3 Memoirs about People who Overcame Major Suffering

To be honest, memoirs are probably one of my least favorite literary genres, but let me explain. Memoirs will only be published if they are about a significant and oftentimes unique hardship that the author experienced in his or her life. Of course, there is nothing wrong with this, and we should shed light on these stories. However, in my opinion, the publishing industry has turned people’s hardships into a competition. If you haven’t endured the most unique, terrible experience, then your story is “unworthy” to be published. Additionally, I find that it’s easy to make memoirs self-centered. People often either begin praising their own strength at the end of their book, or they end it with utter hopelessness. That said, some memoirs are truly inspiring and worth reading.

Below are my favorite memoirs about people who endured and overcame major hardships.

1. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah

Ishmael Beah was just thirteen years old when he became a soldier during the civil war in Sierra Leone. In his memoir, he recounts his journey as a soldier, describing what he saw, how it changed him, and how he recovered from it.

This memoir is difficult to read due to its violence and gore. It will break your heart a little and make you cry. Yet, it is an eye-opening story that shows the horror of war.

"I was glad to see other faces and at the same time disapointed that the war had destroyed the enjoyment of meeting people."
Ishmael Beah, A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier 

2. The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

Corrie ten Boom and her family hid Jews in their home during WWII, but they were arrested. Corrie and her sister, Betsie, were then taken to a concentration camp.

While this memoir is not as violent as the previous one, you still might shed some tears. At the same time, it has beautiful messages of hope, endurance, peace, and forgiveness during unimaginable circumstances.

"Forgiveness is to set a prisoner free, and to realize the prisoner was you."
Corrie ten Boom, The Hiding Place

3. Joni: An Unforgettable Story by Joni Eareckson Tada

Joni Earekson Tada was seventeen years old when she dove into the Chesapeake Bay and became paralyzed forever. In her memoir, Joni describes the numerous trials she faced after she was in the hospital following her injury. This inspiring story will encourage you to trust and endure.

"Suffering is the gym equipment on which my faith can be exercised."
Joni Eareckson Tada, Joni: An Unforgettable Story

Conclusion

I hope you found this post enjoyable and helpful. Be sure to let me know your thoughts on memoirs. Do you enjoy reading them? What’s your favorite memoir? Are you familiar with any of the memoirs I mentioned? As always, I love hearing from you, and please subscribe so that you can get notified when I publish a new post!