Biography & memoir | Stories from Remarkable People

Biographies and memoirs invite readers to see the world through someone else's eyes.

rom behind-the-scenes glimpses of public figures to inspiring accounts of ordinary people, these books move, challenge and resonate with readers.

Browse our popular books collection to find widely read and talked-about biographies and memoirs. 

Featured biographies and memoirs highlight stories that spark conversation, giving readers an understanding of the lives behind the headlines.  

In Oscar Piastri, motorsport journalist Andrew van Leeuwen charts the rise of one of Australia’s most exciting Formula 1 drivers, following his journey through the ranks and the determination behind his success on the global stage. 

Dr Vonda Wright’s Unbreakable offers a practical, science-led guide to building bone and muscle strength during menopause, with clear steps to support long-term health and resilience. Combining expert advice with exercise and accessible recipes, the book sets out a structured approach to ageing well and staying strong. 

In A Hymn to Life, Gisèle Pelicot shares her story with honesty and courage, tracing a life shaped by both ordinary moments and extraordinary catastrophe. Looking back, she explores recovery, renewal and reclaiming joy after unimaginable betrayal.

Together, these non-fiction books highlight the breadth of the genre, bringing forward stories that hold great significance

New biographies and memoirs bring fresh perspectives, sharing insight into lives both familiar and unexpected.

First-hand, deeply personal accounts sit alongside new reflections on well-known figures. To stay up to date, browse the latest new book releases as they emerge.

Popular biographies and memoirs bring together widely read and talked-about stories that continue to shape the cultural conversation.

These are the books readers return to, recommend and discuss, offering observations about remarkable lives that leave a lasting impression. 

What is a memoir? 

A memoir is a form of non-fiction written in the first person, focusing on a particular period, theme or account in the author’s life. Rather than tell a full life story, memoirs often centre on introspection and moments of change or personal significance. They can delve into a wide range of themes, including family, identity, redemption, creativity or life in the public eye, as shaped by the author's voice and perspective. 

What is a biography? 

A biography is a non-fiction account of a person’s life written by someone else. Drawing on research, interviews and historical sources, biographies aim to present a detailed and well-rounded portrait of their subject, revealing both key moments in time and the wider context in which they lived. 

What is the difference between a memoir and an autobiography? 

Memoirs and autobiographies are both forms of non-fiction written in the first person, based on the author’s life. The key difference lies in scope and focus. 

A memoir centres on a specific period, theme or set of experiences, generally shaped by memory and contemplation. An autobiography, by contrast, is a more comprehensive and factual account of the author’s life, typically told in chronological order and covering a broader timespan. 

While memoirs tend to emphasise personal reflection and emotional truth, autobiographies focus on documenting the events of one's life in a structured and detailed way.