Nonfiction Books About Books
I declared that 2026 was the year of books about books. There were so many fantastic additions to this list that I wanted to make sure to include the best nonfiction books about books as well.
I made a list of my favorite Fiction Books About Books. I have Books about Bookstores, Fantasy Books About Books, and more. It felt unfair to neglect these wonderful nonfiction picks. If you are a book lover, every one of the books on this list is up your alley. They are an ode to the power of books and the written language.
The Best Nonfiction Books About Books
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
The Best Biography About Readers
Marilyn and Her Books by Gail Crowther – Jump to Section
The Best Short Nonfiction Book About Books
Why You Should Read Children’s Books, Even Though You are So Old and Wise by Katherine Rundell- Jump to Section
The Best History Book About Books
The Library Book by Susan Orlean- Jump to Section
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Biographies about Writers and Readers
Plot
This story is NOT a biography, but rather a look at how the books Marilyn Monroe read shaped her life and career. Often thought to be a dumb blonde because of her film roles, Marilyn was a voracious reader who was as smart as she was as beautiful. A lover of classics, this look at Marilyn’s bookshelf gives a glimpse into her mind and acting process.
Trigger Warnings
Suicide
Why Kirsten loves it
I’ve long been a fan of Marilyn Monroe, but I had no idea how much of a reader she was! I gobbled up this book and eagerly compared her reading habits to mine. #SimonAudioInfluencer.
Find this book in: Best Beach Reads 2026 / Nonfiction Books About Books
Short Nonfiction Books About Books
Why You Should Read Children’s Books, Even Though You are So Old and Wise
Author: Katherine Rundell
Year: 2026
Genre: nonfiction
More info: Bestselling Author of Impossible Creatures
Age Range: Any Age
Plot
This short book is about the importance of reading children’s literature for both kids and adults. Children’s literature is an exploration of imagination. These books often address emotions in a clear way that can make seemingly complex issues much more manageable.
Why Jackie loves it
Kirsten and I often talk about how wonderful it is to read some of the fantastic middle-grade books. The fantasy books, mysteries, historical fiction, and fiction books geared toward children are often overlooked by adults, at a detriment. Some of my favorite books are middle-grade literature.
Find this book in: Nonfiction Books About Books / Best Nonfiction Books of 2026
Make Believe: On Telling Stories to Children
Author: Mac Barnett
Year: 2026
Genre: Nonfiction
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This book for adults is about books for children from the bestselling, Caldecott Award-winning author. This is a book about how to approach children’s literature during a time in our history when literacy is at an all-time low.
Why Kirsten loves it
I can’t say enough good things about this book. It’s more of a long-form essay on how adults should view children’s literature and why the kinds of books we give children matter. It’s slightly autobiographical because it covers why Mac got into the business of writing children’s stories, but it also gives a mini overview of some of the best children’s authors that ever existed and why they were so brilliantly talented.
I cried while reading it because his sentiments about the importance of books to children and why we, as adults, need to reframe how we see stories written for kids, so perfectly align with my own views on the subject. This should be required reading for every librarian, educator, and parent. #Gifted by Little, Brown & Co.
Find this book in: Best Nonfiction Books / Best Beach Reads 2026 / Best Nonfiction Books of 2026 / Nonfiction Books About Books
Nonfiction Books About Books: Histories
The Library Book
Author: Susan Orleans
Year: 2018
Genre: Nonfiction
More info: January 2019 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Age Range: 15+
Plot
This book is primarily about the LA Public Library and the disastrous impact of the 1986 fire that destroyed the building and its collection. The mystery of why the fire happened and if it was set on purpose has never been solved. It’s also about the importance of libraries as hubs of society and education, giving lots of statistics and information about their history.
Why Kirsten likes it
I enjoyed this non-fiction book about the LA library fire, but I could have used less of the general library stats. It focused too little on the library fire and too much on the library itself.
I think it could have been cut down by about 50 pages because towards the end I had an “alright, I get it, enough already” moment. Still, it was interesting to learn about the struggles the library faced after the fire with clean-up, the investigation, and the lasting security measures that came about because of what happened.
Find this book in: Books About Libraries / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2019 / Nonfiction Books About Books
Plot
What YA lit did you read in your childhood that had an impact on you? After reading this book, I went back in time and remembered all of the books that spoke to me back then.
I loved exploring themes that came up in many of the books I read as a teenager. Who can forget reading Forever by Judy Blume? Or hanging with Mary Anne, Stacey, and the oh-so-annoying Kristy?
Nancy Drew ignited my love of a good mystery. Sunset Island had me dreaming of being a celebrity Au Pair. Goosebumps… well, I never really got into those, which is on brand because I’m a scaredy-cat. You get my point, though, right? These were the books that made us readers!!!
Why Kirsten loves it
Paperback Crush is the PERFECT book to help you relive your teen reading life. If you were an 80s or 90s baby, this book is for you!!
Literary Wonderlands
Author: Laura Miller
Year: 2016
Genre: Nonfiction History Essays
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This reference book takes us on a journey through some of the most imaginative lands ever created in fiction. It’s a treasure trove filled with illustrations and information about the best literary worlds ever created, from the Iliad to the present day. Classic locations like Oz, Neverland, and Wonderland are discussed alongside Westeros, Narnia, and Harry Potter’s fictional realm.
Why Kirsten loves it
I look forward to referencing this book for backstories and hopefully finding more recommendations for stories that might suit my fancy.
Expert Tip
If you love reading, then you will love these nonfiction books about books.
- Have a look at the book description. There are some great descriptions of the plot and why we liked these books. This can be a great way to help you pick a book you will love.
- Did Kirsten or Jackie read the book? This may be a good way for you to determine if you are going to like it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a nonfiction book about books?
These books are biographies about reading, histories of books or libraries, or short nonfiction about the power of books. These are nonfiction books that are perfect for any reader! They are an ode to the written word.
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Epilogue
What is your favorite nonfiction book about books?
