10 Best historical nonfiction books of 2025

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1

Penguin Press

Mark Twain

45% Off
9.9

Exceptional

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Value for Money

2

Random House Books for Young Readers
When Breath Becomes Air: Pulitzer Prize Finalist

47% Off
Main highlights

Profound Exploration of Life and Death
This memoir by Paul Kalanithi offers a sincere, sensitive, and inspiring journey through the meaning of existence and the acceptance of death.

Ideal for Medical Professionals and Patients
A must-read for those facing life-threatening illnesses, their families, and medical professionals to understand patient experiences and the physician-patient relationship.

Honesty and Philosophical Depth
Readers highly praise the book's unflinching honesty, philosophical reflections, and the eloquent writing style of Paul Kalanithi.
9.8

Exceptional

Our Rating

9.9
Craftsmanship

9.9
materials Quality

9.7
worth the money
3

Broadway Books

The Spy and the Traitor: The Greatest Espionage Story of the Cold War

43% Off
9.7

Exceptional

Our Rating
4

Sports Publishing

Cloudbuster Nine: The Untold Story of Ted Williams and the Baseball Team That Helped Win World War II

41% Off
9.5

Excellent

Our Rating
5

Random House Books for Young Readers
A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II

53% Off
Main highlights

Gripping Tale of WWII Espionage
A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell is a meticulously researched and beautifully written biography of Virginia Hall, a pioneering American spy during WWII.

Ideal for WWII Enthusiasts
This book is perfect for anyone interested in World War II, the French resistance, espionage, and the remarkable contributions of Virginia Hall.

Praised for Detailed Research
Readers consistently commend the book for its impeccable research, engaging narrative, and the inspirational life story of Virginia Hall.
9.4

Excellent

Our Rating

9.9
Instruction

9.7
worth the money

9.5
Giftable
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6

Crown
The Demon of Unrest: A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War

65% Off
Main highlights

Comprehensive Historical Account
The book offers a detailed narrative of events leading to the Civil War, based on extensive research and firsthand accounts.

Ideal for History Enthusiasts
Perfect for readers interested in American Civil War history and understanding the complexities of the era.

Praised Character Development
Readers commend the vivid portrayal of historical figures, bringing them to life with depth and realism.
9.2

Excellent

Our Rating

9.9
clearly written

9.7
Instruction

9.3
worth the money
7

Dutton

The Forgotten 500: The Untold Story of the Men Who Risked All for the Greatest Rescue Mission of World War II

48% Off
9.0

Excellent

Our Rating
8

St. Martin's Griffin
The Nightingale: A Novel

61% Off
Main highlights

Compelling Historical Drama
The Nightingale offers a deeply engaging narrative set during WWII, focusing on women's bravery and resilience.

Ideal for Historical Fiction Lovers
Perfect for readers who enjoy fiction based on historical events and real-life struggles.

Praised for Emotional Depth
Customers frequently commend the book for its captivating and emotional storytelling.
8.7

Very Good

Our Rating
9

Anchor Books
Blood and Thunder: The Epic Story of Kit Carson and the Conquest of the American West

56% Off
Main highlights

Comprehensive Historical Account
Blood and Thunder offers a detailed and deeply researched account of Kit Carson and the American West, shedding light on lesser-known historical facts.

Ideal for History Enthusiasts
Perfect for readers interested in the American West, Manifest Destiny, and the complex relationships between Native Americans, Mexicans, and American settlers.

Praised for Detailed Narration
Readers frequently highlight the book's rich detail and thorough research, which bring the historical events and figures vividly to life.
8.5

Good

Our Rating

9.9
worth the money

9.7
Instruction

9.3
clearly written
10

BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP
The Hiding Place

61% Off
Main highlights

Inspiring True Story of Faith and Courage
The Hiding Place recounts the Ten Boom family's bravery during WWII, showcasing their unwavering faith and dedication to helping others, even at great personal risk.

Perfect for Spiritual Growth and Historical Insight
Ideal for readers seeking both spiritual inspiration and a deeper understanding of WWII history, this book is suitable for all ages and discussion groups.

Widely Praised for Its Authenticity and Emotional Impact
Readers consistently highlight the book's genuine portrayal of faith, resilience, and compassion, making it a powerful and moving read for diverse audiences.
8.3

Good

Our Rating

9.9
Giftable

9.9
worth the money

9.7
materials Quality

10 Best historical nonfiction books of 2025

1

Mark Twain

How do we rank?

How do we rank?

Analyzing top stores

2

When Breath Becomes Air: Pulitzer Prize Finalist

9.9

9.9

9.7

3

The Spy and the Traitor: The Greatest Espionage Story of the Cold War

4

Cloudbuster Nine: The Untold Story of Ted Williams and the Baseball Team That Helped Win World War II

5

A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II

9.9

9.7

9.5

6

The Demon of Unrest: A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War

9.9

9.7

9.3

7

The Forgotten 500: The Untold Story of the Men Who Risked All for the Greatest Rescue Mission of World War II

8

The Nightingale: A Novel

9

Blood and Thunder: The Epic Story of Kit Carson and the Conquest of the American West

9.9

9.7

9.3

10

The Hiding Place

9.9

9.9

9.7

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