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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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I Have a Dream : Writings and Speeches That Changed the World - Thryft
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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

$6.21

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$6.21

73% off est. retail
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.
Firstlight : The Early Inspirational Writings of Sue Monk Kidd - Thryft
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Sue Monk Kidd | Guidepostsbooks

Firstlight : The Early Inspirational Writings of Sue Monk Kidd

$9.95

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$9.95

68% off est. retail
Recommendation: This book is a treasure trove of Sue Monk Kidd's early writings, filled with heartfelt stories and insightful essays that will inspire and uplift anyone on a spiritual journey. With her signature wisdom and lyrical prose, Kidd takes readers on a soulful exploration of her own writing career and the search for spiritual awareness. Whether you're a writer looking for inspiration or a spiritual seeker in need of guidance, "Firstlight" is a must-read that will leave you feeling inspired and enlightened.
Baghdad Diaries : A Woman's Chronicle of War and Exile - Thryft
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Nuha Al-Radi | Vintage

Baghdad Diaries : A Woman's Chronicle of War and Exile

$7.25

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$7.25

75% off est. retail
Baghdad Diaries could be a good read for those who are interested in personal accounts of war and exile. Nuha al-Radi's diary gives a unique perspective on the day-to-day life of ordinary people living in a city under siege, and the struggles of being an Iraqi in exile. The book captures the spirit of endurance and the celebration of life's smallest joys amidst the stress and effects of war.
You'll Grow Out of It - Thryft
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Jessi Klein | Grand Central Publishing

You'll Grow Out of It

$13.93

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$13.93

65% off est. retail
"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.
My Point-- And I Do Have One - Thryft
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Ellen DeGeneres | Bantam

My Point-- And I Do Have One

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

60% off est. retail
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.
I Miss You When I Blink : Essays - Thryft
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Mary Laura Philpott | Atria

I Miss You When I Blink : Essays

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$3.88

85% off est. retail
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.
Better: A Surgeon's Notes on Performance - Thryft
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Atul Gawande | Picador

Better: A Surgeon's Notes on Performance

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$8.90

65% off est. retail
"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.
What We Keep : 150 People Share the One Object that Brings Them Joy, Magic, and Meaning - Thryft
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Bill Shapiro | Running Press Adult

What We Keep : 150 People Share the One Object that Brings Them Joy, Magic, and Meaning

$11.15

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$11.15

73% off est. retail
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.
Early Auden - Thryft
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Edward Mendelson | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

Early Auden

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$5.07

80% off est. retail
Recommended for literature enthusiasts to explore Auden's lesser-known works with detailed analysis and insights by Mendelson.
Medallion Status - True Stories From Secret Rooms - Thryft
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John Hodgman | Viking

Medallion Status - True Stories From Secret Rooms

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

91% off est. retail
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.
Lost Highway: Journeys and Arrivals of American Musicians - Thryft
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Peter Guralnick | Back Bay Books

Lost Highway: Journeys and Arrivals of American Musicians

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

88% off est. retail
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.
Texts and Pretexts - Thryft
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Aldous Huxley, David Bradshaw  | Flamingo

Texts and Pretexts

$4.91

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$4.91

61% off est. retail
"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.
Knitlit the Third : We Spin More Yarns - Thryft
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Molly Wolf, Linda Roghaar  | Potter Craft

Knitlit the Third : We Spin More Yarns

$6.64

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$6.64

69% off est. retail
KnitLit the Third is a great read for anyone passionate about knitting. It offers a range of stories that capture the ups and downs of the craft, from hilarious airport mishaps to heartwarming tales of using knitting for strength and healing. The stories are sure to resonate with anyone who loves knitting, and may even inspire new projects and techniques.
From Beginning to End : The Rituals of Our Lives - Thryft
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Robert Fulghum | Villard

From Beginning to End : The Rituals of Our Lives

$7.44

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$7.44

76% off est. retail
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.
Uh-Oh : Some Observations from Both Sides of the Refrigerator Door - Thryft
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Robert Fulghum | Villard

Uh-Oh : Some Observations from Both Sides of the Refrigerator Door

$7.38

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$7.38

75% off est. retail
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.
Couplehood - Thryft
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Paul Reiser | Bantam

Couplehood

$4.39

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$4.39

70% off est. retail
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.
Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India
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A.P.J. Abdul Kalam | Penguin Global

Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

60% off est. retail
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.
Possible Side Effects - Thryft
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Augusten Burroughs | St. Martin's Press

Possible Side Effects

$10.29

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$10.29

72% off est. retail
"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.
Iain Banks's Complicity : A Reader's Guide - Thryft
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Cairns Craig | Continuum

Iain Banks's Complicity : A Reader's Guide

$6.20

Goodreads rating: 4.23

$6.20

80% off est. retail
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.
Chuck Klosterman IV : A Decade of Curious People and Dangerous Ideas - Thryft
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Chuck Klosterman | Scribner

Chuck Klosterman IV : A Decade of Curious People and Dangerous Ideas

$9.59

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$9.59

76% off est. retail
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.
The Art of Travel - Thryft
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Alain de Botton | Penguin Books

The Art of Travel

$9.20

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$9.20

59% off est. retail
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.
Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim - Thryft
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David Sedaris | Abacus

Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

60% off est. retail
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.
Black Holes and Baby Universes : And Other Essays - Thryft
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Stephen Hawking | Bantam Books

Black Holes and Baby Universes : And Other Essays

$8.86

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$8.86

68% off est. retail
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.