The Best Nonfiction Books of the Year
- Team Salis Mania
- Sep 22
- 8 min read
Discover a curated selection of the most compelling nonfiction books that educate, inspire, and captivate readers. From groundbreaking memoirs to thought-provoking essays, this blog explores stories that delve deep into real-life events, personal growth, history, science, and more. Whether you're looking for books to expand your knowledge or gain fresh perspectives, this list has something for every nonfiction enthusiast.
The Power of Words
Book by Shree Shambav
Published by Clever Fox Publishing
In The Power of Words, Shree Shambav offers more than a manual on communication; he delivers a meditation on language as an ethical act. This slim but resonant book proposes that words are not mere sounds strung together but the very architecture of our relationships, each syllable shaping the reality we inhabit.
Shambav frames careless speech as a kind of moral negligence, what he calls the “sins of speaking.” We wound when we interrupt, when we answer without listening, when we speak only to reinforce our sense of self. Conversely, gracious speech becomes an act of creation. “Every word you speak is a transaction,” he reminds us, a seed that may take root as kindness or cruelty in another’s heart.
What makes this book compelling is not simply its admonitions but its insistence on mindfulness as a form of liberation. Our words, Shambav argues, are conditioned by our own biases, fears, and histories; only in stillness can we begin to hear truth as it is, unclouded by reflexive judgment. He writes with the cadence of both teacher and poet, invoking scripture (“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones”) while grounding his reflections in the everyday frictions of modern life: arguments, hurried conversations, advice offered without compassion.
The book is not prescriptive in the way of corporate communication guides. Instead, it is an invitation to inhabit speech as an art of attention. Shambav suggests that kindness is not simply ornamental but instrumental. It is what allows us to defuse conflict, to create “gardens rather than weeds” in the landscapes of our lives. A kind word, he insists, can ripple outward, touching lives in ways we may never see.
At a moment when public discourse often feels corrosive, The Power of Words reads less like a self-help tract and more like a quiet act of resistance. Its message is disarmingly simple, yet urgent: speak with grace, listen with humility, and recognize that language is not neutral. It is destiny.
Modi’s Bharat
Book by Amit Bagaria & Savio Rodrigues
Published by BlueOne Ink
Modi’s Bharat, co-authored by Amit Bagaria and Savio Rodrigues, reads less like an investigative chronicle and more like an extended tribute. The book is clearly written for those who admire Prime Minister Narendra Modi, compiling a sweeping list of achievements and initiatives credited to his government. In tone and intent, it resembles a celebratory scrapbook, a political highlight reel rather than a probing examination.
The authors’ approach will likely resonate with Modi’s supporters, who will find satisfaction in seeing their leader’s accomplishments meticulously catalogued. Yet, for readers seeking a nuanced portrait of Modi’s India, the book’s one-sided perspective may feel incomplete. The text offers little engagement with criticism, controversy, or the broader complexities of governing a country as vast and diverse as India. The absence of this counterbalance gives the book an air of advocacy rather than analysis.
Its structure, too, presents challenges. By emphasizing recent achievements without a chronological or thematic framework, the narrative risks feeling scattered and fleeting. Many of the statistics and data points cited have already shifted in the fast-moving world of Indian politics, giving the work a sense of immediacy but also impermanence. A more enduring approach, placing Modi’s policies in historical context and charting challenges alongside victories, might have elevated the book from fanfare to reportage.
Still, Modi’s Bharat offers a window into how Modi’s supporters view his tenure, and in that way, it captures an important slice of contemporary Indian political sentiment. Its unapologetic admiration makes it less a mirror of Modi’s India than a portrait painted by its most ardent believers.
Stronger
Book by Dinesh Palipana
Published by Macmillan Australia
In Stronger, Dinesh Palipana recounts a life that has been anything but ordinary. After surviving a devastating accident that left him critically injured, Palipana, Sri Lankan born and Australian trained, emerges as a storyteller of remarkable warmth, humor, and perspective. His memoir doesn’t linger on tragedy; instead, it examines resilience with a sharp wit and a Jeremy Clarkson–like irreverence. Palipana’s journey meanders through Sri Lanka’s turbulence, the corporate grind, and the daunting world of medicine, yet his focus remains firmly on what can be learned from others’ struggles as much as his own.
What sets Stronger apart is its insistence that life’s worth isn’t measured by tomorrow’s promises but by today’s presence. Palipana reminds us that extraordinary lives are rarely built by following the stream; they are forged by jumping out of it. Disability, he argues, is not synonymous with inability. His narrative celebrates discipline: “big things are a collection of little things done well,” and the unseen labor behind every achievement.
Far from being a self-help manifesto, Stronger is a meditation on perspective. Palipana’s wealth lies in relationships, laughter, and memories, not accolades. He extols curiosity, particularly the transformative power of conversations with strangers, and delivers his wisdom with a lightness that makes the book more invigorating than solemn. In a cultural moment obsessed with spectacle and speed, Palipana’s reflections feel radical. Ordinary is easy. Extraordinary requires courage. His story isn’t just inspiring; it is a quiet rebellion against despair.
