Biography & Autobiography

The Jimmy Greaves We Knew celebrates the life and career of a football legend through the memories of those who knew him best. Friends, family, team-mates, the media, and fans share stories of a charismatic and witty individual who built a reputation for...

Betty Boothroyd's autobiography is a candid and insightful account of her life in politics. Born into a working-class family in 1929, Betty grew up with a strong sense of values that would shape her career. She recounts her early experiences as a...

Franco Corelli: A Life in Opera This biography is the result of nearly a decade of research into theatre archives and interviews with those close to Franco Corelli, one of opera's greatest stars. Through this extensive investigation, the author has...

Razor Ruddock's life has been marked by two constant companions: a pint and a dare. As a professional footballer for 17 years, he's accumulated a wealth of stories to share. From his infamous run-ins with Eric Cantona and Alan Shearer, to his friendships...

Frantz Fanon was born in Martinique in 1925. His experiences as a Black man under French colonial rule had a profound effect on him, shaping his life and work. As a young doctor and psychiatrist, Fanon became involved in the rebellion of the National...

Bette Davis: A Life of Scandal and Sacrifice This intimate biography reveals the complex and often tumultuous life of Hollywood legend Bette Davis. Spanning her early years to her later years, the book offers a candid look at her struggles with fame,...

George Hudson: The Railway King A New Biography by Matthew Wells is a fresh look at the life of one of Britain's most infamous railway entrepreneurs. From his humble beginnings as a farmer's boy to becoming Lord Mayor of York and MP for Sunderland,...

Trajan Rome's Last Conqueror by Nicholas Jackson is a comprehensive biography that sheds new light on the life of one of ancient Rome's most enigmatic leaders. This meticulously researched volume illuminates Trajan's remarkable rise from humble...

This sequel to "The Law and I" offers a candid and insightful look into the life of a solicitor over 44 years. John Clarke shares his experiences, including the mistakes he made early in his career and his approach to using the law for clients.He delves...

Alexander Irvine's memoir, My Lady of the Chimney Corner, is a poignant tribute to his mother's unwavering love and resilience. Born into poverty in 1863, Irvine recounts the struggles of his early life, including the social stigma faced by his...

TravelWorks by Carole Susan Smith is a collection of stories, diaries and reflections from a life spent exploring the world. From her early twenties onwards, Carole embarked on numerous journeys to countries that might not be typical holiday destinations...

SUBLIME UNION: A Woman's Sexual Odyssey Guided by Mary MagdaleneThis book presents Mary Magdalene's full instruction in sacred sexuality, interwoven with Mercedes Kirkel's personal story of applying the teachings. With 23 tasteful illustrations, it...

Cassidy Hutchinson's story is one of ambition and conviction. As a young woman from a working-class family with a military background, she aspired to serve her country in government. Her dream job took her to the heart of Washington politics, but it was...

Walking Hadrian's Wall: A Memoir of a Father's SuicideThis poignant travel memoir recounts Bob Royalty's 100-mile journey along the Roman ruins of Hadrian's Wall, a physical challenge that mirrored his inner struggle to come to terms with his father's...

King Klopp: Rebuilding the Liverpool Dynasty is an in-depth analysis of Jurgen Klopp's success at Liverpool. Since his appointment as head coach in 2015, the club has experienced rapid growth, becoming a dominant force in English and European football...

Elizabeth Goudge's life was marked by remarkable sensitivity and insight. As an artist in fiction, she explored the complexities of growing up spiritually and morally. This biography offers a sympathetic exploration of her life and work, examining the...

Lifescapes: A Biographer's Search for the Soul by Ann Wroe is a thought-provoking exploration of the art and impossibility of capturing life on the page. Through her own experiences as a biographer and obituarist, as well as those of others she has...

Casey Watson shares the harrowing true story of Kiera Bentley, a young girl with a deeply shocking secret she's too young to understand. When Casey first meets Kiera, she senses that something is amiss, and her instinct to help is triggered. As Casey...

Della Wright's story is one of unimaginable pain and resilience. Her childhood was marked by neglect and betrayal, culminating in five years of sexual abuse at the hands of a known paedophile. Despite being left alone at home from just two years old,...

London Parks by Hunter Davies is a celebration of the city's greatest green spaces. With a year spent walking around his favourite parks, Davies explores their unique appeal and hidden delights. From historic Hampstead Heath to the Queen Elizabeth...

