My Favorite NONFICTION Books From 2017

As you probably figured out from my earlier post about my favorite fiction books from last year, fantasy is my favorite genre. I’ve been trying to read more nonfiction books recently, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how much I’ve enjoyed them.

For me, it’s vital that nonfiction books let me get caught up in the story or provide information that is applicable to my life. Here are the nonfiction books that captured my attention last year.

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Happier at Home by Gretchen Rubin

The author of The Happiness Project follows up her exploration of happiness and habits with this book aimed at how she can improve her life at home. By experimenting on herself (and sometimes others), Rubin seeks to make her home a more organized, welcoming, memory-filled place for her and her family.

I really enjoyed Rubin’s previous book on happiness—I’m fascinated by the topics of psychology, personality, and how different people define happiness. Her books not only helped me figure out and better articulate what makes me tick, they also give insight on better relating to other people. Some of these insights have been especially valuable as I’ve been navigating the pitfalls of chronic illnesses and the changes they have made in my life. Also, I especially enjoy the quotes Rubin includes. (I’m a collector of quotes myself.)

Factory Girls: From Village to City in a Changing China by Leslie T. Chang

Using her background in reporting, Chang explores everyday life in China’s Dongguan region, where the new norm is for the youngest generation to move to massive factory cities for work. These migrants brave ridiculously long hours and unbelievable living and working conditions as they aim to move up in the factory hierarchy. The author also delves into her family’s history, offering a personal perspective on how China’s history has been altered and lost during political change.

There’s something almost dystopian about these factory cities in China, and the way “progress” has caused an upheaval of value and culture. I couldn’t stop reading, both because the girls in the book lead such whirlwind lives that seem so foreign, but also because the things that drive them are so universal: hope for a new career, social status, self-betterment, romance, wealth, “arriving.” A very eye opening read.

I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai with Christina Lamb

Despite increasing pressure and threats from the Taliban, Malala continued to defend the right to education in her country, Pakistan. She survived being shot by the Taliban and has gained international recognition for her continued efforts on behalf of boys and girls around the world.

I’ve been meaning to read this remarkable young woman’s story for some time. This book provides a fascinating chance to see the world through someone else’s eyes, and a poignant reminder that access to education is unfortunately not universal. Malala doesn’t think of herself as a hero, and I am impressed by both her humility and bravery.

Sick and Tired (Sick & Tired Series Book 1) by Kimberly Rae

Drawing from her own experience with chronic illness, including living with a cyst on her brain, Rae offers practical advice and encouragement founded on her relationship with God.

This book is so helpful for those of us who are sick of being sick! I found myself underlining quite a lot. The tone is conversational, like talking over coffee with a trusted friend. It’s a short read too, which I appreciated. It feels accessible, unlike some books about health/illness that try to be encyclopedic and look daunting just because of how thick they are. Rae discusses illness with candor, not falling into the trap of offering pat answers, and best of all, she does so with faith and a great sense of humor.

I equally recommend the other books in her series, Why Doesn’t God Fix It? and You’re Sick, They’re Not–Relationship Help for People with Chronic Illness and Those Who Love Them.

(Shout out to my Mom for buying these books for me!)

The Magnolia Story by Chip Gaines and Joanna Gaines with Mark Dagostino

Tells the story of Chip and Jo of Fixer Upper and how they got started flipping houses before they landed a TV show. The book recounts humorous stories starting with how Chip and Jo met, to how they started and lost a dream business, to how they kept going to get where they are today.   

You know you love shiplap as much as I do. This book goes behind the scenes of demo day and design to share who Chip and Jo are. What I liked best about this book is Chip and Jo talk about their faith and honestly recount the struggles and challenges they’ve faced pursuing their dream. There were many times they could have given up, but they remained committed to their dream and to each other. An inspiring read.

(Shout out to my grandma for lending me this book!)

Which of these books are you most interested in reading? What’s on your to-read list for this year?

Want more books? Here are my favorite nonfiction books from 2018.