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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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In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl's Journey to Freedom
New
Yeonmi Park, Maryanne Vollers  | Penguin Publishing Group

In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl's Journey to Freedom

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.49

from $11.90

In stock: Well Read

Yeonmi Park’s 'In Order to Live' is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, which might resonate deeply with you if you're moved by personal stories of survival against the odds. As you follow Yeonmi's harrowing journey from North Korea to freedom, you’ll likely be inspired by her tenacity and the light she shines on human rights issues. This book could widen your world view with a first-hand account that's as educational as it is emotional.
Wealth and Power - China's Long March to the Twenty-First Century
Orville Schell, John Delury  | Little, Brown

Wealth and Power - China's Long March to the Twenty-First Century

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.23

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're curious about how China transformed into a global powerhouse, "Wealth And Power" is a treasure. Orville Schell and John Delury have crafted a narrative that's as enlightening as it is engaging, focusing on the people who propelled China's rapid change. It's a comprehensive journey through the country's tumultuous history to its remarkable present that provides context to the headlines we see today.
Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace ... One School at a Time - Thryft
Greg Mortenson, David Oliver Relin  | Penguin

Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace ... One School at a Time

$11.90 from $9.90 Save up to 20%

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$11.90 from $9.90 Save up to 20%

In stock: Well Read

This book is a powerful testament to the impact one person can have in making a difference. Through the incredible journey of Greg Mortenson, readers will be captivated by the determination and resilience showcased in his mission to build schools for children in remote and dangerous regions. With a blend of adventure, cultural insights, and a celebration of the indomitable human spirit, "Three Cups of Tea" is a must-read for those who believe in the transformative power of education and want to be inspired to make a positive change in the world.
Chinese Cinderella: The Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter - Thryft
Yen Mah | Pearson Education

Chinese Cinderella: The Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter

$10.90 from $6.90 Save up to 37%

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$10.90 from $6.90 Save up to 37%

In stock: Well Read

"Chinese Cinderella" is more than just a memoir; it's an intimate journey through adversity with a young girl whose resilience shines. As she maneuvers through a life of neglect and cruelty, her solace in literature becomes a powerful motif that evokes both heartache and inspiration. Anyone seeking a narrative to fuel their belief in the unyielding strength of the human spirit should delve into this book. It's a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of education.
Chinese Cinderella: The Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter
Adeline Yen Mah | Puffin Books

Chinese Cinderella: The Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

Chinese Cinderella would be a great read for anyone looking for a story of triumph over adversity. Adeline Yen Mah's descriptive writing style makes it easy to imagine the setting and characters. The unique and distinctive feature of the book is the insight it gives into Chinese culture and family dynamics. Readers will be inspired by the young protagonist's perseverance despite the cruelty she faces.
Travels in Siberia
New
Ian Frazier | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

Travels in Siberia

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're intrigued by vast landscapes with a complex history, "Travels In Siberia" might just be the companion for your curiosity. Ian Frazier doesn't just explore Siberia's notorious reputation; he brings to life its human stories and the humor that permeates Russian culture. It's more than travel writing; it's an invitation to experience the "amazingness" of a place marked by beauty and tragedy, often in the same breath.
The Interpreter's Daughter
New
Teresa Lim | Michael Joseph

The Interpreter's Daughter

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

from $11.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by the complexities of family histories and the rich cultural tapestries that form our identities, "The Interpreter's Daughter" offers a profound exploration of such themes. Through Teresa Lim's uncovering of her family's past, you too can experience the deep digs into historical events and personal sacrifices that shaped the lives of her ancestors, an emotional journey that spans continents and eras, revealing stories that resonate with the power of remembrance and the silent strength of women. This memoir could be a treasure trove of insight for anyone fascinated by the convergence of personal narrative and broader historical contexts, akin to peeling back layers of time with each page.
Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China
Leslie T. Chang | Picador Usa

Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China

from $17.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

from $17.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by the personal stories behind the headlines of China's economic surge, "Factory Girls" is for you. Leslie T. Chang dives deep into the lives of two women navigating the chaotic world of migrant labor, shedding light on the human cost of the products we often take for granted. It offers a profound, eye-opening experience that's both socially relevant and emotionally resonant.
Without You, There Is No Us: My Time With the Sons of North Korea's Elite
New
Suki Kim | Crown

