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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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Shocking Paris - Thryft
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Stanley Meisler | St. Martin's Press

Shocking Paris

$14.86

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$14.86

66% off est. retail

Out of stock

"Shocking Paris" could be a great read for art lovers who are interested in immigrant artists' contributions to the School of Paris. This book provides a vivid description of the art scene in Montparnasse and portrays the lives of immigrant artists, including Chaim Soutine, Amedeo Modigliani, Marc Chagall, and Jules Pascin. The book mainly focuses on Soutine's life, who was considered the most talented artist among all immigrant artists. The book describes the struggles and hardships that Soutine and other immigrant artists faced while living in Paris before and after World War II and how the fear of persecution affected their work.
Prince Philip's Century 1921-2021 : The Extraordinary Life of the Duke of Edinburgh - Thryft
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Robert Jobson | Ad Lib Publishers

Prince Philip's Century 1921-2021 : The Extraordinary Life of the Duke of Edinburgh

$7.62 $5.33 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$7.62 $5.33 30% off

80% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is a must-read for those wanting to understand the extraordinary life of Prince Philip. Robert Jobson provides a detailed account of his life and achievements while respecting the delicate balance of his supporting role to the Queen. The book showcases his determination to modernize and promote environmental campaigns while encouraging young people to achieve their objectives through the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. In summary, this biography tells the story of a remarkable man who is known the world over but whose greatest achievement was to be a loyal husband, companion, father, and grandfather.
The Road to Little Dribbling : Adventures of an American in Britain - Thryft
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Bill Bryson | Anchor

The Road to Little Dribbling : Adventures of an American in Britain

$7.63

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$7.63

70% off est. retail

Out of stock

The Road to Little Dribbling is a must-read for anyone who loves Great Britain or has British roots. Bill Bryson guides us through his humorous adventure across Britain with deep knowledge and insightful opinions on the current state of the country. His vivid descriptions of the scenic wonder of the country and small towns are thoroughly enjoyable, as is his humor and perspective on the eccentric British characters he encounters.
A Wicked Company - The Forgotten Radicalism Of The European Enlightenment - Thryft
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Philipp Blom | Basic Books

A Wicked Company - The Forgotten Radicalism Of The European Enlightenment

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$3.88

92% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommendation: - This book is a fascinating journey into the forgotten radicalism of the European Enlightenment. Blom skillfully brings together a group of brilliant minds who challenged the status quo and sparked a revolution of ideas. With atheism, passion, and reason as their driving forces, they forged a new path in philosophy and society. A Wicked Company is a must-read for those curious about the intellectual foundations that shaped our modern world.
The Cambridge Companion to Nietzsche
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Kathleen Higgins, Bernd Magnus  | Cambridge University Press

The Cambridge Companion to Nietzsche

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$14.90

72% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're intrigued by Nietzsche's far-reaching impact on modern thought, "The Cambridge Companion to Nietzsche" is for you. It's a thorough yet accessible dive into his works and influence, perfect for both newcomers and seasoned philosophy enthusiasts. The book provides a structured look at his contributions and how they've shaped our cultural and intellectual landscape. Let this be your roadmap to understanding one of the most provocative thinkers in history.
Collateral Damage: Britain, America And Europe In The Age Of Trump - Thryft
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Kim Darroch | Harper Collins Publ. Uk

Collateral Damage: Britain, America And Europe In The Age Of Trump

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$6.34

84% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book should be your next read if you're curious to uncover the hidden aspects of Trump's presidency and the behind-the-scenes challenges faced by diplomats. As a firsthand account from Kim Darroch, a highly experienced and respected diplomat, this book offers valuable insights into the Trump White House, the impact of Brexit, and the seismic changes and populist politics of the era. Brace yourself for a riveting and eye-opening journey that will challenge your perspective on recent history.
One of Us : The Story of Anders Breivik and the Massacre in Norway - Thryft
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Åsne Seierstad | Virago

One of Us : The Story of Anders Breivik and the Massacre in Norway

$9.06

Goodreads rating: 4.42

$9.06

70% off est. retail

Out of stock

One of Us is a powerful and sobering account of the 2011 terrorist attacks in Norway. Asne Seierstad's journalistic approach provides a deeply insightful perspective into the tragedy, examining both the killer and the victims. While the subject matter is heavy, the book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of modern-day violence and its impact on communities.
Love Letters of Great Women
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Ursula Doyle | Macmillan