Radiant Within
Book by Dr. Anuradha Iyer & Dr. Ashima Das
Illustrated by Rohan Yadav
Published by Notion Press
Radiant Within is a captivating collaboration of spiritual practice, science, and art that offers a holistic approach to self-improvement. Authored by Dr. Anuradha Iyer and Dr. Ashima Das, and beautifully illustrated by Rohan Yadav, this book is a heartfelt guide for anyone seeking to alleviate the physical and emotional stresses of daily life.
The authors have seamlessly blended their expertise to craft a resource that is not only informative but also deeply inspiring. With a focus on self-care and mindfulness, the book encourages readers to take meaningful steps toward becoming the best version of themselves.
What sets Radiant Within apart is its authenticity—it’s written from the heart with the genuine intent of helping readers on their personal journeys. Whether you are new to spiritual practices or looking to deepen your understanding, this book provides a perfect balance of practical guidance and profound insights.
The illustrations by Rohan Yadav add an artistic dimension to the narrative, making the reading experience even more engaging and visually appealing.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of life and are ready to embark on a journey of transformation, Radiant Within is a must-read. It’s not just a book; it’s a companion for your path to inner peace and growth.
The Talking Numbers
Book by Purnima Gupta
Published by Bluerose Publishers
Numbers are everywhere – every second, every minute, and in everything around us. In The Talking Numbers, Purnima Gupta dives deep into the fascinating world of numerology, unraveling the hidden significance behind numbers and offering practical tools to interpret their meanings.
The book isn’t just about numbers; it’s about hope. As humans, we constantly seek guidance and reassurance, and Gupta masterfully uses numerology as a beacon of light. Through her insights, readers can discover how numbers can serve as a source of inspiration and direction in their lives.
I was intrigued by the tools and techniques outlined in the book and decided to explore them myself. To my surprise, they resonated deeply, offering a sense of clarity and hope. It’s rare to find a book that not only teaches but also uplifts, and The Talking Numbers achieves just that.
If you’re looking for a book that motivates you, provides fresh perspectives, and encourages you to move forward in life, this one might be the perfect choice. Purnima Gupta’s work is a compelling blend of numerology and positivity, making it a must-read for anyone curious about the power of numbers.
You & Your Teen's Career Makeover
Book by Suganya Sridharan & Ponvenkata Prasad
Published by Penman Books
You & Your Teen's Career Makeover by Suganya Sridharan and Ponvenkata Prasad is an insightful and transformative guide designed for teenagers and their parents navigating the challenging decision of choosing a career path.
The book stands out as a step-by-step guide, equipped with modern tools that engage both teens and parents alike. It offers practical strategies to help readers explore career options, assess interests, and align their aspirations with realistic opportunities.
What makes this book truly impactful is its ability to foster open communication between teenagers and their parents. By encouraging dialogue and collaboration, it creates a shared journey toward making informed career decisions.
If readers commit to following the outlined steps, this book has the potential to be a life-changing resource. It bridges the gap between confusion and clarity, empowering families to make thoughtful, confident choices about the future.
I highly recommend You & Your Teen's Career Makeover to all teenagers and their parents. It's a must-read for anyone seeking guidance and clarity in choosing the right career stream. Read it, discuss it, and discover the path that works best for you.
Chase the Change
Book by Sandeep Jain
Published by Rupa Publications
If you’re stepping into the world of non-fiction for the first time, Chase the Change by Sandeep Jain is a must-have addition to your library. This book stands out as an incredibly useful read, offering readers practical insights that save countless hours spent scrolling through YouTube for similar content.
The book’s structure is thoughtfully crafted, making it an easy read even for those new to the genre. It distills wisdom and actionable advice into digestible chapters, ensuring readers can implement changes without feeling overwhelmed.
Whether you’re looking to enhance productivity, develop a growth mindset, or embrace change, this book serves as a reliable guide.
Chase the Change is more than just a book—it’s a companion for those embarking on a journey of self-improvement. If you're ready to take the first step towards a better you, this book deserves a spot on your reading list this year.
Alcoholism To Soberism
Book by Madaswamy Pillai
Published by Penman Books
Alcoholism to Soberism by Madaswamy Pillai is both an inspiring autobiography and a practical guide to achieving sobriety or breaking any bad habit. The author's journey is deeply moving and highly motivating, making it relatable and impactful. What stands out is the author's approach—he doesn’t impose his knowledge but shares it in a friendly, conversational manner, making the steps easy to understand and follow. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a positive transformation in their life.
Love, Interpreted
Book by Dr. Pooja Singh
Published by White Falcon Publishing
"Love, Interpreted" by Dr. Pooja Singh is a refreshing and insightful exploration into one of humanity's most profound emotions. Dr. Singh approaches love not just as an emotion but as a multifaceted concept, diving into both technical and non-technical aspects. The book offers readers a unique chance to understand their individual love styles, providing practical insights that can help enhance or refine their approach to relationships.
What sets this book apart is its ability to cater to a wide audience. Whether you're someone looking for a deeper psychological understanding of love or seeking simple ways to improve your romantic life, "Love, Interpreted" provides a balanced perspective. Dr. Singh’s thoughtful analysis encourages readers to reflect on their personal relationships and identify areas for growth.
Overall, "Love, Interpreted" is a must-read for anyone curious about how love functions on both emotional and intellectual levels. It’s a transformative guide that can help you unlock a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationships.