Tara Westover’s Educated took the world by storm with its gripping tale of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of education. If you were captivated by Westover’s journey from a survivalist upbringing to earning a PhD from Cambridge, you’re not alone. Her story is more than just a memoir—it’s a testament to the human spirit.

If you’re craving more reads that mirror the emotional depth, personal transformation, and thought-provoking themes of Educated, here are several must-reads to add to your list—along with why they’re so compelling.

1. The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

Why it’s similar:
Like Educated, The Glass Castle is a memoir of a childhood marked by poverty, instability, and unconventional parenting. Jeannette Walls recounts growing up with eccentric, neglectful parents who resisted societal norms. Despite the chaos, she carves out her own path to success.

Key highlights:

• A deeply moving narrative of resilience.
• Explores themes of family, forgiveness, and self-reliance.
• Poignant storytelling that balances heartbreak and hope.

Why you should read it:
It offers a raw, unfiltered look at growing up in adversity and shows how one can emerge stronger, more empathetic, and determined to break cycles.

2. Educating Esmé by Esmé Raji Codell

Why it’s similar:
Though not a personal trauma memoir, this book delves into the power of education to shape lives. Esmé’s energetic, passionate voice gives a refreshing look at teaching under challenging conditions.

Key highlights:

• Real diary entries from a teacher’s first year.
• Offers insight into the public school system.
• Shows the importance of belief in students and oneself.

Why you should read it:
If Educated made you value learning and the power of one individual’s journey, this book reinforces that through a teacher’s lens.

3. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai

Why it’s similar:
Malala’s story is another powerful testament to the strength of a young woman’s voice and the power of education. Raised in Pakistan, she survived an attack by the Taliban simply for advocating for girls’ schooling.

Key highlights:

• Explores global issues of education and women’s rights.
• A courageous personal narrative.
• Inspiring message of advocacy and peace.

Why you should read it:
It broadens your perspective on global education inequality and showcases courage in the face of violence and oppression.

4. Heavy: An American Memoir by Kiese Laymon

Why it’s similar:
Laymon’s memoir explores the complexities of family, race, body image, and abuse. It’s a brutally honest examination of growing up Black in America, told with lyrical prose and deep introspection.

Key highlights:

• Tackles issues of identity, shame, and vulnerability.
• Emotionally intense and intellectually profound.
• Beautifully written and thought-provoking.

Why you should read it:
Like Educated, this book challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths and appreciate the transformative journey toward self-understanding.

5. The Liars’ Club by Mary Karr

Why it’s similar:
This memoir of a troubled childhood in a Texas town blends dark humor with unflinching honesty. Mary Karr’s storytelling paints vivid pictures of trauma, mental illness, and familial love.

Key highlights:

• Pioneering work in the memoir genre.
• Balances brutal truths with wit and poetic language.
• Deeply personal yet widely relatable.

Why you should read it:
It’s a classic in personal narrative writing and will appeal to readers who admire emotional candor and literary artistry.

Why Read These Memoirs?

Books like Educated:

• Inspire resilience – They show how individuals can rise above circumstances and create their own futures.
• Challenge perspectives – These stories make us reflect on privilege, access, and the systems we live within.
• Foster empathy – Stepping into someone else’s life allows us to feel their joys and pains, which broadens our understanding of humanity.
• Encourage introspection – Readers often walk away with new insights into their own lives, values, and beliefs.

Final Thoughts

If Educated left a lasting impression on you, these memoirs will stir your soul just as deeply. Each offers a powerful narrative of struggle, growth, and the unbreakable human spirit. Whether you’re drawn to stories of overcoming trauma, the pursuit of knowledge, or finding one’s voice against the odds, these books are a rich, emotional journey worth taking.