Without You, There Is No Us: My Time With the Sons of North Korea's Elite

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're the type to seek an understanding of North Korea beyond the headlines, this book is for you. Suki Kim's immersive experience, coupled with her emotional narrative, provides a unique perspective on the isolated nation. It's a rare mix of personal struggle, cultural insight, and political intrigue that may reframe your views on North Korea and its people.
Malaysian Maverick: Mahathir Mohamad in Turbulent Times - Critical Studies of the Asia-Pacific Series - Thryft
Barry Wain | Palgrave Macmillan

Malaysian Maverick: Mahathir Mohamad in Turbulent Times - Critical Studies of the Asia-Pacific Series

$28.90 from $18.90 Save up to 35%

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$28.90 from $18.90 Save up to 35%

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to geopolitical narratives or leadership studies, "Malaysian Maverick" could be an enlightening read for you. It provides a window into Mahathir Mohamad's complex tenure as a leader who propelled Malaysia's economy whilst navigating the intricacies of Islam, governance, and regional politics. The book is a compelling exploration of a leader's paradoxes and how they shape a nation’s destiny.
Influence Empire: The Story of Tencent and China's Tech Ambition
New
Lulu Yilun Chen | Hodder & Stoughton

Influence Empire: The Story of Tencent and China's Tech Ambition

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.95

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're fascinated by tech giants beyond the familiar realm of Silicon Valley, "Influence Empire" by Lulu Yilun Chen is the keyhole to peek into the eastern digital dragon that is Tencent. It's not just a corporate biography; it offers a genuine storyline with exclusive insights that shed light on the symbiotic dynamics between a private empire and state power in China. As a tech enthusiast or someone curious about global digital economics, this read promises a thrilling deep dive into a pivotal force shaping today's tech landscape.
The Bookseller of Kabul: The International Bestseller - 'An Intimate Portrait of Afghani People Quite Unlike Any Other' Sunday Times - Thryft
Åsne Seierstad, Ingrid Christophersen  | Virago Press Ltd

The Bookseller of Kabul: The International Bestseller - 'An Intimate Portrait of Afghani People Quite Unlike Any Other' Sunday Times

$8.90 from $6.90 Save up to 30%

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.90 from $6.90 Save up to 30%

In stock: Well Read

This book would be a good read for those who seek a firsthand account of life in Afghanistan. Through the eyes of Sultan Khan, a bookseller in Kabul, readers are taken on a journey that explores the resilience of the human spirit in the face of political turmoil and censorship. As Åsne Seierstad immerses herself in an Afghan family, the book paints a vivid picture of the struggles, marriages, power dynamics, and the profound impact of history on a nation. Highly recommended for those fascinated by stories of survival and personal resilience.
The Road of Lost Innocence - Thryft
Somaly Mam, Lisa Appignanesi  | Virago Press

The Road of Lost Innocence

$22.90 from $14.90 Save up to 39%

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$22.90 from $14.90 Save up to 39%

In stock: Very Good

This book would be a good read for someone interested in understanding the heartbreaking reality of the sex trafficking industry and the immense strength of survivors. Somaly Mam's powerful story takes you through her traumatic childhood and the horrors she endured, but it also showcases her resilience and determination to create change. This book will leave you inspired to take action and support organizations like AFESIP in their fight against human trafficking.
Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found
New
Suketu Mehta | Penguin India

Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found

from $7.90

Goodreads rating: 3.94

from $7.90

In stock: Well Read

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.
Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found - Thryft
Suketu Mehta | Headline Review

Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found

$7.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$7.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever been curious about the beating heart of Bombay beyond its iconic landmarks, "Maximum City" is your must-read. Suketu Mehta masters the art of storytelling by weaving his personal return to the city with gripping tales of its inhabitants. It's a tapestry rich with the complexities of urban life, offering unfiltered insights into a city teeming with contradictions and vibrancy. Whether or not you've visited Bombay, this book will transplant you there, making you feel its pulse as if you were wandering its streets.
Asian Godfathers: Money and Power in Hong Kong and South-East Asia
New
Joe Studwell | Profile Books

