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Biographies & Memoirs

Explore the stories of remarkable lives in our Biographies & Memoirs section at Thryft. Discover firsthand accounts of influential figures and captivating memoirs that'll inspire and educate. Our collection is carefully curated to ensure you find the perfect narrative to delve into.
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Ancient History
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Christmas: A Biography
Just Arrived
Judith Flanders | Thomas Dunne Books

Christmas: A Biography

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$9.90

67% off est. retail
If you're curious about how Christmas became the festive behemoth it is today, Judith Flanders' book is a perfect read. It delicates a fine balance between being informative and engaging, unraveling the history and evolution of Christmas traditions. It's like time traveling through winters past to understand our present celebrations.
The Quest for the Tomb of Alexander the Great - Thryft
Andrew Chugg | Lulu.com

The Quest for the Tomb of Alexander the Great

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

88% off est. retail
If the intricate webs of ancient history intrigue you, "The Quest for the Tomb of Alexander the Great" might just be the complex and thrilling archaeological detective story you're seeking. Andrew Michael Chugg combines academic rigor with a narrative style that grips you like a mystery novel, making the ancient world's secrets accessible and fascinating. Your curiosity about history's unsolved puzzles will find a home within these pages.
Schliemann of Troy: Treasure and Deceit
David A. Traill | St Martins Pr

Schliemann of Troy: Treasure and Deceit

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$11.90

69% off est. retail
It seems you have a taste for history and its complex characters. Reading about Heinrich Schliemann will take you on a journey through a past where the lines between discovery and deceit blur. Traill doesn't just recount facts; he dives into the very essence of who Schliemann was, warts and all. If you're someone intrigued by the imperfect side of human ambition and the early days of archaeology, this book might just reveal a layer of history that textbooks often gloss over.
Before the Throne: Dialogs with Egypt's Great from Menes to Anwar Sadat
Naguib Mahfouz | The American University In Cairo Press

Before the Throne: Dialogs with Egypt's Great from Menes to Anwar Sadat

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.41

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Imagine standing before ancient deities, having to justify your life's deeds and decisions. "Before the Throne" brings you to this exact surreal courtroom, where Egypt's most iconic figures, from Menes to Anwar Sadat, plead their cases for immortality. Naguib Mahfouz, a Nobel laureate, crafts each historical narrative with compelling depth, making it a fascinating read for those intrigued by history, power, and the human quest for legacy.
A Brief History of Robin Hood
Nigel Cawthorne | Robinson

A Brief History of Robin Hood

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.12

$8.90

51% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the blend of history and legend, "A Brief History of Robin Hood" might just hit the bullseye for you. Nigel Cawthorne delves into the origins of the Robin Hood mythos, exploring how a potentially real figure evolved into the folk hero we recognize today. This book promises to provide an engaging journey through the fabled green woods of medieval England and into the heart of a legend deeply rooted in popular culture.
Warriors - Thryft
Terry Deary | Scholastic

Warriors

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Dive into the fascinating world of warriors from different eras and cultures as Terry Deary reveals their untold stories. From Roman soldiers to Viking warriors, this captivating book takes a fresh approach to history, offering a lively and engaging account of these men's lives on the battlefield. Packed with intriguing facts and delivered with Deary's signature humor, Warriors is a must-read for history enthusiasts looking for a unique perspective on the art of war.
Cleopatra
Patricia Southern | Tempus Publishing Ltd

Cleopatra

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$8.90

46% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by legendary figures who've shaped history, Cleopatra's biography will certainly resonate with you. It weaves through her political savvy and personal charisma, making her story not just a historical account but a captivating narrative of a formidable queen. Your dive into her world will be as intricate as it is engaging.
Time Warner Discoveries Library: Ancient China
Carol Michaelson | Time Life Asia

Time Warner Discoveries Library: Ancient China

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.26

If you're fascinated by rich cultural histories and ancient civilizations, "Time Warner Discoveries Library: Ancient China" could transport you back in time. It's like a time machine in book form, offering a vibrant glimpse into a world that has shaped modern society in many unseen ways. Delve into this book to unearth the roots of one of the world's oldest continuous civilizations.
Alexander the Great: Man and God
Ian Worthington | Routledge

Alexander the Great: Man and God

$27.90

Goodreads rating: 3.38

$27.90

56% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by legendary historical figures, "Alexander the Great: Man and God" will transport you to ancient times where one man's ambition shaped the world. Ian Worthington delves deep into Alexander's life, dissecting his path from king to a deity-like status. This isn't just a history lesson; it's a riveting tale of power, strategy, and human aspiration that still resonates today.
Terracotta Warriors: The First Emperor and His Legacy - Thryft

Terracotta Warriors: The First Emperor and His Legacy

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

62% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by ancient mysteries and grand historical narratives, diving into "Terracotta Warriors" could be a rewarding journey for you. Guolong Lai's detailed examination not only introduces the iconic clay soldiers but also explores the rich tapestry of art and statecraft in the Qin era. It's a window into the past that can transform your understanding of how China was shaped.
Exchanging a Leopard Cat for a Prince
Hu Ben, Sun Haichen  | Foreign Languages Press

