The 25 Bestselling Nonfiction Books of 2023

Published by PangoBooks, March 26, 2024

Want to read more nonfiction this year but you're not sure where to start? See what other readers like you loved in 2023! Here, we've compiled a list of the 25 nonfiction best-sellers of the past year. From true crime history books about the birth of the FBI and books about writing from famous authors to celebrity memoirs by pop princesses and sitcom legends, there's a book (or five) on this list for every reader. Be sure to read to the end to discover the number one bestselling nonfiction book of 2023!

25. I'll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara

24. Quiet by Susan Cain

23. The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green

22. The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin

21. On Writing by Stephen King

20. The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown

19. Wild by Cheryl Strayed

18. Know My Name by Chanel Miller

17. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

16. You are a Badass by Jen Sincero

15. If You Tell by Gregg Olsen

14. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

13. The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson

12. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

11. The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

10. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson

Genre: self-help

A blunt yet insightful self-help book that encourages prioritizing values and letting go of unnecessary concerns for a more fulfilling life

Average Pango rating: 3.88 ★★★★☆

"If you're tired of the usual motivational fluff, this book is your savior—a brash and refreshingly honest guide to navigate the chaos and embrace the art of giving a f*ck about what counts." - ddport

9. Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry

Genre: memoir

An honest, emotional, and hilarious memoir about the actor's path toward fame and his journey toward sobriety.

Average Pango rating: 4.33 ★★★★☆

"It’s amazing when someone shares such a vulnerable part of their life with others. I truly loved this book." - Brittany Ravenscroft

8. Educated by Tara Westover

Genre: memoir

An extraordinary memoir recounting Tara Westover's journey from a secluded upbringing in rural Idaho, devoid of formal education, to earning a PhD from Cambridge University.

Average Pango rating: 4.64 ★★★★★

"Absolutely should be required reading for all. You feel as though you live her pain and growth through each stage." - Amanda Hubbell

7. Untamed by Glennon Doyle

Genre: memoir

A raw and empowering memoir that explores the journey of self-discovery and reclaiming one's truest, untamed self.

Average Pango rating: 4.72 ★★★★★

"If you’re on a journey to find yourself, just trust me when I say, pick up this book. You won’t regret it." - Heather Melanie Lauger

6. Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

Genre: memoir

A poignant memoir by an indie rockstar exploring grief, identity, and the bond between mother and daughter through food and culture.

Average Pango rating: 4.26 ★★★★☆

"It felt like Michelle was literally dissecting my innermost, secretive thoughts 98% of the time. It was beautifully written and absolutely heart wrenching." - Pauline Doan

5. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

Genre: psychology

Explores the profound impact of trauma on the body and mind, offering insights into healing and resilience.

Average Pango rating: 4.75 ★★★★★

"This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to grasp the intricate connections between mind, body, and the resilience of the human spirit." - Small Bookworm

4. The Woman In Me by Britney Spears

Genre: memoir

An account of the pop star's experiences with fame, music, family, and motherhood in her own words.

Average Pango rating: 4.14 ★★★★☆

"Her memoir reads very personal; you feel like she’s talking to you. Her story is heartbreaking and at times relatable. I'm glad she was finally able to share her story." - Jonesreads

3. Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann

Genre: history

An investigation of the the murders of wealthy Osage Native Americans in the 1920s, revealing a chilling conspiracy behind the killings.

Average Pango rating: 4.54 ★★★★★

"Informative and evocative- great storytelling and journalism." - Nicky's Bookcase

2. Atomic Habits by James Clear

Genre: self-help

A bestselling self-help book that explores the transformative power of small changes in behavior to create lasting habits.

Average Pango rating: 4.50 ★★★★★

"If you are willing to make things happen this book is for you. Very practical and good information." - Atika Hussain

The #1 Bestselling Nonfiction Book on Pango in 2023:

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy is a poignant celebrity memoir that delves into the complex emotions surrounding the author's relationship with her late mother, exploring themes of grief, resilience, and personal growth. Through candid storytelling, former child star McCurdy navigates the depths of loss, ultimately finding solace and understanding amidst the pain. This raw and introspective narrative offers readers a profound journey through the highs and lows of love and loss.

Average Pango rating: 4.67 ★★★★★

"This book was an 'easy' read, as it was fast paced, entertaining, and easily digestible. However, the story is raw, traumatic and the opposite of light-hearted. Anyone who struggled or struggles with family issues, religious trauma, and/or eating disorders will relate to this more than anyone else. I'm so glad Jennette McCurdy shared her story with the world and found herself. And I, too, am glad her mom died." - Baileys & Reads