Asian Godfathers: Money and Power in Hong Kong and South-East Asia

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.96

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

"Asian Godfathers" is a must if you're fascinated by the intersection of wealth, power, and secrecy in business. Joe Studwell isn't just gossiping; he's providing a masterclass in how a few families maintain control over significant parts of Asia's economy. The book offers a deep dive into the mechanisms that these magnates use to shape entire regions. Engaging and insightful, it's like peeling back the curtain on an often misunderstood and cloaked part of the global economy.
Shadow of the Silk Road
New
Colin Thubron | Chatto & Windus

Shadow of the Silk Road

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.79

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're drawn to tales of exploration and cultural exchange, "Shadow of the Silk Road" may just be your next great read. Through Colin Thubron's perceptive and lyrical narrative, you will travel across the heart of Asia, getting intimately acquainted with its present and past. It's a book that offers a deep understanding of this vast and historically rich area, blending travel writing with profound insights on humanity.
Liem Sioe Liong's Salim Group: The Business Pillar of Suharto's Indonesia
New
Richard Borsuk, Nancy Chng  | Iseas-yusof Ishak Institute

Liem Sioe Liong's Salim Group: The Business Pillar of Suharto's Indonesia

from $24.90

Goodreads rating: 4.58

from $24.90

In stock: Well Read

Are you curious about the intersection of political power and business success? This biography of Liem Sioe Liong takes you on a fascinating journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of economic triumph in Indonesia, showcasing what one individual can achieve with the right mix of sharp instincts, circumstances, and connections. If you're intrigued by real-world tales of ascent within complex socio-political landscapes, Liem's story will offer you both historical insight and personal inspiration.
The Little Captive - Thryft
Lise Kristensen | Pan Books

The Little Captive

$7.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$7.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

In stock: Well Read

This book would be a good read for anyone seeking a poignant and inspiring story of survival. The Little Captive takes you on a journey of a young girl's courage and determination in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through the author's vivid storytelling, you will be captivated by the resilience and unwavering hope that shines through even in the darkest moments of war. This book serves as a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the power of optimism in the midst of despair. Get ready to be moved and inspired by this gripping tale of survival against all odds.
City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi
New
William Dalrymple | Flamingo

City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.13

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If Delhi intrigues you, "City of Djinns" is an essential read. Dalrymple becomes your guide to the historical layers and cultural tapestry of Delhi, from its mischievous protectors to the colorful cast of locals. It's a vividly written, immersive experience—a literary passage to the heart of a city alive with secrets and stories.
Chronicle of the Chinese Emperors: The Reign-by-Reign Record of the Rulers of Imperial China
Ann Paludan | Thames & Hudson

Chronicle of the Chinese Emperors: The Reign-by-Reign Record of the Rulers of Imperial China

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're a history buff intrigued by the rich tapestry of China's imperial past, this book is a treasure trove. Imagine leafing through centuries of power, culture, and innovation in a concise, reign-by-reign narrative. It's a deep dive into the heartbeat of a civilization, inviting not just a read but an experience.
Private Life of Chairman Mao: The Memoirs of Mao's Personal Physician
New
Li Zhisui | Arrow

Private Life of Chairman Mao: The Memoirs of Mao's Personal Physician

from $12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.15

from $12.90

In stock: Well Read

This memoir by Mao's personal doctor offers an unparalleled look behind the curtain of power, showing sides of the Chinese leader that were never meant for the public eye. If you're drawn to understanding complex historical figures or have an interest in the intricacies of political power plays, Dr. Li's close observations make for compelling, if not at times unsettling, reading. You'll gain insights into the human flaws and paradoxes of a man who shaped an era, making this book an essential piece for anyone fascinated by the shaping forces of modern China.
Gweilo: Memories of a Hong Kong Childhood
Martin Booth | Bantam Press

