There is something deeply captivating about stepping into someone else's world through a memoir, but let’s be honest: not every book is a winner! My reading list this year has been full of high-profile biographies, emotional rollercoasters, and a whole lot of Elvis history.
Here is my honest breakdown of the memoirs I have picked up so far in 2026—the good, the okay, and the ones I couldn't even finish!
1. Being Elvis: A Lonely Life by Ray Connolly
- My Reaction: 🤩
- Hands down my favourite read on the list! Ray Connolly captured Elvis’s world so brilliantly. It was captivating, thoughtful, and deeply engaging from start to finish.
2. Loving Amy: A Mother's Story by Janis Winehouse
- My Reaction: 😢
- A deeply poignant read, though emotionally tough. It gave the impression that Janis didn't have much say in what Amy did or enough power to step in and protect her, leaving you feeling so sad for their whole family.
3. A Little Thing Called Life by Linda Thompson
- My Reaction: 🤔
- The Vibe: This one was just OK for me! Linda has an interesting life story, and while it didn't completely blow me away, it was a pleasant, easy peek behind the Hollywood curtain.
4. This Is Me: A Reckoning by Hayden Panettiere
- My Reaction: 😔
- The Vibe: A sad read. Walking through Hayden’s story leaves you with the painful feeling that she rarely had true, lasting friends looking out for her throughout her short life.
5. Softly, As I Leave You: Life After Elvis by Priscilla Beaulieu Presley
- My Reaction: 🧐
- The Vibe: Definitely one of the better Elvis-related reads on my list! However, Priscilla included a few intimate details and random facts that really felt unnecessary to share with the world.
6. Bombshell: The Night Bobby Kennedy Killed Marilyn Monroe by Mike Rothmiller & Douglas Thompson
- My Reaction: 🫣
- The Vibe: I actually couldn't bring myself to finish this one. I was expecting a juicy look into Hollywood mystery, but I got so bored with all the dry police talk and procedure that I ended up setting it aside.
7. Elvis & Ginger by Ginger Alden
- My Reaction: 🌀
- The Vibe: I didn't really enjoy this book. Ginger came across as surprisingly negative toward Elvis, which made it a tough and somewhat off-putting read compared to the other biographies.
What Should I Read Next?
My bookshelf is always looking for new stories! Have you picked up any of these titles, or do you have a favourite biography or memoir you think I should add to my queue? Let me know !