A Story about a Real Man by Boris Polevoi This remarkable memoir tells the story of Alexiei Maresyev, a Soviet fighter pilot who defied incredible odds to return to combat after losing both feet due to frostbite. Against all expectations, Maresyev...

Real people, real stories, real heroes. This book is about those special stories that reaffirm our collective faith in humanity. Ben Shephard has met many ordinary people with extraordinary acts of everyday heroism, who have taken it upon themselves to...

Lady Diana Cooper's second volume of autobiography chronicles her life in the years leading up to the Second World War. In this fast-paced and witty account, she shares stories of her adventures as an unconventional hostess, actress, wife and mother...

Eimear Ryan's memoir explores the complexities of being female in a male-dominated sporting world. She delves into the confluence of gender and sport, examining issues of identity, status, competition, and self-expression.The author's personal...

Guvnors: A First-Hand Account of Life in the Manchester Hooligan Gang This book is a hard-hitting and atmospheric account of life in the notorious Guvnors, a Manchester City-based hooligan gang that wreaked havoc on British streets and terraces. Written...

A Year on a Lake District Farm by Andrea Meanwell is a heart-warming story about the people and countryside of a small farm. This book weaves together the lives of animals, farmers, and the land itself to create a beautiful and emotive tale. Meanwell's...

Cicero: Letters to Friends offers a unique glimpse into the life and thoughts of one of Rome's most influential figures. Through his correspondence with friends and acquaintances, Cicero provides insight into the politics, intrigue, and philosophical...

Behind the Ramp: My Life and Times Running the British Pub For thirty years, my perspective on life was shaped by the world behind the bar. I've seen it all - from the mundane to the mad, from the ordinary to the extraordinary. This is my story of what...

Leymah Gbowee's powerful story is one of transformation from hopelessness to liberation. As a young woman, she was deeply affected by the brutal Liberian civil war, which destroyed her country and claimed the lives of countless relatives and friends...

Unearthed explores how Claire Ratinon found belonging through reconnecting with nature. Her journey began when she fell in love with growing plants, and it allowed her to put down roots after feeling unwanted in her birth land.As a person of color who...

The Girl Who Smiled Beads At six years old, Clemantine's world was torn apart by war and displacement. She and her sister Claire were forced to flee their home in search of refuge, facing unimaginable challenges along the way. This is a heart-wrenching...

The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli is a treatise on political power that shocked Europe upon its publication. Written from personal experience and rejecting traditional values, Machiavelli's work advocates for ruthless tactics to gain absolute power. At...

Indiana State Police Captain Matt Leach led the hunt for John Dillinger during the violent early 1930s. He used a media campaign to smoke out the fugitive, elevating Dillinger to unprecedented notoriety in the process. This notoriety was met with taunts...

Kaspar Hauser and Karl Konig is a thought-provoking exploration of the enigmatic young man who appeared in Nuremberg, Germany in the early nineteenth century. Written by Karl König, this book draws together his insights into Kaspar's mysterious...

The See-Through House My Father in Full Colour by Shelley Klein is a moving memoir that explores the complexities of family, grief and belonging. This poignant account of life with an adored yet maddening parent is set against the backdrop of a...

Tom Stoppard: A Life by Hermione Lee is a gripping narrative that delves into the life of one of theatre's most iconic figures. Drawing on unprecedented access to archive material, interviews with family and friends, and long conversations with Stoppard...

The Angina Monologues: Stories of Surgery for Broken Hearts by Samer A. M. Nashef. Samer A. M. Nashef shares heart-stopping stories from his experiences as a cardiac surgeon, including transporting donor hearts and navigating the complexities of advanced...

Brian May: A Life in Music and Science The story of Queen's lead guitarist is one of rock's most recognisable stars. This biography charts Brian May's life from his childhood, through his years studying astro physics and teaching, to his success with the...

A poignant tribute to two Hollywood icons, My Girls: A Lifetime with Carrie and Debbie is a deeply personal memoir by Todd Fisher. Growing up amidst the glamour of Hollywood, Todd shares stories of his childhood, his sister's meteoric rise to stardom,...

Baggage Tales from a Fully Packed Life by Alan Cumming is a candid and poignant account of his life in Hollywood. The book takes readers through the highs and lows of his career, exploring themes of mental health, relationships, and personal growth...