Gweilo: Memories of a Hong Kong Childhood

from $6.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

from $6.90

In stock: Well Read

This captivating memoir, "Gweilo - Memories of a Hong Kong Childhood" takes you on a remarkable adventure through the eyes of a curious young boy. From exploring hidden corners of Hong Kong to befriending locals and experiencing the rich Chinese culture, Martin Booth's vivid storytelling will transport you back in time. With infectious curiosity and humor, this book offers a mesmerizing journey that will leave you yearning for more.
A Doctor in the House: The Memoirs of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad
Mahathir Mohamad, مهاتير محمد  | Mph Group Publishing Sdn Bhd

A Doctor in the House: The Memoirs of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad

$70.90 from $59.90 Save up to 16%

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$70.90 from $59.90 Save up to 16%

In stock: Like New

Recommended for those interested in political memoirs, the history of Malaysia, and leadership. The book offers a unique perspective on the controversial figure of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and his achievements in transforming Malaysia into an industrial powerhouse.
Mao - A Biography - Thryft
Ross Terrill | Touchstone

Mao - A Biography

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Well Read

This is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex life and impact of Mao Zedong. Terrill skillfully dives into the layers of Mao's persona, shedding light on his rise to power, his political ideology, and the key moments that shaped his reign. The book not only explores the historical events but also delves into the psyche of Mao, providing a fascinating exploration of his legacy. Prepare to be immersed in a captivating journey through the life of one of history's most influential figures.
Genghis Khan
John Man | Bantam

Genghis Khan

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.72

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

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.
CEO, China: The Rise of Xi Jinping
New
Kerry Brown | I.b.tauris

CEO, China: The Rise of Xi Jinping

from $9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.65

from $9.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're fascinated by the intersections of politics and personal history, "CEO, China" is a compelling dive into Xi Jinping's ascent and China's political climate under his leadership. Kerry Brown's expertise offers a window into the enigmatic world of Chinese political power, analyzing not just a man, but the global reverberations of his rule. It's a must-read if you're intrigued by the mechanisms of power and want to understand how China has become what it is today.
The Good Women of China: Hidden Voices
New
Xinran | Vintage Books

The Good Women of China: Hidden Voices

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.3

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're looking to expand your horizons, "The Good Women of China" could be a transformative read for you. Xinran captures the heart-wrenching tales of Chinese women, whose voices had long been suppressed, with such compassion that you'll feel connected to their struggles and triumphs. It's a remarkable window into the resilience and spirit of women whose experiences are both harrowing and inspiring.
The Girl in the Picture: The Remarkable Story of Vietnam's Most Famous Casualty
New
Denise Chong | Scribners

The Girl in the Picture: The Remarkable Story of Vietnam's Most Famous Casualty

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.95

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

"The Girl in the Picture" is more than just a biography; it's an intimate exploration of resilience amidst war's brutality. Denise Chong captures Kim Phuc's agonizing road from being a napalm victim to finding solace and new life in Canada, weaving social history and spiritual exploration along the way. This book would nudge your heart and broaden your understanding of the human spirit's capacity to seek forgiveness and peace even after unimaginable trauma.
Gurkha: Better to Die Than Live a Coward: My Life in the Gurkhas
New
Alexander Norman, Kailash Limbu  | Little, Brown Book Group

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

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

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.
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

$4.90 from $3.90 Save up to 45%

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$4.90 from $3.90 Save up to 45%

In stock: Like New

Book by Scotland, Tony
Sons of the Yellow Emperor: Story of the Overseas Chinese - Thryft
Lynn Pan | Random House Uk

Sons of the Yellow Emperor: Story of the Overseas Chinese

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 55%

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 55%

In stock: Well Read

"Sons of the Yellow Emperor" is more than just a historical account; it's a rich tapestry weaving together stories of triumph, struggle, and cultural exchange. If you have an interest in the global Chinese experience and its profound impact on the world, this book offers a deep dive into personal journeys and monumental achievements of the Chinese diaspora. Lynn Pan's thorough research and vibrant storytelling could make this an enlightening read for you.
Conversations With Lee Kuan Yew: Citizen Singapore: How to Build a Nation
New
Tom Plate | Marshall Cavendish Intl

Conversations With Lee Kuan Yew: Citizen Singapore: How to Build a Nation

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

Conversations With Lee Kuan Yew provides readers with invaluable insights into the mind and life of Singapore's founding father. Through a candid and wide-ranging conversation with a Western journalist, LKY discusses topics such as his views on China and US presidents, as well as revelations about his personal family life. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in politics, history, and personal memoirs.
The Gate: A Memoir - Thryft
François Bizot | Vintage

