Biography & Autobiography

The Fall: The Mystery of Robert Maxwell In 1991, Robert Maxwell made a triumphant entrance into Manhattan harbour, aboard his yacht, the Lady Ghislaine, to complete his purchase of the ailing New York Daily News. Just ten months later, he disappeared...

Robert Falcon Scott's journals, first published in 1913, tell the tragic story of his ill-fated expedition to the South Pole in 1912. The journals were found after Scott's body was discovered, and this annotated edition draws on 90 years of reflection to...

Jon Krakauer's Into the Wild is a gripping true story of a young man's quest for independence. In April 1992, Chris McCandless set off alone into the Alaskan wilderness, leaving behind his possessions and savings, determined to live a life of...

Andrée Blouin's autobiography is a powerful account of her journey as an African revolutionary. Born in French Equatorial Africa and abandoned at a young age, Blouin's early life was marked by neglect and abuse, but she eventually found her voice and...

My Father and Other Working-class Football Heroes is a poignant and moving account of the author's search for the man his father was and the life he led as a well-known footballer. Gary Imlach explores the highs and lows of his father's career, from his...

James Herriot's third volume of memoirs offers a unique glimpse into the life of a country vet in the Yorkshire Dales, contrasting with his training as an RAF pilot in London.As he navigates the demands of military service, Herriot finds himself...

The Mitford family is one of the century's most enigmatic, made notorious by their public lives. Yet, behind the headlines, lies a complex and deeply absorbing memoir. Jessica Mitford's Hons and Rebels is a witty and light-hearted account of her isolated...

Errol Flynn's autobiography is a colourful and witty account of his remarkable life, spanning exotic travels, passionate love affairs, and violent confrontations. In this highly readable and uncensored version, Flynn reveals himself and his life story as...

Just About Coping: A Real Life Drama from the Psychotherapist's ChairThis honest and often poignant memoir offers a unique insight into the world of psychotherapy, where the boundaries between therapist and patient are blurred. Dr Natalie Cawley shares...

Michael Ball's life was forever changed when he landed the lead role in the musical Aspects of Love in 1989. This moment marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would take him to the heights of success and beyond.Thirty years on, Michael...

A Life Lost by Cathy Glass is a heart-wrenching true story about a young boy's turbulent past and the carer who helped him heal. When Kayla, Jackson's mother, can no longer cope with his challenging behaviour, she makes the difficult decision to put him...

Naomi Campbell is a phenomenon in the fashion industry, with a career spanning nearly four decades. This book showcases her trailblazing work, both on and off the catwalk, featuring over 20 of her most eloquent ensembles. The book includes a specially...

Sir Ernest Shackleton's ill-fated expedition to cross the Antarctic continent in 1914 ended in disaster when a ship carrying a vital lifeline of supplies became stranded in the Ross Sea. Ten men were left to fend for themselves with little more than the...

Spanning over half a century, this memoir takes readers on a journey through the author's life, from his vibrant childhood in Cuba, Hawaii, and Venezuela, to his early days in London and the start of his music career. The story is deeply personal, with...

Bernie Ecclestone, the billionaire behind Formula One, reveals the untold story of his life in this candid and revealing biography. From his humble beginnings selling second-hand cars in London to his rise as a global business mogul, Ecclestone shares...

Sigrid Nunez's poignant memoir of Susan Sontag is a deeply felt tribute to a cultural icon. The author first met Sontag as an aspiring writer, and the two began a relationship that would profoundly influence Nunez's life and work. Sontag's influence was...

Cato Pedder's Moederland is a groundbreaking exploration of the complex history of South Africa, told through the lives of women who have been silenced by time. Spanning centuries, from the early days of the Dutch East India Company to the tumultuous...

Growing up with a father who was a monster was like living in a war zone. Tom Mitchelson's childhood was marked by unspeakable acts of violence and abuse, but he never dared speak out. Instead, he found solace in a kindly teacher who became a source of...

Rocky Marciano's remarkable story is one of unyielding dedication and the darker side of ambition. The only heavyweight champion to retire undefeated, Marciano's 49-0 record is a testament to his unrelenting pursuit of greatness. From his humble...

A Foreign Field by Ben Macintyre is a gripping tale of survival, love, and betrayal set against the backdrop of World War I. In August 1914, four young British soldiers find themselves stranded behind enemy lines in rural France, where they are taken in...