Charles Haughey: A Complex Legacy This biography presents a nuanced portrait of Charles Haughey, one of Ireland's most influential politicians. With exclusive access to his personal archives and extensive interviews with over 80 of his peers, rivals,...

Walk in My Combat Boots: True Stories from America's Bravest WarriorsA collection of raw and honest stories from soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines who have fought overseas, sharing their experiences of life-and-death decisions, horrific injuries,...

Merle Haggard's autobiography takes you inside his turbulent life, from a childhood in a converted railroad boxcar to a career as one of country music's most iconic artists. He shares the true stories behind his troubled past, including the loss of his...

Tell Me You're Sorry, Daddy is a heart-wrenching true story about one woman's courageous fight against her father's horrific abuse. Caryn Walker recounts her seven-year ordeal as a child, and the long journey to justice that followed. With unflinching...

The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's artistic aspirations and personal lives are revealed in this illustrated history. Through their passionate writings, including letters, diaries, and reminiscences, the works of Ford Madox Brown, Edward Burne-Jones, Fanny...

Ten British generals who shaped the world's history are brought to life in this engaging biography. From Wellington and Kitchener to Montgomery, their stories reveal both brilliant successes and fatal flaws.Their careers were often marked by difficult...

The Sunshine Kids: A Football Journey Twins Fabio and Rafael Da Silva share an extraordinary story of football, family, and perseverance. From their early days in Brazil to their rise to fame with Manchester United, the twins reveal the highs and lows of...

Jonathan Dollimore's memoir is a poignant exploration of human desire, weaving together recollections of struggle, love, literature and loss. Through his experiences in the gay subcultures of late twentieth-century New York, Brighton and Sydney,...

Bobby Moore: A Life Beyond Legend The statue at Wembley stadium bears testament to Bobby Moore's enduring legacy as England's World Cup-winning captain. Yet, beyond the accolades and tributes, lies a complex and often tumultuous life story. Football...

John Maynard Keynes: A Life of Contrasts. This biography offers a fresh perspective on one of the 20th century's most influential economists. Richard Davenport-Hines explores the complex desires and experiences that shaped Keynes' thoughts, revealing the...

Helena Petrovna Blavatsky was a spiritual seeker who traveled extensively throughout her life, introducing Eastern and esoteric ideas to the West during the 19th century. Her legacy has been both celebrated and contested, with some hailing her as an icon...

Dusty!: Queen of the Postmods Annie J. Randall explores the life and music of Dusty Springfield, a singer who broke into the US Top Ten with her 1964 hit "I Only Want To Be With You". This penetrating look at her career reveals how Springfield's...

Claire Nelson's remarkable story of survival and self-discovery is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience. After feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of modern life, Claire embarked on a journey that would change her forever. In this...

At a crossroads in his life, Luke Turner confronts the demons he's been battling since childhood: depression, guilt over his identity as a bisexual man, and experiences of sexual abuse. Seeking refuge among the trees of London's Epping Forest, he begins...

This memoir is a tennis story, a family story, and a story about teamwork. It's the author's journey from her early days with a racquet as a five-year-old girl to winning the 2022 Australian Open.The book reflects on every part of the author's journey,...

True Colours: My AutobiographyA riveting full-career autobiography from Barry Geraghty, one of the most successful jump jockeys in the sport's history. With almost 2000 winners to his name, he is among the all-time greats.This book explores resilience...

It Takes Blood and Guts is a raw and unflinching memoir that offers a unique perspective on the Britpop era. Skin, the lead singer of Skunk Anansie, shares her candid and often difficult experiences as a black woman in rock music.The book takes readers...

Henry I: A Reassessment of the Anglo-Norman King. This biography offers a major reassessment of Henry's character and reign, challenging the traditional portrayal of him as brutal and repressive. Instead, it argues that his rule was based on reason and...

Gary Newbon: A Life in Sports Broadcasting For over fifty years, Gary Newbon has been a familiar face on British television sports presenting. This is his remarkable story, filled with behind-the-scenes tales of friendships and encounters with sporting...

Hannah Gadsby's memoir is a collection of stories that weave together the various events of her life, revealing the humorous and sometimes dark moments that have shaped her experiences. Drawing inspiration from the works of David Sedaris, Hannah shares...

