The Top 19 Nonfiction Books About Politics You Can’t Afford to Miss

Looking for insightful reads on politics? Check out our list of the 19 best nonfiction books that will open your eyes to the world of politics.
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I’ve found myself reading more and more political books lately because, with everything happening in the world, it feels like I need to understand what’s going on. 

Africa has faced so much political upheaval over the years, and it’s heartbreaking to see the challenges it’s still facing today. 

And let’s not forget the West – it’s been dealing with its own political mess, too. 

Reading these nonfiction books has given me a chance to look deeper into what’s really behind these issues, how they all started, and what keeps them going. 

And I have to admit, these books have been surprisingly insightful. 

They’ve helped me piece things together in a way that makes sense of the world I find myself in. 

They’re actually really good, and if you’re curious to understand the bigger picture, I highly recommend giving them a go.

Must-Read Nonfiction Books About Politics to Read

1. The Bad-Ass Librarians of Timbuktu: And Their Race to Save the World’s Most Precious Manuscripts

The Bad Ass Librarians of Timbuktu

This book tells the story of Abdel Kader Haidara, a librarian in Timbuktu, who risked everything to save thousands of ancient manuscripts from Al Qaeda. 

In 2012, when militants took over the city, Haidara and his team secretly smuggled these priceless texts out of harm’s way. 

It’s inspiring to see how this quiet hero and his team outsmarted the extremists and protected history. 

I love how it shows the power of literature and how one determined person can make a difference in the world.

2. Targeted: Beirut: The 1983 Marine Barracks Bombing and the Untold Origin Story of the War on Terror

Targeted Beirut

This powerful book brings us into the heart of the 1983 bombing of the US Marine barracks in Beirut, which killed 241 servicemen. 

It’s a gripping, emotional story of loss and strength, and the attack’s deep impact on U.S. foreign policy. 

For me, it’s fascinating how these tragic events shaped the course of history and the fight against terrorism. 

This book gives a voice to the survivors and uncovers parts of the story that we might never have heard about otherwise.

3. The Nazi Mind: Twelve Warnings from History

The Nazi Mind

Laurence Rees dives deep into the psychology of the Nazis to help us understand how ordinary people could commit extraordinary horrors. 

This book is both haunting and thought-provoking as it explores twelve warning signs to watch for in today’s leaders, and reminds us of the importance of standing up for humanity. 

It’s such a tough subject, but Rees does a beautiful job of combining history with psychology to give us lessons that still matter today. 

And it’s like a wake-up call to be aware of the world around us.

4. Nine Black Robes: Inside the Supreme Court’s Drive to the Right and Its Historic Consequences

Nine Black Robes

Joan Biskupic’s book gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the Supreme Court during the Trump years. 

She talks about the rise of the conservative majority and the controversial decisions that shaped the country. 

It’s eye-opening and well-researched, with lots of insider details. 

I think what stood out for me was the way the book shows how much internal conflict and intrigue happens within the Court, and how those decisions affect us all. 

This book is a fascinating look at one of the most powerful institutions in the country.

5. Erasing History: How Fascists Rewrite the Past to Control the Future

Erasing History

In this urgent call to action, Jason Stanley warns about the dangerous tactics being used to control education and rewrite history. 

From politicians to political movements, the goal is to erase the progress made on civil rights. 

Stanley’s research is thorough and his message is powerful: we must protect education and fight against these efforts to turn back time. 

It really makes you think about how much is at stake and how we must be vigilant to preserve the freedoms we’ve fought for.

6. On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century

On Tyranny

Timothy Snyder uses lessons from the past to guide us through today’s political challenges. 

He gives us twenty lessons to resist authoritarianism, as he draws from the rise of fascism, Nazism, and communism in the 20th century. 

It’s an empowering read that reminds us that, while things can feel uncertain, history has shown us ways to protect our freedoms. 

This book offers a lot of hope and practical advice for anyone feeling concerned about the future and shows us that democracy requires constant effort.

7. Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad Vibes

Lawless

Leah Litman’s witty yet serious take on the current state of the Supreme Court shows how far the Court has strayed from its legal duties. 

She explains how decisions are increasingly shaped by politics and grievance, rather than law. 

I really appreciate how she makes a complex issue more accessible with humor and pop culture references. 

It’s a wake-up call, but also a fun read if you want to understand what’s going wrong at the highest court in the land.

8. A People’s History of the United States

Peoples History of the United States

Howard Zinn offers a perspective of American history that’s often left out of the textbooks. 

Instead of glorifying the country’s past, Zinn highlights the struggles and injustices faced by everyday people.

For me, it’s one of those books that makes you rethink everything you were taught, in the best way possible. 

It shows that history is not just about the elites, but about the people who fought for change.

9. Imminent: Inside the Pentagon’s Hunt for UFOs by Luis Elizondo

Imminent

Luis Elizondo shares his inside story as the former head of the Pentagon’s UFO investigation program. 

His experiences shed light on government secrets and what we’ve really known about UFOs all along. 

It’s a thrilling read, especially with how it mixes national security and our curiosity about the universe. 

This book dives into the unknown, and it’ll definitely make you look at UFOs—and possibly even our place in the cosmos—differently.

10. Something Lost, Something Gained: Reflections on Life, Love, and Liberty

Something Lost

Hillary Clinton’s reflections on her life offer a candid look at her personal growth, relationships, and experiences. 

From her work in politics to her activism, she shares lessons learned along the way. 

