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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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The Art of Resilience: Strategies for an Unbreakable Mind and Body
Ross Edgley | Harpercollins

The Art of Resilience: Strategies for an Unbreakable Mind and Body

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$8.90

If you're someone who marvels at human endurance and the power of the mind, "The Art of Resilience" could be a transformative read for you. Ross Edgley's extraordinary physical feats serve as a backdrop to explore and provide insight into developing mental toughness. This isn't just a narrative of personal triumphs; it's a blueprint that challenges and guides you to push your own limits and redefine what you consider possible.
Mirror Touch: Notes from a Doctor Who Can Feel Your Pain
Joel Salinas | Harperone

Mirror Touch: Notes from a Doctor Who Can Feel Your Pain

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

"Mirror Touch" might fascinate you if you're intrigued by the mysterious workings of the human brain and the deep connections between empathy and neuroscience. Dr. Salinas' memoir not only provides insight into the rare condition of mirror-touch synesthesia but also delves into the complexities of human relationships. As he narrates his personal and professional challenges, you'll be captivated by how intimately and profoundly we can connect with one another. This book promises to broaden your perception of sensory experience and empathy.
Confessions of a Surgeon: The Good, the Bad, and the Complicated—Life Behind the O.R. Doors
Paul A. Ruggieri | Penguin Publishing Group

Confessions of a Surgeon: The Good, the Bad, and the Complicated—Life Behind the O.R. Doors

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

If you're intrigued by what truly happens behind the scenes of an operating room, "Confessions of a Surgeon" could provide you with that insider perspective. Dr. Ruggieri doesn't hold back as he paints a vivid picture of the medical field's triumphs and tribulations. It's a compelling read for anyone curious about the ethical dilemmas and intense pressures surgeons face, alongside the humanity within the hospital walls.
Preventable: The Inside Story of How Leadership Failures, Politics, and Selfishness Doomed the U.S. Coronavirus Response
Andy Slavitt | St. Martin's Press

Preventable: The Inside Story of How Leadership Failures, Politics, and Selfishness Doomed the U.S. Coronavirus Response

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

"Preventable" gives a gripping, insider's perspective on a national tragedy that many of us have lived through. If you’re looking to understand not only the specific missteps of the recent pandemic response but also the underlying flaws in America's health and political systems that allowed for such a catastrophe, Andy Slavitt’s account is a crucial read. It resonates with a call for accountability and the urgency to learn from these painful lessons.
Against the Water: A Surfing Champion's Inspirational Journey to Olympic Glory
Owen Wright

Against the Water: A Surfing Champion's Inspirational Journey to Olympic Glory

$13.90 $11.90 14% off

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$13.90 $11.90 14% off

If you've ever faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge, Owen Wright's story could resonate deeply with you. "Against the Water" isn't just a surf memoir; it's a testament to human resilience, a dive into the complexities of family dynamics, and a beacon of hope for anyone who's been knocked down by life's waves and dared to rise again. Owen's story is about more than his fight for Olympic glory – it's an invitation to ride the tides of courage and redemption.
Locked In: The Will to Survive and the Resolve to Live
Victoria Arlen, Valentin Chmerkovskiy  | Howard Books

Locked In: The Will to Survive and the Resolve to Live

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$9.90

This is the kind of memoir that stays with you because Victoria Arlen’s story feels almost impossible, yet deeply human. What really makes it powerful is not just survival, but the experience of being mentally awake and unheard, then fighting her way back into life. If you’re drawn to true stories of resilience, faith, and fierce determination, this can feel both devastating and genuinely uplifting.
Breath From Salt: A Deadly Genetic Disease, a New Era in Science, and the Patients and Families Who Changed Medicine Forever
Bijal P. Trivedi | Benbella Books

Breath From Salt: A Deadly Genetic Disease, a New Era in Science, and the Patients and Families Who Changed Medicine Forever

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.44

$10.90

If you're moved by tales of resilience and medical breakthroughs, "Breath from Salt" will captivate you. It's not just the story of a devastating genetic disease but a narrative of how relentless determination by patients, families, and scientists reshaped the future of medicine. Reading it, you'll feel the weight of the struggle and the exhilaration of progress in genetic therapies that once seemed like distant dreams.
A Leg to Stand On
Oliver Sacks | Picador

