It's Me, Nonfiction! With Books Catered to Your Favorite Fiction

By Allie

Hey there! It’s me, your pal Nonfiction. You may not remember, but we met a while back. I just wanted to check in. What are you reading these days?

Ah. Fiction.

No, I understand. I’ve got nothing against our pal Fiction! But maybe you just haven’t found the right nonfiction—yet. What you need is some customized nonfiction—something catered to your own fiction preferences.

Let me show you what I mean.

For Fantasy readers

Okay, I know what you're thinking. Nonfiction can’t be fantastical...or can it? Allow me introduce Looking for the Hidden Folk. While exploring Iceland’s Otherworld, author Nancy Marie Brown blurs the lines between the real and the mystical. Fantasy fans will appreciate the lore that Brown pours into her book—which feels more like an enchanted cauldron of science, archeology, and mythology.

For Historical readers

There are heaps of history on the nonfiction shelves—but the best ones come with a gripping story. It was 1780 when the Zorg, a Dutch slave ship, had been taken under British command before sailing to Jamaica. The events that followed brought a harrowing truth to the surface—one that inflamed the anti-slavery movement and hurled England into a captivating legal drama. Richly detailed and swiftly paced, this book will pull you to the edge of your seat.

For Romance readers

You might recognize these faces from television. Now, you can dive into their real-life love story—complete with a comedic lineup of anecdotes, interviews, and hijinks. Mullally and Offerman set the scene for how they met, the obstacles they faced, and their secrets for making it work. The print book has photos, while the audiobook is delightfully narrated by the authors. Better check out both!

For Science Fiction readers

True science fiction fans will be familiar with author Kurt Vonnegut. But they may not know about his earlier work as a public relations writer for an electrical company, where his brother worked on weather-control experiments. With the impending Cold War, the military took an interest in these experiments—that is, the idea of weaponizing weather. Science, technology, and moral dilemmas? What more could a science fiction fan ask for?

For Graphic Novel readers

It’s true! Nonfiction books can come in graphic-novel form—and boy are these fun. With silly doodles and laugh-out-loud storytelling, Allie Brosh’s illustrated memoir depicts some of her craziest life moments. But don’t be fooled by the amusing vignettes; at the heart of this book, you’ll find a thread of sorrow woven throughout the author’s search for happiness.

For Mystery readers

You’ve got an eye for predicting what’s going to happen next—but have you familiarized yourself with all the tips and tricks of a murder mystery? This book will put you to the test—literally; there are quizzes to take. With a cast of culprits and illustrated scenarios, you’ll learn everything you need to know to survive your own favorite genre.

For Western Readers

In the 1800s, the Army of the West set out to claim territories of the Navajo nation. Enter Kit Carson, the legendary trapper, soldier, and mountain man. Some called him a hero—others a villain. But here was a multilingual man with an admiration for the Najavo tribes, despite being caught up in the conflict. With a vibrant cast of adventurers, warriors, and explorers, this book fires up the history of how the American West was made—and how it was fiercely resisted.

Anyway, I hope you’ll give one of these a try. Fiction is great and all, but...I miss you.

Thanks for reading! Let’s catch up again, soon.