The Wall Street Journal

Fifteen of the best memoirs to inspire and enlighten you

Fifteen of the best memoirs to inspire and enlighten you
Andre Agassi, pictured in Auckland in 2013 with Sir Graham and Lady Raewyn Henry, writes in his memoir that he hates tennis "with a dark and secret passion, and always have". (Image: Norrie Montgomery)
The Wall Street Journal
By Nneka McGuirePeering into other people’s lives is a thrilling pursuit. Worthwhile, too. The best memoirs engross and enlighten. Without being didactic, they have something to teach about growing up; weathering grief; seeing your community, your parents, yourself clearly. The real-life tales below meticulously describe varied worlds – the American South, Asian supermarkets, Europe, the Middle East, California law enforcement – and invite you to root around and extract intriguing anecdotes and precious insights. Bef...

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