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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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Partition Voices: Untold British Stories - Updated for the 75th Anniversary of Partition
Kavita Puri | Bloomsbury Publishing

Partition Voices: Untold British Stories - Updated for the 75th Anniversary of Partition

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$13.90

Imagine sitting down with your grandparents and unexpectedly finding out that they've lived through one of history's most heart-wrenching chapters. That's the visceral connection you get with "Partition Voices." It's not just a history lesson; it's a deep, personal voyage that bridges generations and geographies. Reading this book, you'll understand how the fabric of modern Britain is interwoven with the enduring threads of Partition's legacy.
Playful Story Set (Chinese Edition)
侯文咏 | 北京十月文艺出版社

Playful Story Set (Chinese Edition)

$42.90 $27.90 35% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$42.90 $27.90 35% off

Diving into this playful story set, you'll embark on an enriching cultural journey through Chinese narratives. The lighthearted prose may attract those with an interest in foreign literature, offering insights into the nuances of life and imagination from an Eastern perspective. It's a delightful way to experience the charm of another culture through storytelling.
I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban
Malala Yousafzai, Christina Lamb  | Back Bay Books

I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

73% off est. retail
"I Am Malala" is an inspiring memoir that showcases the power of education and a person's voice in bringing about change. Malala's story is one of bravery and perseverance, as she fought against the Taliban's efforts to ban girls' education in Pakistan. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the fight for gender equality and the transformative power of education.
No Friend But the Mountains: The True Story of an Illegally Imprisoned Refugee
Behrouz Boochani | Picador

No Friend But the Mountains: The True Story of an Illegally Imprisoned Refugee

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Diving into "No Friend but the Mountains" gives you an unflinching perspective of Behrouz Boochani's heart-wrenching experience. As you walk through his years of being unjustly held, your understanding of the refugee crisis will deepen, and the power of human spirit and endurance will become undeniable. The book's raw emotion and striking prose make it a compelling read that's hard to put down and impossible to forget.
Curfewed Night
Basharat Peer | Harper Press

Curfewed Night

$20.90 $15.90 24% off

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$20.90 $15.90 24% off

If you're drawn to understand the personal impact of geopolitical conflicts, "Curfewed Night" might resonate with you deeply. Basharat Peer's first-hand account of growing up in Kashmir offers a poignant, intimate view into the lives shaped by the ongoing conflict. The book's strength lies in transforming the news headlines into human experiences, making the events in Kashmir achingly real.
Country Driving: A Journey Through China From Farm to Factory
Peter Hessler | Harper

Country Driving: A Journey Through China From Farm to Factory

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're fascinated by the interplay between culture, economics, and personal stories, "Country Driving" by Peter Hessler is the perfect pick. This isn't just a book about traveling through China—it's a portal to understanding the dramatic changes shaping the lives of millions as seen through the eyes of a compassionate observer. Hessler's narrative is a rich tapestry that weaves together the experiences of farmers, workers, and entrepreneurs adapting to a new reality.
Urban Naxals: The Making of Buddha in a Traffic Jam
Vivek Agnihotri | Garuda Prakashan

Urban Naxals: The Making of Buddha in a Traffic Jam

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$8.90

64% off est. retail
If you're someone intrigued by the interplay between cinema and socio-political movements, Vivek Agnihotri's "Urban Naxals" offers an eye-opening narrative. It's not just a book but a real-life thriller that takes you into the heart of a controversial subject that intersects with Agnihotri's own experience in the film industry. The book could be a compelling read for those who appreciate first-hand accounts that challenge the status quo and inspire dialogue on critical issues.
George Yeo on Bonsai, Banyan, and the Tao
Huay Leng Lee, Asad-ul Iqbal Latif  | World Scientific Publishing Company

George Yeo on Bonsai, Banyan, and the Tao

$17.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$17.90

69% off est. retail
If you're into politics and philosophy with a dash of personal growth, "George Yeo on Bonsai, Banyan and the Tao" could be a valuable addition to your shelf. Through his compiled speeches and writings, you get to explore the intricate thoughts of a man who's not easily defined by traditional labels. You'll find yourself examining the delicate balances in governance, identity, and self-understanding, guided by the rich experiences of Yeo's diverse career.
In Search of Amrit Kaur
Livia Manera Sambuy | Chatto & Windus