A Place in the World: Finding the Meaning of Home by Frances MayesThis poignant collection of personal stories reflects on the idea of home, from the earliest imprint of four walls to the startling discoveries of feeling at ease in homes abroad. Written...

Jimmy Greaves remains one of England's greatest footballers with 357 top-flight goals. His career was marked by both triumph and heartbreak, including missing out on the 1966 World Cup Final.After struggling with alcoholism, he transformed his life as a...

Daring to Hope: Finding God's Goodness in the Broken and the Beautiful by Katie Davis Majors. Katie Davis Majors shares her personal journey as she navigates life's challenges, including loss and disappointment, while caring for thirteen girls in Uganda...

The Fastest Pen of the West [Part Two] by Albino Galuppini tells the remarkable story of Bill Kaysing's unconventional life. A former employee of Rocketdyne, Kaysing became a vocal critic of the Apollo Space Program, sparking a dramatic change in his...

Ben Ainslie: Close to the Wind Britain's Greatest Olympic Sailor A gripping insight into the life and career of Ben Ainslie, the greatest ever Olympic sailor. This unique autobiography takes readers behind the scenes of the world's most demanding sport,...

Elvis Presley: A Southern Life is a masterful biography that explores the life and career of one of America's most iconic cultural icons. Renowned historian Joel Williamson delves into the drama of Elvis's rise to fame, set against the backdrop of...

The Edge of the Sea by Rachel Carson is a poignant exploration of the delicate balance between life and its environment. Through her observations of the natural world, Carson reveals the intricate web of relationships that exist at the edge of the sea...

Edward Thompson of the LNER tells the story of a remarkable railwayman who played a crucial role in shaping Britain's rail network. Peter Grafton's biography explores Thompson's life, from his early days as an apprentice to his later years as a senior...

Ivan IV, 'the Terrible', is one of Russia's most significant historical figures, yet his life remains poorly understood. This biography offers a comprehensive study of Ivan from birth to death, exploring his policies, marriages, atrocities, and...

Bill Kaysing's life was marked by a series of unconventional choices. Working at Rocketdyne, he became disillusioned with the corporate world and began to question the official narrative about space exploration. This biography tells the story of his...

Ena MacDonald's life story is a testament to her unwavering dedication to traditional crofting methods and sustainable farming practices. For twenty years, she has shared her experiences through a popular column in the newspaper Am Paipear.Born in 1940,...

The Gucci dynasty's ascent and collapse is a story of passion, power, and vulnerability. In 1995, Maurizio Gucci's murder sent shockwaves through the fashion world, but was it a crime of love, greed, or something more complex? Sara Gay Forden takes us...

Kiki Man Ray: Art, Love and Rivalry in 1920s ParisThis biography tells the story of Alice Prin, known as Kiki de Montparnasse, who was a captivating nightclub performer, writer, artist, and muse to some of the most famous figures of the time. Her life...

A deeply candid and refreshingly spirited memoir of identity lost and found, Out of the Corner is a vivid account of Jennifer Grey's journey from childhood to Hollywood stardom.Grey takes readers on a tour of her formative experiences, including her...

Heaven on Earth: A Personal History of Growing Up in Ireland. This memoir offers a unique perspective on growing up in rural Ireland, exploring the experiences and characters that shaped the author's life. With a focus on the people and places that...

Steven Patrick Morrissey's life and music are the subject of this in-depth biography. With over 300,000 words, Mozipedia is the most comprehensive portrait of the man behind one of the most influential British guitar groups of the 1980s, The Smiths...

Lillie Langtry: A Life of Enchantment and Turmoil. Born on the remote island of Jersey in the English Channel, Lillie Langtry was a woman who captivated Victorian Britain and Gilded Age America with her charm and beauty. In 1876, she moved to London with...

Belle Gunness: A Woman of Unparalleled Notoriety The story of Belle Gunness is one of unimaginable brutality and cunning. Between 1902 and 1908, she orchestrated a series of gruesome murders in Indiana, targeting unsuspecting victims who were lured to...

Russell Kane's memoir is a hilarious and deeply moving story about life under the rule of a Silverback dad. The author recounts his childhood growing up with a father who embodied the characteristics of this powerful primate, from his authoritative...

Cicely Tyson's memoir is a deeply personal and unflinching account of her life, from her childhood to her current status as a renowned actress. With candour and humility, she shares stories of love, loss, and self-discovery.From the church girl who...

