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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Iain Sinclair
|
Penguin
Books
Lights Out for the Territory: 9 Excursions in the Secret History of London
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Goodreads rating: 3.92
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Imagine a London you've never seen before, one with veiled histories and intriguing mysteries. "Lights Out for the Territory" is more than a walk through the city; it's an invitation to unearth the layers of time and space that form London's unique character. If you have a keen interest in urban exploration or psychogeography, Sinclair's vivid narrative will transform your understanding of the streets beneath your feet.
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Burl Barer
|
Mcfarland
The Saint - A Complete History in Print, Radio, Film and Television of Leslie Charteris' Robin Hood of Modern Crime, Simon Templar, 1928-1992
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Goodreads rating: 4.26
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If you've ever imagined a suave anti-hero with a penchant for vigilante justice, "The Saint" is right up your alley. This book isn't just about the thrilling adventures; it’s a deep dive into a cultural icon's evolution across media. You'd enjoy the richness of its historical context, especially if you appreciate both the nostalgia of classic crime stories and the intricate development of a character that has stood the test of time.
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Lucinda Hawksley
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Scala
Elizabeth Revealed: 500 Facts About the Queen and Her World
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Goodreads rating: 4.2
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If you're intrigued by royalty and the person behind the crown, "Elizabeth Revealed" offers a treasure trove of snippets that paint a multifaceted picture of Queen Elizabeth II. It's a delightful read for anyone who enjoys historical tidbits and personal insights, serving as a mosaic of the Queen's public and private persona.
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Jeanne-Louise-Henriette Campan
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Echo
Library
Memoirs of the Court of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, Complete
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Goodreads rating: 3.82
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If you're fascinated by the depths of royal history, particularly the intricate and often misunderstood life of Marie Antoinette, this book is like stepping through a time portal. It offers a personal glimpse into the day-to-day happenings and the lavish lifestyle of the last Queen of France before the French Revolution. The memoirs could change your perspective on her life and the events that surrounded her – perfect for history buffs looking to enrich their understanding of this tumultuous period.
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Kathleen Higgins, Bernd Magnus |
Cambridge
University
Press
The Cambridge Companion to Nietzsche
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Goodreads rating: 3.88
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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.
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H.C. Robbins Landon
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Flamingo
1791 Mozart's Last Year
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Goodreads rating: 4.09
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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.
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Anna Reynolds, Lucy Peter |
Royal
Collection
Trust
Royal Childhood - Souvenir Album
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Goodreads rating: 4.08
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If you're fascinated by regal lives and intimate histories, 'Royal Childhood' could be a delightful journey for you. This book combines rare photographs with personal anecdotes, transporting you inside the walls of Buckingham Palace. It offers a unique opportunity to peek at the royal upbringing, connecting historical artifacts with present-day narratives.
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Charles III, Sally Goodsir |
Royal
Collection
Trust
Prince Philip 1921-2021 A Celebration
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Goodreads rating: 4.38
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If you've been intrigued by the man beside the Queen, this book takes you beyond the public gaze. It's a respectful and intimate portrait filled with private archives and first-time-revealed photographs, showcasing not just a royal but a devoted individual who served his nation, loved sport, and championed various causes. It's a piece of history and a tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh's century-long legacy.
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Max Egremont
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Picador
Siegfried Sassoon : A Biography
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If the blend of heroism, dissent, and literary prowess fascinates you, this biography will enrich your understanding of a complex man who became an icon of World War I. Sassoon was a decorated soldier who turned into a vocal critic of the conflict, and his life story unfolds like a novel penned by history itself. This book is perfect if you admire wartime poetry or are intrigued by the personal tales behind historical figures.
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Floella Benjamin
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Macmillan
Children's
Books
Coming to England
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Goodreads rating: 4.19
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"Coming to England" is for you if you're inspired by real-life stories of overcoming challenges and adapting to new environments. Floella's journey from Trinidad to England is not just a piece of history; it's a vivid, personal narrative that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit. Her determination to succeed against the odds is as relevant today as it was then, making her memoir an empowering read that stays with you.
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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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Nicholas Wright, Richard Eyre |
Bloomsbury
Pub
Ltd
Changing Stages: A View of British Theatre in the Twentieth Century
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Goodreads rating: 3.93
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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.
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Carmen Callil
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Vintage
Bad Faith: A Forgotten History of Family, Fatherland and Vichy France
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Goodreads rating: 3.9
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If history fascinates you, particularly the harrowing times of World War II and the Vichy regime, "Bad Faith" offers a stark look at one of its most notorious figures. Carmen Callil doesn't only recount the chilling actions of Louis Darquier de Pellepoix but also delves into the profound personal impact of his legacy. It's a compelling read that masterfully blends thorough research with a narrative that's as insightful as it is haunting. It’s history, but it reads with the emotional force of a personal story.
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Kim Darroch
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Harper
Collins
Publ.
Uk
Collateral Damage: Britain, America And Europe In The Age Of Trump
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Goodreads rating: 4.02
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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.
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Giles Milton
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John
Murray
Big Chief Elizabeth : How England's Adventurers Gambled and Won the New World
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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.
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Philipp Blom
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Basic
Books
A Wicked Company - The Forgotten Radicalism Of The European Enlightenment
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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.
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Nina Willner
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William
Morrow
Forty Autumns : A Family's Story of Courage and Survival on Both Sides of the Berlin Wall
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Goodreads rating: 4.36
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"Forty Autumns" is a captivating memoir set in East Germany during the Cold War. It tells the story of five women separated by the Berlin Wall and their eventual reunion after years of longing. The book offers a personal and emotional account of life under Communist rule, as well as insights into the work of an intelligence officer. With vivid descriptions and a strong sense of familial love, "Forty Autumns" is a compelling read for anyone interested in history, espionage, and the human experience.
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Bill Bryson
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Anchor
The Road to Little Dribbling : Adventures of an American in Britain
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Goodreads rating: 3.72
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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.
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"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.
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Mary Robinson
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Hodder
&
Stoughton
Everybody Matters : A Memoir
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Goodreads rating: 4.08
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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.
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Toby Faber
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Faber
&
Faber
Faber & Faber : The Untold Story of a Great Publishing House
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Goodreads rating: 3.89
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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.
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Andrew Sachs
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Robson
Press
I Know Nothing!
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Goodreads rating: 3.97
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"I Know Nothing! is a powerful memoir that follows Andrew Sachs' journey from a young child witnessing the brutality of the Nazis to his rise to fame as an actor. Sachs shares his personal experiences with honesty, humor, and humility, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the human experience during one of the darkest times in history. His story of resilience and perseverance will inspire readers of all ages."
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Robert Jobson
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Ad
Lib
Publishers
Prince Philip's Century 1921-2021 : The Extraordinary Life of the Duke of Edinburgh
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Goodreads rating: 4.03
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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.
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David Carter
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Hesperus
Press
Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac
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Goodreads rating: 3.82
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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.
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Graham Salter, Hilary Macaskill, Florian Schweizer |
Frances
Lincoln
Charles Dickens at Home
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Goodreads rating: 4.27
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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.
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Andrei Maylunas, Sergei Mironenko |
Doubleday
A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra
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Goodreads rating: 4.2
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"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.
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Jonathan Harr
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Random
House
Publishing
Group
The Lost Painting : The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece
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Goodreads rating: 3.84
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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.
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Shelley Frisch, Rüdiger Safranski |
W.
W.
Norton
&
Company
Nietzsche : A Philosophical Biography
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Goodreads rating: 4.1
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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.
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.