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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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My Food
Elizabeth Ho, Cheong Liew, Timothy John  | Allen & Unwin (australia) Pty Ltd

My Food

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

79% off est. retail
If you're keen on culinary arts or enjoy exploring the personal tales behind eminent chefs, "My Food" by Cheong Liew is a treat. It's not just a compilation of recipes; it's an intimate look into the philosophy and creativity of a chef who helped shape Adelaide's dining scene. Liew's blend of cultural influences in his cooking will inspire you to think outside the box in your own kitchen.
Toast: The Story of a Boy's Hunger
Nigel Slater | Uk General Books

Toast: The Story of a Boy's Hunger

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

68% off est. retail
"Toast" by Nigel Slater is for anyone who understands that food is not just sustenance, but a vessel for memories and emotion. Slater's writing style brings warmth and vulnerability to the story of his upbringing, enveloping the reader in the vivid tableau of 1960s England through his culinary lens. Your senses will sharpen as Slater's personal journey through food evokes your own reflections of family, love, and growth.
A Fork in the Road
Just Arrived
James Oseland | Lonely Planet

A Fork in the Road

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$9.90

If you’re a foodie with a case of wanderlust, "A Fork in the Road" is like a well-seasoned dish you won’t be able to resist. It's perfectly plated with stories that blend the spices of travel with the savory tastes of cultural discovery. As authors share their mouth-watering experiences, you'll find yourself transported to exotic tables around the world, tasting life’s diverse offerings alongside them. With each turn of the page, it’s a feast for the soul as much as for the palate.
The Road to Burgundy: The Unlikely Story of an American Making Wine and a New Life in France
Just Arrived
Ray Walker | Penguin Publishing Group

The Road to Burgundy: The Unlikely Story of an American Making Wine and a New Life in France

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$11.90

If you're enthralled by the romance of French wines, Ray Walker's memoir might just be the inspiration you need. His leap from finance to winemaking is a toast to following one's passion against all odds. Imagine the lush Burgundy vineyards and the rich tapestry of winemaking history; it's a sensory journey as much as it is a life-affirming one.
Dearie: The Remarkable Life of Julia Child
Bob Spitz | Knopf

Dearie: The Remarkable Life of Julia Child

$25.90 $8.90 66% off

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$25.90 $8.90 66% off

81% off est. retail
Julia Child isn't just a name; she's an inspiration. This book delves deep into her spirited life, from her OSS beginnings to transforming American cuisine. If you ever wondered how a towering woman with an endearing warble became synonymous with French cooking in the US, this biography is a warm, affectionate dish you'll savor.
The Man Who Ate the World: In Search of the Perfect Dinner
Jay Rayner | Headline Home

The Man Who Ate the World: In Search of the Perfect Dinner

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

69% off est. retail
If food is your passion and travel your dream, Jay Rayner's "The Man Who Ate the World" could be your next favorite read. The book is a delightful blend of humor and gastronomic fervor as Rayner takes you on a global journey through the highs and lows of dining extravagance. His quest to find the perfect meal is not just a feast for the stomach but also a banquet for the mind, as it's peppered with fascinating insights and witty anecdotes that can make you both chuckle and salivate.
Waiter Rant - Behind The Scenes Of Eating Out - Thryft
Steve Dublanica | John Murray Publishers Ltd

Waiter Rant: Behind the Scenes of Eating Out

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.55

$3.90

If you've ever dined out and pondered what goes on behind the kitchen doors, "Waiter Rant" will serve up a heaping plate of enlightenment. Written with wit and brutal honesty, you'll never look at your dining experiences in quite the same way again. Imagine sitting down with a veteran waiter after their shift and getting the uncensored scoop—that's this book.
Under the Tuscan Sun
Frances Mayes | Crown

Under the Tuscan Sun

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

84% off est. retail
If you're dreaming of an Italian escape, "Under the Tuscan Sun" could be the next best thing. Frances Mayes invites you into her journey with such vivid and lush descriptions of Tuscany it'll feel like you're tasting the pappardelle and feeling the terracotta tiles beneath your feet. It's a story that intertwines the beauty of travel, the joys of refurbishing a charming old villa, and the art of savoring life's simple pleasures. Perfect for those who delight in cultural adventures and the romance of Italy.
Under the Tuscan Sun
Frances Mayes | Broadway Books

Under the Tuscan Sun

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.90

Imagine yourself basking in the warmth of the Tuscan sun, surrounded by the rich tapestry of Italian culture. Frances Mayes' "Under the Tuscan Sun" isn't just a memoir, it's an invitation to indulge in the seductive delights of Tuscany. The irresistible charm of restoring an old villa, mingling with local markets, and savoring the region's culinary triumphs could be just the escapade your soul craves.
Stealing Buddha's Dinner
Bich Minh Nguyen | Penguin Books

