Let’s face it; nonfiction is not the most popular or glamourous genre. For many Gen-Z readers, it is not their first pick compared to the romance and fantasy books dominating the market. A lot of people think nonfiction books are boring, but that is just not true!
So, when I tell you, as a former nonfiction hater, that I have found nonfiction books that have changed my opinion of the genre, you better believe me. From cults to grand thefts, I’ve found 5 fascinating books to share with you and change your mind on the genre.
Hate nonfiction? These books will change your mind!
Here are 5 unique books that will change your mind on the genre and make you fall in love with nonfiction. So, if you want to read nonfiction but don’t know where to start OR if you’ve claimed to swear off the genre entirely, go ahead and give this list a read!
1. Cultish by Amanda Montell
Trust me when I say that this book will shock you. When you think of ‘cults,’ your mind might jump to suicide pacts and followers in robes, but that’s not entirely true. Cults are more subtle and immersed in our society than you might think. Amanda Montell goes in depth into various cults and cult-like organizations, some that I guarantee will surprise you. From the religious organizations to multi-level marketing schemes, this book will teach you what a cult is and reveal how many there really are. Don’t worry, you’ll also learn how to avoid accidentally joining one too! The author will teach you the language around cults so you don’t fall victim to one. After finishing this book, you’ll never say the expression “drink the Kool-Aid” ever again.
Why I loved it: What a captivating read! It was impossible to put this book down. From Scientology to the tea brand I drink, cults are deep within our society. Once you understand it, you can never unsee it. You can learn more about cults from the author’s podcast Sounds Like a Cult!
2. From Here to Eternity by Caitlin Doughty
Death is an emotional topic for many people, but the way that other cultures deal with death is utterly captivating. On her global journey to study death, Caitlin Doughty immerses herself within funerals and ceremonies from Japan to Indonesia to Colorado. A lot of cultures are more hands-on than you may think. You will be surprised to see how close and engaging other cultures treat death. The author gracefully addresses the emotional and practical side to death in a way that feels less uncomfortable. Thought-provoking and engaging, this book is a perfect example of why nonfiction books are fascinating.
Why I loved it: This book is an intimate bridge between cultures and how they deal with death. It was enlightening to peek into how other people process death and comfort each other. Both emotional and informative, this book is great for people just starting out with nonfiction.
3. Chaos by Tom O’Neill
Fans of true crime will love this look into one journalist’s journey to uncover the truth about the 1960s Manson Murders. This book reads like fiction as the author digs into the conspiracy behind Charles Manson. The situation is more complicated and hidden than you may expect. The information discovered by the author conflicts with what the police and FBI revealed, making the case much murkier than you think. Tom O’Neill’s twenty year long search for the truth brings new light to the crime and dives deep into Manson himself. From front to back, this book draws you into the mystery and won’t let go.
Why I loved it: True crime and history are favorites of mine, and this complicated and layered case immediately piqued my interest. I loved how factual and honest the author was in his findings and how gripping the whole tale was. The book hooked me instantly!
4. The Art Thief by Michael Finkel
Have you ever walked into an art museum and wondered how easy it would be to steal a piece of art? Well, this book outlines the unbelievable theft of $1.4 billion worth of art stolen from museums across Europe. Over eight years, one couple stole over 300 works of art from European museums and cathedrals. Paintings, sculptures, and antique artifacts were stolen right under the noses of security guards and police, all because of one man’s hubris and hunger for beauty. But it all had to come to an end, and what a disastrous end it was. This is a short read that will leave you marveling at how anyone could have gotten away with so much crime for so long.
Why I loved it: The entire case genuinely blew my mind and kept me invested the entire time. The book read like a gripping fiction story and completely swept me away in the tale.
5. Pandora’s Jar by Natalie Haynes
Are you a fan of Percy Jackson or Greek mythology? If so, you’ll love this book. Natalie Haynes focuses on mortal women and monsters alike, revealing how ignored and misconstrued they have been. Each chapter focuses on a different character, from Medusa to Helen of Troy, digging into how the narratives on these women have changed over time. Villains and monsters are cast in a new light, making you reconsider the narratives around these mythical women. If you love mythology and want to explore the hidden and forgotten parts, you will enjoy this book.
Why I loved it: Greek mythology is one of my interests, and this book was everything I wanted and more. Natalie Haynes is one of my favorite authors and is very skilled in her craft. She’s funny and entertaining throughout the entire book, and I can’t help but love it.
Nonfiction is a fascinating genre that can speak to anyone’s interests. All you need is to find the one that speaks to you. Each of these unique books are worthy of a read, and I highly recommend checking them out!
Bloodthirsty Vegan
April 13, 2025 at 12:49 pm
The Art Thief was great. A spellbinding true story that read like a novel. In my top five, along with Millard’s “The River of Doubt”, along with her history of the young Winston Churchill, title escapes me at the moment. Incredible.