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.
Popular Filters
Business
Entrepreneurship
Historical
Inspirational
Mental Health
Music
Politics
Technology
Filter (1)
Sebastian Junger
|
Simon
&
Schuster
In My Time of Dying: How I Came Face-to-Face With the Idea of an Afterlife
$18.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.82
$18.90
- Unit price
- / per
If you've ever contemplated the mysteries of life and death, Sebastian Junger's personal journey will resonate deeply. Confronting his own mortality after a brush with death, Junger's narrative isn't just an intense survival story—it's a thoughtful examination of the afterlife and the human need to understand what might lie beyond. Engaging, moving, and intellectually stimulating, this book promises to be a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the intersection of science, spirituality, and the human condition.
Ross Edgley
|
Harpercollins
The Art of Resilience: Strategies for an Unbreakable Mind and Body
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.32
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Haruki Murakami, Philip Gabriel |
Vintage
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.87
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
If you're drawn to the beautiful synergy between the physical and the intellectual, Murakami's memoir is a resonant journey you'll appreciate. The way he parallels the discipline of marathon running with the art of writing is not just for athletes or writers, but for anyone who seeks to understand the profound connection between body and mind, persistence, and creativity. It's an enlightening read that might just inspire you to lace up your running shoes or pick up a pen.
Andy Slavitt
|
St.
Martin's
Press
Preventable: The Inside Story of How Leadership Failures, Politics, and Selfishness Doomed the U.S. Coronavirus Response
$11.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.14
$11.90
- Unit price
- / per
"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.
Matt Morgan
|
Simon
&
Schuster
Ltd
Critical Science and Stories from the Brink of Human Life
$10.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.08
$10.90
- Unit price
- / per
"Critical" takes you behind the scenes of the ICU, where lives hang in the balance, and the very essence of human resilience and medical science intersect. Dr. Matt Morgan weaves together patient stories that not only shed light on the often invisible struggles within hospital walls but also serve as poignant reminders of the thin line between life and death. It's educational, deeply human, and might just change how you perceive the fragility of life.
Chrissie Wellington
|
Constable
A Life Without Limits
Regular price
$10.90
$7.90
28% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.13
Regular price
$10.90
$7.90
28% off
- Unit price
- / per
If you've ever doubted the limits of endurance and human spirit, Chrissie Wellington's journey shatters those boundaries. Her story is not just about athletic prowess but also about overcoming adversity, pushing through impossible odds, and the mental fortitude it takes to be a world champion. Reading "A Life Without Limits" could be like a powerful dose of inspiration for anyone looking to be motivated, be it in sports or any challenging endeavor in life.
Allan H. Ropper, Brian David Burrell |
Atlantic
Books
Reaching Down the Rabbit Hole: Extraordinary Journeys Into the Human Brain
$12.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.98
$12.90
- Unit price
- / per
If you're captivated by the enigmas of the human brain and how it shapes our reality, "Reaching Down the Rabbit Hole" is a must-read. Dr. Allan Ropper provides a backstage pass to the dramas playing out in a leading neurology unit, allowing you to witness the complexities of the mind through a physician's challenges and triumphs. It's like being a part of the diagnosis, feeling the weight of responsibility and the surge of breakthroughs in real time.
Kristin Armstrong, Editors of Runner's World Maga |
Rodale
Books
Mile Markers: The 26.2 Most Important Reasons Why Women Run
Regular price
$11.90
$5.90
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.89
Regular price
$11.90
$5.90
50% off
- Unit price
- / per
80% 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.
$12.90
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Matt Long, Charles Butler |
Harmony/rodale
The Long Run
Regular price
$8.90
$7.90
11% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.13
Regular price
$8.90
$7.90
11% off
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Robin Arzón
|
Harper
Shut Up and Run: How to Get Up, Lace Up, and Sweat With Swagger
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.87
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Lewis Wolpert
|
Faber
And
Faber
Malignant Sadness: The Anatomy of Depression
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.71
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
52% 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.
$10.90
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Sally Jenkins, Lance Armstrong |
Putnam
Adult
It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life
Regular price
$12.90
$10.90
16% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.71
Regular price
$12.90
$10.90
16% off
- Unit price
- / per
72% 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.
Robert Marion
|
Kaplan
Publishing
Genetic Rounds: A Doctor's Encounters in the Field That Revolutionized Medicine
Regular price
$19.71
$5.90
70% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.18
Regular price
$19.71
$5.90
70% off
- Unit price
- / per
75% 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.
lance-armstrong
|
Yellow
Jersey
It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life
Regular price
$8.90
$8.26
7% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.71
Regular price
$8.90
$8.26
7% off
- Unit price
- / per
66% 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.
