Hampton Sides is a master of narrative nonfiction, blending meticulous research with gripping storytelling. His books transport readers to pivotal moments in history, from harrowing battles to epic explorations and dramatic manhunts. And his books have some of the highest ratings on Goodreads for nonfiction books. So if you’re looking for immersive, well-crafted historical accounts, Sides’ works are essential reading. Below, we’ve ranked Hampton Sides’ best books according to their Goodreads rating.
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6 Best Hampton Sides Books Ranked According to their Goodreads Rating
On Desperate Ground: The Marines at The Reservoir, the Korean War’s Greatest Battle, by Hampton Sides
Goodreads Rating: 4.58 / 5
First published in 2018
On Desperate Ground is one of the highest rated books in nonfiction on Goodreads. It details the brutal Chosin Reservoir campaign during the Korean War, where outnumbered U.S. Marines faced freezing temperatures and overwhelming Chinese forces. Sides captures the resilience and heroism of the soldiers in a battle that became a defining moment in military history. If you enjoy military history with vivid personal stories of courage and survival, On Desperate Ground is a must.
The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook, by Hampton Sides
Goodreads Rating: 4.47 / 5
First published in 2024
In The Wide Sea Sides chronicles Captain James Cook’s ill-fated third voyage, exploring the clash between European exploration and Indigenous cultures in the Pacific. The book delves into ambition, cultural misunderstandings, and the tragic consequences of imperialism. Fans of maritime history and tales of exploration will find this a fascinating, thought-provoking read.
Hellhound on His Trail: The Stalking of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the International Hunt for His Assassin, by Hampton Sides
Goodreads Rating: 4.33 / 5
First published in 2010
A riveting true-crime narrative, this book follows the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and the 65-day manhunt for his killer, James Earl Ray. Sides masterfully builds tension, painting a vivid picture of a nation in turmoil. True crime enthusiasts and those interested in civil rights history will be captivated by this dramatic account.
Blood and Thunder: An Epic of the American West, by Hampton Sides
Goodreads Rating: 4.29 / 5
First published in 2006
Blood and Thunder covers the conquest of the American West, focusing on figures like Kit Carson and the Navajo people’s struggles. Sides brings to life the violence, ambition, and cultural clashes that shaped the frontier. Anyone fascinated by the Wild West, Native American history, or epic tales of expansion will love this book.
In the Kingdom of Ice: The Grand and Terrible Polar Voyage of the USS Jeannette, by Hampton Sides
Goodreads Rating: 4.28 / 5
First published in 2014
In the Kingdom of Ice is the harrowing true story of the USS Jeannette’s doomed 1879 Arctic expedition. Sides recounts the crew’s fight for survival against freezing temperatures, starvation, and treacherous ice. Adventure seekers and history buffs will be enthralled by this tale of endurance and disaster.
Ghost Soldiers: The Epic Account of World War II’s Greatest Rescue Mission, by Hampton Sides
Goodreads Rating: 4.25 / 5
First published in 2001
Ghost Soldiers tells the incredible story of the 1945 raid to rescue American POWs from a Japanese camp in the Philippines. Sides combines military strategy with personal heroism in a thrilling narrative. WWII history lovers and fans of daring rescue missions won’t be able to put this down.
Hampton Sides has a rare talent for turning historical events into page-turning narratives. Whether you’re interested in war, exploration, true crime, adventure or survival epics, his books offer something for every reader. Let us know if you’ve added something from this list of Hampton Sides Best Books to your TBR and join the conversation on X: @Nonfictioned1
