Nonfiction Book Recommendations

There’s one place where every history buff feels at home—with their nose buried in a compelling nonfiction book, of course. It’s the best resource to turn to when you want the most comprehensive account of the past possible.

As book lovers ourselves, we’ve curated a space to round up all the best nonfiction books out there. Searching for a biography of the Founding Fathers? We’ve got you covered. Want to learn what wartime was really like? Check out the best books by people who lived through various conflicts and experienced them firsthand. Craving an in-depth account of one of the many turbulent events of the 20th century, from the sinking of the Titanic to the rise of Nazi Germany? Peruse a book by esteemed historian Martin Gilbert, or try an accessible pop history book by Walter Lord on for size. Whenever your bookshelves are looking a little bare, you can trust us to have the best recommendations in store for you.

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Behind the Crown: 15 First-Class Books About Royalty

Mad for the monarchy? Get a behind-the-scenes look at the great royals of the past.

8 Books About the Turn of the 20th Century

Explore an era of great development and change.

9 Wartime Pocket Manuals That Put You in a Soldier's State of Mind

These how-to guides will instantly transport you back in time.

10 Books About Powerful Families

Their rise, their fall, and every scandalous detail in between. 

5 Cleopatra Books That Unveil the Woman Behind the Myth

Descended from a Macedonian line of rulers, Cleopatra VII was the last queen of Egypt before it fell to Caesar Augustus.

The Best Biographies of 2021

From first ladies to rock stars, these were the year's best releases.

The Best History Books of 2021

Illuminating tales of the past you won't want to miss.

8 Exciting New History Books to Dive Into

Check out the books everyone’s been buzzing about.

A Soldier’s Story: 20 War Books Told by Those Who Were There

We’re honoring America’s heroes with books that reveal what it's like to be in war.

8 Military Strategy Books That Analyze Warfare Across the Globe

Dissecting the tactics that have shaped some of the world's most famous conflicts.

17 Remarkable Books About the Great Depression

Fascinating stories of courage, corruption, and change emerged from the darkest period of the 20th century.

Explore the 20th Century Through Martin Gilbert's Best Books

The prolific author and historian was a leading expert on Nazi Germany and other momentous events.

Rediscover the World Around You With 7 Accessible Ethnographies

These eye-opening books shed light on other cultures and communities.

The Historical Origins of the Wizard Merlin

The legendary wizard in King Arthur's court has a surprisingly complex backstory.

5 Books That Humanize the 1947 Partition of India

When British India was dissolved, the territory was divided along religious lines.

7 Essential Books About Afghanistan

As news about the Taliban continues to unfold, satisfy your curiosity about instability in the region.

Battle of Ia Drang: The United States Army’s Brutal Entry into the Vietnam War

In the wake of Joseph L. Galloway’s death, we’re revisiting his iconic book on the conflict, We Were Soldiers Once...and Young.

Moonshiners and Bootleggers: 8 Books About the Prohibition Era

Discover the historical effects of the nationwide ban on alcohol.