There’s something beautifully unique about reading a memoir. For starters, it’s a true story. Everything (well, if the writer can be trusted) is based on facts, usually about the person’s life and actions. Literary fiction is amazing because it can transport you to places far away and make you understand all types of people. You can encounter the unknown and imagine the fantastical. But a memoir is fascinating because it relays a factual story that is in a real setting during a true time period.
There are so many types of memoirs, from historical to modern accounts. Historical books are fascinating because they give a greater insight into the past. You can read “The Diary of Anne Frank” to learn about the Holocaust. You can read “The Days” by Taha Hussein to learn about Egypt and its society at the turn of the century.
Modern memoirs are great too. For example, “I Am Malala” by Malala Yousafzai is an incredible book that delves into the author’s life in promoting and protecting girls’ education. Malala also writes a lot about Pakistani history, which grounds the story in a profound way.
Leah Remini’s book, “Troublemaker,” explains the actress’ background and her escape from Scientology. It’s a really interesting read that lets people learn about this religion while they also learn about Remini’s personal life, too.
If you want to try something funny, read a memoir by one of our generation’s great comedians. Maybe Amy Schumer’s “The Girl With the Lower Back Tattoo,” Tina Fey’s “Bossypants,” Amy Poehler’s “Yes Please,” or Aziz Ansari’s “Modern Romance.” Not only do these books give insight into their authors, but they also pull you into the story with humor. What is even more amazing is that these authors mix comedy with serious writing, creating books that make you want to laugh and cry.
If you like to read about politics, you’re definitely in luck. So many politicians from around the world have written about their lives and careers. From Hillary Clinton to Nelson Mandela, Golda Meir, and Zhou Enlai, you can find a memoir from that will certainly satisfy your political interests.
So whatever or whoever you like, you will find a memoir worth reading. Travel through history and around the globe to discover something you’ll enjoy. You may learn something new, or you may rediscover something old.
And who knows, maybe one day you’ll write your own memoir.
