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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Lee Kuan Yew
|
Straits
Times
Press
Pte
Ltd
One Man's View of the World
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Goodreads rating: 4.55
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This book could be a good read for someone seeking the insights of a highly respected and experienced leader on global affairs. Lee Kuan Yew's unique perspective, gained through his interactions with key world leaders, offers a fresh and candid take on the future of major powers like China, America, and Europe. Through thought-provoking analysis, he explores society, beliefs, and the prospects of nations in the upcoming balance of power. The Q&A sections with journalists provide an additional layer of depth to this gripping read, making it a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the global landscape.
Christina Lamb, Malala Yousafzai |
Little,
Brown
And
Company
I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban
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Goodreads rating: 4.16
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I Am Malala isn't just a book—it's a symbol of defiance against oppression. This memoir will resonate deeply if empathy and social justice stir your heart. Malala’s story is gripping, not just for her remarkable recovery, but for the strength she represents in standing up for education against unimaginable odds. If you're moved by personal tales of resilience and activism, this young woman's voice will indeed inspire you to believe in the power of change.
New
Yeonmi Park, Maryanne Vollers |
Penguin
Press
In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl's Journey to Freedom
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Goodreads rating: 4.49
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"In Order to Live" offers more than just a harrowing recount of survival; it's a testimony to the perseverance of the human spirit. Yeonmi Park's journey from the oppressive regime of North Korea to freedom is not just an insight into a hidden world, but a beacon of hope, demonstrating the profound strength and resilience one can muster in the face of unimaginable adversity. For anyone interested in human rights, personal triumph, or the power of hope, Yeonmi's story can be a profound and eye-opening read.
Malala Yousafzai, Christina Lamb |
Back
Bay
Books
I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban
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Goodreads rating: 4.16
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"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.
New
Anita Anand
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Simon
&
Schuster
Uk
The Patient Assassin: A True Tale of Massacre, Revenge and the Raj
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Goodreads rating: 4.25
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"The Patient Assassin" is a poignant blend of historical detail and riveting narrative. If you're fascinated by the lingering effects of colonialism and the lengths one man will go for retribution, you'll be gripped by Udham Singh's relentless pursuit across continents. Anand unfolds a real-life saga that reads like fiction, but with the weight of truth behind every page.
Lauren Hilgers
|
Crown
Patriot Number One: A Chinese Rebel Comes to America
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Goodreads rating: 3.85
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If you're interested in the complexities and challenges of immigration, "Patriot Number One" could resonate deeply with you. The book doesn't just chronicle one family's move from China to America, but delves into the intricate lives of a community striving to plant roots in foreign soil. Hilgers offers a humanizing perspective of the immigrant experience, one that's marked by resilience and the relentless pursuit of a better life.
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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.
New
Pico Iyer
|
Bloomsbury
Publishing
A Beginner's Guide to Japan: Observations and Provocations
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Goodreads rating: 3.81
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Think of "A Beginner's Guide to Japan" as an intimate conversation with Pico Iyer, a seasoned writer with a deep affinity for the nuances of Japanese culture. His experiences go beyond the surface, blending the mundane with the profound. You'll find yourself reconsidering what you thought you understood about Japan, whether you're a newcomer intrigued by its contradictions or a long-time admirer seeking a fresh perspective.
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If you're intrigued by the enigma of North Korea, "Dear Leader" offers a rare, gripping perspective from someone who experienced the regime's inner workings. Jang Jin-sung's escape narrative not only tells the story of his personal journey to freedom but also sheds light on the isolated nation's opaque political landscape through the eyes of a former insider. His poet's touch enriches the tale, making it resonate with emotion and depth.
New
Rande Brown, Mineko Iwasaki |
Pocket
Books
Geisha of Gion
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Goodreads rating: 3.93
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This book is a captivating and poignant memoir that offers a rare glimpse into the exotic and mysterious world of geishas. Mineko Iwasaki, Japan's foremost geisha, recounts her journey from a young girl with black hair and black eyes to becoming the best geisha in Gion. The book explores the grueling demands and bitter rivalries she faced, ultimately leading to her decision to leave the profession. This is an eloquent and innovative memoir that sheds light on the centuries-old tradition of geishas, making it a must-read for anyone fascinated by their captivating and secretive world.
New
Peter Hessler
|
Harper
Country Driving: A Journey Through China From Farm to Factory
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Goodreads rating: 4.26
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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.
New
Christina Lamb, Nashwa Gowanlock, Samar Yazbek |
Ebury
Press
The Crossing: My Journey to the Shattered Heart of Syria
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Goodreads rating: 3.98
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If you're drawn to stories of raw humanity and resilience in the most dire circumstances, The Crossing could be a profoundly moving experience for you. Samar Yazbek takes you on a personal and harrowing journey into Syria, giving you a front-row seat to the hopes, struggles, and tragedies of a country at war with itself. Her courage and dedication to sharing these stories make this book a testament to the human spirit.
Somaly Mam, Lisa Appignanesi |
Virago
Press
The Road of Lost Innocence
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Goodreads rating: 4.2
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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.
Peter Hessler
|
Canongate
Books
Ltd
Country Driving: A Chinese Road Trip
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Goodreads rating: 4.26
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As you journey through "Country Driving," you'll get more than just travel tales. Peter Hessler offers a window into the heart of China's rapid evolution, delivering both the intimate stories of its people and the larger narrative of a nation in flux. Imagine feeling the pulse of change from the driver's seat – this book does just that, making vast cultural shifts approachable and deeply human.
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If you've ever wondered about the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unspeakable tragedy, "Wave" is a profound example. Sonali Deraniyagala's deeply personal memoir takes you through the raw emotions of surviving the 2004 tsunami that took her family. It's a harrowing yet eloquent expression of grief and ultimately, a testament to healing that could offer solace to anyone who's experienced loss.
Li Cunxin
|
Penguin
Publishing
Group
Mao's Last Dancer
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Goodreads rating: 4.14
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"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.
Jon Halliday, Jung Chang |
Vintage
Books
Usa
Mao: The Unknown Story
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Goodreads rating: 3.83
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This comprehensive biography of Mao is like a deep dive into history that busts myths wide open. It offers unprecedented insights into Mao's life far beyond the conventional stories. If you thought you knew the Chairman, this book will surprise you with its revelations and the exhaustive research backing them. You'll find it a captivating read that's as educational as it is eye-opening.
Alexander Norman, Kailash Limbu |
Little,
Brown
Book
Group
Gurkha: Better to Die Than Live a Coward: My Life in the Gurkhas
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Goodreads rating: 3.91
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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.
Fatima Bhutto
|
Bold
Type
Books
Songs of Blood and Sword: A Daughter's Memoir
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Goodreads rating: 3.85
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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.
Peter Popham
|
Rider
The Lady and the Peacock: The Life of Aung San Suu Kyi
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Goodreads rating: 3.75
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If you are inspired by personal stories of resilience and political struggle, "The Lady and the Peacock" might just capture your heart. It tells the story of Aung San Suu Kyi, who became an emblem of resistance against Myanmar's oppressive regime. What makes this biography stand out is the melding of her personal sacrifices with the broader narrative of Myanmar's fight for democracy. It's a story that could inspire and provoke thought about the cost of freedom and the endurance of the human spirit.
Kailash Limbu
|
Abacus
Gurkha: Better to Die Than Live a Coward - My Life in the Gurkhas
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Goodreads rating: 3.92
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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.
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.
Mahathir Mohamad, مهاتير محمد |
Mph
Group
Publishing
Sdn
Bhd
A Doctor in the House: The Memoirs of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad
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Goodreads rating: 4.26
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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.
