by 
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site. Your purchases help fund my content and come at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Finding time to read nonfiction books has been one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced while running this blog.
As much as I adore reading, it always feels like fiction takes over, and nonfiction gets left behind.
But this year, I’m making it a priority to read more nonfiction, and I’m excited to add a ton of the new releases coming out in April 2025 to my reading list.
Over the past few months, I’ve been working on finding time to read more, and if you want to see what I’ve been picking up lately, feel free to check out my posts.
This list of upcoming nonfiction books has something for everyone – from powerful memoirs and eye-opening autobiographies to captivating historical texts.
I’m sure you’ll find some great books to add to your own list!
1. Medicine River: A Story of Survival and the Legacy of Indian Boarding Schools by Mary Annette Pember (April 22nd)
This powerful book takes you through the history of Native American boarding schools and the lasting pain they caused.
It’s written by Ojibwe journalist Mary Annette Pember, whose own mother was forced to attend one of these schools.
Pember’s personal story blends with the larger history of Native communities, and this gives a voice to those still healing from this tragic legacy.
It’s eye-opening and full of love, and it shows how generations of families continue to reclaim their culture despite all odds.
2. Rewrite Your Rules: The Journey to Success in Less Time with More Freedom by Morgan DeBaun (April 1st)
If you’re tired of the hustle culture and just want to live a fulfilling life, this is the book for you.
Morgan DeBaun shares her journey and how you can work smarter, not harder.
This book is empowering, practical, and a breath of fresh air for anyone looking to live a meaningful life without burning out.
3. The Rebel Romanov: Julie of Saxe-Coburg, the Empress Russia Never Had by Helen Rappaport (April 15th)
This book tells the incredible story of Julie of Saxe-Coburg, a German princess who was forced into a loveless marriage with Russia’s royal family.
Seeking freedom, she defied royal expectations and followed her own path.
Through heartbreak, bravery, and rebellion, Julie’s life was one of courage, and this book brings her to life in a way history has often overlooked.
4. Poets Square: A Memoir in Thirty Cats by Courtney Gustafson (April 29th)
Courtney Gustafson never expected to become a cat mom to thirty feral cats, but life had other plans.
This memoir is about how caring for these animals changed her life in surprising ways, and taught her about community, survival, and the power of compassion.
It’s a heartwarming, funny, and real look at the messiness of life and the importance of taking care of what matters, even when it’s tough.
5. Change the Recipe: Because You Can’t Build a Better World Without Breaking Some Eggs by José Andrés (April 22nd)
Chef José Andrés, known for both his cooking and humanitarian efforts, shares his life lessons in this book.
This book is about how food can bring people together and how we can all make the world a better place through small, meaningful actions.
His stories are funny, thoughtful, and full of wisdom from his journey through kitchens and disaster zones.
6. The Balance: My Years Coaching Simone Biles by Steve Cooper and Aimee Boorman (April 15th)
This is an insider’s view of what it takes to coach one of the greatest athletes of all time – Simone Biles.
Aimee Boorman, Simone’s longtime coach, shares the highs and lows of helping Simone reach the top.
From navigating gymnastics challenges to overcoming personal struggles, this book offers a behind-the-scenes look at a champion’s journey and what it really takes to be great.
7. Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life by Maggie Smith (April 1st)
If you’re a writer or creative soul, Maggie Smith’s warm, encouraging guide is just what you need.
She breaks down ten key elements of creativity and offers inspiring advice on how to keep going, even when it’s hard.
With writing prompts and heartwarming wisdom, this book will motivate you to embrace your creative journey and keep moving forward with hope.
8. The Determined Spy: The Turbulent Life and Times of CIA Pioneer Frank Wisner by Douglas Waller (April 8th)
Frank Wisner was a key figure in early CIA operations, but his story is more than just espionage.
He was a man of great power and incredible struggle, battling bipolar disorder while navigating covert missions.
This biography paints a complex, human picture of Wisner, and it explores both his successes and his personal battles.
It’s a fascinating read about how his secretive work shaped the Cold War and still impacts global politics today.
9. The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777–1780 by Rick Atkinson (April 29th)
This book covers the middle years of the American Revolution, from 1777 to 1780.
Rick Atkinson talks about George Washington’s army struggling to stay alive while facing battles like Saratoga and Brandywine.
It also shows how the war was affected by the French and Spanish joining the fight against Britain, and the huge sacrifices the Americans made for freedom.
10. Accidentally on Purpose by Kristen Kish (April 22nd)
In her memoir, Kristen Kish shares her story from growing up as a Korean adoptee to becoming the winner and now host of Top Chef.
She talks about the unexpected moments in her life, including coming out, and how these accidents helped her find her purpose.
This one is a story about embracing the twists and turns of life with intention.
11. No New Things: A Radically Simple 30-Day Guide to Saving Money, the Planet, and Your Sanity by Ashlee Piper (April 15th)
Ashlee Piper’s self-help book challenges readers to go 30 days without buying anything new.
By following this simple challenge, she shares how it helped her save money, reduce clutter, and feel healthier.
The book provides easy steps to live a more intentional life, and it focuses on sustainability and mental well-being without losing comfort or style.
12. The Next Day: Transitions, Change, and Moving Forward by Melinda French Gates (April 15th)
Melinda French Gates shares her personal stories about managing life’s big changes, like becoming a parent and leaving the Gates Foundation.
She offers advice on how to handle the uncertain times in life and move forward with confidence.
The book helps readers find strength in moments of change and offers wisdom on how to embrace the next chapter.
