Top 10 Non-Fiction Must-Reads

Quite often, the non-fiction books of the world can get a bit neglected. If they’re not brushed aside by the starlight of the next fictional sensation, then they’re kept in a specific area of the bookshop where you have to REALLY crane your neck (and sometimes body) to reach.

That is why we have written a Top 10 guide to some of the BEST non-fiction out there. These books can provide you with so many interesting insights and perspectives, AND they make you look particularly good in dinner party conversations …

• So, you have to defend feminism? “Well, in Laura Bates’ great new book she states that…”
• You’re faced with a daunting political debate: “That’s a very interesting point but Owen Jones argues something quite different…”
• You have to try and explain to someone what being trans means? Just hand them a copy of Trans Mission.

See, non-fiction has got your back!

So here are some of the best non-fiction books out there, that you simply have to read…

1. It’s All in Your Head – Rae Earl

This book is a brilliant guide on how to look after our brains, with coping mechanisms, tips from a doctor, and the perfect balance of comedic lightness and unobtrusive advice. Rae Earl, the mastermind behind My Mad Fat Diary, has created the perfect support book for those of us going through tough times. If you are suffering, or you know anyone else who is, this book could be a great help, alongside speaking to a professional or friend

2. The Establishment – Owen Jones

Political activist, Owen Jones, is a young man unafraid to stand up against inequality and prejudice. He is most recognisable from his appearance on Sky News where he was forced to walk off set when presenters down-played the anti-gay sentiment of the Orlando attack in 2016. In this book he journeys into the heart of our Establishment and exposes the shadowy and complex system that lies behind our democracy. A read that is enlightening and shocking and certainly not one to miss!

3. A Moonless, Starless Sky – Alexis Okeowo

A brand new publication and described as one of the best books to read this fall by Elle Magazine! A Moonless, Starless Sky is a vivid narrative of Africans who are courageously resisting their continent’s wave of fundamentalism, and it is a powerful tapestry of modern Africa. Giving a voice to those who have none, she is doing immensely important work, and the writing is simply beautiful.

4. I am Malala – Malala Yousafzai

You have undoubtedly heard about Malala and her bravery in standing up for girl’s education. But, it is hard to understand the true extent of what she risked without reading her first-hand account. She takes you through the history of Pakistan that led up to the moment where she was shot by the Taliban, and it is a history that isn’t that well-known. The hardship and violence detailed is unbelievable and her journey will make you believe in the determination of one person to inspire change.

5. Girl Up – Laura Bates

Laura Bates is now a well-known leader of the feminist movement. She founded the Everyday Sexism Project, a collection of more than 80,000 of women’s daily experiences with gender equality. Her books are jaunty, bold, and often hilarious; she fights back against the patriarchy one witty comment at a time. This book is the must-have survival guide for any young girl or woman, and I certainly wish I had it when I was growing up!

6. How Not to Die – Michael Greger

A Sunday Times Bestseller, this book has literally changed people’s lives (I’m not kidding, check the Amazon reviews!) Dr Michael Greger dishes out scientifically-proven nutritional advice on how we can prevent our biggest killers – heart disease, cancer, blood pressure and more. A no-nonsense book on how to take care of yourself and your diet, without making any drastic changes!

7. Mary’s Monster – Lita Judge

Publishing in February, this is one to get excited for! The inventor of science fiction, victim of neglect, pregnant teenage runaway… Mary Shelley’s life is one of rebellion. It is one full of complete and utter suffering, but somehow she finds a way to let this fuel her creativity, making her one of the most successful writers in the world. Part biography, part fantasy, and part feminist allegory, this book is very different to the others listed here, and I couldn’t put it down!

8. This is Going to Hurt – Adam Kay

Another bestseller, unsurprisingly with this one! Hilarious and heartbreaking, this is an account of life as a junior doctor on the front-line of the NHS. “Welcome to 97-hour weeks. Welcome to life and death decisions. Welcome to a constant tsunami of bodily fluids. Welcome to earning less than the hospital parking meter. Wave goodbye to your friends and relationships . . .” It’s likely that this book will leave a scar.

9. The 57 Bus – Dashka Slater

An unlikely sequence of events that changes two teenagers lives forever. Sounds good, right? The 57 Bus, written by Dashka Slater, tells the true story of a case that received international attention and tries to understand the reckless act that left Sasha severely burned and Richard facing life imprisonment.

10. Trans Mission – Alex Bertie

When Alex Bertie was born they told his parents he was female. At 15, he realised he was a transgender man, and for the past six years he has been on a quest for a beard. Alex’s memoir of coming to grips with his identity, coming out to family and friends, and battling the healthcare system to get there is honest, vibrant and funny! It’s publishing this November, so keep an eye out…