Book List

Best Memoirs of 2019

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO FANNIE DAVIS

by Bridgett M. Davis

This outstanding book is a tribute to one woman but will surely speak to the experiences of many. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

MY PARENTS

by Aleksandar Hemon

An incisive combination of literature that addresses the function of literature and memories that explore the meaning of... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

GOOD TALK

by Mira Jacob illustrated by Mira Jacob

The visual echoes between past and present make this extraordinary memoir about difficult conversations all the more... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

WAR FLOWER

by Brooke King

An absolutely compelling war memoir marked by the author’s incredible strength of character and vulnerability. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

IN THE DREAM HOUSE

by Carmen Maria Machado

A fiercely honest, imaginatively written, and necessary memoir from one of our great young writers. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

MAMASKATCH

by Darrel J. McLeod

Lyrically written and linked by family, compassion, forgiveness, and hope, Mamaskatch sings out as a modern-day celebration... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

KNOW MY NAME

by Chanel Miller

A powerful narrative that couldn’t be timelier and deserves the widest possible audience. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

INHERITANCE

by Dani Shapiro

For all the trauma that the discovery put her through, Shapiro recognizes that what she had experienced was “a great... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

More Book Lists

The Magazine: Kirkus Reviews

Featuring 287 industry-first reviews of fiction, nonfiction, children's, and YA books; also in this issue: the 100 best Indie books of the year; interviews with some of our favorite Indie authors; and much more

subscribe
  • kirkus star
  • The Kirkus Star

    One of the most coveted designations in the book industry, the Kirkus Star marks books of exceptional merit.

  • kirkus prize
  • The Kirkus Prize

    The Kirkus Prize is among the richest literary awards in America, awarding $50,000 in three categories annually.

Great Books & News Curated For You

Be the first to read books news and see reviews, news and features in Kirkus Reviews. Get awesome content delivered to your inbox every week.

Thank you!

Close Quickview