In Search of Amrit Kaur

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$9.90

65% off est. retail
"In Search of Amrit Kaur" isn't just a historical investigation; it's a narrative that blends glamour with the gravity of wartime sacrifices. If you have a penchant for stories that dig up the past to reveal poignant truths about the human spirit, Livia Manera Sambuy's deep dive into the life of Princess Amrit Kaur is a compelling blend of detective story and heartfelt family exploration, shedding light on a peculiar, yet captivating slice of history. It's a journey through time that will resonate with anyone who appreciates the complex weave of personal freedom, history, and legacy.
China In Ten Words: Essays
Allan H. Barr, Yu Hua  | Vintage

China In Ten Words: Essays

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.05

$11.90

If you’re curious about the complexities of life in modern China, "China in Ten Words" might be the guide you never knew you needed. Yu Hua offers a rare lens, one colored by both affection and critique, that brings to light the contrasts and transformations within Chinese society. His personal anecdotes serve as a relatable touchstone for anyone looking to understand China beyond the headlines.
The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination
Daniel J. Boorstin | Vintage Books

The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$11.90

76% off est. retail
This is a great read if you love big, idea-rich nonfiction that makes art feel alive across centuries. Boorstin connects giants like Homer, Picasso, and Woolf into one flowing story, so you get both vivid lives and the larger evolution of creativity itself. It feels like a guided tour through the minds that shaped culture, without losing the wonder of how art emerges from its time.
Paradise Lost: Mahathir & The End of Hope
Dennis Ignatius | Dennis Ignatius

Paradise Lost: Mahathir & The End of Hope

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$13.90

If you're keen on understanding contemporary Malaysian politics and how a single figure can influence the course of a nation's history, "Paradise Lost: Mahathir & The End of Hope" is a compelling read. Dennis Ignatius provides a critical view of Mahathir Mohamad's leadership, which can offer valuable lessons on power, governance, and democracy.
Zinky Boys: Soviet Voices from the Afghanistan War
Larry Heinemann, Sergio Rapetti, Svetlana Alexievich  | Norton

Zinky Boys: Soviet Voices from the Afghanistan War

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$10.90

61% off est. retail
Zinky Boys could be a great read for anyone interested in learning about the Soviet-Afghan War from a unique perspective. It offers an insight into the realities of war from the firsthand accounts of the officers, grunts, nurses, and prostitutes. The candid and affecting testimony of the people affected by the war presents a shocking and brutal picture of the war and its lasting effects. The book is an unforgettably powerful account of the war that sheds light on the similarities between the Soviet-Afghan War and the American experience in Vietnam.
Chinese Cinderella : The Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter - Thryft
Adeline Yen Mah | Puffin Books

Chinese Cinderella : The Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Jung-ling's family considers her bad luck because her mother died giving birth to her. They discriminate against her and make her feel unwanted yet she yearns and continuously strives for her parents' love. Her stepmother is vindictive and cruel and her father dismissive. Jung-ling grows up to be an academic child, with a natural ability for writing. Only her aunt and grandfather offer her any love and kindness. The story is of survival in the light of the mental and physical cruelty of her stepmother and the disloyalty of her siblings. Jung-ling blossoms in spite of everything and the story ends as her father agrees to let her study in England.
Mao's Last Dancer
Li Cunxin | Penguin Publishing Group

Mao's Last Dancer

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

"Mao's Last Dancer" is an inspiring true story that transports you from the impoverished rural China to the world of international ballet. Li Cunxin's remarkable journey speaks to the human spirit's resilience and the transformative power of passion and dedication. Whether you're interested in dance, history, or personal triumphs, this memoir has the universal appeal of an underdog story told with sincerity and emotional depth. It's a narrative that celebrates cultural exchange and the courage to follow one's dreams.
Gurkha: Better to Die Than Live a Coward: My Life in the Gurkhas
Alexander Norman, Kailash Limbu  | Little, Brown Book Group

Gurkha: Better to Die Than Live a Coward: My Life in the Gurkhas

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

90% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the blend of harrowing combat experiences and rich cultural insights, "Gurkha" offers a captivating journey. Kailash's personal narrative, from a Himalayan village to the front lines in Afghanistan, provides more than just a soldier's memoir—it's a visceral and inspiring look at determination, tradition, and valor that's bound to leave you with a deeper understanding of the Gurkhas' legendary reputation.
Falling Leaves Return to Their Roots: The True Story of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter - Thryft
Mah Adeline Yen | Michael Joseph

