Summaries of books about Biographies:
The Other Wes Moore
One Name, Two Fates
Wes Moore
The book explores the true story of two individuals with the same name who grew up in similar circumstances in Baltimore but ended up on drastically different life paths: one became a Rhodes Scholar and business leader, while the other was sentenced to life in prison. Through their parallel narratives, it examines the factors that shaped their destinies, such as education, family, and societal influences.
See full summary
438 Days
An Extraordinary True Story of Survival at Sea
Jonathan Franklin
The book chronicles the harrowing ordeal of Salvadoran fisherman José Salvador Alvarenga, who survived 438 days adrift in the Pacific Ocean after a storm disabled his boat. It details his incredible journey of resilience and survival, facing starvation, exposure, and solitude before finally being washed ashore in the Marshall Islands.
See full summary
How to Build a Car
The Autobiography of the World’s Greatest Formula 1 Designer
Adrian Newey
The book delves into the career of a renowned Formula 1 engineer, detailing the design and engineering challenges behind some of the most successful racing cars. It offers insights into the technical aspects of car design as well as personal anecdotes from the competitive world of Formula 1 racing.
See full summary
Rosemary
The Hidden Kennedy Daughter
Kate Clifford Larson
The book delves into the life of Rosemary Kennedy, the lesser-known sister of President John F. Kennedy, revealing her struggles with intellectual disabilities and the impact of her condition on the Kennedy family. It also chronicles the tragic decision to subject her to a lobotomy, which left her permanently incapacitated, and the subsequent efforts of the Kennedys to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.
See full summary
Truman
David McCullough
The biography chronicles the life of Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, detailing his modest upbringing in Missouri, his political rise, and his leadership during pivotal events such as the end of World War II and the beginning of the Cold War. It provides an in-depth look at his presidential decisions, personal life, and the challenges he faced during his time in office.
See full summary
His Truth Is Marching On
John Lewis and the Power of Hope
Jon Meacham
The book chronicles the life and legacy of civil rights icon John Lewis, detailing his journey from a young activist in the Jim Crow South to a long-serving congressman, emphasizing his commitment to nonviolent protest and his belief in the moral imperative of fighting for justice. It explores key moments in Lewis's life, including his leadership in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, his role in the historic Selma to Montgomery marches, and his enduring influence on American civil rights and politics.
See full summary
Island of the Lost
An Extraordinary Story of Survival at the Edge of the World
Joan Druett
The book chronicles the true story of two shipwrecked groups who must survive the harsh conditions of Auckland Island in the southern Pacific Ocean in the 1860s. It details their separate struggles against the elements, isolation, and despair, as one group fares remarkably well while the other succumbs to the island's challenges.
See full summary
Meghan and Harry
The Real Story
Lady Colin Campbell
The book delves into the lives of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, examining their relationship, departure from royal duties, and the impact on the British monarchy. It provides a critical perspective on the couple's actions and decisions, as well as their interactions with the media and public.
See full summary
Shakespeare
The World as Stage
Bill Bryson
The book presents a concise biography of William Shakespeare, exploring the playwright's life, his times, and the scant historical records that document his existence. It delves into the mysteries surrounding Shakespeare's identity and the enduring impact of his works, all with Bryson's characteristic wit and accessible prose.
See full summary
Catherine the Great
Portrait of a Woman
Robert K. Massie
The book is a comprehensive biography that delves into the life of the Russian empress, exploring her rise to power, political achievements, and personal relationships. It provides a detailed account of her reign, including her efforts to modernize Russia and her impact on European politics and culture.
See full summary