The Yellow House: A Turbulent Creative OutpouringOctober to December 1888, a small French town in the south of France, was the setting for a remarkable nine-week period in the lives of two artistic giants, Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin. The two men...

Ethel: The Biography of Countryside Pioneer Ethel HaythornthwaiteThis biography tells the story of Ethel Haythornthwaite, a pioneering figure in the world of countryside living. Helen Mort's in-depth exploration of Ethel's life sheds new light on her...

Dr Rageshri Dhairyawan's experience of being denied pain medication while in hospital as a patient had a profound impact on her understanding of the healthcare system. She realized that a fundamental flaw in the way medicine is practiced lies in the...

Discover the stories of 15 fearless and inspirational women who changed history. From pirates to Supreme Court justices, these women have fought for their rights, defended their countries, and made inspiring art. This collection of biographies and quick...

Elizabeth I and the Art of Queenship is a sumptuously illustrated book that explores the powerful role of art in the Tudor court. During her reign, the English monarch was elevated to the status of a virgin goddess, thanks to the 'Cult of Gloriana', a...

This memoir tells the story of Curtis Chin's childhood growing up as a gay Chinese American in 1980s Detroit. A safe haven for the community was Chung's Cantonese Cuisine, where people from all walks of life could gather for a warm meal. It was here that...

Christian Dior's most famous perfume was inspired by his younger sister Catherine, who played a pivotal role in shaping his vision of femininity. This book tells the story of their relationship and Catherine's experiences during World War II, including...

Sam Delaney's honest and humorous account of his journey towards mental health and recovery is a testament to the power of opening up and seeking help.From his confident exterior to the struggles he faced with anxiety and depression, Sam shares his raw...

A harrowing and inspiring true story of a young boy's abusive childhood, where love, kindness, patience and endurance ultimately triumph.Brutally beaten and starved by his emotionally unstable and alcoholic mother, Dave Pelzer was forced into a life of...

A Woman in Berlin: Diary 20 April 1945 to 22 June 1945 This is a deeply affecting account of life in Berlin during the final months of World War II. Written in a stark and vivid diary, the author recounts her experiences, observations, and meditations as...

Martin Luther: A Very Short Introduction by Scott H. Hendrix This concise biography presents a nuanced understanding of Martin Luther, a pivotal figure in European history. Historian Scott Hendrix sheds light on the context in which Luther worked,...

Bryce Wilson's memoir is a warm and humorous account of growing up in post-WWII Orkney, where the author, a native of Stromness, reflects on his life and the people who shaped it.From his childhood friendships with notable figures from Orkney's cultural...

Travelling On the Path of Joni MitchellA vibrant and multifaceted portrait of a music enigma, this book explores the life and career of legendary artist Joni Mitchell. Celebrated music critic Ann Powers delves into Mitchell's life, tracing her journey...

Catherine of Aragon suffered years of miscarriages and failed to produce a male heir, while Anne Boleyn's marriage to Henry changed England forever. Her replacement, Jane Seymour, was a contrast to Anne Boleyn's radical style, and her own marriage ended...

The Last Landlady: An English Memoir by Laura Thompson Laura Thompson's memoir is a poignant tribute to the English pub, a place where her grandmother, Violet, embodied the essence of its atmosphere. Born in a London pub, Violet became the first woman to...

Ronnie Field's Nefarious: A Life in Crime is a raw and honest portrayal of a life in the fast lane of organised crime. Born into an abusive childhood, Field's journey into crime was inevitable, and he soon found himself entangled in the notorious...

Down and Out in Paris and London is a powerful and thought-provoking account of the author's experiences living among the working poor in two of Europe's most troubled cities. In the 1930s, Orwell chronicled the sense of profound injustice, incipient...

A deeply honest investigation of what it means to be a woman and a commodity, Emily Ratajkowski's My Body is a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of female identity and the societal pressures that shape our bodies. With unflinching...

The Triumph of Henry Cecil: The Authorized BiographyBy Tony Rushmer, with a foreword by John GosdenThis is the remarkable story of Henry Cecil's incredible comeback, from the depths of despair to the pinnacle of success. In the face of personal and...

From Cradle to Stage shares the remarkable stories of mothers who raised children who became rock stars. Virginia Grohl, the mother of Foo Fighters' frontman Dave Grohl, embarked on a two-year journey to interview other celebrity mothers and explore the...