Adam Wishart
|
Grove
Press
One in Three: A Son's Journey Into the History and Science of Cancer
$12.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.86
$12.90
- Unit price
- / per
52% 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.
New
Michael Pollan
|
Penguin
Books
How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence
$11.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.27
$11.90
- Unit price
- / per
72% off est. retail
"How to Change Your Mind" might resonate with you if you're intrigued by the intersection of mental health, spirituality, and groundbreaking scientific research. Michael Pollan's deep dive into psychedelic experiences isn't just an academic exposition; it's an intimate journey that could shift your perspective on mind-altering substances and their potential therapeutic roles. It's for the intellectually curious, open to reconsidering the boundaries of consciousness and the human experience.
Sherwin B. Nuland
|
Vintage
Doctors: The Biography of Medicine
Regular price
$10.90
$6.90
37% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.06
Regular price
$10.90
$6.90
37% off
- Unit price
- / per
77% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of medicine, as it beautifully captures the key moments, theories and significant advancements in the field, through the lives of those who dedicated their lives to healing and research. Sherwin B. Nuland's style and expertise shines through in this compelling biographical masterpiece.
Naomi Wolf
|
Vintage
Misconceptions: Truth, Lies and the Unexpected on the Journey to Motherhood
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.76
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
"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'.
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
"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.
Deborah Hayden
|
Basic
Books
Pox : Genius, Madness, And The Mysteries Of Syphilis
Regular price
$13.90
$5.90
58% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.75
Regular price
$13.90
$5.90
58% off
- Unit price
- / per
88% off est. retail
Imagine looking at history's luminaries through a new lens – that's "Pox" for you. Hayden intricately weaves the untold impacts of syphilis on brilliant minds. Not only does it offer fresh biographical insights, but it also challenges how we interpret their legacies. The mix of scandal, health, and genius might just redefine your view of the past.
Sold out
Kent Heckenlively, Judy A. Mikovits, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. |
Skyhorse
Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.25
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Sold out
Earl Woods
|
William
Morrow
Playing Through: Straight Talk on Hard Work, Big Dreams, and Adventures with Tiger
Regular price
$18.90
$4.90
74% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.81
Regular price
$18.90
$4.90
74% off
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Sold out
Dimity McDowell
|
Andrews
Mcmeel
Publishing
Tales from Another Mother Runner: Triumphs, Trials, Tips, and Tricks from the Road
Regular price
$7.90
$3.90
51% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.23
Regular price
$7.90
$3.90
51% off
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Sold out
Matt Long, Charles Butler |
Harmony/rodale
The Long Run : A New York City Firefighter's Triumphant Comeback from Crash Victim to Elite Athlete
$7.78
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.13
$7.78
- Unit price
- / per
71% off est. retail
The Long Run is a must-read for those looking for an uplifting story of perseverance and triumph over adversity. Matt Long’s determination to recover from a debilitating injury and compete in the New York City Marathon is incredibly inspiring. The book provides an honest and raw insight into the psychological and physical challenges he faced, and his love for running as a means of recovery is heartwarming. The Long Run is perfect for anyone looking for a story of hope and resilience.
Sold out
Atul Gawande
|
Picador
Usa
Being Mortal : Medicine and What Matters in the End
$7.29
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.48
$7.29
- Unit price
- / per
77% off est. retail
Brand New Book. Ready to be shipped.
Sold out
Atul Gawande
|
Picador
Better: A Surgeon's Notes on Performance
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.24
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Sold out
Chrissie Wellington
|
Constable
A Life Without Limits : A World Champion's Journey
$7.68
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.13
$7.68
- Unit price
- / per
63% off est. retail
"A Life Without Limits" is an inspiring read for anyone looking for motivation to overcome obstacles and push themselves to their physical and mental limits. Chrissie's remarkable achievement of becoming a world champion Ironman triathlete in only her second event at the Ironman level, and her unwavering determination to bounce back from setbacks, makes this book a must-read for all sports enthusiasts. The book highlights how passion and resilience can triumph over any obstacle and encourages readers to strive for excellence in every aspect of their life.
Sold out
Anne Fadiman
|
Farrar,
Straus
And
Giroux
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down
Regular price
$8.90
$5.90
34% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.19
Regular price
$8.90
$5.90
34% off
- Unit price
- / per
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.
Sold out
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
54% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for you if you're searching for a profound and emotional reflection on life and mortality. Paul Kalanithi's journey from a doctor to a patient offers a thought-provoking exploration of what makes life worth living in the face of death. His beautiful writing and personal insight will leave you contemplating the meaning of existence long after you turn the last page.
You're viewing 1-31 of 31 products
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.