A Leg to Stand On

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

If you're intrigued by the confluence of the physical and psychological, "A Leg to Stand On" offers a rare insider's view, literally from the bed of an acclaimed neurologist. Sacks' narrative transforms his personal adversity into a thought-provoking exploration of the self, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the mysteries of the human mind-body connection.
Mile Markers: The 26.2 Most Important Reasons Why Women Run
Kristin Armstrong, Editors of Runner's World Maga  | Rodale Books

Mile Markers: The 26.2 Most Important Reasons Why Women Run

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

87% off est. retail
If you're looking to lace up your sneakers and find inspiration with every stride, "Mile Markers" could speak to you. It's not just about the physical act of running; it's the intertwining of personal growth, camaraderie among women, and the spiritual journey that resonates with each mile. This book could be the perfect running companion to encourage you every step of the way.
The Long Run
Matt Long, Charles Butler  | Harmony/rodale

The Long Run

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

If you're ever in need of a boost of motivation, "The Long Run" might just be the catalyst you're looking for. It's a remarkable story of resilience and the unyielding human spirit. As you delve into Matt Long's harrowing ordeal and his fight to reclaim his life, you'll find yourself inspired, perhaps even to lace up your own running shoes. It's a profound testament to what we can overcome with grit and determination.
Virus: The Codiscoverer of HIV Tracks Its Rampage and Charts the Future
Luc Montagnier MD | W. W. Norton & Company

Virus: The Codiscoverer of HIV Tracks Its Rampage and Charts the Future

$22.90

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$22.90

If you're drawn to medical mysteries and the human stories behind scientific discoveries, “Virus” by Luc Montagnier could be a riveting read for you. It offers a firsthand account of the AIDS epidemic from its co-discoverer, blending scientific inquiry with the human ramifications of the virus. Montagnier's perspective as a key figure in virology provides a unique, authoritative insight into one of the most challenging medical crises of our times.
Mountain to Climb: The Quest for Everest and Beyond
LIM DAVID | Epigram Publishingp/l

Mountain to Climb: The Quest for Everest and Beyond

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

This book is a compelling account of Singapore's first Mt Everest expedition, filled with nail-biting setbacks and mishaps. It doesn't just chronicle the triumph of reaching the summit, but also the incredible personal journey of David Lim, who was struck by a rare nerve disorder soon after the climb. The book captures the resilience, determination, and spirit of overcoming obstacles, making it an inspiring read for anyone seeking a story of triumph over adversity.
Doctor, I Have Cancer - Can You Help Me?
Ang Peng Tiam | Snp Editions, Singapore

Doctor, I Have Cancer - Can You Help Me?

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

This book might resonate with you if you're looking for a blend of professional medical advice and heartfelt personal experiences. The author, being a doctor, offers an informed perspective that could be both comforting and educational, particularly if you or a loved one is navigating the complexities of cancer. The human stories interwoven with medical insights provide a multifaceted view of the cancer experience that could offer hope and understanding during challenging times.
It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life
lance-armstrong | Yellow Jersey

It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

76% off est. retail
If you're looking for an account that mixes personal struggle with sports, "It's Not About the Bike" could speak to you. Lance Armstrong's story is powerful and transcends cycling; it's about facing life's biggest challenges and coming through the other side. Whether you're interested in his athletic endeavors or his fight against cancer, you might find his narrative both stirring and thought-provoking, despite the controversy that later surrounded him.
Awakenings
Oliver Sacks | Picador

Awakenings

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

"Awakenings" by Oliver Sacks might just redefine your understanding of the human mind and medical science. It blends the almost miraculous stories of patients emerging from decades-long catatonia with deeply philosophical insights, offering both a heartfelt journey and a profound cerebral experience. If you're fascinated by the resilience of the human spirit and the wonders of neurological medicine, this book could leave you with a lasting impression of awe and a greater appreciation for the delicate balance of life.
Virus Hunting: AIDS, Cancer, and the Human Retrovirus - A Story of Scientific Discovery - Thryft
Robert C. Gallo | Basic Books

Virus Hunting: AIDS, Cancer, and the Human Retrovirus - A Story of Scientific Discovery

$15.21 $3.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 2.67

$15.21 $3.90 74% off

89% off est. retail
If you've ever been intrigued by the detective work behind scientific breakthroughs, this book offers a profound look. Gallo's firsthand account weaves personal narrative with the excitement of unraveling the mysteries behind AIDS and cancer, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the human stories within science.
Hanging by a Thread: My Toughest Missions as a Helicopter Rescue Doctor - Thryft

