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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Italo Calvino, Martin McLaughlin, Michael Wood |
Princeton
University
Press
Italo Calvino : Letters, 1941-1985 - Updated Edition
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Goodreads rating: 4.16
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Diving into Italo Calvino's letters offers a unique backstage pass to the thoughts and influences of a literary maestro. You're not just reading correspondence; you're peering into the intellectual dialogues that shaped his and other luminaries' works. It's like witnessing the creative process unfold, a narrative in itself that enriches your understanding of his novels and the literary landscape of his time.
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David Sedaris
|
Little,
Brown
&
Co
ME Talk Pretty One Day
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Goodreads rating: 4.01
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"Me Talk Pretty One Day" is a collection of essays about the everyday life of the author, David Sedaris. In it, he sheds light on the little details of everyday life, highlighting strange encounters he has had in a number of different contexts. Accordingly, there are too many small interactions laid out in the book to mention here. What’s important to grasp, though, is that Sedaris is interested in exposing not only the absurdities that people overlook in daily life, but also the humor that can be found in even the most mundane situations.
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If you're a fan of Anna Faris or her podcast, "Unqualified" will feel like a long, cozy chat filled with laughs and gaffs that's both refreshing and down-to-earth. Anna doesn't just spill Hollywood secrets; she offers a genuine peek into her personal sorrows and successes. It's heartening to read about someone who’s as fallible, but also as hopeful, as the rest of us when it comes to love and life.
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Adam Begley, Laura Miller |
Penguin
Group
The Salon.com Reader's Guide to Contemporary Authors
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If you're looking to dive deeper into the riches of contemporary literature, this guide is a treasure trove. It's not just a directory; it's a conversation starter, loaded with essays and insights from the authors themselves. Think of it as your personal literary concierge, offering you a handpicked selection of the most pivotal and exciting writers of our era.
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Imagine delving into the thoughts of a writer who's masterfully intertwining her experience as a woman with the art of writing itself. Levy's narrative invites you on a contemplative and intimate odyssey that’s both enlightening and emotionally nourishing, almost akin to chatting with a wise friend. Her unique perspective is a call to introspection, especially for those drawn to the intricacies of writing and the nuances of a life lived with passionate reflection.
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If you're drawn to the enigmatic blend of personal narrative and artistic exploration, "Devotion" will resonate with you. Patti Smith doesn't just share a story; she lets you into her mind, showing you the vivid landscapes that inspire her. For anyone who cherishes the gritty and poetic behind-the-scenes of crafting art, Patti's reflections and pilgrimages to the haunts of literary giants offer a mesmerizing glimpse into the soul of a creator.
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Dimity McDowell
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Andrews
Mcmeel
Publishing
Tales from Another Mother Runner: Triumphs, Trials, Tips, and Tricks from the Road
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Goodreads rating: 4.23
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This book would be a good read for someone who is looking for inspiration and motivation in their running journey. The book beautifully captures the stories of women who have overcome personal obstacles and found strength and empowerment through running. It emphasizes the importance of community, friendship, and setting goals. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, this book will encourage you to push yourself, believe in your abilities, and run like a mother.
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James Melvin Washington, Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King |
Harperone
I Have a Dream : Writings and Speeches That Changed the World
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Goodreads rating: 4.5
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Recommendation:
- If you're looking to be inspired and motivated, "I Have a Dream: Writings and Speeches That Changed the World" is a must-read. This book captures the powerful words of Martin Luther King Jr., a true visionary and leader in the fight for civil rights. His speeches continue to resonate today, reminding us of the importance of equality and justice. Prepare to be moved by his timeless messages that have shaped history and inspired generations.
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Jessi Klein
|
Grand
Central
Publishing
You'll Grow Out of It
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Goodreads rating: 3.8
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"You'll Grow Out of It" would be a great read for anyone who wants to take a break from serious reading and dive into an amusing yet relatable story of a late bloomer's journey to womanhood. Jessi Klein's unique blend of humor and sincerity will have you laughing out loud all while nodding your head in agreement. Her candid accounts of personal experiences and struggles make this book raw, relatable, and eye-opening.
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Ellen DeGeneres
|
Bantam
My Point-- And I Do Have One
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Goodreads rating: 3.63
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This book is perfect for fans of Ellen DeGeneres who want to read about her humorous take on everyday life and situations. Her anecdotes are sure to make readers laugh and brighten up their day.
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Mary Laura Philpott
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Atria
I Miss You When I Blink : Essays
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Goodreads rating: 3.79
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I Miss You When I Blink is a relatable and insightful memoir-in-essays about Mary Laura Philpott's journey to rediscovering herself and her purpose. Philpott shares her own stories to show that identity crises are normal and necessary. She humorously captures the conflicting pressures of modern adulthood and how personal re-inventions are possible. Readers will find comfort in knowing they're not alone and be inspired to embrace their imperfections and figure out where they belong.