Catherine of Aragon: Henry's Spanish Queen Catherine of Aragon was a woman of remarkable passion and steel, who left an indelible mark on English history. Born into a family of conquistadors, she inherited her parents' fierce determination and led the...

The relationship between a monarch and their child is complex and unique. Ingrid Seward, a renowned royal biographer, offers a candid look at the late Queen's relationship with her son, the King. This book is a vivid portrait of their bond, revealing the...

Nina Stibbe's new book is a warm and funny story of a woman changing her life at 60. After twenty years away, she returns to London for a year-long sabbatical, leaving behind a life she thought she knew.As she navigates this new chapter, Stibbe discovers...

Down with the System: A Memoir by Serj Tankian Serj Tankian, the lead singer-lyricist of Grammy award-winning metal band System Of A Down, shares his extraordinary life story in this debut memoir. Born to Armenian immigrant parents, Tankian's journey is...

Brian Clough: The Autobiography A life of football, controversy, and triumph, as told by one of the game's most charismatic managers. From his early days as a gifted player to his later successes as a manager, Brian Clough's story is one of unapologetic...

Lenny McLean's life was a complex mix of violence and loyalty, of powerful friends and deadly enemies. His story is one of a man who fought to survive, to protect those he cared about, and to overcome the odds that stood in his way. From the streets of...

Malidoma Somé's life-changing journey of discovery, healing, and wisdom is a testament to the power of embracing one's heritage and the natural world. Born into a traditional Dagara culture, Malidoma's story begins with his forced departure from his...

Jilly Cooper's The Common Years is a poignant and engaging portrait of life on a London green. Over the course of ten years, Cooper lived at the edge of Putney Common, where she kept a daily diary, recording her observations of the natural world and the...

Discover the extraordinary life of Captain Sir Richard Francis Burton, a man whose real-life accomplishments are the stuff of legend. This gripping biography, first published as a New York Times best-seller, sheds light on Burton's remarkable adventures...

The Mountbattens, a partnership of power and intrigue, is revealed in a rich and nuanced exploration of the lives of Dickie and Edwina Mountbatten. As Supreme Allied Commander and last Viceroy of India, Dickie played a pivotal role in shaping the course...

Sheila Heti's Alphabetical Diaries is a deeply personal and introspective work, spanning ten years and comprising a collection of sentences arranged alphabetically from A to Z. This unique and innovative book is reminiscent of the works of Joe Brainard...

Jean-Michel Basquiat's life was a whirlwind of art, fame, and excess, as he transitioned from the streets of New York to the gallery scene. But behind the glamour and success, a young artist struggled with the pressures of his newfound fame. This is his...

A. A. Gill's memoir begins with a stark and intimate scene: a darkened dormitory where he is an alcoholic, dying in the last-chance saloon. He recounts his struggles with drinking, recalling both the devastating effects and the fleeting moments of...

For Sarah Hepola, alcohol was a source of freedom, but it came at a cost. She often blacked out, waking up with a blank space where four hours should be. As she struggled to piece together her life, she began to realize that the fuel she thought she...

A harrowing account of exploitation and abuse, I Never Gave My Consent is a courageous memoir that sheds light on the darkest corners of human trafficking. At just 14, Holly Archer's life was forever changed when she became embroiled in a web of violence...

Cathy Glass recounts the remarkable story of one boy who defied the odds. Tayo, a young boy with a shrouded past, arrives at her foster care, with only the clothes on his back. Despite his polished demeanor, Tayo's history is a mystery, with no record of...

Discover the lives of the most fascinating and unconventional characters of recent times, as carefully curated from The Times archive. This book brings together 85 obituaries of individuals who have led lives far from ordinary, from politicians and...

Genghis Khan is one of history's most enduring figures, a leader driven by a vision for a peaceful world. He united warring clans to create a nation, then an empire that stretched across much of Asia. Under his grandson Kublai, this vision evolved into a...

The Hacienda: A Memoir of Music, Money and Mayhem Peter Hook, co-founder of Joy Division and New Order, shares his unflinching account of the rise and fall of Manchester's iconic Hacienda club. A story of excess, violence and the darker side of success,...

The Hare with Amber Eyes: A Hidden Inheritance Edmund de Waal's discovery of a collection of 264 intricately carved netsuke in his great uncle's Tokyo apartment sparked a journey through generations of his remarkable family. The netsuke, a small wooden...