Stealing Buddha's Dinner

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

84% off est. retail
"Stealing Buddha's Dinner" is a relatable journey of cultural assimilation and the quest for identity, especially if you've ever felt like an outsider trying to fit in. Bich Minh Nguyen's experiences growing up in the Midwest are infused with the universal longing for belonging—a narrative sweetened with the nostalgic flavors of the 1980s that might just resonate with your own childhood yearnings.
The Lady in the Palazzo: At Home in Umbria
Marlena de Blasi | Virago

The Lady in the Palazzo: At Home in Umbria

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$8.90

62% off est. retail
If you have a penchant for Italian culture and the charm of pastoral life, Marlena de Blasi's "The Lady in the Palazzo" will transport you to the heart of Umbria. Through her intimate exploration of local cuisine and the renovation of a medieval palazzo, you'll feel like you're befriending the townsfolk of Orvieto alongside her. This book is a delightful immersion into an expat's life, woven with rich descriptions that promise to satiate your wanderlust.
Great, Grand and Famous Chefs and Their Signature Dishes
David Glynn, Raewyn Glynn, Fritz Gubler  | Great, Grand & Famous Pty Ltd

Great, Grand and Famous Chefs and Their Signature Dishes

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

If you've ever been intrigued by the evolution of fine dining and the icons who revolutionized the gastronomy scene, this book is like a well-seasoned dish for your curiosity. It's not just about the tantalizing recipes; it's a historical journey alongside culinary giants, offering a taste of their passion and artistry. Every turn of the page feels like an exclusive seat at their tables, making it a sumptuous read for food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Cake Boss: Stories and Recipes from Mia Famiglia
Buddy Valastro | Atria Books

Cake Boss: Stories and Recipes from Mia Famiglia

$14.90 $8.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$14.90 $8.90 40% off

If you're a fan of heartfelt stories and baking, "Cake Boss" by Buddy Valastro could be a delightful addition to your shelf. The memoir not only gives you a window into the passionate life of a master baker and his family’s legacy, but it could also serve as a guide to recreate the magic of Carlo's Bakery right in your own kitchen. With personal anecdotes and professional tips, this book might just be the perfect mix of inspiration and indulgence for you.
The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry
Kathleen Flinn | Penguin Publishing Group

The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry

$15.90 $5.90 63% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$15.90 $5.90 63% off

83% off est. retail
If your taste buds are tingling for a story that combines the zest of a culinary pilgrimage with the heartfelt journey toward self-discovery, Kathleen Flinn's "The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry" could be a perfect pairing. As you flip through the pages, you'll virtually stroll through Parisian alleys, taste the fervor of Le Cordon Bleu, and perhaps find the courage to take your own leap of faith. The blend of gastronomy and personal growth in Flinn's memoir is as enchanting as it is relatable, perfect for foodies and dreamers alike.
Jamie Confidential: The Biography of Britain's Best-Loved Chef
Tim Ewbank, Stafford Hildred  | John Blake

Jamie Confidential: The Biography of Britain's Best-Loved Chef

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If Jamie Oliver has ever captured your culinary curiosity or inspired your home cooking, "Jamie Confidential" provides a deeper insight into the chef's rapid ascent to fame. Beyond his charming screen persona, the book delves into Jamie's earnest drive to make a societal impact through his love for food. It's an appeal to anyone intrigued by the man behind the delightful dishes and transformative food initiatives.
Fragrant Rice: My Continuing Love Affair with Bali
Janet De Neefe | Periplus Editions

Fragrant Rice: My Continuing Love Affair with Bali

$16.90 $10.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$16.90 $10.90 36% off

61% off est. retail
If you've ever dreamed of basking in the vibrant culture of Bali, "Fragrant Rice" is a must-read. Janet De Neefe takes you on an exquisite journey through the heart of Bali and its culinary traditions. For the food enthusiast with a wanderlust spirit, this book is a perfect blend of personal memoir and gastronomic adventure, enriched with the intimacy of family recipes that promise to delight your palate and feed your soul.
Flavours from India
Thangam E. Philip | Disha Books

Flavours from India

$17.90 $3.90 78% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$17.90 $3.90 78% off

If you're fond of exploring diverse, aromatic cuisines, "Flavours from India" will be your culinary guidebook. Thangam E. Philip's book delves into the rich tapestry of Indian cooking, offering a taste of the country’s regional diversity. Perfect for both adventurous eaters and home chefs wanting to expand their recipe repertoire with authentic Indian dishes.
A Wok Through Time - Thryft
Sam Leong | Times Editions