Falling Leaves Return to Their Roots: The True Story of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

78% off est. retail
If you're drawn to memoirs that not only touch the heart but also offer a window into historical backdrops, "Falling Leaves" might resonate with you. Adeline Yen Mah weaves her personal sorrows and the complexities of her family life with the broader tapestry of political upheaval in China, which makes for a poignant and enlightening narrative. It's a story that could inspire strength and offers a deep understanding of a specific period in Chinese history through the eyes of a young girl struggling for love and acceptance.
Straight Flush
mezrich ben | William Heinemann Ltd

Straight Flush

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$8.90

If you're fascinated by true stories of ingenuity, thrill, and the high stakes of underground startups, "Straight Flush" might just be your next favorite read. You'll dive into the lives of college friends who transform a simple hobby into a massive online phenomenon, navigating the murky waters of internet gambling with the excitement and suspense of a high roller's game.
Gurkha: Better to Die Than Live a Coward - My Life in the Gurkhas
Kailash Limbu | Abacus

Gurkha: Better to Die Than Live a Coward - My Life in the Gurkhas

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

83% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by not just battlefield heroics but also the profound human stories behind the uniform, "Gurkha" offers you just that—a raw and honest glimpse into the life and struggles of a true warrior and a look at the cultural backdrop that shapes such soldiers. Colour-Sergeant Limbu's account is not just about his harrowing experiences in Helmand but also a deeply personal journey from the rugged, rustic life in the Himalayas to the disciplined existence of a Gurkha. It's a narrative that brings you face to face with courage, heritage, and an indomitable spirit—something you might find inspiring and eye-opening.
Dear Hong Kong: An Elegy to a City
Xu Xi | Penguin Australia

Dear Hong Kong: An Elegy to a City

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.34

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Dear Hong Kong could be a good read for someone interested in a personal and introspective account of a writer's conflicted relationship with their home city. Xu Xi's criticism of the city is balanced by her affection for it, and her writing is both lucid and nuanced.
Songs of Blood and Sword: A Daughter's Memoir
Fatima Bhutto | Bold Type Books

Songs of Blood and Sword: A Daughter's Memoir

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$15.90

61% off est. retail
If you have an interest in the personal impact of political events, "Songs of Blood and Sword" offers a moving perspective. Fatima Bhutto gives you a front-row seat to her family's entanglement with power and politics in Pakistan—a narrative that's as much about national history as it is about personal grief and resilience. It's a gripping memoir that humanizes the often abstract and distant world of political turmoil.
Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found
Suketu Mehta | Penguin India

Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

If you're drawn to understanding the soul of a city through its people and their intertwined stories, "Maximum City" by Suketu Mehta could be a great read for you. It'll take you deep into the fabric of Bombay, providing an insider's perspective that's as engaging as it is enlightening. This book acts like a multifaceted lens, capturing the spirit, struggles, and dreams of a metropolis that is at once alluring and overwhelming.
Heaven and Earth: When Heaven and Earth Changed Places - Thryft
with Jay Wurts Le Ly Hayslip, Jay Wurts  | Pan Books Ltd

Heaven and Earth: When Heaven and Earth Changed Places

$4.44 $3.90 12% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$4.44 $3.90 12% off

52% off est. retail
"When Heaven and Earth Changed Places" is a powerful memoir that takes the reader through the trauma and horror of war seen through the eyes of a young girl. Le Ly Hayslip's story of survival and struggle is both haunting and inspiring. The unique perspective of a child gives the book a distinctive and memorable quality. It is a good read for those interested in history and war as well as those who appreciate a strong, resilient protagonist.
Kublai Khan
John Man | Bantam

Kublai Khan

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

If you're intrigued by how great empires are forged by unconventional leaders, "Kublai Khan" is a must-read. John Man paints a vivid picture of a ruler who redefined power through shrewd governance and sheer determination, against the backdrop of the vast and varied landscapes of Asia. This isn't just history; it's an epic tale of ambition, legacy, and the shaping of the modern world that still echoes today.
Genghis Khan: Life, Death and Resurrection
John Man | Bantam

Genghis Khan: Life, Death and Resurrection

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

77% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by history's enigmas and the fabled tales of great leaders, this excavation into Genghis Khan's life and the enduring mystery of his final resting place is riveting. It's an exploration that combines historical gravitas with the allure of treasure-hunt suspense, potentially appealing to the Indiana Jones in you.
Chinese Lessons: Five Classmates and the Story of the New China
John Pomfret | Henry Holt And Co.