This book is about her career and about how we can all approach life with a sense of purpose, humor, and resilience. 

I love how open she is about her journey, and it’s a beautiful reminder that life is all about learning and evolving, no matter where we are in it.

Best Political Memoirs to Add to Your TBR

1. Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance

Hillbilly Elegy

J.D. Vance’s memoir is a heartfelt look at his tough upbringing in a poor, working-class family in Ohio. 

His family moved up from Kentucky, hoping to escape poverty, but struggles with abuse, addiction, and hardship followed. 

Vance shares how he managed to rise above this to graduate from Yale Law, but still carries the weight of his family’s challenges. 

His story is an honest reflection on the American Dream and the difficulties faced by many in rural, white working-class communities. 

It’s a moving, sometimes humorous, tale of resilience, showing that upward mobility isn’t as simple as it might seem. 

I love how Vance really opens up about his personal struggles, because it gives this book a raw, emotional depth.

2. Lovely One: A Memoir by Ketanji Brown Jackson

Lovely One

In her memoir, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court, takes us through her incredible journey from a young girl inspired by her family’s history to becoming one of the most respected figures in law. 

Her story is full of determination, from fighting for equal rights in a segregated society to excelling in a male-dominated legal world. 

Through trials and triumphs, Jackson reflects on the hard work and sacrifices needed to make it to the top. 

This book is such an inspiring read that shows how perseverance, love for family, and a sense of purpose can guide you through life’s biggest challenges.

3. Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning by Liz Cheney

Oath of Honor

Liz Cheney’s memoir is an eye-opening account of the 2020 election aftermath and the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021. 

She stands as one of the few Republican voices to speak out against the lies spread by Trump and his supporters. 

Liz writes about the danger of betraying the Constitution and the high stakes of protecting democracy. 

Her perspective is so valuable, especially when she shares her first-hand experience and the risks she faced standing up for what’s right. 

Cheney’s courage is inspiring, and her book is a strong call to remember the importance of integrity and truth in politics.

4. Patriot: A Memoir by Alexei Navalny

Patriot

Alexei Navalny’s memoir is powerful and deeply moving. 

A Russian political leader and activist, Navalny fought against the corruption of the Russian government, even after being poisoned. 

He describes his life, his family, and his commitment to his cause with incredible courage. 

His unwavering belief in freedom and justice comes through so clearly. 

It’s heartbreaking to read about his sacrifices, but his strength is a reminder that standing up for what’s right often comes at great personal cost. 

This memoir truly touches the heart and shows us how one person’s fight can make a difference.

5. Freedom: Memoirs 1954 – 2021 by Angela Merkel

Freedom by

In her memoir, Angela Merkel shares the journey of her life from growing up in East Germany to becoming the Chancellor of Germany for 16 years. 

She reflects on the historic changes she witnessed, the challenges of leading through crises, and her personal experiences growing up in a divided country. 

Her story is deeply personal and reveals a strong sense of duty and responsibility. 

What I really admire is how Merkel speaks about freedom, democracy, and the importance of pushing our own limits. 

6. Citizen: My Life After the White House by Bill Clinton

Citizen

Bill Clinton’s memoir takes us through his life after leaving the White House, filled with new challenges and opportunities. 

He reflects on significant world events, like 9/11 and the Great Recession, and shares his personal journey of continued public service. 

Clinton is candid about his frustrations and triumphs, and this book feels like a very personal reflection on both his political life and his role as a family man. 

It’s inspiring how he continues to stay engaged in global issues and uses his experiences to help others. 

And this thoughtful and reflective memoir goes beyond politics to show a man’s commitment to making a difference.

7. Dinners with Ruth: A Memoir on the Power of Friendships by Nina Totenberg

Dinners with Ruth

Nina Totenberg’s memoir is a heartwarming story about her friendship with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. 

It’s a beautiful reflection on the power of friendship, especially as women broke barriers in their careers. 

Totenberg shares her professional and personal life, from her work as an NPR correspondent to the deep bond she shared with Ruth. 

This book is not just about their friendship but also about the strength of women supporting each other through life’s challenges. 

I love how it captures the special connection between two incredible women and the value of true, lasting friendships.

8. Saving Five: A Memoir of Hope by Amanda Nguyen

Saving Five

After surviving a traumatic experience, Amanda Nguyen became a trailblazer in the fight for survivors’ rights, and this led to the creation of the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Bill of Rights. 

Her journey is one of pain, strength, and determination, as she navigates the legal and personal challenges of healing and advocacy. 

I was really moved by how she turned her trauma into a mission to help others. 

9. One Way Back: A Memoir by Christine Blasey Ford

One Way Back

Christine Blasey Ford’s memoir offers an intimate look at her life, especially the harrowing experience of testifying against Judge Brett Kavanaugh in 2018. 

She shares the emotional toll it took, the personal risks she faced, and how she found the strength to stand up for what she believed in. 

Her story is about courage in the face of fear, and it’s inspiring how she handled the intense scrutiny. 

It’s a poignant memoir that shows the importance of truth and standing up for justice, even when the path is uncertain.


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Preye

Hi! I'm Preye ("pre" as in "prepare" and "ye" as in "Kanye"), and I am a lifelong book lover who enjoys talking about books and sharing bits and pieces of all the fascinating things I come across. I love books so much that I decided to become a developmental editor, and right now, I work with authors to help them tell their stories better. On this blog, I share everything from book recommendations to book reviews and writing tips, so feel free to stop by anytime you like!

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