5 Uplifting Memoirs to Add to Your 2024 Reading List
5 Uplifting Memoirs to Add to Your 2024 Reading List
Life is a journey of highs and lows, and sometimes the stories of others can inspire and motivate us in ways we never expect. Memoirs, in particular, have the power to connect us to experiences that make us feel seen, heard, and inspired. If you’re looking for books that will uplift your spirit and add positivity to your reading list, you’re in the right place!
At I Was Today Years Old, we believe in the power of stories to help us manifest our best selves and encourage growth. That’s why we’ve rounded up 5 must-read, uplifting memoirs that should be at the top of your 2024 reading list. These books offer unique perspectives on resilience, joy, and overcoming life’s challenges—perfect for anyone looking to kickstart their year with a dose of positivity.
1. Becoming by Michelle Obama
Why You’ll Love It: In this empowering memoir, former First Lady Michelle Obama reflects on her life—from her childhood in Chicago to her time in the White House. Her story is filled with lessons on perseverance, embracing authenticity, and finding your voice. With wisdom and grace, Michelle teaches us how to face challenges head-on, all while staying true to ourselves.
Key Takeaway: "Your story is what you have, what you will always have. It is something to own."
2. The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Why You’ll Love It: The Glass Castle is a breathtaking memoir about Jeannette Walls’ childhood, marked by extreme poverty, dysfunctional family dynamics, and a journey toward independence. What makes this book so uplifting is Jeannette’s ability to find humor, strength, and resilience despite her circumstances. It's a testament to the human spirit’s ability to rise above adversity.
Key Takeaway: "You can't cling to the side of the pool forever. Eventually, you have to swim."
3. Educated by Tara Westover
Why You’ll Love It: Tara Westover’s memoir chronicles her journey from growing up in a strict and isolated family in rural Idaho to earning a PhD from the University of Cambridge. Her story is one of courage, curiosity, and the pursuit of education against all odds. Tara’s memoir will inspire you to never stop learning, regardless of your background or circumstances.
Key Takeaway: "The hardest part of leaving was the fear that I would never be able to find home again."
4. Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Why You’ll Love It: In Untamed, Glennon Doyle opens up about her struggles with self-doubt, her journey to self-discovery, and the moment she decided to trust her inner voice. Full of raw emotion, this memoir is about breaking free from societal expectations and living an authentic, courageous life. It’s a beautiful reminder to honor your true self and let go of limiting beliefs.
Key Takeaway: "We can do hard things."
5. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
Why You’ll Love It: This deeply moving memoir is written by Dr. Paul Kalanithi, a neurosurgeon who faced terminal cancer. He reflects on the intersection of his medical career and his own journey with illness, exploring the meaning of life, death, and everything in between. When Breath Becomes Air offers a poignant perspective on how we can live more fully in the face of mortality, and the wisdom that comes from embracing life’s fleeting moments.
Key Takeaway: "The pain of the patient is not the only pain. The physician also suffers, though he may try to hide it."
Final Thoughts
These uplifting memoirs offer an opportunity to reflect, grow, and be inspired by people who’ve faced challenges head-on with grace and strength. They remind us that we all have the capacity for resilience, transformation, and living authentically.
If you're ready to add some positive energy to your reading list this year, these five memoirs will take you on a journey of self-discovery, hope, and empowerment. After all, we believe that reading is a powerful tool for manifesting the life you deserve—and these stories are the perfect starting point for anyone looking to embrace positivity in 2024.
Have you read any of these books? Or do you have an uplifting memoir you recommend? Let us know in the comments below! Happy reading! 📚✨