A Wok Through Time

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

A Wok Through Time is a great read for food enthusiasts who love to experiment with different ingredients and cooking styles. The book offers a unique perspective on traditional Chinese cuisine with a modern twist that is sure to impress. Sam Leong's journey from a novice to a celebrity chef provides an inspiring account of perseverance and dedication. The book is enhanced with photographs of mouth-watering dishes that are easy to replicate at home with clear instructions. If you are looking for an exciting cookbook that will elevate your culinary skills, then A Wok Through Time is a definite must-have.
The De' Medici Kitchen - Thryft
Lorenza De' Medici | Collins Pub San Francisco

The De' Medici Kitchen

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

90% off est. retail
Contains a collection of recipes taken from the television show for first, middle, and main courses, vegetables, and desserts, and with illustrations and instructions when needed
Italian Comfort Food: Intensive Eating from Fresco by Scotto Restaurant
Scotto Family | Ecco

Italian Comfort Food: Intensive Eating from Fresco by Scotto Restaurant

$17.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$17.90

If you’re looking to bring the warmth of Italian cuisine right into your kitchen with a dash of New York pizzazz, "Italian Comfort Food" by the Scotto Family could be your gateway to delight. The recipes are not only mouthwatering but come with a side of personal anecdotes that make you feel part of the Scotto family's rich culinary legacy. Plus, you'll be tasting the spirit of Fresco by Scotto, known for its festive atmosphere, right at your dining table.
It's Not About the Tapas
Polly Evans | Bantam Press

It's Not About the Tapas

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're itching for an adventure but are currently stuck at home, "It's Not About the Tapas" could be your temporary escape. The author's journey through Spain on a bicycle blends travel memoir with self-discovery, all laced with a delightful wit that makes the vicarious trip both enlightening and entertaining. It's like taking a personal tour with a friend who points out the humorous quirks of life and the beauty in the unexpected, making it especially enjoyable for those who appreciate culture with a side of laughter.
Saha: A Chef's Journey Through Lebanon and Syria
Lucy Malouf, Greg Malouf

Saha: A Chef's Journey Through Lebanon and Syria

$25.90 $20.90 19% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$25.90 $20.90 19% off

65% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern cuisine, "Saha" is like a magic carpet ride for your taste buds. Greg Malouf serves not just recipes, but stories and insights that weave a narrative as flavorful as the dishes themselves. The accessible instructions invite you to recreate the symphony of spices in your own kitchen, bridging the gap between exotic tradition and home-cooked comfort.
Anything That Moves: Renegade Chefs, Fearless Eaters, and the Making of a New American Food Culture
Sold out
Dana Goodyear | Riverhead Books

Anything That Moves: Renegade Chefs, Fearless Eaters, and the Making of a New American Food Culture

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.44

$9.90

79% off est. retail
"Anything That Moves" is a tantalizing trek for the taste buds and an eye-opener for anyone curious about the edges of American cuisine. Dana Goodyear takes you on a humorous and insightful journey that invites you to reconsider your notions of what's edible. If you're fascinated by culinary innovation or just love to explore food culture's wild side, this book will serve up the perfect dish of knowledge and entertainment.
Chocolates for my wife - Thryft
Sold out
Todd Matshikiza | David Phillips Publishers

Chocolates for my wife

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.26

71% off est. retail
French Women Don't Get Fat
Sold out
Mireille Guiliano | Chatto & Windus

French Women Don't Get Fat

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

63% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for someone who wants to change their mindset about food and adopt a more balanced and enjoyable approach to eating. The author shares simple tricks and guidelines that emphasize the importance of savoring seasonal and carefully prepared food, while also promoting regular exercise and a positive relationship with food. The French Women Don't Get Fat approach is a refreshing departure from strict diets and encourages sustainable and pleasurable habits for a lifetime.
Durians Are Not the Only Fruit: Notes from the Tropics
Sold out
Wong Yoon Wah, Jeremy Tiang  | Epigram Books

Durians Are Not the Only Fruit: Notes from the Tropics

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90

Recommended for nature enthusiasts seeking cultural insights. The author's personal anecdotes and informative writing style make for an engaging read. The book offers unique perspectives on the fruits, food, and wildlife of Malaya, making it a great choice for readers interested in Southeast Asian culture and nature.
A Tiger in the Kitchen : A Memoir of Food and Family - Thryft
Sold out
Cheryl Lu-Lien Tan | Hachette Books

A Tiger in the Kitchen : A Memoir of Food and Family

$9.15

Goodreads rating: 3.52

$9.15

72% off est. retail
A Tiger in the Kitchen is a heartwarming memoir that transports readers to Singapore via delicious dishes. Tan's writing is beautiful, and her family's recipes offer a glimpse into the country's culinary traditions. This book is perfect for foodies, those interested in exploring their heritage through food, and anyone who enjoys a good story.

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.