Kim Philby was the most notorious British defector and Soviet mole in history. Agent, double agent, traitor and enigma, he betrayed every secret of Allied operations to the Russians in the early years of the Cold War. This is a story of loyalty, trust...

Damian McBride's Power Trip is a gripping account of the inner workings of British politics over the past decade. Drawing on his own experiences as a key figure in Labour's rise to power, McBride offers a unique and unvarnished look at the machinations...

Luke Fletcher's autobiography offers an entertaining and humorous account of his life as a cricketer. From winning major tournaments to suffering serious injuries, Fletcher shares stories of his time in the sport with wit and self-deprecation. Throughout...

Jeff Tweedy's memoir offers an intimate look at his life and career, spanning from his early days in Uncle Tupelo to his work with Wilco. With humour and candour, he recounts the stories that shaped his creative process and personal journey.The book...

A true account of transformation from one of Britain's toughest schools to excellence is presented in this diary form. Alison Colwell recounts her journey as head teacher, where she implemented a zero-tolerance approach and strict rules to rebuild the...

Jay Parini's memoir of his encounter with Jorge Luis Borges is a poignant and unexpected tale of friendship and adventure. Fifty years ago, Parini fled the United States for Scotland, seeking refuge from the turmoil of the Vietnam War. There, in 1971, he...

Scoring Goals in the Dark by Clare Shine is a candid and powerful memoir about the highs and lows of a young footballer's journey to success. From her early days as a star striker, winning international call-ups at just 13, to struggling with addiction,...

Curtain Down at Her Majesty's: A Glimpse into Queen Victoria's Final DaysBased on fascinating first-hand accounts, this book offers a unique perspective on the life and impact of one of history's great monarchs. Stewart Richards delves into the archives...

Life of Christ is a profound and moving retelling of the birth, life, Crucifixion, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by Fulton J. Sheen, this book offers a dramatic and thought-provoking exploration of the God-Man, whose promise has sustained...

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's life was deeply intertwined with the women who surrounded him. His family, including his mother Maria Anna and sister Nannerl, played a significant role in shaping his early years. As he grew older, Mozart formed close...

Shirley Sherwood's remarkable life story is one of science, adventure, and entrepreneurship. Following the tragic loss of her husband in 1964, she embarked on an extraordinary journey that took her from developing groundbreaking medicines to restoring...

When the World Didn't End A Memoir by Guinevere Turner is a deeply personal and immersive account of her childhood growing up in a cult-like community. On January 5, 1975, six-year-old Guinevere was told that the world would end, but instead of...

Janie Brown's 'Radical Acts of Love' is a deeply personal and profoundly insightful exploration of death and its universalities. Drawing on 20 conversations with individuals close to her, as well as those she has counselled over the course of her career,...

Toussaint Louverture: A Black Jacobin in the Age of Revolutions by Charles Forsdick and Christian Høgsbjerg is a biography that explores the life of one of history's greatest anti-imperialist fighters. Born into slavery, Louverture rose to lead an army...

Lawrence of Arabia: A Life of Objects and Places. The life of Thomas Edward Lawrence is as fascinating as it is enigmatic. For thirteen years, he spent in the region that would become synonymous with his name, researching, spying, fighting, and leading...

Up in Smoke - Stories from a Life on Fire by Leigh Pickett is a humorous and heartwarming account of one firefighter's twenty-five years on the job. From battling blazes to navigating unexpected situations, Pickett shares stories that showcase the...

The Infamous Cherry Sisters: A Forty-Year Career in Vaudeville. Born into poverty on an Iowa farm, the five sisters defied convention to pursue their passion for performing. Their unique act, often described as "so bad it was good," sparked riots and...

Niccoláo Machiavelli's life is often shrouded in myth and misconception. This biography sets out to reveal the man behind the legend, tracing his journey from childhood to exile. Alexander Lee explores the complexities of Machiavelli's life, uncovering...

Mrs Griffin Sends Her Love is a nostalgic collection from Miss Read, capturing the essence of rural life and village schools. The book features extracts from her letters, offering a glimpse into her writing process and personal thoughts.Miss Read's...

Jason Manford's autobiography is a heartwarming and hilarious account of his childhood growing up in a big, northern family. With his family's sense of humour and resilience, Jason navigates the ups and downs of life, from detention to mugged and dumped...