The Gate: A Memoir

$8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

In stock: Well Read

Picture yourself delving into the depths of human resilience and the blurred lines between captor and companion. "The Gate" is not only a memoir but a gripping, thought-provoking journey through history's darker moments. It challenges you to consider the intricacies of morality within the chaos of war. The intimacy of Bizot's experience with the notorious Douch offers a rare, compelling perspective that could change the way you view the past and its haunting grips on the present.
Bound Feet & Western Dress - Thryft
Pang-Mei Natasha Chang | Bantam

Bound Feet & Western Dress

$14.90 from $6.90 Save up to 59%

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$14.90 from $6.90 Save up to 59%

In stock: Well Read

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.
Sideshow: Kissinger, Nixon, and the Destruction of Cambodia
New
William Shawcross | Simon & Schuster (ny)

Sideshow: Kissinger, Nixon, and the Destruction of Cambodia

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to the hidden gears of history—those pivotal actions and decisions made behind closed doors that shape countries' destinies—then "Sideshow" is for you. William Shawcross's deep dive into the tragic subterfuge will intrigue anyone passionate about foreign policy or the ethical complexities of war. It's a meticulous, sobering chronicle of how Nixon and Kissinger's choices reverberated through Cambodia.
Emperor of China: Self-Portrait of K'ang-Hsi
Kangxi, Jonathan D. Spence  | Vintage

Emperor of China: Self-Portrait of K'ang-Hsi

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're intrigued by the intricacies of power and history, "Emperor of China: Self-Portrait of K'ang-Hsi" is an intriguing dive into the past. Jonathan D. Spence gives voice to an emperor using historical documents to forge an immersive narrative. It's like a time machine casting you into the heart of the Qing dynasty, offering a personal look at imperial life that typically stays hidden behind palace walls.
Ten Thousand Miles Without a Cloud - Thryft
Sun Shuyun | Harpercollins Publishers Canada, Limited

Ten Thousand Miles Without a Cloud

$14.90 from $9.90 Save up to 38%

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$14.90 from $9.90 Save up to 38%

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

"Ten Thousand Miles Without a Cloud" is a vibrant tapestry of past and present. If you're intrigued by cultural exploration through the lens of personal discovery, this book might just be your next favorite. Sun Shuyun blends her spiritual quest with historical narratives, offering a fascinating insight into Chinese history and Buddhism. It's like taking a walk through time, with a guide who's both knowledgeable and introspective.
Rape of Nanking: The Forgotten Holocaust of World War II
Iris Chang | Penguin Books Ltd

Rape of Nanking: The Forgotten Holocaust of World War II

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

This book could resonate with you if you're passionate about uncovering hidden historical truths. "The Rape of Nanking" doesn't just recount the facts of the atrocities; it gives voice to the silenced and challenges the reader to understand the depth of human cruelty while also showcasing unexpected heroism. Iris Chang's meticulous research and compelling narrative might just change your understanding of World War II's reach.
Falling Leaves Return to Their Roots : The True Story of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter - Thryft
Adeline Yen Mah | Penguin

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

$6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Well Read

This book will transport you into the tumultuous world of China during the Communist Revolution, as seen through the eyes of a young and unwanted daughter. Adeline Yen Mah's beautifully written memoir explores themes of family, betrayal, and the search for identity. It is a powerful and emotional story that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Prepare to be deeply moved by this tale of strength, courage, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
Confessions of a Yakuza
New
John Bester, Junichi Saga  | Kodansha International

Confessions of a Yakuza

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're fascinated by the underbelly of Japanese society, "Confessions Of A Yakuza" will immerse you into a world rarely seen by outsiders. It's not just a memoir; it's a back-alley tour into the complex honor codes and traditions of the yakuza through the intimate storytelling of a dying man. The allure of this book lies in its raw narrative and the genuine glimpse it offers into a life of crime, loyalty, and the Japanese underworld.
In Xanadu: A Quest
New
William Dalrymple | Flamingo

