Best Non-Fiction Books of 2011

The best non-fiction books of 2011 managed to enthrall readers by covering a variety of subjects. From the historical to the modern, these books seek to educate while entertaining. A great non-fiction book does that: It teaches me something while making the whole experience fun and interesting. I've put together this list to highlight what I believe are the best non-fiction books of the year. I've included several best-sellers, and a few newer efforts as well. I hope I've added your favorite non-fiction book of 2011, but if not, add it! Also, readers, I'm counting on your votes to determine the actual ranking - so vote for your faves and vote down any non-fiction books you just didn't like.

Biographies were huge in 2011. Whether it's Walter Isaacson's (timely) book about Apple founder Steve Jobs, or Tina Fey's revealing memoir 'Bossypants,' several of the best non-fiction books this year dove deeply into the lives of historical figures and cultural icons. Janet Reitman's heavily-researched book 'Inside Scientology' was a fascinating read, and Ben Mezrich's latest effort, 'Sex on the Moon,' was a page-turner for me too. Was there a particular non-fiction book that you couldn't put down in 2011? If I haven't listed it, again, please do add it. Bookworms will thank you.

Non-fiction not your 'thing'? Check out this list of the best novels of 2011. From Stephen King's '11/22/63' to Chad Harbach's remarkable 'The Art of Fielding,' bookworms are eagerly adding and ranking their favorite fiction of the year. Also, enjoy these lists of the best non-fiction books (spanning the years, not just 2011) and the best free eBooks!