Educated cover

Books Like Educated: 12 Reads You’ll Love Next

Inspired by Educated by Tara Westover (2018)

There's a particular feeling Educated leaves behind — the kind that makes you stare at the wall for a minute when you finish. We've gathered 10 books that hit those same notes. Some share its inspiring mood, others share its themes, but all of them deserve a spot on your TBR if you loved Tara Westover's novel.

The Recommendations

Atomic Habits cover

Atomic Habits

by James Clear

Like Educated, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Born a Crime cover

Born a Crime

by Trevor Noah

Like Educated, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

The Goldfinch cover

The Goldfinch

by Donna Tartt

Like Educated, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Babel cover

Babel

by R.F. Kuang

Like Educated, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

The Vanishing Half cover

The Vanishing Half

by Brit Bennett

Like Educated, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Big Little Lies cover

Big Little Lies

by Liane Moriarty

Like Educated, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Becoming cover

Becoming

by Michelle Obama

Like Educated, this book leans into a inspiring mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Sapiens cover

Sapiens

by Yuval Noah Harari

Like Educated, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

The Body Keeps the Score cover

The Body Keeps the Score

by Bessel van der Kolk

Like Educated, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Untamed cover

Untamed

by Glennon Doyle

Like Educated, this book leans into a inspiring mood — perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Each book below was hand-picked because it captures something specific about why Educated resonated with so many readers. Some share its mood, some share its themes, all share its quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What book should I read after Educated?

Our top recommendation is Atomic Habits by James Clear. It captures a similar feel with its inspiring atmosphere and complex storytelling. It is the closest match to Educated in mood and tone.

Is there a sequel to Educated?

Check the author page for Tara Westover to see all of their books and series information. Many authors of standalone novels have other books in similar styles even if Educated is not part of a series.

What genre is Educated?

Educated blends elements from memoir, non-fiction. The recommendations above stay true to this genre mix while bringing fresh perspectives.

Are there any books like Educated but lighter?

For a lighter take on similar themes, look at our cozy and comforting mood pages. They feature books that share Educated's emotional depth without the darker undertones.

What other books has Tara Westover written?

Visit our Tara Westover author guide for a complete reading order and recommendations of where to start.

Get Mood-Matched Books in Your Inbox

Weekly book recommendations matched to your favorite moods. Free, no spam, unsubscribe anytime.

Subscribe Free →

Explore Our Sites