For a while now, I’ve found myself interested in some non-fiction novels that I normally wouldn’t have picked up. I don’t know what started me on this kick, but I’ve been reading more than a few non-fiction novels here and there during my time before and at college.
So here’s a list of 4 recent non-fiction novels I’ve read, and 4 I’m looking forward to reading soon!!
4 Non-Fiction Novels I’ve Liked
1. The Frighteners by Peter Laws
While I was a little iffy on the approach Laws used in this book, it was still a fascinating read. I would definitely recommend this book if you’re interested in creepy stories and horror, but also want to understand why you’re interested in this thrill when others can’t stand it.
2. The Case of the Zodiac Killer by Michael Morford & Michael Ferguson
I’ve been interested in true crime for a long while now, especially with the Zodiac Killer. His work is terribly fascinating, so I was excited to get more information on him from this book. It definitely reads like what it was–a podcast. They didn’t put much effort into concealing that, and there were a few homophobic comments, but it was still enjoyable overall. If you’re interested in the Zodiac Killer, this book is a good place to start, and gives you recommendations on other books to read.
3. Gender Failure by Rae Spoon & Ivan E. Coyote
Ever since I realized I was non-binary, I’ve been interested in reading other’s accounts of their experiences as well as just more about gender in general. My women’s and gender studies professor lent me this book, and I feel in love with it almost immediately. I related a lot to both Ivan and Rae’s experiences, and being able to read them really affirmed my identity.
4. Chasing American Monsters by Jason Offutt
I have yet to review this one on my blog, but this was one of the most interesting novels I’ve read. Being able to read all of the different legends in the United States, as well as being able to read more about the ones from my state (good ole Wisconsin) was so amazing. If you’re interested in cryptids and monsters, as well as learning more local history if you’re from the USA, then I would definitely recommend this one.
4 Non-Fiction Novels I Want to Read ASAP
1. Evil: The Science Behind Humanity’s Dark Side by Julia Shaw
This one first caught my eye on NetGalley, but I was denied so I couldn’t read it. Whenever I see it on my want to read list, I always remember why I wanted to read it. I think I had just finished The Frighteners (review linked above) and so I was in a real kick for the macabre and humanity’s dark side. Either way, this book just sounds so interesting, and I can’t wait to get my hands on it.
2. Gender Outlaw: On Men, Women, and the Rest of Us by Kate Bornstein
I’ve had Kate Bornstein recommended to me on multiple times, and I hate the fact that I haven’t read any yet. I’ve heard so many good things about Gender Outlaw, so that’s defintely where I want to start. I also own Kate’s Hello, Cruel World, of which a friend gifted me during an especially hard time. I can’t wait to dive into Kate’s work, because she seems like such a wonderful person, and I can’t wait to learn more about her. I even asked for her memoir (A Queer and Pleasant Danger) for Christmas!
3. I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara
I have this odd fascination with true crime stories (probably another reason why I’m so interested in books like The Frighteners and Evil.). I’ve heard about the Golden State Killer on multiple occasions, and this seems like such a monumental novel in the case. A lot of people say this book helped solve the murders, some say it just so happened to be published just before they made an arrest, but still. I need to read this book, and this is another I asked for for Christmas.
4. Alice + Freda Forever by Alexis Coe
Like I said earlier, I’m fairly interested in true crime stories. I’m also interested in queer stories, so when my women’s and gender studies prof (same one who lent me Gender Failure) lent me this one as well, I was ecstatic. I still have to read it. but having this book combine two of my interests was almost too good to be true.
So that’s that! Let me know if you’ve read any of the above non-fiction novels, or if you have any that you’d think I’d like! I’d love to hear from all of you, just because I can’t post as much anymore. Don’t be shy!!
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I’ll be Gone in the Dark is on my TBR too!! It sounds so interesting and well-written!
I started listening to an audiobook of it, but I feel like it will be better read as a book. I can’t wait to get my hands on it!!
I loved I’ll Be Gone in the Dark! The timeline was a bit confusing, but Michelle did a great job talking about the victims. I hope you’ll find the book as interesting as I did.
That’s great to hear! I started it as an audiobook and the timeline made me think it would be better as a book. Too confusing as audio. Thanks!!
This is an awesome list!! you should definitely check out The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot! It’s about the true story of a woman who’s cells were taken from her without her permission and were used to create vaccines and basically change the face of modern medicine. It’s such an amazing book, the author became friends with his lady’s family — I read it in like three days, and the writing is incredible too! Doesn’t even feel like an non-fiction book!!
I’ve seen that book around a lot!! I didn’t know what it was about, but that sounds so cool. Thanks for telling me about it!
Yay, I love seeing more non-fiction love!
<3<3<3
I haven’t read Gender Outlaw yet, either. (Really enjoyed A Queer and Pleasant Danger, though.) I did read Gender Outlaws: The Next Generation, which was fantastic!
I’m hoping to read both really soon! Thanks!
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