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Atul Gawande
|
Picador
Better: A Surgeon's Notes on Performance
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Goodreads rating: 4.24
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"Better" is an inspiring read that pulls back the curtain on the medical profession, revealing the relentless pursuit of excellence in a world where high stakes and human limitations collide. Atul Gawande's genuine stories, combined with his introspective account as a surgeon, will not only satisfy your curiosity about the medical field but also leave you with profound respect for those who navigate its challenges daily. It's the kind of book that offers life lessons well beyond its medical context, perfect for anyone who values continuous improvement and ethical quandaries tackled with humanity.
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Bill Shapiro
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Running
Press
Adult
What We Keep : 150 People Share the One Object that Brings Them Joy, Magic, and Meaning
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Goodreads rating: 3.91
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What We Keep offers a unique insight into the objects that possess deep meanings and their corresponding stories. It is perfect for anyone looking to learn about the storytelling ability of physical items and the memories they bear. Its appeal lies in its ability to make readers question what they truly hold dear, both materially and in life.
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Edward Mendelson
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Farrar,
Straus
And
Giroux
Early Auden
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Goodreads rating: 4.08
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Recommended for literature enthusiasts to explore Auden's lesser-known works with detailed analysis and insights by Mendelson.
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John Hodgman
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Viking
Medallion Status - True Stories From Secret Rooms
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Medallion Status by John Hodgman is a witty memoir that explores the author's experiences with fame, success, and, ultimately, losing that status. Hodgman's humorous tone makes this an enjoyable read, while his honest reflections on issues of identity and self-worth will resonate with anyone who has experienced a sudden change in their social status.
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Peter Guralnick
|
Back
Bay
Books
Lost Highway: Journeys and Arrivals of American Musicians
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This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the roots of American music. Peter Guralnick's incisive portraits of musicians like Elvis Presley and Merle Haggard capture their boundless passion for music-making and the grit it takes to keep going on the road. Fans of country, rockabilly, and the blues will appreciate this masterful exploration of the distinctly American sound.
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Aldous Huxley, David Bradshaw |
Flamingo
Texts and Pretexts
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Goodreads rating: 3.96
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"Texts and Pretexts" could be a good read for poetry enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and context behind famous poems. Aldous Huxley's commentaries provide insightful and thought-provoking analysis on various works of poetry, making this book a unique and valuable addition to any poetry lover's collection.
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Robert Fulghum
|
Villard
From Beginning to End : The Rituals of Our Lives
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Goodreads rating: 4.03
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This book is perfect for someone who values the importance of life's milestones and wants to find meaning in the everyday. Fulghum's anecdotes and insights remind us that even the smallest moments in life deserve recognition and respect. The book's unique feature is its ability to bring together both public and private rituals, showing how they all contribute to the fabric of our lives. Readers will be inspired to appreciate the inherent beauty in their own routines and learn to find joy and fulfillment in each day.
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Robert Fulghum
|
Villard
Uh-Oh : Some Observations from Both Sides of the Refrigerator Door
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Goodreads rating: 4.12
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Uh-Oh is a heartwarming collection of short essays that encourages readers to enjoy the little things in life. From finding joy in simple pleasures, like good food and music, to uplifting personal anecdotes, Robert Fulghum's witty writing style and relatable stories make this book a must-read for anyone looking for a pick-me-up.
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Couplehood is a must-read for anyone who's interested in humorous insights on love, marriage, and life. The book offers a unique and distinctive take on the joys and struggles of being in a couple, from the science of hand-holding to the fine art of tag-team storytelling. Reiser's wit and humor are on full display here, making this book a laugh-out-loud read that leaves you pondering over life.
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A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
|
Penguin
Global
Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India
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Goodreads rating: 4.03
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Ignited Minds is a motivational read that emphasizes on building patriotism, gaining confidence in oneself, and the need for role models to follow. It inspires readers to work hard to achieve India's full potential and overcome its shortcomings. Highly recommended for anyone interested in shaping India's future.
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Tim Allen
|
Hyperion
Don't Stand Too Close to a Naked Man
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Goodreads rating: 3.55
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This book is a good read for fans of Tim Allen's comedy and those who enjoy humorous memoirs. It offers unique insights on life and love, and is sure to make readers laugh with Allen's witty writing style and comedic anecdotes. The line drawings add an extra layer of humor to the overall experience.
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Whoopi Goldberg
|
Hyperion
Is It Just Me? : Or Is It Nuts Out There?
