Barnes & Noble’s Best Biographies and Memoirs of 2025 Highlight the Most Fascinating Lives of the Year

This has been an incredible year for books, and once again, Barnes & Noble has stepped in to spotlight the titles that truly stood out. Their annual list of the best biographies and memoirs of 2025 celebrates some of the most compelling real-life stories published this year—stories of creativity, resilience, fame, activism, and personal reinvention.

Biographies and memoirs often feel deeply personal. They invite readers behind the curtain, offering intimate access to lives we think we know and, sometimes, stories we never expected. While fiction often dominates bestseller lists, nonfiction—especially memoirs—has quietly become one of the most powerful ways readers connect with authors, artists, and cultural icons.

In 2025, that connection feels stronger than ever.

I’ll be the first to admit that biographies and memoirs haven’t always been my go-to genre. While I’ve made a conscious effort to read more nonfiction this year, autobiographies and memoirs can be hit or miss depending on the subject and storytelling style. Still, when they’re done right, they can be some of the most unforgettable books you’ll ever read.

Barnes & Noble’s list brings together musicians, actors, writers, political figures, and cultural icons, creating a well-rounded snapshot of the voices that shaped conversations in 2025. Below, we take a closer look at the biographies and memoirs that made the cut—and why they’re worth adding to your reading list.

Why Biographies and Memoirs Are Thriving in 2025

The popularity of memoirs continues to grow, and it’s not hard to see why. Readers are increasingly drawn to authentic voices and real-life stories, especially in a time when the world feels overwhelming and unpredictable.

Memoirs offer:

• Emotional honesty and vulnerability
• Behind-the-scenes insight into fame and success
• Stories of perseverance, failure, and reinvention
• A sense of connection to people we admire

This year’s best biographies and memoirs reflect that desire for authenticity. Many of these books go beyond surface-level fame and explore identity, creativity, trauma, activism, and legacy.

Barnes & Noble’s Best Biographies and Memoirs of 2025

• Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run by Paul McCartney
• Mother Mary Comes to Me by Arundhati Roy
• Awake: A Memoir by Jen Hatmaker
• Poems & Prayers by Matthew McConaughey
• Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts by Margaret Atwood
• Finding My Way: A Memoir by Malala Yousafzai
• Bread of Angels: A Memoir by Patti Smith
• The Uncool: A Memoir by Cameron Crowe
• Truly by Lionel Richie
• Joyride: A Memoir by Susan Orlean
• The Anthony Bourdain Reader: New, Classic, and Rediscovered Writing by Anthony Bourdain
• Heart Life Music by Kenny Chesney, Holly Gleason
• Vagabond: A Memoir by Tim Curry
• 107 Days by Kamala Harris
• I Regret Almost Everything: A Memoir by Keith McNally
• The Look by Michelle Obama
• Last Rites by Ozzy Osbourne

Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run by Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney’s storytelling shines in this deep dive into one of the most fascinating chapters of his post-Beatles career. Wings explores the formation of the band, the creative risks McCartney took, and the challenges of stepping out of the shadow of one of the most famous bands in history.

For music fans, this memoir offers rare insight into artistic evolution and perseverance after monumental success.

Mother Mary Comes to Me by Arundhati Roy

Arundhati Roy blends memory, imagination, and reflection in this lyrical and deeply personal memoir. Known primarily for her fiction and essays, Roy uses this book to explore identity, belonging, and the emotional landscapes that shaped her writing.

This is a memoir for readers who appreciate introspective storytelling and literary depth.

Awake: A Memoir by Jen Hatmaker

In Awake, Jen Hatmaker chronicles a period of personal and spiritual reckoning. The memoir explores transformation, loss, and rebuilding one’s sense of self after everything familiar falls apart.

Honest and emotionally raw, this book resonates with readers navigating major life changes.

Poems & Prayers by Matthew McConaughey

Following the success of Greenlights, Matthew McConaughey returns with a more reflective and intimate collection. Poems & Prayers blends personal reflections, spiritual musings, and moments of poetic insight.

This book feels less like a traditional memoir and more like a meditation on life, gratitude, and purpose.

Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts by Margaret Atwood

Margaret Atwood offers readers a unique and unconventional memoir that reflects on the many “lives” she’s lived—as a writer, thinker, observer, and cultural commentator.

This is not a straightforward autobiography, but rather a layered exploration of memory, creativity, and time.

Finding My Way: A Memoir by Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai’s memoir stands out as one of the most powerful books on the list. Finding My Way focuses on her journey beyond global recognition, exploring identity, education, and her evolving sense of purpose.

It’s an inspiring reminder of resilience, courage, and the importance of using one’s voice.

Bread of Angels: A Memoir by Patti Smith

Patti Smith’s memoir continues her tradition of blending art, memory, and spirituality. Bread of Angels reflects on creativity, grief, and the quiet moments that shape a life devoted to art.

Fans of Smith’s previous memoirs will find this book deeply moving and beautifully written.

The Uncool: A Memoir by Cameron Crowe

Cameron Crowe’s memoir captures his journey through music journalism, filmmaking, and youth culture. With stories from behind the scenes of iconic moments in entertainment history, The Uncool is both nostalgic and insightful.

It’s especially appealing to readers who love music, film, and pop culture history.

Truly by Lionel Richie

Lionel Richie reflects on decades of music, fame, and personal growth in Truly. This memoir explores his creative process, career highs and lows, and the personal moments that shaped his life beyond the stage.

Music lovers will appreciate Richie’s candid storytelling and reflections on legacy.

Joyride: A Memoir by Susan Orlean

Susan Orlean’s memoir is witty, thoughtful, and unpredictable—much like her journalism. Joyride explores curiosity, storytelling, and the joy of pursuing ideas wherever they lead.

This book is a celebration of creativity and intellectual exploration.

The Anthony Bourdain Reader: New, Classic, and Rediscovered Writing by Anthony Bourdain

This collection brings together some of Anthony Bourdain’s most memorable writing, along with lesser-known pieces that highlight his voice, wit, and worldview.

For fans of Bourdain, this book feels like reconnecting with an old friend—one who saw the world clearly and wrote about it honestly.

Heart Life Music by Kenny Chesney and Holly Gleason

This memoir explores Kenny Chesney’s life, career, and deep connection to music. Co-written with Holly Gleason, it offers insight into songwriting, touring, and the emotional impact of music.

It’s an engaging read for country music fans and beyond.

Vagabond: A Memoir by Tim Curry

Tim Curry’s memoir is both heartfelt and humorous, chronicling his career, health challenges, and enduring love for performance.

This book offers a moving portrait of resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.

107 Days by Kamala Harris

In 107 Days, Kamala Harris reflects on a pivotal moment in political history. The memoir provides a behind-the-scenes look at leadership, decision-making, and the pressures of public life.

It’s a timely and thought-provoking read for those interested in politics and history.

I Regret Almost Everything: A Memoir by Keith McNally

Restaurant icon Keith McNally delivers a candid and often darkly humorous memoir. This book explores success, failure, and the personal cost of ambition.

Honest and unfiltered, it stands out for its distinctive voice.

The Look by Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama’s The Look blends memoir with cultural commentary, focusing on style, self-expression, and identity. It offers a fresh perspective on public life and personal empowerment.

It’s both visually engaging and emotionally resonant.

Last Rites by Ozzy Osbourne

Ozzy Osbourne’s memoir is as raw and unapologetic as fans would expect. Last Rites reflects on fame, addiction, survival, and legacy.

This book captures the chaotic spirit of rock history while offering moments of surprising introspection.

Final Thoughts on Barnes & Noble’s Best Biographies and Memoirs of 2025

Barnes & Noble’s list of the best biographies and memoirs of 2025 highlights just how diverse and powerful nonfiction storytelling can be. From musicians and writers to activists and political leaders, these books offer deeply personal glimpses into lives that shaped culture, art, and history.

Whether you’re drawn to celebrity memoirs, literary reflections, or inspiring true stories, there’s something on this list for nearly every reader. Ultimately, how much you enjoy these books may depend on your connection to the person behind the story—but that’s part of what makes memoirs so compelling.

Personally, The Anthony Bourdain Reader is already at the top of my reading list.

Will you be picking up any biographies or memoirs from this list? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more book recommendations and reading inspiration.

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