Hanging by a Thread: My Toughest Missions as a Helicopter Rescue Doctor

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

85% off est. retail
This book is perfect for adrenaline junkies who crave suspense and excitement. Emmanuel Cauchy takes you on a heart-stopping journey as a helicopter rescue doctor, sharing his most challenging missions. Prepare to be gripped by the intense fear and exhilaration as Cauchy and his team navigate dangerous conditions to save lives. With vivid descriptions and a profound sense of the fragility of life, this memoir will leave you in awe of the incredible work done by rescue professionals.
Malignant Sadness: The Anatomy of Depression
Lewis Wolpert | Faber And Faber

Malignant Sadness: The Anatomy of Depression

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

68% off est. retail
If you've ever felt alone in your struggle with depression or simply want to understand it better, "Malignant Sadness" could be a grounding read for you. Lewis Wolpert combines personal experience with scientific investigation, providing an accessible yet thorough examination of this complex condition. It could offer both solace and knowledge, shedding light on a topic frequently shrouded in silence.
杏林趣事 - Thryft
匿名 | Shanghai Science And Technology Publisher

杏林趣事

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

If you're drawn to the mysteries of medicine and enjoy exploring cultural nuances, "杏林趣事" offers a unique blend that might pique your interest. This collection of engaging stories provides a glimpse into medical practice from an Asian perspective, weaving an intricate tapestry of experiences that could both inform and entertain. It's a rare find for curious minds fascinated by healthcare and storytelling.
It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life
Sally Jenkins, Lance Armstrong  | Putnam Adult

It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

85% off est. retail
Recommended for sports enthusiasts & those seeking inspiration. Armstrong's determination and commitment to his sport amidst personal challenges is truly inspiring. His medical journey is described in detail, offering a true-to-life depiction of his struggles, thereby making his victories even more worthy of celebration.
Start Your Engines
Sam Briggs | Ebury Press

Start Your Engines

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$10.90

40% off est. retail
If you're all about perseverance and inspiration, Sam Briggs' journey is tailored for you. Her narrative isn't just about triumph, but a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the resilience needed to stay at the top. It's a testament that age and setbacks are merely numbers and hurdles, not roadblocks, in the path to achieving one's dreams.
Shut Up and Run: How to Get Up, Lace Up, and Sweat With Swagger
Robin Arzón | Harper

Shut Up and Run: How to Get Up, Lace Up, and Sweat With Swagger

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$8.90

76% off est. retail
If you've ever felt the urge to lace up your sneakers and hit the pavement with energy, "Shut Up and Run" is definitely the running partner you need. Author Robin Arzon doesn't just teach you about the mechanics of running; she infuses each page with the infectious joy and lifestyle of a dedicated runner. Imagine colorful, inspiring visuals paired with actionable advice that's equal parts personal coach and stylish friend. Whether you're gearing up for your first 5K or you're an experienced marathon maven, this book will push you to strut your stuff with every stride.
One in Three: A Son's Journey Into the History and Science of Cancer
Adam Wishart | Grove Press

One in Three: A Son's Journey Into the History and Science of Cancer

$14.90 $8.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$14.90 $8.90 40% off

67% off est. retail
If cancer has touched your life, Wishart's blend of personal storytelling and medical history in "One in Three" may resonate with you deeply. The book offers an intimate look at the progress science has made in understanding and treating this complex disease. It's a hopeful read that could change your perspective on cancer, presenting it as something that, while daunting, can be lived with rather than an automatic death sentence.
Misconceptions: Truth, Lies and the Unexpected on the Journey to Motherhood
Naomi Wolf | Vintage

Misconceptions: Truth, Lies and the Unexpected on the Journey to Motherhood

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

"Misconceptions" might resonate with you if you’ve felt the tug-of-war between your personal experience of pregnancy and society's pervasive narratives. Naomi Wolf doesn't just recount tales; she digs deep into the cultural paradigms that shape and sometimes distort motherhood. It's a thought-provoking read that validates the unique experiences women face and could be a compelling companion on your own journey or as a way to understand others'.
Genetic Rounds: A Doctor's Encounters in the Field That Revolutionized Medicine - Thryft
Robert Marion | Kaplan Publishing

