Best Nonfiction Books of 2023
Time really is flying and we are at the end of 2023. Reading a good book truly is my favorite part of everyday and I love reflecting on all the amazing discoveries I uncovered these past 12 months. I absolutely love non-fiction because truth is just as compelling as fiction.
After delving into the realms of imagination with my previous post on this year's top fiction picks, I'm excited to pivot to the equally thrilling world of non-fiction. As I predicted, 2023 has been a remarkable year for non-fiction, offering a treasure trove of books that enlighten, challenge, and inspire. From the intricacies of the human mind to the vast expanse of our natural world, this year's 5-star reads have been nothing short of a journey through the kaleidoscope of reality.
I read 68 books in 2023 and 23 of them were non-fiction—and 10 of those received a 5-star rating from me.
Keep reading as I share the non-fiction books that not only captivated me but also expanded my horizons, reflecting my passion for science, health, and the environment. For each of these titles, I have written a dedicated review in a previous post and will link to the full reviews if you want to check out my deeper thoughts on a certain one.
Butts: A Backstory by Heather Radke is a fascinating and engaging read that effortlessly earned a 5-star rating from me. Radke offers a unique and thoroughly researched exploration of the cultural, historical, and societal significance of human buttocks. The book is a perfect blend of humor, science, and cultural analysis, making it both informative and entertaining. Radke delves into various aspects, from the evolution of human physiology to the shifting beauty standards and societal perceptions of the buttocks throughout history. Her writing style is accessible and witty, turning what might seem like a niche subject into a compelling narrative that offers insightful commentary on body image, gender norms, and societal trends. Butts: A Backstory is an exceptional book for anyone interested in understanding how a specific part of the human anatomy can reveal so much about our culture, beliefs, and attitudes. It's a testament to Radke's skill as a writer and researcher that she turns this topic into a must-read exploration of the human condition.
Holy Shit: A Brief History of Swearing by Melissa Mohr is an enlightening and entertaining book that deserves its 5-star rating for its insightful exploration into the history and social impact of swearing. Mohr's book delves deep into the origins and evolution of swear words from ancient Rome to modern times, presenting a rich tapestry of linguistic and cultural development. Her writing is both witty and scholarly, making the topic accessible and fascinating for a wide range of readers. The book reveals how swearing has been intertwined with religion, profanity, sexuality, and society's taboos, offering a unique perspective on the power of language to shock, offend, and also amuse. Holy Shit is not just a historical account; it's a compelling examination of human nature and our complex relationship with language. Mohr's work is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the history of language, societal norms, and the reasons why certain words hold such power and taboo in our culture.
Self-Made Man by Norah Vincent is a profoundly insightful and thought-provoking book that fully deserves a 5-star rating. In this daring work of investigative journalism, Vincent embarks on a journey to experience life from a male perspective by disguising herself as a man. Her exploration delves deep into the complexities of gender identity, societal roles, and the unspoken rules that govern male behavior. Vincent’s observations are both eye-opening and unsettling, as she navigates various male-dominated environments, from bowling alleys to monasteries and even the dating scene. Her writing is candid and empathetic, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and expectations faced by men in contemporary society. Self-Made Man is more than just an experiment in gender; it's a powerful commentary on the constructs of masculinity and the human experience. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in gender studies, sociology, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the diverse tapestry of human experience.
Your Inner Fish by Neil Shubin is an exceptional book that I wholeheartedly rate with 5 stars for its engaging and enlightening exploration of the deep connections between human anatomy and our ancient animal ancestors. Shubin, a paleontologist and anatomist, uses his discovery of Tiktaalik, a fossil that bridges the gap between fish and land animals, as a starting point to unravel the fascinating evolutionary journey. His writing is clear, witty, and accessible, making complex scientific concepts understandable and captivating for a broad audience. Your Inner Fish delves into how features of our own bodies have a long evolutionary history, providing intriguing insights into why we look and function the way we do. The book is a masterful blend of science, history, and personal anecdotes, making it not just an educational read but also an enjoyable one. It's a must-read for anyone interested in evolution, biology, or the wonders of the natural world, offering a profound perspective on our place in the vast tapestry of life.
Everything I Need I Get From You by Kaitlyn Tiffany is an engaging and insightful book that earns a solid 5-star rating for its in-depth exploration of fan culture in the digital age. Focusing primarily on the fandom of the British-Irish boy band One Direction, Tiffany offers a comprehensive look into the world of modern fandoms, delving into how social media and digital platforms have reshaped the way fans interact with each other and with the objects of their admiration. Her writing is both informative and relatable, capturing the essence of what it means to be a fan in an era where online communities provide unprecedented access to celebrities and to one another. Tiffany doesn't just document; she analyzes and reflects on the broader implications of these fan dynamics, addressing themes of identity, community, and the blurring lines between artist and audience. Everything I Need I Get From You is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the power of fandoms and their significant role in contemporary pop culture. It's a thoughtful and compelling book that is as much about human connection as it is about music and celebrity.