Roger Federer's remarkable journey to the top of tennis is a testament to his unwavering dedication and unrelenting passion. With exclusive access to his inner circle, including coaches and key competitors, Christopher Clarey delivers a thrilling...

Eric Liddell was a man of unwavering conviction, whose athletic prowess was matched only by his unshakeable faith. The 1924 Paris Olympics, where he won gold in the 400 metres, was a testament to his remarkable talent, but also to the deeply held values...

Uprooting: A lyrical exploration of home and identity, set against the backdrop of a tranquil English countryside garden. Marchelle Farrell's journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with the complexities of colonialism and her own place within...

A heartwarming true story of self-discovery and connection through books. Nanako Hanada's life has hit rock bottom, but reading books is the only thing keeping her alive. Recently separated and struggling to find purpose, she turns to an online meet-up...

Stephen King's Danse Macabre is a unique blend of fantasy and autobiography, exploring the horror phenomenon in popular culture. The book ranges across the spectrum of horror, from seminal classics like Dracula and Frankenstein, to King's own inimitable...

William Shakespeare: The World as a Stage A masterful biography of the Bard, Bill Bryson sets the record straight about the life and works of one of the most enigmatic figures in history. By examining centuries of myths, half-truths and downright lies,...

Peter Schmeichel's autobiography is a candid and insightful look at his remarkable life and career. The former Manchester United goalkeeper shares stories of his time at the club, including the unforgettable 1999 Champions League final, and the unique...

Lady Gaga: Applause is a comprehensive history of the musician's ever-evolving and often unpredictable career. At the helm of the Haus of Gaga, Lady Gaga is a performance artist like no other, known for her forward-thinking fashions and innovations. This...

Karma My Autobiography is the unflinching and humorous memoir from Boy George, the iconic frontman of Culture Club. Born from the tumultuous 1960s and 1970s, Boy George's story is one of self-discovery, love, loss, and redemption. With unbridled honesty,...

The Archaeology of Loss: A Companion for Grief Sarah Tarlow's memoir is a deeply personal and unflinching exploration of grief, drawing on her own experience of losing her husband to an undiagnosed illness. As an archaeologist, Tarlow brings a unique...

Cold Crematorium: A haunting eyewitness account of the Holocaust, now translated into English for the first time. József Debreczeni, a journalist and poet, survived the unimaginable after being sent to Auschwitz in 1944. His story, written in lyrical...

Sir Ranulph Fiennes recounts the legendary Antarctic expedition and loss of the Endurance, a story of survival and adventure. In 1915, Shackleton's ship became trapped in ice and eventually sank, but what followed became one of the most enthralling...

At the Stroke of Eternity is a deeply personal and thought-provoking account of a remarkable near-death experience. Amber Cavanagh, an empath, healer, and psychic medium, shares her extraordinary story of catching a glimpse of the Other Side. This...

On the remote Shetland archipelago, Jen Hadfield found a new life, one that was deeply rooted in the islands' unique culture and breathtaking landscapes. Over seventeen years, she learned new ways to live, surrounded by a close-knit community of...

Following the sudden death of her brother, Sarah Sands embarked on a profound journey to understand the mystery of his soul. With a pilgrim map left for her, she set out to follow the tides of ideas and music that had shaped his life, tracing a path from...

Niki Lauda's life was forever changed in 1976 when he suffered a near-fatal crash at the Nurburgring circuit. Despite being given the last rites, he made a remarkable recovery and returned to racing just 33 days later. In "To Hell and Back: An...

Daisy May Cooper's memoir is a hilarious and endearing account of her life, from growing up in rural poverty to finding success in comedy. With her trademark irreverence and humor, Cooper shares stories of her struggles and misadventures, from working...

Cathy Rentzenbrink's Dear Reader is a heartfelt love letter to reading and its power to bring comfort and joy. The book is a moving exploration of how stories can change the course of our lives, and how they can help us navigate even the darkest of times...

Ben Goldsmith's story is one of profound loss and unexpected healing. In the summer of 2019, his 15-year-old daughter Iris died in an accident on their family farm in Somerset. The tragedy left Ben reeling, but as he struggled to come to terms with his...

Dusty Springfield: A Life of Contrasts Dusty Springfield's music career spanned over three decades, with a string of top ten hits in the 1960s that cemented her status as a global icon. Her unique voice and distinctive style, combined with her iconic...