Chinese Lessons: Five Classmates and the Story of the New China

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

88% off est. retail
"Chinese Lessons" offers a deeply personal glimpse into the lives altered by China's seismic shifts from Maoism to a burgeoning capitalist economy. John Pomfret's reconnection with his former classmates provides a textured tapestry of experiences that represent a broader Chinese narrative. Through their stories, you'll journey through painful histories and witness the resilience needed to navigate such profound change. Reading this provides a nuanced understanding that statistics and headlines simply can't convey.
The River of Lost Footsteps
Thant Myint-U | Faber & Faber

The River of Lost Footsteps

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$12.90

41% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the interplay of personal narratives and grand historical landscapes, then "The River of Lost Footsteps" could captivate you. Thant Myint-U skillfully combines his family's intimate stories with the broader, tumultuous history of Burma. His unique perspective, both deeply personal due to his family's significant involvement in Burmese history and professional because of his UN experience, offers an insightful look into a country at the crossroads of change. This book will take you beyond headlines, giving you a profound understanding of a nation's heartache and beauty.
Bound Feet & Western Dress - Thryft
Pang-Mei Natasha Chang | Bantam

Bound Feet & Western Dress

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

This book could be a good read for someone interested in exploring the intersection of cultural traditions and personal identity. Through the captivating dual memoir of Pang-Mei and her great-aunt Yu-i, "Bound Feet & Western Dress" offers a deep and textured portrait of a woman's life in China during a time of immense societal change. With its blending of Eastern and Western experiences, this book invites readers to witness the struggles and triumphs of individuals challenging the expectations of their class and culture, ultimately unbinding traditional norms and forging their own paths.
Mr. China: A Memoir
Tim Clissold | Harper Business

Mr. China: A Memoir

$17.90 $12.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$17.90 $12.90 28% off

"Mr. China" serves as a riveting narrative that chronicles the often-humorous culture clash experienced by a Western businessman in the rapidly evolving economic landscape of China. Tim Clissold's candid portrayal of his missteps and learnings provides valuable insights peppered with wit, making it an entertaining read for anyone interested in the complexities of cross-cultural interactions within the business world.
The Railway Man
Eric Lomax | Vintage Books

The Railway Man

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$8.90

51% off est. retail
"The Railway Man" isn't just a memoir; it's an odyssey through a man's haunted past. If you're moved by the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of forgiveness, this book is an emotional journey that also serves as a stark reminder of war's lasting impact on individual lives. Eric Lomax's candid honesty and his path to healing may inspire you, especially if you're interested in the personal side of history.
A Capitalist in North Korea: My Seven Years in the Hermit Kingdom
Felix Abt | Tuttle Publishing

A Capitalist in North Korea: My Seven Years in the Hermit Kingdom

$17.90 $11.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$17.90 $11.90 34% off

Imagine being a fly on the wall in one of the world's most enigmatic countries, where capitalism is creeping into the fabric of a staunchly socialist society. Felix Abt's account gives you that rare vantage point, offering a blend of personal experience and unique business insights. If you're intrigued by North Korea's hidden facets, this book could be your eye-opener to how business and daily life unfold within its borders.
Black Friday: The True Story of the Bombay Bomb Blasts
S. Hussain Zaidi | India Penguin

Black Friday: The True Story of the Bombay Bomb Blasts

$18.90 $10.90 42% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$18.90 $10.90 42% off

If you're drawn to real-life investigations and crime narratives, "Black Friday" by S. Hussain Zaidi could captivate you. Picture yourself delving into the minds of those who orchestrated one of Bombay's most devastating events through Zaidi's rigorous research and interviews. As much a tribute to the city's enduring spirit as it is an exposé on terror, it's a read that blends true crime with human resilience.
Survivor on the River Kwai: The Incredible Story of Life on the Burma Railway
Reg Twigg | Penguin

Survivor on the River Kwai: The Incredible Story of Life on the Burma Railway

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$8.90

This memoir by Reg Twigg immerses you in the harrowing reality of a POW during WWII. His struggle on the Burma Railway is a poignant testimony to the human spirit's resilience. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in wartime history, tales of survival, and personal fortitude in the face of insurmountable suffering.
Princess Masako: Prisoner of the Chrysanthemum Throne
Ben Hills | Tarcher