Genetic Rounds: A Doctor's Encounters in the Field That Revolutionized Medicine

$19.71 $3.90 80% off

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$19.71 $3.90 80% off

83% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the human side of medicine, you might find "Genetic Rounds" a compelling read. It's not every day that you get an inside look into the complexities pediatric geneticists face. Dr. Robert Marion’s experiences are rich with ethical quandaries, all delivered through narratives that showcase the resilience and challenges of his young patients. Read this for a journey into the emotional heart of a medical specialty that’s shaping our future.
Tiger - A Biography Of Tiger Woods - Thryft
John Strege | Crown

Tiger - A Biography Of Tiger Woods

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

87% off est. retail
Dive into "Tiger" if you're intrigued by the man behind the myth. John Strege offers a rare glimpse into Tiger Woods' exceptional journey, providing context to the triumphs and trials that shaped this golf icon. It's more than the strokes on the field; it's about the relentless pursuit of greatness amidst intense public scrutiny. This read is your personal caddy to understanding Tiger's legacy.
Fred Couples - Thryft
Jim Nantz, Paul Marchand, Kathlene Bissell  | Mcgraw-hill

Fred Couples

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

83% off est. retail
If you're into the elegance and spirit of golf, Fred Couples' journey is as smooth as his famed swing. This biography captures not just the man's skill on the greens but also his magnetic appeal. It's a peek at humanizing a sports icon, a must-read that feels like a walk on the course with a golfing legend.
Doctors : The Biography of Medicine - Thryft
Sherwin B. Nuland | Vintage

Doctors : The Biography of Medicine

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Doctors is a great read for those interested in understanding how medicine has advanced through the centuries. Sherwin B. Nuland offers fascinating life portraits of some of the greatest medical innovators and pioneers, including Hippocrates and Andreas Vesalius. What makes this book unique is that it shows how these medical professionals were products of their own times and places, and how their work has influenced modern medicine. If you're interested in medical history or just curious about the development of medicine, this book is a must-read.
Tournament Week : Inside the Ropes and Behind the Scenes on the PGA Tour - Thryft
John Strege | Harper

Tournament Week : Inside the Ropes and Behind the Scenes on the PGA Tour

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.21

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

89% off est. retail
This book is a hole in one if you've always been curious about what it's truly like for those competing on the PGA Tour. John Strege offers an all-access pass to the intriguing blend of glitz, stress, and mental games that characterize a professional golfer's week. From private jokes to pressure-cooker moments, 'Tournament Week' reveals the often unseen realities of tournament golf, promising a read that's as close as you can get to actually being there.
Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science
Sold out
Kent Heckenlively, Judy A. Mikovits, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  | Skyhorse

Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$8.90

76% off est. retail
If you're the kind of reader who's drawn to stories about underdogs challenging the establishment, "Plague of Corruption" could be the next book you can't put down. Dr. Judy Mikovits's journey combines the intrigue of scientific discovery with the passion of someone fighting to reveal hard truths. It'll appeal to your sense of justice and may change the way you view science's role in society.
Playing Through: Straight Talk on Hard Work, Big Dreams, and Adventures with Tiger - Thryft
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Earl Woods | William Morrow

Playing Through: Straight Talk on Hard Work, Big Dreams, and Adventures with Tiger

$18.90 $4.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$18.90 $4.90 74% off

87% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the human stories behind athletic greatness, "Playing Through" is quite the intimate encounter. Imagine sitting with Earl Woods as he reveals the personal trials, triumphs, and profound parental strategies that shaped Tiger Woods, all told with unflinching honesty. This isn't just another sports biography; it's a heartfelt narrative of ambition, adversity, and the intricate family ties that underpin a legend's rise to fame.
Tales from Another Mother Runner: Triumphs, Trials, Tips, and Tricks from the Road - Thryft
Sold out
Dimity McDowell | Andrews Mcmeel Publishing

Tales from Another Mother Runner: Triumphs, Trials, Tips, and Tricks from the Road

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.23

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

84% off est. retail
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.
Better: A Surgeon's Notes on Performance - Thryft
Sold out
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.
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down - Thryft
Sold out
Anne Fadiman | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

75% off est. retail
"The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" is a profound exploration into the clash between two worlds - the Hmong culture's deeply rooted traditions and the stark rationality of Western medicine. Understanding this book could open your eyes to the complexities of cultural assimilation and the often overlooked nuances in healthcare. It's a must-read if you're interested in the ways in which cultural differences impact lives in very real, tangible ways.

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.