Somaly Mam, Ayaan Hirsi Ali, Nicholas D. Kristof |
Spiegel
&
Grau
The Road of Lost Innocence: The Story of a Cambodian Heroine
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Goodreads rating: 4.2
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The Road of Lost Innocence isn't just a book; it's a testament to the resiliency of the human spirit. Somaly Mam's story is a gut-wrenching immersion into the dark world of human trafficking. If you're moved by personal stories that translate into powerful activism, her bravery and tireless advocacy may inspire you to appreciate the power one person has to spark change. This read is a call to awareness and an homage to survival and courage.
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If tales of rags-to-riches, entrepreneurial spirit, and the blurred lines of legality fascinate you, "Straight Flush" will be an enthralling read. You'll be diving into the adrenaline-fueled world of a group of friends who transformed a pastime into a multimillion-dollar business, navigating the stormy seas of international law and moral ambiguity. Ben Mezrich's storytelling provides a thrilling ride through ambition, excess, and the consequences of flying too close to the sun.
Suketu Mehta
|
Penguin
India
Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found
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Goodreads rating: 3.94
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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.
Mah Adeline Yen
|
Michael
Joseph
Falling Leaves Return to Their Roots: The True Story of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter
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Goodreads rating: 3.9
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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.
Xinran
|
Vintage
Books
Message From an Unknown Chinese Mother: Stories of Love and Loss
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Goodreads rating: 4.11
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"Message from an Unknown Chinese Mother" is a poignant and heartwarming account of 10 women who had to give up their daughters for adoption. It sheds light on the dire consequences of China's one-child policy, age-old traditions, and economic struggles that have forced mothers to abandon their daughters. Xinran's storytelling style takes readers through a emotional journey, full of sorrow but also of hope and love. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding the plight of Chinese women and the lost daughters, and for adopted Chinese girls who want to know the story of their mothers and the love they had for them.
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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.
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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"Falling Leaves" isn't just a memoir—it's a testament to survival and the strength of the human spirit. As you delve into Adeline Yen Mah's heart-wrenching childhood experiences, you will be moved by her perseverance and her eventual rise to find happiness and success far from her painful beginnings. If stories of overcoming adversity inspire you, this book could provide a powerful and thought-provoking read.
Wang Gungwu
|
National
University
Of
Singapore
Press
Home Is Not Here
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Goodreads rating: 3.94
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This book would be a good read for someone who is interested in exploring their own identity and understanding the complexities of history. Wang Gungwu takes us on an intimate journey through his own life, from being born in Java and raised in a multiethnic town in Malaya, to studying in China and eventually returning to his homeland. Through his personal story, the book delves into the themes of family, identity, and belonging, while also providing insights into the historical currents that have shaped Asia and the world. It is a wise and moving reflection that will resonate with those who appreciate the power of personal stories in understanding the broader complexities of our world.
S. Hussain Zaidi
|
India
Penguin
Black Friday: The True Story of the Bombay Bomb Blasts
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Goodreads rating: 4.13
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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.
John Man
|
Bantam
Genghis Khan: Life, Death and Resurrection
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Goodreads rating: 3.72
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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.
Pascal Khoo Thwe
|
Harper
Perennial
From the Land of Green Ghosts: A Burmese Odyssey
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Goodreads rating: 4.13
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If you're drawn to stories of resilience and cross-cultural experiences, "From the Land of Green Ghosts" may resonate with you. Pascal Khoo Thwe's life is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, taking you from the rich traditions of the Kayan Padaung tribe to the hallowed halls of Cambridge. His unique perspective on navigating vastly different worlds is as educational as it is inspiring, making this memoir a compelling read.
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"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.
John Pomfret
|
Henry
Holt
And
Co.
Chinese Lessons: Five Classmates and the Story of the New China
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Goodreads rating: 4.04
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"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.
Thant Myint-U
|
Faber
&
Faber
The River of Lost Footsteps
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Goodreads rating: 4.02
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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.