This is one I’m personally keen to read because Melinda Gates is one of the most popular influential figures in the world right now and I know there’s a lot to learn from her.
13. Ordinary Time: Lessons Learned While Staying Put by Annie B. Johnson (April 22nd)
Annie B. Johnson’s book shows how a quiet, simple life can be fulfilling.
As someone who stayed in her small town and ran a bookstore, she realized that staying put can lead to deep personal growth.
She challenges the idea that only big, loud lives are valuable, and instead finds beauty and wisdom in staying in one place and embracing ordinary life.
14. How to Fall in Love with Questions: A New Way to Thrive in Times of Uncertainty by Elizabeth Weingarten (April 15th)
Elizabeth Weingarten teaches how to live with uncertainty by embracing life’s big questions instead of rushing to find answers.
Inspired by poet Rainer Maria Rilke and backed by research, she shows that questions can guide us to greater self-discovery.
The book encourages readers to see uncertainty as an opportunity for growth rather than something to fear.
15. Secrets of Adulthood: Simple Truths for Our Complex Lives by Gretchen Rubin (April 1st)
In Secrets of Adulthood, Gretchen Rubin shares easy-to-understand lessons for living a happier and more fulfilling life.
Based on her studies of happiness, she offers simple truths for dealing with challenges like procrastination, decision-making, and relationships.
This book is full of short, insightful sayings that will help readers find clarity in life’s everyday struggles.
16. Strangers in the Land: Exclusion, Belonging, and the Epic Story of the Chinese in America by Michael Luo (April 29th)
Michael Luo’s Strangers in the Land tells the history of Chinese immigrants in America, and it focuses on the racial discrimination they faced.
From early violence to exclusionary laws, it explores the struggles of Chinese Americans to belong in the country.
The book also examines how their story fits into the broader history of race and immigration in America, and it highlights their resilience despite ongoing prejudice.
17. John & Paul: A Love Story in Songs by Ian Leslie (April 8th)
This book explores the deep, complicated relationship between John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
It shows how their bond shaped their music and the world.
Their friendship, marked by love, jealousy, and tension, was central to The Beatles’ success.
Ian Leslie offers a fresh perspective on their connection and the impact it had on creativity, collaboration, and personal growth.
18. America, América: A New History of the New World by Greg Grandin (April 22nd)
Greg Grandin offers a new perspective on the history of North and South America.
He shows how both regions shaped each other’s identities, from the Spanish Conquest to the 20th-century revolutions.
Grandin reveals hidden stories about historical figures and the influence of U.S. interventions.
This book will change how we think about the Americas’ shared history and its impact on the modern world.
19. The Hollow Half: A Memoir of Bodies and Borders by Sarah Aziza (April 22nd)
Sarah Aziza’s memoir explores her family’s Palestinian heritage and her personal journey.
After battling an eating disorder, she uncovers family secrets and reflects on her ancestral trauma.
The book combines poetry and journalism, and it leans into the themes of survival, love, and identity.
Aziza learns to assert herself while honoring her ancestors and confronts the contradictions in her history.
20. Shots Heard Round the World: America, Britain, and Europe in the Revolutionary War by John Ferling (April 1st)
John Ferling provides a global view of the Revolutionary War, and it reveals pivotal moments and the broader impacts of the conflict.
He highlights key military and civilian decisions and the involvement of European nations like France and Spain.
This comprehensive history re-examines why Britain failed to crush the rebellion early on and the long-lasting consequences of the war.
21. The Acid Queen: The Psychedelic Life and Counterculture Rebellion of Rosemary Woodruff Leary by Susannah Cahalan (April 22nd)
This book reveals the life of Rosemary Woodruff Leary, a key figure in the psychedelic movement.
Known for her connection to Timothy Leary, she was instrumental in popularizing LSD.
Susannah Cahalan highlights Rosemary’s contributions to the counterculture and her personal sacrifices.
This is a groundbreaking account that restores Rosemary’s voice and legacy in psychedelic history.
22. Conquering Crisis: Ten Lessons To Learn Before You Need Them by William H. McRaven (April 22nd)
Admiral William McRaven shares practical lessons from his military career to help readers thrive in crises.
He uses personal stories to explain how to lead, stay calm, and make strong decisions when faced with challenges.
McRaven’s wisdom offers a guide to becoming resilient, taking charge in tough situations, and leading with purpose and clarity.
23. The Last American Road Trip by Sarah Kendzior (April 1st)
Sarah Kendzior chronicles her family’s road trips across America during a time of political and social turmoil.
As a journalist, she explores the decline of democracy while showing her children the country’s beauty.
This book blends memoir, history, and political analysis, reflecting on America’s changing landscape and the author’s struggle to believe in the nation’s future.
24. A Billion Butterflies: A Life in Climate and Chaos Theory by Dr. Jagadish Shukla (April 22nd)
Dr. Jagadish Shukla tells his inspiring life story, from growing up in rural India to becoming a leader in climate science.
He revolutionized weather forecasting and helped save lives and prepare for natural disasters.
This memoir shares his journey, struggles, and dedication to improving our understanding of the climate, offering hope for a changing world.
I’d love to hear which books stand out to you or if you’ve already read any of them – feel free to share your thoughts with me!
And if you’re looking for more book ideas, I’ve got you covered!
Check out these related posts with even more great releases:
- 19 Romance Books Coming Out in April 2025
- 18 Science Fiction and Fantasy Books Coming Out in April 2025
- 20+ Fiction Books Coming Out in April 2025
- 20+ Thriller Books Coming Out in April 2025