The Mystery In Being A Gypsy by Gentylia Lee is a powerful exploration of the experiences of the Romani people in England. The author shares her personal story, shedding light on the challenges faced by this often-misunderstood community. Gentylia Lee's...

The Child Bride by Cathy Glass is a heart-wrenching true story of a young girl's desperate bid for freedom. At just 14, Zeena is forced into a life of servitude and abuse, her only hope of escape a plea to be taken in by a non-Asian family.When Zeena is...

Fatwa Living with a Death Threat is a heart-wrenching account of a young woman's struggle for survival in a foreign land. After a chance encounter, Jacky found herself swept up in a whirlwind romance and marriage, but her dreams of a new life were...

Elton John's life story is one of drama, passion, and transformation. Born Reginald Dwight, he rose to fame as a pop star in his early twenties, performing in America and becoming an international sensation. However, behind the spotlight, Elton struggled...

The Supervet's remarkable story is one of love, hope, and faith, as revealed in this inspiring memoir. Noel Fitzpatrick shares the heart-warming and often surprising tales of the animals he has treated in his remarkable career, and the lessons they have...

Jeremy Hutchinson's Case Histories is a fascinating episodic cultural history of post-war Britain, chronicling the end of deference and secrecy, and the advent of a more permissive society. Thomas Grant brings together Hutchinson's greatest legal hits,...

The Brothers Grimm: A Biography by Ann Schmiesing The lives of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, known to history as the Brothers Grimm, are a testament to the power of sibling bond and intellectual curiosity. For over two centuries, their work on mythology,...

Hitler's Pope: The Secret History of Pius XII The story of Eugenio Pacelli, the Pope who became Pius XII, is one of the most complex and contentious in modern history. As Vatican Secretary of State, Pacelli signed a deal with Hitler in 1933 that...

Waterlog: A Swimmer's Journey Through BritainJoin Roger Deakin on a fascinating journey through the British Isles, as he swims through its rivers, streams, lakes, and seas. From the sea to the landlocked, Deakin discovers the magic of water and the...

Robbie Williams' life story has been the subject of much speculation and rumour. For the first time, a comprehensive and intimate account of his extraordinary life has been written. Chris Heath, who spent nearly two years working with Robbie, brings a...

Taylor Swift: a cultural phenomenon and a worldwide obsession. This book is an intimate look at the life and music of modern pop's most legendary figure, told by leading music journalist Rob Sheffield. A teenage girl who turns into the world's favorite...

Acid for the Children: The Autobiography of Flea, the Red Hot Chili Peppers Legend Born in Melbourne, Australia, Michael Peter Balzary's life took a dramatic turn when his family moved to Westchester, New York, where he grew up in a household marked by...

Discover the story behind the iconic musical Aspects of Love, and the life of its star, Michael Ball. In 1989, Ball landed the lead role in the show, marking a turning point in his career and personal life. This memoir takes readers backstage into the...

Love and Let Die: A Cultural History of the Beatles and Bond The Beatles and James Bond - two cultural touchstones that continue to shape our aspirations and fantasies. Released on the same day in 1962, 'Dr No' and 'Love Me Do' marked a pivotal moment in...

John Lydon's autobiography is a candid and introspective look at a life of controversy and creativity. Born into a post-war London, Lydon's early years were marked by illness and a strong sense of identity. As the lead singer of the Sex Pistols, he...

Tina Turner's autobiography is a dramatic and poignant account of her life in the spotlight. From her early years to her rise to fame and beyond, Tina candidly examines her personal history, sharing stories of love, loss, and triumph. The book reveals...

Edna O'Brien's memoir, "Country Girl", offers a glimpse into the life of a writer who has lived through high drama and contemplation. Born in Ireland in 1930, O'Brien has created a body of work that bears comparison with the best writers of the twentieth...

Just A Child: Exposing Britain's Biggest Child Abuse Scandal At just 14, Sammy Woodhouse was promised a future by a man who would turn out to be a ringleader of a notorious child sex ring. This is her story of survival, bravery and the fight for justice...

Elie Wiesel's masterpiece is a candid and deeply poignant account of his survival as a teenager in the Nazi death camps. This new translation by Marion Wiesel presents the author's original intent in the language and spirit that is truest to his work...

Carol Vorderman's Now What? On a Mission to Fix Broken Britain is a candid and humorous exploration of the UK's political landscape. The author argues that politics affects every aspect of our lives, yet often feels inaccessible to those who don't...