Love Letters of Great Women

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$8.90

Out of stock

If you're drawn to the personal, intimate side of history, "Love Letters of Great Women" will be a treasure for you. It's like peering into the minds and hearts of some of history's most celebrated women, offering a glimpse of the romantic and often private world they inhabited. This anthology not only serves as a testament to enduring love but also to the eloquence and emotional depths of women whose lives still fascinate us today.
Faber & Faber : The Untold Story of a Great Publishing House - Thryft
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Toby Faber | Faber & Faber

Faber & Faber : The Untold Story of a Great Publishing House

$19.13

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$19.13

59% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of a major publishing house. The unique feature of this book is the way it is told entirely through the words of those who worked for Faber & Faber, including famous authors like T.S. Eliot and Samuel Beckett. The archive material included adds to the charm and quirkiness of this book, making it a must-read for lovers of twentieth-century literature and the book industry.
A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra - Thryft
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Andrei Maylunas, Sergei Mironenko  | Doubleday

A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra

$13.59

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$13.59

75% off est. retail

Out of stock

"A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra" is a must-read for those fascinated by the lives of the royal family. The book offers a rare glimpse into the private world of Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra, revealing their undying love for each other. The letters showcase the couple's unwavering devotion, which is both unique and touching. It is a great pick for those interested in Russian history, or anyone curious about the personal relationships of historical figures.
Charles Dickens at Home - Thryft
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Graham Salter, Hilary Macaskill, Florian Schweizer  | Frances Lincoln

Charles Dickens at Home

$15.59 $10.91 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$15.59 $10.91 30% off

84% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book delves into the life of Charles Dickens and the impact his homes had on his writing. It offers a unique perspective on the author and his works, making it a great read for fans of Dickens' literature. The book provides an in-depth look at the places where the author lived, and how they influenced the setting and characters of his novels. Dickens' attention to detail and acute observation are highlighted, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the author's life and work. The book is illustrated with archive material and original photography, making it a beautiful addition to any book lover's collection.
Letters to Camondo - Thryft
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Edmund de Waal | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

Letters to Camondo

$14.44

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$14.44

62% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommendation: - Letters to Camondo is a deeply moving and poignant book that delves into the tragic history of the Camondo family. Through the unique format of imagined letters to a renowned art collector, Edmund de Waal creates a narrative that explores themes of assimilation, family, art, and the enduring power of memory. This book is a must-read for those who appreciate historical accounts that immerse you in the lives of unforgettable characters and make you question the impact of history on our present.
With Their Backs To The World : Portraits from Serbia - from the bestselling author of the Bookseller of Kabul - Thryft
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Åsne Seierstad | Virago

With Their Backs To The World : Portraits from Serbia - from the bestselling author of the Bookseller of Kabul

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

63% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book offers a unique perspective on daily life under the Milosevic regime and in post-Milosevic Serbia. It focuses on the individual stories of Serbs from various walks of life, giving readers a glimpse into the complex hopes, dreams, and viewpoints of a nation in transition. If you're interested in understanding the human impact of political turmoil, this book is for you.
Boxer Rebellion : The Dramatic Story of China's War on Foreigners that Shook the World in the Summ er of 1900 - Thryft
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Diana Preston | Berkley Books

Boxer Rebellion : The Dramatic Story of China's War on Foreigners that Shook the World in the Summ er of 1900

$7.54

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$7.54

81% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book provides a rich account of the Boxer Rebellion and its impact on the world, with a balanced take on the perspectives of both the Chinese and the foreigners involved. It is a great read for anyone interested in the clash between different cultures and ideologies, and how this clash can sometimes lead to violent extremism and tragic consequences. The author's extensive research and engaging writing style make this book a page-turner, despite its length and complexity.
Nietzsche : A Philosophical Biography - Thryft
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Shelley Frisch, Rüdiger Safranski  | W. W. Norton & Company

Nietzsche : A Philosophical Biography

$12.67

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$12.67

71% off est. retail

Out of stock

A seminal biography, essential reading for anyone studying the philosophy of history's most enigmatic and fascinating thinker. No other modern philosopher has proved as influential as Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) and none is as poorly understood. In the first new biography in decades, Rüdiger Safranski, one of the foremost living Nietzsche scholars, re-creates the anguished life of Nietzsche while simultaneously assessing the philosophical implications of his morality, religion, and art. Struggling to break away from the oppressive burdens of the past, Nietzsche invented a unique philosophy based on compulsive self-consciousness and constant self-revision. As groundbreaking as it will be long-lasting, this biography offers a brilliant, multifaceted portrait of a towering figure.
The Diary of a Young Girl
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Eleanor Roosevelt, Anne Frank, Barbara Mooyaart-Doubleday  | Bantam Books