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Goodreads rating: 3.3
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Whoopi Goldberg's book is a must-read for anyone frustrated with the lack of basic civility in society. Her humor and irreverence make this book both entertaining and eye-opening. The most unique aspect of this book is Goldberg's ability to point out the absurd and frustrating aspects of modern manners in a way that is relatable and accessible to all readers.
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Augusten Burroughs
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St.
Martin's
Press
Possible Side Effects
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Goodreads rating: 3.98
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"Possible Side Effects" is a collection of humorous essays that will make you laugh out loud. The author, Augusten Burroughs, writes in a witty and engaging style that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The book is perfect for anyone who wants a light, entertaining read that will make them feel good. The most unique aspect of this book is Burroughs' ability to find humor in even the darkest of situations. If you're looking for a fun, heartwarming read, "Possible Side Effects" is the book for you.
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Cairns Craig
|
Continuum
Iain Banks's Complicity : A Reader's Guide
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Goodreads rating: 4.23
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This guide to Iain Banks's "Complicity" provides valuable insights for those studying the novel or fans of Banks's style of writing. It offers a comprehensive biography of the author, a thorough analysis of the novel, and a comparison between the book and the movie adaptation, making it an excellent resource for book clubs or individuals seeking to understand the key themes of the novel and its place in contemporary literature.
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Chuck Klosterman
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Scribner
Chuck Klosterman IV : A Decade of Curious People and Dangerous Ideas
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Goodreads rating: 3.85
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Chuck Klosterman IV is a must-read for anyone who lives, breathes, and loves pop culture. Klosterman's ability to write about topics as diverse as Britney Spears, Metallica, and Super People with wit, introspection, and a dose of humor is what makes this book a unique and fun read. The footnotes may seem like distractions, but they end up adding another layer to Klosterman's already fascinating stories. If you are a fan of pop culture and are looking for a book that will make you think, laugh, and maybe even challenge your beliefs, Chuck Klosterman IV is the book for you.
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Any Baedeker will tell us where we ought to travel, but only Alain de Botton will tell us how and why. With the same intelligence and insouciant charm he brought to How Proust Can Save Your Life, de Botton considers the pleasures of anticipation; the allure of the exotic, and the value of noticing everything from a seascape in Barbados to the takeoffs at Heathrow. Even as de Botton takes the reader along on his own peregrinations, he also cites such distinguished fellow-travelers as Baudelaire, Wordsworth, Van Gogh, the biologist Alexander von Humboldt, and the 18th-century eccentric Xavier de Maistre, who catalogued the wonders of his bedroom. The Art of Travel is a wise and utterly original book. Don’t leave home without it.
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Jon Stewart
|
Dey
Street
Books
Naked Pictures of Famous People
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Goodreads rating: 3.58
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Recommendation: Naked Pictures of Famous People is a must-read for those seeking a satirical take on contemporary society. Jon Stewart's unique brand of humor shines through in these irreverent essays that cover a wide range of topics, from fashion to politics. Readers will appreciate how Stewart brilliantly uses humor to expose the absurdities of modern life.
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David Sedaris
|
Abacus
Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim
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Goodreads rating: 4.11
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Recommended for readers who enjoy humorous memoirs. Sedaris' essays are full of self-deprecating humor and sarcastic observations, providing an offbeat look at everyday life. Each story is a glimpse into his quirky family's dynamics and peculiarities, making for an entertaining and quick read.
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Stephen Hawking
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Bantam
Books
Black Holes and Baby Universes : And Other Essays
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Goodreads rating: 4.17
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NY Times bestseller. 13 extraordinary essays shed new light on the mysteries of the universe & on one of the most brilliant thinkers of our time.In his phenomenal bestseller A Brief History of Time, Stephen Hawking literally transformed the way we think about physics, the universe, reality itself. In these thirteen essays and one remarkable extended interview, the man widely regarded as the most brilliant theoretical physicist since Einstein returns to reveal an amazing array of possibilities for understanding our universe. Building on his earlier work, Hawking discusses imaginary time, how black holes can give birth to baby universes, and scientists’ efforts to find a complete unified theory that would predict everything in the universe. With his characteristic mastery of language, his sense of humor and commitment to plain speaking, Stephen Hawking invites us to know him better—and to share his passion for the voyage of intellect and imagination that has opened new ways to understanding the very nature of the cosmos.
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.
Our collection includes a wide range of biographies, from influential leaders to pop culture icons. Find engrossing memoirs that give insight into personal journeys and historical events.
Consider what aspects of life you’re curious about. Whether it’s artistic journeys, political memoirs, or overcoming adversity, our collection will have something that resonates with you.
Yes, we include stories about notable religious figures. You might also explore our Religion collection for more faith-based narratives.
Yes, we celebrate local voices and histories. Discover the lives of Singaporean figures that have shaped our city-state's unique culture and heritage.