Four Memoirs to Read this Summer

“One benefit of Summer was that each day we had more light to read by.” ~ Jeanette Walls, The Glass Castle

It’s my favorite season—summer! It’s the perfect time to grab a good book, head to your favorite reading spot, and relax in the warm, sunny weather. The question is: what book are you going to read?

Personally, one of my favorite genres is memoir. I love reading other people’s stories, hearing about the trials and triumphs of their lives, and learning from their wisdom and personal experiences. I find inspiration and encouragement from the unique perspectives memoirs offer.

What’s the Difference?

Many people wonder how memoirs and biographies differ. Let me explain:

A memoir is a collection of personal stories about an author’s life. It contains memories and life lessons written by the author and told from their point of view. Memoirs focus either on a particular topic or a certain time in the author’s life.

A biography is a historical account of someone’s life, either written by the author (an autobiography) or another person. Biographies document a complete timeline of events and achievements in an author’s life.

Although both are stories about someone’s life, memoirs are more personal and topical while biographies are more general and factual.

Top Four Memoir Recommendations

Every time I read a memoir, I’m reminded of the impact personal stories have to inspire, encourage, and validate readers’ lives. Even when I cannot relate directly to an author's circumstances, I still learn valuable lessons from their experiences. Memoirs are one genre I return to because of the human connection between author and reader, the relatability of hardship, confusion, joy, and prosperity depicted within their life's unique journey.

Here are four of my favorite memoirs:

1. "Educated" by Tara Westover

Rating: 5/5 stars

Topic: childhood abuse, religion, education, coming-of-age, resilience, self-discovery

Description Excerpt: “Educated is an account of the struggle for self-invention. It is a tale of fierce family loyalty, and the grief that comes of severing one’s closest ties. With the acute insight that distinguishes all great writers, Westover has crafted a universal coming-of-age story that gets to the heart of what an education is and what it offers: the perspective to see one’s life through new eyes, and the will to change it.”

Why I liked it: This was the first memoir I ever read, and it changed my life. I didn’t connect to every part of Tara’s story, but I could relate to moments of her emotional journey. What I loved most about Educated was the authenticity behind Tara’s writing. I could see every setting, feel every sentiment, hear every response. As a reader, I felt a part of Tara’s story, and I appreciated the wisdom of her perspective as she untangled the trauma of her past to discover a healthy future. It was an eye-opening, daring, and unbelievable read of resiliency, love, and determination.

2. "Between Two Kingdoms" by Suleika Jaouad

Rating: 5/5 stars

Topic: cancer diagnosis, life challenges, beginning again, moving forward amidst tragedy, self-rediscovery

Description Excerpt: “When [Jaouad] finally walked out of the cancer ward four years later—after countless rounds of chemo, a clinical trial, and a bone marrow transplant—she was, according to the doctors, cured. But as she would soon learn, a cure is not where the work of healing ends; it’s where it begins…Between Two Kingdoms is a profound chronicle of survivorship and a fierce, tender, and inspiring exploration of what it means to begin again.”

Why I liked it: Suleika’s story is unlike anything I have personally experienced. Her battle with cancer completely transformed her life; it changed everything she wanted it to be. Yet, even through the pain, trials, and heartbreak, Suleika finds hope, determination, and courage to fight for her health, learn from others, keep memories alive, and teach her readers how to value every facet of life’s joys and sorrows. Although I didn’t relate much to her story, something within her journey resonated with me. Suleika’s writing is stellar, and the message she shares will positively impact your life. 

3.  "I’m Glad My Mom Died" by Jennette McCurdy

Rating: 5/5 stars

Topic: childhood abuse, fame, eating disorder, therapy, self-recovery

Description Excerpt: “A heartbreaking and hilarious memoir by iCarly and Sam & Cat star Jennette McCurdy about her struggles as a former child actor…and how she retook control of her life…Told with refreshing candor and dark humor, I’m Glad My Mom Died is an inspiring story of reliance, independence, and the joy of shampooing your own hair.”

Why I liked it: Don’t let the title fool you, I’m Glad My Mom Died is an incredible read. (No, she’s not “glad” her mom died, she’s grateful for the healing, therapy, and clarity that’s happened since her mom’s passing). Jennette tells her story with personality, authenticity, and frankness, adding commentary with sincere humor that readers can appreciate because even hard things in life need laughing about sometimes. Every part of Jennette’s story felt real, like even though I didn’t live through the trauma of her life, I could still relate to her feelings, emotions, opinions, and complicated relationships. It was a thought-provoking, honest, and entertaining read bar none.

4. "Redeemed" by Rebecca Kolenda

Rating: 5/5 stars; biased, but you can be the judge after you read it. :)

Topic: childhood trauma, faith, education, anxiety, identity, resilience, self-worth

Description Excerpt: “Through the lens of personal reflection, Rebecca shares her lifelong struggle to break free from fear and reclaim her life’s identity…With each turn of the page, Rebecca aims to impart invaluable life lessons guided by the wisdom of Scripture and the love of a merciful Savior. Redeemed is more than just a memoir; it is a testament to resiliency and the enduring power of faith to restore even the most damaged self-image. Rebecca’s story is a beacon of hope, reminding us that no matter what we believe about ourselves, our true identity is found in Christ alone.”

Why I liked it: I saved the best for last—my own memoir! You may think I’m biased, but I believe Redeemed is an inspirational read meant to make a difference. It is not just my life’s story of trauma and identity, but a story of God’s grace and redemption. What I value most about my memoir are the life lessons learned within each chapter, and the transparency by which I tell my story. It uncovers the reality of anxiety, fear, and perfectionism while reiterating the redemptive power of salvation. My memoir is an insightful read full of hope, grace, purpose, and restoration.

* If you're interested in reading my memoir, pre-order is available now! Click the link below to purchase:

Pre-Order Here

What’s Next?

Well, now it’s time to read! Grab a book, find a relaxing spot, and enjoy the life-changing experience of a new read! Make summer 2024 one to remember—maybe by reading more memoirs?

Other memoirs I recommend:

• Becoming by Michelle Obama

• Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

• The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

• Becoming Free Indeed by Jinger Duggar Vuolo

“We read to know we are not alone.” ~ C.S. Lewis