John Man
|
Bantam
Kublai Khan: From Xanadu to Superpower
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Goodreads rating: 3.89
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If the grandeur of empires and the artful dance of history captivate you, then Kublai Khan's story is poised to enthrall. John Man paints a vivid portrait of a man who inherited Genghis Khan's legacy and ambitiously expanded it, fashioning the largest empire in existence. This book doesn't just recount history; it delves into the strategic vision of a leader whose influence shaped the very contours of the modern world.
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The Railway Man is a powerful memoir of Eric Lomax's experience as a prisoner of war in WWII, and his journey decades later to confront one of his captors. The book is recommended for those interested in stories of resilience and forgiveness after trauma.
Hyok Kang, Shaun Whiteside |
Abacus
This Is Paradise! My North Korean Childhood
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Goodreads rating: 3.84
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Hyok Kang's story isn't merely a recount of life in a totalitarian state; it's a testament to the human spirit's resilience amidst staggering oppression. His illustrated narrative provides an authentic peek into a world we hardly understand, one shaped by propaganda and constrained by fear. His escape is as thrilling and challenging as it is inspiring, making "This Is Paradise!" a vital read for anyone interested in the true implications of living under such a regime. Whether it’s to educate oneself about the conditions in North Korea or to be inspired by Hyok's courage, this book is bound to leave an indelible mark.
Giles Milton
|
Sceptre
Nathaniel's Nutmeg: How One Man's Courage Changed the Course of History
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Goodreads rating: 3.82
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If you're drawn to tales where determination and audacity clash with imperial powers, "Nathaniel's Nutmeg" is for you. Giles Milton brings a forgotten chapter of history to life with vivid storytelling. Prepare to be transported to a time when the spice trade was as fierce as any modern business deal, and witness how a single act of courage could alter the map of the world.
Pang-Mei Natasha Chang
|
Bantam
Bound Feet & Western Dress
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Goodreads rating: 3.91
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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.
Felix Abt
|
Tuttle
Publishing
A Capitalist in North Korea: My Seven Years in the Hermit Kingdom
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Goodreads rating: 3.61
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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.
Martin Booth
|
Bantam
Press
Gweilo: Memories of a Hong Kong Childhood
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Goodreads rating: 4.19
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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.
Reg Twigg
|
Penguin
Survivor on the River Kwai: The Incredible Story of Life on the Burma Railway
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Goodreads rating: 4.5
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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.
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"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.
Joe Studwell
|
Profile
Books
Asian Godfathers: Money and Power in Hong Kong and South-East Asia
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Goodreads rating: 3.96
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If you've ever wondered about the forces shaping economies beyond Wall Street, "Asian Godfathers" is a must-read. Joe Studwell takes you on an insightful journey into the world of the powerful families that dominate Southeast Asia's economic landscape. His investigative prowess uncovers the layers of secrecy that shroud their operations, offering a rare glimpse into a world where business, politics, and society intertwine uniquely. This book will change the way you understand wealth and influence in Asia.
Greg Mortenson, Rika Iffati Farihah, Khaled Hosseini |
Viking
Stones Into Schools: Promoting Peace With Books, Not Bombs, In Afghanistan And Pakistan
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Goodreads rating: 3.85
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Imagine you're yearning for a tale of heroism in the most unlikely places. Greg Mortenson's "Stones Into Schools" offers just that, by taking you along his incredible journey to overcome geopolitical and cultural hurdles. The warmth of human spirit shines through every page, as Mortenson fosters hope through education in places marked by conflict and hardship. This true story will likely redefine your view of courage and commitment.
Richard Borsuk, Nancy Chng |
Iseas-yusof
Ishak
Institute
Liem Sioe Liong's Salim Group: The Business Pillar of Suharto's Indonesia
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Goodreads rating: 4.58
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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.
Tony Scotland
|
Penguin
Putnam~trade
The Empty Throne : Quest for an Imperial Heir in the People's Republic of China
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Goodreads rating: 4.0
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Book by Scotland, Tony
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