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Biography and Memoir September 2021 |
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| All the Frequent Troubles of Our Days: The True Story of the American Woman at the Heart of... by Rebecca DonnerStarring: American expat and academic Mildred Harnack, a leader in the German resistance whose 1943 execution was personally overseen by Adolf Hitler.
Why you should read it: This dramatic and well-researched account shines a spotlight on a lesser-known World War II hero widely considered to have been the only American leader in the German resistance.
Author alert: Novelist Rebecca Donner is Harnack's great-great niece. |
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The Happiest Man on Earth: The Beautiful Life of an Auschwitz Survivor
by Eddie Jaku
What it is: a moving memoir from centenarian and Holocaust survivor Eddie Jaku, who spent seven years in Buchenwald and Auschwitz.
Who it's for: Readers who enjoy short and reflective memoirs that share inspirational life lessons will be comforted by Jaku's words of wisdom.
Want a taste? "Kindness is the greatest wealth of all. Small acts of kindness last longer than a lifetime."
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My Remarkable Journey
by Katherine Johnson with Joylette Hylick and Katherine Moore
What it's about: groundbreaking NASA mathematician (and Hidden Figures subject) Katherine Johnson's life and career.
Why you should read it: Johnson's engaging memoir, completed by her daughters after her death in 2020, reveals lesser-known life details, including her West Virginia childhood, her parents' support of her academic pursuits, and her first husband's tragic death.
Reviewers say: "Truly a lovely read, this is an important addition to every bookshelf devoted to great Americans" (Booklist).
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Better, Not Bitter: Living on Purpose in the Pursuit of Racial Justice
by Yusef Salaam
What it's about: In 1989, 15-year-old Yusef Salaam and four other teen boys were falsely accused of raping a white woman in a case that made national headlines. Imprisoned at Rikers Island for nearly a decade, Salaam spent his time behind bars earning an education and becoming a spiritual leader before his conviction was overturned in 2002.
Why you should read it: Salaam's inspirational memoir marks the first time a member of the Exonerated Five (previously known as the Central Park Five) has told his story in his own words.
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Focus on: Animal Companions
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| Good Boy: My Life in Seven Dogs by Jennifer Finney BoylanWhat it is: a funny and moving ode to the dogs that have helped author Jennifer Finney Boylan navigate pivotal moments in her life, including the death of her father and her gender transition.
Want a taste? "Everything I know about love I learned from dogs."
Is it for you? Readers unfamiliar with Boylan's life and work may want to start with her bestselling memoir She's Not There, which chronicles her transition in greater depth. |
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| Running With Sherman: How a Rescue Donkey Inspired a Rag-Tag Gang of Runners to Enter... by Christopher McDougallWhat it's about: Encouraged to give his newly adopted rescue donkey, Sherman, a purpose, author Christopher McDougall decided to enter his four-legged pal in the World Championship Pack Burro Race.
It takes a village: McDougall's Pennsylvania Amish community rallied around Sherman to offer support during his rehabilitation and training.
Read it if: you enjoy heartwarming sports stories. |
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Afterglow: (A Dog Memoir)
by Eileen Myles
The trailblazing writer, after the death of her beloved dog, Rosie, details their 16 years together, during which there were many personal highs and lows, in a heartfelt investigation into the true nature of the bond between pet and pet owner, and a many-hued portrait of a beloved confidante.
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| How to Be a Good Creature: A Memoir in Thirteen Animals by Sy Montgomery; illustrated by Rebecca GreenStarring: feisty Scottish terrier Molly; Christopher Hogwood, a pig with personality; tarantula Clarabelle, friend to children in French Guiana; and more!
Is it for you? Author Sy Montgomery opens up about her difficult childhood and lifelong struggle with depression, which is exacerbated by the passing of some of the animals featured in the book.
Crossover alert: Fans of Montgomery's National Book Award finalist The Soul of an Octopus will remember charismatic cephalopod Octavia, who makes an appearance here. |
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Contact your librarian for more great books!
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Michigan City Public Library
100 E. 4th Street
Michigan City, Indiana 46360
219-873-3044mclib.org/ |
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