This Week in Nonfiction — Week of May 4, 2026

Nonfiction readers are currently drawn to stories of resilience, courage, and personal growth, with many bestselling titles focusing on themes of trauma, recovery, and self-discovery. The rise of memoirs and essay collections has also led to a renewed interest in storytelling and the human experience, with readers seeking out authentic and relatable voices. As a result, the nonfiction genre has become increasingly diverse, with authors pushing boundaries and exploring new ways to share their stories and connect with readers.

Most Read Nonfiction Books This Week

How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Published: January 1, 1998

This classic self-help book offers timeless advice on building relationships and achieving success. With its enduring popularity, it's a must-read for anyone looking to improve their personal and professional lives.

Stats: 1,168,363 → 1,168,869 (+506) — A steady performer, this book continues to attract new readers with its universal appeal and practical wisdom.

Just Kids by Patti Smith

Published: March 26, 2010

Patti Smith's memoir is a beautifully written account of her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, set against the backdrop of 1970s New York City. It's a story of love, art, and identity.

Stats: 365,126 → 365,564 (+438) — This book's enduring popularity is a testament to the power of Smith's storytelling and the timelessness of her story.

Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon

Published: February 28, 2012

Austin Kleon's book is a inspiring guide to creativity and self-expression, offering practical advice and insights for artists and non-artists alike.

Stats: 342,446 → 342,830 (+384) — With its positive message and engaging style, this book continues to attract readers looking for inspiration and creative guidance.

A Hymn to Life: Shame has to Change Sides by Gisèle Pelicot, Natasha Lehrer, Ruth Diver

Published: February 17, 2026

Gisèle Pelicot's memoir is a courageous and powerful account of her experiences with trauma, abuse, and recovery, offering a message of hope and resilience.

Stats: 16,898 → 18,814 (+1,916) — This book's rapid growth in popularity is a testament to its importance and relevance in today's conversations about trauma and recovery.

Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I’ve Cried About: A Memoir by Isabel Klee

Published: April 28, 2026

Isabel Klee's memoir is a heartwarming and honest account of her life, love, and relationships, with a special focus on her experiences with dogs and rescue work.

Stats: 636 → 1,141 (+505) — With its lighthearted and relatable tone, this book is quickly becoming a favorite among readers looking for uplifting and entertaining memoirs.

Rising in Nonfiction

Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I’ve Cried About: A Memoir by Isabel Klee

Published: April 28, 2026

Isabel Klee's memoir is a heartwarming and honest account of her life, love, and relationships, with a special focus on her experiences with dogs and rescue work.

Stats: 636 → 1,141 (+505, 79.40%) — This book's rapid growth in popularity is a testament to its relatability and the growing interest in memoirs and animal-related stories.

A Hymn to Life: Shame has to Change Sides by Gisèle Pelicot, Natasha Lehrer, Ruth Diver

Published: February 17, 2026

Gisèle Pelicot's memoir is a courageous and powerful account of her experiences with trauma, abuse, and recovery, offering a message of hope and resilience.

Stats: 16,898 → 18,814 (+1,916, 11.34%) — This book's continued growth in popularity reflects its importance and relevance in today's conversations about trauma and recovery.

Monsters in the Archives: My Year of Fear with Stephen King by Caroline Bicks

Published: April 21, 2026

Caroline Bicks's book is a fascinating exploration of Stephen King's early works and creative process, offering a unique perspective on the master of horror.

Stats: 202 → 278 (+76, 37.62%) — With its intriguing premise and insightful analysis, this book is quickly gaining attention among fans of Stephen King and horror enthusiasts.

The Best Dog in the World: Essays on Love by Alice Hoffman

Published: March 10, 2026

This essay collection, edited by Alice Hoffman, celebrates the human-canine bond and features contributions from fourteen beloved authors.

Stats: 2,024 → 2,196 (+172, 8.50%) — With its heartwarming and uplifting tone, this book is attracting readers who appreciate stories about dogs and the power of love and companionship.

North of Ordinary: How One Woman Left It All Behind for Wilderness and Wonder in Alaska's Frozen Frontier by Sue Aikens

Published: March 10, 2026

Sue Aikens's memoir is a story of resilience and self-discovery, as she recounts her experiences living in the Alaskan wilderness and forging a new life.

Stats: 685 → 743 (+58, 8.47%) — This book's steady growth in popularity reflects its appeal to readers who appreciate stories of adventure, survival, and personal growth.

Nonfiction Pick of the Week

A Hymn to Life: Shame has to Change Sides by Gisèle Pelicot, Natasha Lehrer, Ruth Diver, is a courageous and powerful memoir that offers a message of hope and resilience in the face of trauma and abuse. With its rapid growth in popularity and importance in today's conversations, this book is a standout recommendation for nonfiction readers looking for inspiring and thought-provoking stories.