In Xanadu: A Quest

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.98

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

"In Xanadu" isn't just a travel story; it’s an adventurous and culturally rich odyssey that might ignite your wanderlust. Dalrymple’s youthful zeal and his eloquent, often humorous narrative make the trials of his journey as compelling as the historic and poetic references peppering his path. If your soul yearns for travel and history told with a joyous voice, this book is your ticket to an armchair adventure through Asia’s heart.
A Bright Shining Lie: John Paul Vann and America in Vietnam
Neil Sheehan | Random House (ny)

A Bright Shining Lie: John Paul Vann and America in Vietnam

from $9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.23

from $9.90

In stock: Well Read

This isn't just another military history book—it’s a vivid and personal narrative that exposes the deep flaws and human failures within the Vietnam War through John Vann’s eyes. Neil Sheehan gives us a front-row seat to the political intrigue and moral conflicts that Vann encountered, making it poignant for anyone interested in the truth behind the grand narratives of war and the complex human stories often lost in the shadow of geopolitics.
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

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

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.
Dragon Fighter: One Woman's Epic Struggle for Peace with China - Thryft
Rebiya Kadeer, Dalai Lama XIV, Alexandra Cavelius  | Kales Press

Dragon Fighter: One Woman's Epic Struggle for Peace with China

$15.90 from $7.90 Save up to 50%

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$15.90 from $7.90 Save up to 50%

In stock: Well Read

Imagine a life where your very existence demands heroic resilience—that's the essence of Rebiya Kadeer's story. This book isn't just a personal memoir; it's an eye-opener to the struggles of the Uyghur people. Her transformation from a housewife to an influential political figure is bound to inspire you, revealing the indomitable spirit of a woman who stands undeterred against formidable powers for her people's freedom.
The Singapore Story: Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew, Vol. 1
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Lee Kuan Yew | Times Editions

The Singapore Story: Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew, Vol. 1

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Goodreads rating: 4.27

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Lee Kuan Yew's personal perspective adds depth and authenticity. 3. Reveals the challenges and strategies behind Singapore's transformation. 4. Offers valuable insights for leaders and policymakers.
The New Emperors: Mao and Deng, a Dual Biography - Thryft
Harrison E. Salisbury | Harper Collins

The New Emperors: Mao and Deng, a Dual Biography

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Goodreads rating: 4.03

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This book takes you on a captivating journey through the intertwined lives of Mao and Deng, showcasing their rise to power and the impact they had on China. The captivating aspect of this book lies in its exploration of the concept of power and betrayal through the symbolism of dragons. As you delve into the pages, you'll witness the transformation of these leaders from benign protectors to fearsome emperors. Get ready to be enthralled by the fire-breathing narrative that reveals the untold stories behind China's past.
Falling Leaves: The True Story of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter
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Adeline Yen Mah, Kim McGillivray  | Penguin Books Ltd

Falling Leaves: The True Story of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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This book is a poignant memoir of Adeline Yen Mah's difficult childhood in a wealthy Chinese family. It highlights themes of family dynamics, cultural clashes, and resilience. Readers who appreciate candid accounts of personal struggles and triumphs will find this book compelling and thought-provoking.
Red Dust
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Ma Jian | Vintage Books

Red Dust

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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If you're intrigued by personal narratives that weave through the complex tapestry of a country, "Red Dust" could be a treasure for you. Ma Jian's transformative trek across China dives deep into the heart of its culture, unearthing raw human experiences. It's like looking at China through a kaleidoscope of emotions, landscapes, and political undertones.
Nani Palkhivala: The Courtroom Genius - Thryft
Soli J. Sorabjee, Arvind P. Datar  | Lexis Nexis Butterworths Wadhwa

Nani Palkhivala: The Courtroom Genius

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Goodreads rating: 4.32

$14.51 from $9.90 Save up to 34%

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If you're intrigued by the inner workings of a brilliant legal mind, "Nani Palkhivala: The Courtroom Genius" is your kind of read. It's a finely crafted look into the life and arguments of one of India's most respected lawyers. The book captures the essence of his persuasive oratory and his dedication to the Constitution, offering inspiration for aspiring lawyers or anyone interested in the power of effective advocacy.

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.