It’s no secret that the lives of famous people are interesting. These autobiographies by some of the highest-achieving people in the world are at turns poignant, funny and heartbreaking – but always leave you with a lesson learned. Here’s our pick of the autobiographies you need on your bookshelf.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Becoming is an intimate, powerful and inspiring tale of former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama’s many roles. The refreshingly honest memoir dives deep into Obama’s roots as well as her time in the White House and her life as a mother.
Find it here.
Agni ki Udaan by APJ Abdul Kalam
Former President of India APJ Abdul Kalam recounts his early life and his breakthrough into Indian space research in his memoir Agni Ki Udaan (Wings of Fire).
Find it here.
I am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai
The Nobel Peace Prize winner won accolades for her candid autobiography, which begins with the fateful day that changed her life: the day she was shot in the head and miraculously managed to survive.
Find it here.
Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain
Bourdain was beloved to all for his frankness and his love for cultures and cuisine. The late chef stays true to form in this New York Times bestselling memoir, which features a veritable buffet of crazy stories from the culinary industry.
Find it here.
My Story: 50 Memories from 50 Years of Service by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
This recent release is one of three autobiographies by the Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai. Packed with anecdotes from his own life, this memoir is a must-read for those looking for lessons about leadership, governance and service.
Find it here.
Bossypants by Tina Fey
Comedian extraordinaire Tina Fey documents her journey from middle-school nerd to Saturday Night Live star in this rip-roaringly funny autobiography. Fey reveals all, and proves what we’ve all suspected: you’re no one until someone calls you bossy.
Find it here.
Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me by Lily Collins
Lily Collins is unabashedly herself off-screen, and this book is no exception. She opens up to readers about the realities of being human – body image, self-confidence, relationships and family alike – in her honest and poignant memoir.
Find it here.
Read Next: Five Emerging Female Writers You Should Read