Best Jewish Biographies Books of 2026

The Best Strangers in the World is a memoir-in-essays that takes readers around the globe to reveal the stories behind narratives that are sometimes heartwarming, sometimes heartbreaking, but always poignant. Ari Shapiro, the beloved host of NPR's All Things Considered, details his time traveling on Air Force One with President Obama, following the path of Syrian refugees fleeing war, and learning from those fighting for social justice both at home and abroad. This book is a testament to one journalist's passion for Considering All Things—and sharing what he finds with the rest of us. Overall, it is a witty, poignant, and insightful read that highlights the importance of listening and connecting with others.

Barbra Streisand: The Albums | The Singles | The Music is a must-read for any fan of the iconic singer. Written by Matt Howe, the book takes readers on a journey through Streisand's extensive recording career, exploring every album, soundtrack, and single she has released. With meticulous research, Howe uncovers undiscovered gems and provides a fascinating exploration of how the greatest star assembled her unparalleled body of work. The book has received high praise from industry experts and publications, including BroadwayWorld.com and Library Journal. Overall, this definitive book on Streisand's recording career is a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.

Bibi: My Story is an autobiography by Benjamin Netanyahu, the newly reelected prime minister of Israel. The book tells the story of his family, his path to leadership, and his unceasing commitment to defending his country and securing its future. Netanyahu weaves together his gripping personal story with the dramatic history of Israel and the Jewish people, providing a unique perspective on leadership, the fraught geopolitics of the Middle East, and his successful efforts to liberate Israel’s economy. This book is a must-read for those interested in Jewish biographies and Middle Eastern politics.

The Stable Boy of Auschwitz is a heart-wrenching memoir that tells the story of Henry Oster, the last survivor of the 2,011 Jews who were rounded up by the Gestapo and deported from Cologne. Assigned to back-breaking labor in the Auschwitz horse-breeding stables, Henry clung to the belief that if he made himself hard to replace, he might stay alive. Despite the odds against him, Henry found the strength to survive and was one of only 23 to emerge alive from the concentration camps after the war. This book is a mesmerizing and unforgettable true story that will both destroy and build up your faith in humanity.

The Happiest Man on Earth is a memoir by Eddie Jaku, a Holocaust survivor who shares his story of courage, resilience, kindness, and love. Despite unimaginable horrors in Buchenwald, Auschwitz, and a forced death march, Eddie found the will to survive and made a promise to smile every day in thanks for the precious gift he was given and to honor the six million Jews murdered by Hitler. Today, at 100 years of age, Eddie calls himself the “happiest man on earth.” The book is a beautifully told, poignant story that offers timeless lessons for readers of all ages.

The book “Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth” by Noa Tishby is a captivating and informative read. It takes the reader on a chronological journey through Israel’s history, from biblical times to the present day. Tishby offers a fresh perspective on the country, providing bite-sized chunks of history and personal stories to debunk popular misconceptions. She also provides critical context around headline-generating controversies. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a better understanding of the complex and fascinating country of Israel.

The Daughter of Auschwitz is a powerful memoir by Tova Friedman, one of the youngest survivors of Auschwitz. The book follows her childhood growing up during the Holocaust and surviving a string of near-death experiences in a Jewish ghetto, a Nazi labor camp, and Auschwitz. Written with award-winning former war reporter Malcolm Brabant, this book is an extremely important and searing account of the world's worst ever crime. The Daughter of Auschwitz is a must-read for anyone interested in Jewish biographies books and an important reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust.

The Diary of a Young Girl Definitive Edition is a poignant and heart-wrenching account of Anne Frank's life during World War II. The diary entries describe her experiences as a Jewish girl hiding with her family and friends in a secret annex in Amsterdam, hoping to evade the Nazis. Anne's diary reveals her fears, hopes, and dreams, as well as her growing understanding of the world around her. The Definitive Edition includes previously unpublished material and provides a more complete picture of Anne's life. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in World War II history and the resilience of the human spirit.

One Hundred Saturdays by Michael Frank is a moving and extraordinary book about the life of ninety-nine-year-old Stella Levi. The book is a recipient of the Jewish Book Council's Natan Notable Book Award and is one of Wall Street Journal's Ten Best Books of the Year. Over the course of six years, Michael Frank spent one hundred Saturdays with Stella Levi, listening to her life story and learning about her vibrant world of Jewish Rhodes. This book is a portrait of one of the last survivors drawn at nearly the last possible moment, as well as an account of a tender and transformative friendship. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Jewish biographies books.

The NKJV Holy Bible, Super Giant Print Reference Bible, is a must-have for those searching for a Bible with a clear and easy-to-read font. With the largest font size available in the New King James Version, this Bible offers a smooth reading experience that allows for deeper engagement in God's Word. It also includes a complete cross-reference system, a concordance, and full-color maps for easy navigation. The durable Smyth-sewn binding ensures the Bible lies flat in your hand or on your desk, and ribbon markers help you keep track of where you left off. Overall, this Bible is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a comfortable reading experience with useful study features.