Essential biographies

Uncover extraordinary lives with our list of the best biographies of all time. From historical figures to modern icons, discover the books that tell it all. In this way, biography differs from the rest of nonfiction. All the biographies on this list are just as captivating as excellent novels, if not more so. With that, please enjoy the 30 best biographies of all time — some historical, some recent, but all remarkable, life-giving tributes to their subjects. Early years First steps Professional growth Public recognition Peak period Later years Public interest Professional activity Media attention
What are the best in-depth biographies? (Please exclude Memoirs/Autobiographies. You can find many lists for those books, including this one.).