The Diary of a Young Girl

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.26

Out of stock

Imagine finding yourself completely cut off from the world you knew, hiding from a relentless danger, yet finding ways to express hope and humor. That's what you'll get with Anne Frank's diary. It's not just a historical account; it's a personal journey of growth, dreams, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. This book might change your perspective on life, encouraging you to treasure the mundane and finding the light even in the darkest times.
Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire - Thryft
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Amanda Foreman | Harpercollins

Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire

$8.62

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.62

Out of stock

Recommendation: If you're seeking a riveting historical biography filled with scandal and intrigue, "Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire" is the perfect choice. Amanda Foreman masterfully brings to life the tumultuous world of one of the most flamboyant women of the eighteenth century. From political maneuvering to controversial love affairs, this captivating tale will leave you enthralled from start to finish.
Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac - Thryft
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David Carter | Hesperus Press

Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

58% off est. retail

Out of stock

Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac provides a fascinating insight into the life of Honore de Balzac and how it influenced his impressive body of work. This book would be a great read for anyone interested in literature, particularly French realism. David Carter not only provides a comprehensive biography of the author but also sets his works in context, giving readers a deeper understanding of his contribution to literature. Many who read this book would appreciate the discoveries of Balzac's literary works and his significance in French literature.
The Lost Painting : The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece - Thryft
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Jonathan Harr | Random House Publishing Group

The Lost Painting : The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece

$8.50

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$8.50

68% off est. retail

Out of stock

The Lost Painting tells the story of an Italian graduate student Francesca Cappelletti, who discovers a clue that leads to the search for a lost painting. This book is perfect for art enthusiasts who love a good mystery and want to learn about Caravaggio's life and paintings. Harr's narrative style creates suspense and adventure that keep readers hooked until the very end.
Big Chief Elizabeth : How England's Adventurers Gambled and Won the New World - Thryft
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Giles Milton | John Murray

Big Chief Elizabeth : How England's Adventurers Gambled and Won the New World

$6.80

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$6.80

68% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is a captivating historical adventure that delves into the fascinating story of Queen Elizabeth I and her favorite, Sir Walter Ralegh. Set in the Elizabethan era, it follows their daring expedition to establish the first English settlement in the New World. Through first-hand accounts, the author unveils a thrilling tale of heroism, mystery, and the forgotten history of early English colonization. If you enjoy immersive historical narratives, this book will transport you back in time and keep you mesmerized until the very end.
Everybody Matters : A Memoir - Thryft
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Mary Robinson | Hodder & Stoughton

Everybody Matters : A Memoir

$16.74

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$16.74

58% off est. retail

Out of stock

Everybody Matters is an inspirational memoir of Mary Robinson's journey as an activist, lawyer, and politician who worked tirelessly for human rights and social justice. The book is a must-read for those seeking insights into the lives of pioneers and how they overcame obstacles to achieve their goals. Mary Robinson demonstrates her deep conviction and modest pride in guiding her life, and she inspires others to change the world for the better.
Over the Edge of the World : Magellan's Terrifying Circumnavigation of the Globe - Thryft
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Laurence Bergreen | Mariner Books

Over the Edge of the World : Magellan's Terrifying Circumnavigation of the Globe

$11.81

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$11.81

73% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommended for history buffs and adventure-seekers, this book provides an in-depth account of Magellan's iconic journey, including his ambitions, conflicts, and discovery of the Spice Islands. The author's use of first-person accounts and vivid descriptions gives readers a personal insight into the dangers faced by Magellan and his crew.
Changing Stages: A View of British Theatre in the Twentieth Century - Thryft
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Nicholas Wright, Richard Eyre  | Bloomsbury Pub Ltd

Changing Stages: A View of British Theatre in the Twentieth Century

$19.90 $9.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$19.90 $9.90 50% off

82% off est. retail

Out of stock

For anyone who cherishes the rich tapestry of British theatre, "Changing Stages" is a treasure trove. Imagine sitting down for a cozy, insightful chat with Sir Richard Eyre, as he takes you on a tour through the evolving landscape of British plays, personalities, and performances of the last century. It's storytelling that not only educates but also captivates through a passionate lens that only insiders like Eyre and Wright could provide.
1791 Mozart's Last Year
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H.C. Robbins Landon | Flamingo

1791 Mozart's Last Year

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

58% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're a classical music enthusiast with a penchant for historical narratives, you'll find "1791: Mozart's Last Year" striking a chord. The texture of Mozart's life, his genius, and the mystery surrounding his last days are intricately woven by Robbins Landon, offering an intimate look at a year packed with personal struggle and sublime composition. This is not just a peek into 1791 but an immersive experience into the life of a legendary composer whose music has transcended time.

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.