The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs by Steve Brusatte is a stellar book that thoroughly deserves its 5-star rating for the way it brings the ancient world of dinosaurs to vivid life. Brusatte, a renowned paleontologist, uses his expertise to guide readers through the entire saga of the dinosaurs' dominance over our planet. His narrative skillfully blends the latest scientific research with engaging storytelling, making complex subjects like evolution, geology, and paleobiology accessible and fascinating. The book traces the evolution of dinosaurs from their humble beginnings to their eventual catastrophic demise, painting a detailed picture of their lives, habitats, and the dynamic Earth they inhabited. Brusatte's passion for the subject shines through in every page, making The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs not just an educational read, but an exhilarating journey through time. It's an essential read for anyone interested in natural history, offering a captivating glimpse into a world that has long since vanished but continues to captivate our imagination.
Poverty, by America is a powerful and eye-opening book that deserves a resounding 5-star rating for its in-depth analysis and critique of how American policies and systems perpetuate poverty. The author delves into the harsh realities faced by those living in poverty in the United States, challenging common misconceptions and highlighting the systemic issues that hinder social and economic mobility. Through a combination of rigorous research, personal narratives, and a critical examination of policy, the book sheds light on the often invisible struggles of the poor and critiques the societal and governmental structures that contribute to their plight.
What makes Poverty, by America stand out is its unflinching honesty and its call to action. It's not just an exposition of problems but also a discussion of potential solutions and a rallying cry for systemic change. The writing is clear, compelling, and empathetic, offering a new perspective on poverty that goes beyond stereotypes and headlines. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in social justice, policy, or understanding the deeper issues affecting millions of Americans. It's a thought-provoking work that challenges readers to rethink their views on poverty and their role in a society that allows it to persist.
The Male Gazed: On Hunks, Heartthrobs, and What Pop Culture Taught Me About (Desiring) Men by Manuel Betancourt is an insightful and engaging read that I rate with 5 stars for its thoughtful exploration of masculinity and desire through the lens of pop culture. Betancourt offers a unique and personal perspective on how media representations of men shape our perceptions of masculinity, desire, and identity. His analysis delves into a range of pop culture icons and moments, from classic film heartthrobs to contemporary TV stars, examining the ways in which these images both reflect and influence societal norms and personal experiences of desire.
Betancourt's writing is both analytical and deeply personal, blending critical examination with memoir, making the book not only an academic exploration but also a relatable and intimate journey. He navigates the complexities of gender, sexuality, and media with a nuanced understanding, making The Male Gazed a compelling read for anyone interested in media studies, gender theory, or the intersection of personal identity and pop culture. This book is a significant contribution to the conversation about how we view and are influenced by the portrayal of men in media, offering a fresh and enlightening perspective.
In Your Face by Bryan Mendelson is a fascinating and insightful read, deserving of a 5-star rating for its comprehensive exploration of the human face from a surgical and psychological perspective. As a renowned plastic surgeon, Mendelson brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the topic, delving into the intricacies of facial anatomy, the history of facial surgery, and the deep psychological impact our faces have on our identity and perception by others.
Mendelson's writing is engaging and accessible, making complex medical and anatomical concepts easy to understand for a general audience. He combines scientific information with intriguing anecdotes from his career, offering a unique glimpse into the world of cosmetic surgery. The book goes beyond the technical aspects of the field, delving into the philosophical and ethical considerations of altering one's appearance.
In Your Face is not just a book for those interested in plastic surgery; it's a compelling read for anyone curious about the intersection of medicine, beauty, and psychology. Mendelson's thoughtful exploration of how our faces shape our lives and experiences makes this book a standout. It provides a thoughtful and nuanced perspective on a subject often surrounded by controversy and misunderstanding.
Fasting Girls: A History of Anorexia Nervosa by Joan Jacobs Brumberg is a deeply compelling and meticulously researched book that earns a solid 5-star rating for its comprehensive exploration of the historical and cultural contexts of anorexia nervosa. Brumberg, a historian, provides a richly detailed account of how societal and medical perceptions of anorexia have evolved over centuries, from medieval times to the modern era.
The book is exceptional in how it intertwines medical history with social and cultural factors, offering insight into how attitudes towards female bodies and their control have shaped understandings and treatments of anorexia. Brumberg's analysis is both empathetic and critical, shedding light on the complexities of this disorder beyond the simplistic notions often portrayed in popular media.
Fasting Girls is more than just a history of a medical condition; it's a profound commentary on the changing dynamics of female adolescence, body image, and the societal pressures that contribute to eating disorders. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the deep-rooted historical and cultural influences that continue to impact perceptions and experiences of anorexia nervosa today. It's a powerful and enlightening work that offers valuable perspectives for both professionals in the field and general readers alike.
If after all of my attempts to convert you this past year, you are still not on the nonfiction bandwagon, perhaps 2024 could be the year you branch out and try even just one? Come on, you know at least one of these has sparked your interest ;)
If you read one (or any of the books I recommend!) let me know what you think in the comments below (or on instagram!)
My next post will be the last for the year—my 5-star MEMOIRS, BABY!! Stay tuned. Coming soon.
