Incredible Nonfiction Reads to Consider from 2021
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Chapter 1: A Year of Nonfiction Exploration
This year's selection of nonfiction titles was a challenge to curate. I delved into an impressive 90 nonfiction books over the past twelve months, largely due to the ongoing lockdowns, and what started as a lengthy list of 30 titles eventually became this refined selection. While I had to let go of several delightful reads, the remaining titles represent the cream of the crop.
As mentioned in my related article on the best fiction of 2021, I primarily source my reading material through my local library, receiving eBooks directly on my Kindle. Often, new releases come with long wait times, which means I’m frequently a year or two behind the latest buzz. This delay works to my advantage, as it allows me to sift through the fleeting trends and focus on those works that endure.
Below, you'll find my top 10 nonfiction books from 2021, listed in the order I read them. For some titles, I’ve included links to more detailed notes for further insight.
Top 10 Nonfiction Picks of 2021
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants Robin Wall Kimmerer This work emphasizes the significance of incorporating diverse perspectives in scientific discourse. Kimmerer’s unique view of nature, rooted in her Native American heritage (she belongs to the Citizen Potawatomi Nation), brings back invaluable insights from cultures that have long been marginalized. While it is a nonfiction title, it often exudes a sense of wonder.
Factfulness: Ten Reasons We’re Wrong About the World– And Why Things Are Better Than You Think Hans Rosling, Ola Rosling, and Anna Rosling Rönnlund Hans Rosling was a brilliant statistician and communicator, known for his engaging TED talks. In Factfulness, he challenges readers to confront their outdated perceptions of the world, presenting a fact-based argument that life is improving, even if it doesn’t always feel that way.
Four Hundred Souls Edited by Ibram X. Kendi and Keisha N. Blain This audiobook, narrated by a full cast, recounts 400 years of African American history, starting from 1619. It’s an essential read that presents American history from a perspective that is often overlooked in traditional education.
Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds, and Shape Our Futures Merlin Sheldrake Mushrooms are truly remarkable! Sheldrake, with a fitting name for a mycologist, presents this captivating exploration of fungi, making it accessible to all readers. Prepare to learn about a fascinating realm of biology that connects all living things.
The Anthropocene Reviewed: Essays on a Human-Centered Planet John Green In this deeply personal collection of essays written during the pandemic, Green reflects on the human experience, finding beauty and joy in mundane moments amidst uncertainty.
The Premonition: A Pandemic Story Michael Lewis This timely book sheds light on the U.S. government's response to the pandemic, revealing both systemic failings and the courage of individuals who advocated for scientific integrity.
The Disordered Cosmos: A Journey Into Dark Matter, Spacetime, and Dreams Deferred Chanda Prescod-Weinstein Prescod-Weinstein’s narrative illustrates the necessity for diverse voices in scientific discourse, sharing her personal experiences with bias and inequality in the field.
In The Dream House: A Memoir Carmen Maria Machado A powerful and challenging memoir that delves into trauma and abuse, Machado's writing is both raw and beautifully crafted.
Atomic Habits James Clear Clear’s insightful guide on habit formation is a must-read for anyone looking to implement positive changes in their life. He emphasizes that success arises from daily habits rather than monumental transformations.
The End of Everything (Astrophysically Speaking) Katie Mack Mack humorously explores the potential endings of the universe, combining scientific inquiry with engaging narrative.
Honorable Mention: The Psychology of Money Morgan Housel While not in the top 10, this book provides invaluable lessons about managing finances, emphasizing that financial success is more about behavior than technical knowledge.
Summary
I hope this list offers at least one compelling nonfiction recommendation that piques your interest. I would gladly revisit any of these works in the future. Here’s to an exciting new year filled with fresh literary discoveries!
Top 10 Nonfiction Books of 2021 - A detailed discussion of the standout nonfiction reads of the year, exploring themes and insights.
BEST NON-FICTION BOOKS I READ IN 2021 [CC] - A personal review highlighting the best nonfiction titles of the year and their impact on the reader.