Exchanging a Leopard Cat for a Prince

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$8.90

If you're fascinated by the melding of history and mystery, "Exchanging a Leopard Cat for a Prince" might just be your cup of tea. Lord Bao serves as an iconic figure in Chinese lore, known for his fairness and intelligence. The book curates an atmosphere of ancient China and weaves intricate mysteries that challenge both Lord Bao and the reader. It's a journey through time with a detective twist that's as educational as it is entertaining.
The Dawn of Civilisation: Prehistory-900 BC - Thryft
Tony Allen | Reader's Digest

The Dawn of Civilisation: Prehistory-900 BC

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.18

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

If you have a fascination with the roots of human societies, this book is a treasure chest. Tony Allen vividly outlines the development of early civilizations from prehistory to 900 BC, offering a comprehensive look at the dawn of human history. It’s a chance to walk through time, understanding the cultural, technological, and social progress that still echoes today.
The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius, George Long  | Shambhala

The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.28

$8.90

56% off est. retail
If you're someone who appreciates the intersection of philosophy and practicality, "The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius" could resonate deeply with you. Here is a rare glimpse into the personal thoughts of a Roman emperor, which surprisingly feels as relevant today as it did centuries ago. It's a guide that simplifies the complexity of human experience into profound yet accessible insights. Marcus's meditations offer not just food for thought, but sustenance for the soul, urging us to live virtuously and with purpose.
Memoirs of the Court of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, Complete
Sold out
Jeanne-Louise-Henriette Campan | Echo Library

Memoirs of the Court of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, Complete

$21.90 $13.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$21.90 $13.90 37% off

If you're fascinated by the depths of royal history, particularly the intricate and often misunderstood life of Marie Antoinette, this book is like stepping through a time portal. It offers a personal glimpse into the day-to-day happenings and the lavish lifestyle of the last Queen of France before the French Revolution. The memoirs could change your perspective on her life and the events that surrounded her – perfect for history buffs looking to enrich their understanding of this tumultuous period.
Judge Bao and the Rule of Law - Eight Ballad-Stories from the Period 1250-1450
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Wilt L. Idema | World Scientific Publishing Company

Judge Bao and the Rule of Law - Eight Ballad-Stories from the Period 1250-1450

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$8.90

83% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by historical figures who've become larger than life, Judge Bao's story is a must-read. It's like a time capsule from ancient China that reveals how one man's commitment to justice left a thousand-year legacy. Idema's translation is your lens into the past, giving you front-row access to these medieval tales where right triumphs over corruption, even challenging emperors. Judge Bao isn't just a character; he's an ideal, depicted in a way that makes old moral tales resonate today.
Hypatia of Alexandria: Mathematician and Martyr - Thryft
Sold out
Michael A.B. Deakin | Prometheus

Hypatia of Alexandria: Mathematician and Martyr

$14.90 $10.90 27% off

Goodreads rating: 3.55

$14.90 $10.90 27% off

76% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the crossroads of history, science, and gender, "Hypatia of Alexandria" transports you to ancient times, where you'll meet an extraordinary woman ahead of her time. Hypatia's story is not just educational; it's a poignant reflection on the struggles women faced in a realm dominated by men, making it a gripping read for those interested in the human stories behind historical figures.
The Last Days of Socrates - Thryft
Sold out

The Last Days of Socrates

$6.34

$6.34

64% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the depths of morality and self-responsibility. By delving into the trial and condemnation of Socrates, Plato provides a profound examination of virtue and the choices we make in life. Through engaging dialogues, the book challenges readers to question their beliefs and reflect on the importance of living a life guided by personal responsibility. Prepare to be inspired and provoked by this timeless philosophical masterpiece.
Aristotle - On Man In The Universe - Thryft
Sold out
Louise Ropes Loomis | Gramercy Books

Aristotle - On Man In The Universe

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$5.07

70% off est. retail
Recommendation: "On Man In The Universe" is a great read for those interested in learning about Aristotle's beliefs on logic, spirituality, ethics, and science. This book delves into the timeless philosophical musings on humanity and existence that have influenced generations. Aristotle has a unique and comprehensive approach to understanding the world around us, making this book a must-read for those seeking deeper knowledge and contemplation.
The Making of "Alexander" : The Official Guide to the Epic Alexander Film - Thryft
Sold out
Robin Lane Fox | R And L

The Making of "Alexander" : The Official Guide to the Epic Alexander Film

$7.59

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$7.59

70% off est. retail
This book provides exclusive, detailed behind-the-scenes information about the making of the epic Alexander film directed by Oliver Stone, including the development of the script, the actors, the locations and sets, and the filming. It gives a fascinating insight into the incredible effort and dedication that went into making this film, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the film industry or the historical figure of Alexander the Great.

Dive Into Real-Life Stories

Biographies and memoirs offer unparalleled insights into the lives and minds of individuals who've shaped our world. Be it political icons, celebrities, or unsung heroes, Thryft brings you a rich assortment of stories that reveal extraordinary experiences and life lessons. Embark on a journey through time as you explore the personal tales that have influenced history and culture.