Princess Masako: Prisoner of the Chrysanthemum Throne

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.26

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

If you're intrigued by real-life royalty beyond the fairy tales, "Princess Masako" offers a rare, in-depth look. Ben Hills's work is essential for those interested in the complexities of living within the Japanese imperial family, where traditional expectations clash with personal desires. It's an eye-opening narrative that might change the way you think about modern monarchy and the price of duty over happiness.
Rickshaw Reporter
George L. Peet | Marshall Cavendish International (asia) Pte Ltd

Rickshaw Reporter

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.4

$10.90

56% off est. retail
"Rickshaw Reporter" might just take you on a ride back in time to colonial Singapore, beyond any history book's reach. As you thumb through George Peet's memories, you'll experience the fusion of cultures, the societal layers, and a bygone era's charms, all seen through the lens of a keen, observant journalist. Peet's thoughtful reflections could make you feel as if you've stepped into his shoes, rickshaw-hopping through the hustle and bustle of Singapore's streets, making it an immersive historical journey.
The Tiger Ladies - A Memoir of Kashmir
Sudha Koul Kitty Neale | Headline Publishing Group

The Tiger Ladies - A Memoir of Kashmir

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$8.90

If you're looking to be transported into the heart of Kashmir, where the aroma of exotic spices intermingles with tales of old and the harsh reality of political strife, "The Tiger Ladies" could be your passage. Sudha Koul weaves nostalgia for an eroding culture with the poignant truths of her homeland's struggles. It's a poignant reminder of the human side of history, perfect for readers who appreciate depth and cultural richness in their memoirs.
去问李光耀 - 一代总理对中国, 美国和全世界的深思
艾利．韋恩, 格雷厄姆．艾利森, 羅伯特．布萊克維爾  | 時報出版

去问李光耀 - 一代总理对中国, 美国和全世界的深思

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$9.90

If you're intrigued by geopolitics and leadership, Lee Kuan Yew's reflections in "去问李光耀" offer a treasure trove of wisdom. His astute observations and strategic insights into the global roles of China and the United States could broaden your understanding of international affairs, all from a man who transformed a nation.
Voices From S-21 - Terror and History in Pol Pot's Secret Prison
David P. Chandler | University Of California Press

Voices From S-21 - Terror and History in Pol Pot's Secret Prison

$54.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$54.90

If you're looking to understand the darkest corners of modern history, "Voices from S-21" will guide you through the harrowing experiences from within Pol Pot's secret prison. It's a poignant reminder of the human capacity for cruelty, serving both as a rigorous examination and a solemn tribute to the victims of the Khmer Rogue regime. This book brings the past to life, warning us to never forget.
Video Night in Kathmandu and Other Reports from the Not-So-Far East
Pico Iyer, Robin Desser  | Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

Video Night in Kathmandu and Other Reports from the Not-So-Far East

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$9.90

65% off est. retail
If you've ever been intrigued by the dizzying cultural exchanges between the East and the West, Pico Iyer's "Video Night in Kathmandu" is a must-read. Iyer weaves tales that reveal the vivid juxtapositions of tradition and modernity. His keen observations serve as a captivating window into the ways globalization was reshaping Asian societies in the late 20th century, making it a thoughtful exploration for anyone interested in the complexities of cultural identity.
Muhammad: Man and Prophet
Adil Salahi | The Islamic Foundation

Muhammad: Man and Prophet

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.59

$10.90

This feels like a biography that does more than recount events. It places the Prophet Muhammad’s life in its historical setting while keeping the human and spiritual dimensions vivid. Readers often appreciate how it speaks respectfully to both Muslims and non-Muslims, making it a thoughtful choice if you want understanding, context, and a clearer sense of why his life continues to matter so deeply.
East and West - China, Power, and the Future of Asia
Chris Patten | Times Books

East and West - China, Power, and the Future of Asia

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.41

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

If you're intrigued by geopolitics and the balance of power in Asia, Patten's "East And West" provides a forward-looking perspective centered around China's rise. Not only does it explore the complex dynamics that shape Asia, but it also offers a unique view from someone who's been at the heart of Hong Kong's handover. Ideal for those interested in understanding the geopolitical shifts that continue to influence our world today.
Conversations With Mahathir Mohamad: Dr M: Operation Malaysia
Tom Plate | Marshall Cavendish International (asia) Pte Ltd

Conversations With Mahathir Mohamad: Dr M: Operation Malaysia

$13.90 $3.90 72% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$13.90 $3.90 72% off

87% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate political landscape of Malaysia and the bold leadership of Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Through captivating conversations, the author provides an unprecedented insight into the mind of a leader who reshaped the nation and left a lasting impact. Get ready to uncover the controversial policies, thought-provoking views on religion and cultural identities, and the enduring relevance of Mahathir Mohamad's legacy.
Gweilo: Memories of a Hong Kong Childhood
Martin Booth | Bantam Press

Gweilo: Memories of a Hong Kong Childhood

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$3.90

If you're drawn to vivid recollections of a bygone era, "Gweilo: Memories of a Hong Kong Childhood" might be your next favorite read. The charm of this book lies in its ability to transport you back to the vibrant streets and the mysterious corners of 1950s Hong Kong through the eyes of a curious child. Laden with cultural insights and edged with the bittersweet nuances of family dynamics, it's not just a memoir; it's an immersive escape into history.
Alias Chin Peng: My Side of History
Chin Peng | Media Masters Pte. Ltd.

Alias Chin Peng: My Side of History

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$10.90

This is a gripping read if you like history told from inside the storm rather than from a safe distance. Chin Peng’s life moves from teenage idealism to underground warfare and anti-colonial struggle, so the book feels both politically charged and intensely personal. You get the rare pull of hearing a controversial figure explain himself in full, which makes it fascinating even when you don’t agree with him.
It Changed My Life: Inspirational Stories by Wong Kim Hoh
Wong Kim Hoh | Straits Times Press

It Changed My Life: Inspirational Stories by Wong Kim Hoh

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$11.90

This is the kind of book that stays with you because the stories are real, close to home, and told with deep compassion. Wong Kim Hoh captures ordinary people facing extraordinary pain, setbacks, and turning points in a way that feels humbling rather than preachy. If you like heartfelt journalism that restores your faith in human strength, this can be a deeply moving read.
Heaven and Earth: Child of War, Woman of Peace - Thryft
Le Ly Hayslip | Pan Macmillan

Heaven and Earth: Child of War, Woman of Peace

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$3.90

This book could be a good read for someone who enjoys powerful memoirs that delve into personal growth and the enduring resilience of the human spirit. Le Ly Hayslip's captivating storytelling transports readers through her journey from war-torn Vietnam to finding peace in the United States. With vivid descriptions and emotional depth, Hayslip's memoir captivates readers with its exploration of themes such as healing, identity, and the pursuit of peace. This book will leave you inspired and moved by the author's incredible resilience and determination to overcome adversity.
The Concubine's Children: The Story of a Chinese Family Living on Two Sides of the Globe
Denise Chong | Penguin Canada

The Concubine's Children: The Story of a Chinese Family Living on Two Sides of the Globe

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$13.90

If you're drawn to narratives that weave personal family histories with broader cultural and societal shifts, "The Concubine's Children" is a poignant read. It's not just a family's tale, but a story reflecting the immigrant experience, detailing struggle, resilience, and the poignant dichotomy between East and West. This book is especially compelling if you're interested in the complexities of family dynamics across continents and generations.
Electric Flying Tram-Car - Thryft
George Caldwell | Dr George Caldwell

Electric Flying Tram-Car

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're a fan of bygone eras, "Electric Flying Tram-Car" will take you on a nostalgic journey through the 1950s. Dr. Caldwell's meticulous observations as a ship's surgeon offer a unique perspective on life and travel during that time. His accounts are more than just historical; they're personal, intimate, and filled with the curiosity and charm of an era that feels both foreign and familiar. This book is like a time capsule you can curl up with.
The Empty Throne : Quest for an Imperial Heir in the People's Republic of China - Thryft
Tony Scotland | Penguin Putnam~trade

The Empty Throne : Quest for an Imperial Heir in the People's Republic of China

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Book by Scotland, Tony
Buddhadasa: Theravada Buddhism and Modernist Reform in Thailand
Just Arrived
Peter A. Jackson | Silkworm Books

Buddhadasa: Theravada Buddhism and Modernist Reform in Thailand

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$11.90

76% off est. retail
This is a thoughtful pick if you like religion studied as a living force in society, not just as doctrine. Peter Jackson shows how Buddhadasa reworked Theravada Buddhism for a modern, democratic Thailand, making big philosophical ideas feel historically urgent. Readers who enjoy intellectual biography and Southeast Asian history will likely find it especially rewarding and surprisingly relevant.

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.