The world is full of amazing people. From poverty to tales of wealth and survival against all odds, the true stories out there are rich and varied, incredible tales to marvel at and be inspired by.
It’s no wonder, then, that true story books are so popular. immersing ourselves in other people’s lives is a way of finding meaning, understanding, and joy. Memories make us think, challenge our perceptions, and lift us up in our darkest moments.
You are reading: Inspirational books based on true stories
Don’t know where to start? Here’s our pick of the best true story books…
educated by tara westover
Tara Westover’s New York Times bestselling memoir describes her experience growing up as the daughter of surviving Mormons, preparing for the end of days and never going to school because her father opposed education. she had not been registered for a birth certificate; according to the government, she did not exist.
With his father becoming more radical and his brother more violent, at age 16, he knew he had to leave home in search of an education and a future beyond the limitations of his past. An impressive and exciting read.
heat of the moment by sabrina cohen-hatton
See Also: Randolph Caldecott Medal | Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC)
sabrina was 17 years old when she joined the fire service. Before that, she had had a tumultuous upbringing, homeless as a teenager and living out of church doors and abandoned buildings. But her tenacity and drive saw her break through, studying for a Ph.D. in decision-making while she raised her little girl, becoming an ambassador for the big deal and now, chief financial officer for West West Fire and Rescue Service. sussex. She has defied every imaginable stereotype and is an amazing woman.
eat, pray, love by elizabeth gilbert
Elizabeth Gilbert’s famous pilgrimage to finding meaning at age thirty has resonated with readers around the world. Stuck in a rut and stuck in a life she realizes she no longer wants, she embarks on a journey that takes her to Rome, India and Bali, where she finds new adventures, new people and new ideas. the question is, can she find happiness too?
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what makes us stronger by freya lewis
freya lewis, 14 at the time, was one of the victims of the manchester arena attack. She had attended the Ariana Grande concert with her friend, Nell, who tragically died that night. Written by journalist Amisha Desai, this beautiful memoir traces Freya’s physical and psychological recovery and offers a powerful message of hope, peace, and love that will resonate with anyone going through difficult times.
I’m malala from malala yousafzai
The incredible story of the girl who was shot by the Taliban in 2012 after defending her right to education is a world-renowned success story. Malala, now 18, has become an international symbol of peaceful protest and the youngest person to win a Nobel Peace Prize. she is currently studying at oxford university. a reminder to all of us of the power of courage, youth, and standing up for what you believe in.
this is going to hurt for adam kay
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During his time as an attending physician, adam kay kept journals, and aren’t we glad he did? Hilarious, insightful, and moving in equal measure, It’s No Wonder This Is Gonna Hurt is a multi-million-copy bestseller so popular it’s even been made into a brilliant stage show.
a street cat named bob by james bowen
The image of a large ginger cat dressed in a knitted scarf and sitting on James Bowen’s shoulder is familiar to many of us. This remarkable true story of how a stray cat saved James when he was homeless and living hand to mouth is a powerful and moving story. Sadly, Bob passed away in 2020, but his legacy lives on.
the great little things of henry fraser
when henry fraser was 17 years old, he was vacationing with some friends in portugal when a freak accident changed his life forever. when he dove into the sea, he hit his head on a rippling seabed, leaving him paralyzed from the neck down. Since then, Henry has built a new life with incredible resiliency and positivity, he is a mouth artist, disability rights activist, and determined to show the world that “every day is a good morning.” the little big things tell his story: while his new book, The Power in You, aims to inspire people to “embrace their past, live in the present, and shape a positive future.” /p>
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