Book List

Best Indie Biographies & Memoirs of 2019

NONFICTION

FROM CINDERS TO BUTTERFLIES

by Richard B. Fratianne

A straightforward and uplifting story of helping others through earnest Christian faith. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

MY SISTER'S MOTHER

by Donna Solecka Urbikas

A painfully beautiful portrayal of an indomitable, loving mother’s survival. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

THIS ALL-AT-ONCENESS

by Julie Wittes Schlack

A thoughtful, witty, and evocative recollection of a life and the convictions that energized it. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

FRONTAL MATTER

by Suzanne Samples

A uniquely poetic memoir with dark humor and profound insights. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

TRIPS

by Arthur W. Goodhart

An engaging picaresque that explores the role of chance and fate inside the casino and out. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

LIFE AS TRAUMA

by Sarah Z. Mitić

A commanding chronicle of focused leadership and admirable humanity. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

More Book Lists

The Magazine: Kirkus Reviews

Featuring 312 industry-first reviews of fiction, nonfiction, children’s, and YA books; also in this special Food Issue: interviews with Adam Roberts, Jill Damatac, Alexander Smalls, and Roselle Lim; and much more

subscribe
  • kirkus star
  • The Kirkus Star

    One of the most coveted designations in the book industry, the Kirkus Star marks books of exceptional merit.

  • kirkus prize
  • The Kirkus Prize

    The Kirkus Prize is among the richest literary awards in America, awarding $50,000 in three categories annually.

Great Books & News Curated For You

Be the first to read books news and see reviews, news and features in Kirkus Reviews. Get awesome content delivered to your inbox every week.

Thank you!

Close Quickview