personal account of her growth, challenges, and influential role as a public figure, championing values of empowerment and advocacy.
