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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Death of Outrage: Bill Clinton and the Assault on American Ideals - Thryft
William J. Bennett

Death of Outrage: Bill Clinton and the Assault on American Ideals

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If the intersection of politics, morality, and scandal intrigues you, "Death of Outrage" will resonate strongly. Bennett doesn’t just tell a story; he argues for renewed civic virtue against what he sees as political decay. As it challenges the indifferent stance towards presidential misdemeanors, it's a book that insists on the importance of character in public office, compelling for anyone concerned with political ethics.

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The Publisher: Henry Luce and His American Century - Thryft
Alan Brinkley

The Publisher: Henry Luce and His American Century

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If you're intrigued by the colossal figures who have shaped the media landscape, "The Publisher: Henry Luce and His American Century" is a title you can't pass up. Alan Brinkley's biography isn't just a tale of a man; it's the story of an era. Luce’s influence on journalism and the global narrative is both a captivating success and a poignant reflection on power's personal toll. You'll walk away with a richer understanding of how media giants are woven into the fabric of history.

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Correspondence and Journals of Samuel Blachley Webb V1 1772-1777 (1893) - Thryft
Samuel Blachley Webb

Correspondence and Journals of Samuel Blachley Webb V1 1772-1777 (1893)

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If history captivates you, particularly the Revolutionary War period, Samuel Blachley Webb's correspondence and journals offer an authentic, unfiltered dive into the experiences and thoughts of a figure who lived it. It's a treasure for history enthusiasts seeking a direct connection to the past, unpolished imperfections and all – a rare opportunity to walk in the shoes of an 18th-century American military officer.

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Ralph Tailor's Summer: A Scrivener, His City and the Plague - Thryft
Keith Wrightson

Ralph Tailor's Summer: A Scrivener, His City and the Plague

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This book invites you into the heart of a city besieged by the plague, offering a poignant glimpse of human resilience and the shifting sands of social order through Ralph Tailor's intimate records. If you're fascinated by the interplay between disease and humanity, or if you appreciate historical accounts brimming with authenticity and emotional depth, this meticulously researched tale by Keith Wrightson will captivate and enlighten you. It's a somber yet engaging journey back to a time where the scribbles of a scrivener were the final testaments of many lives.

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The Diana Chronicles - Thryft
Tina Brown

The Diana Chronicles

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Whether you're a Royal Family aficionado or just curious about the woman who captured the world's heart, 'The Diana Chronicles' offers a compelling delve into Princess Diana's life. Its rich narrative and thoughtful analyses by Tina Brown shed light on Diana's multifaceted persona, her impact, and the drama that surrounded her. This book promises to give you a deeper understanding of the People's Princess.

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Einstein: The Life and Times - Thryft
Ronald William Clark

Einstein: The Life and Times

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This biography of Einstein offers a rare glimpse into the life of one of the greatest minds in history. Through captivating storytelling, Ronald W. Clark brings out the human side of Einstein, showcasing his struggles, emotions, and deeply held beliefs. From his humble beginnings in the Swiss Alps to his complicated personal life and profound contributions to science, this book will inspire and entertain, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the man behind the genius.

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Richard III: The Maligned King - Thryft
Annette Carson

Richard III: The Maligned King

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If you've ever questioned the notorious reputation of Richard III, portrayed by Shakespeare as a malevolent hunchback, this book will be a revelation. Annette Carson cuts through centuries-old assumptions, leaning on documented evidence to present a more nuanced historical portrait. It's a must-read if you're keen on medieval mysteries or simply love when detective work meets history. Carson drags history into the courtroom and places traditional storytelling on trial, inviting you for an intriguing read that might just change your perspective on a maligned king.

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True Stories Of The Second World War - Thryft
Paul Dowswell, Glen Bird

True Stories Of The Second World War

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This book is a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the gripping accounts of World War II. With epic naval encounters, monumental battles, and suspenseful duels, it brings to life the intense and vivid experiences of those who were there. Transporting you to that era, it captures the resilience, bravery, and sacrifices made during one of the most significant conflicts in history.

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Royal Childhood - Souvenir Album
Anna Reynolds, Lucy Peter

Royal Childhood - Souvenir Album

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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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Twopence to Cross the Mersey					And, Liverpool Miss - Thryft
Helen Forrester

Twopence to Cross the Mersey And, Liverpool Miss

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Helen Forrester's autobiography isn't just a historical account—it's a personal triumph over adversity that's deeply moving. As you walk alongside her journey from comfort to severe poverty, you gain an intimate understanding of the harsh realities of Depression-era Liverpool. You're not just reading about history; you're feeling the weight of responsibility on young Helen's shoulders, her endurance, and her courage, which may resonate with anyone who appreciates stories of resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

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Pursuit: The Chase and Sinking of the Bismarck - Thryft
Ludovic Kennedy

Pursuit: The Chase and Sinking of the Bismarck

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If you're drawn to the grandeur of naval history and heroic tales from World War II, you'll be engrossed by "Pursuit." Ludovic Kennedy deftly combines rich historical detail with a narrative that captures the high-stakes chess game at sea. The fate of nations hanging on naval prowess and the human cost of war underscore every page, making it not just informative but also a poignant read.

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Too Secret Too Long - Thryft
Chapman Pincher

Too Secret Too Long

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This book could be a good read for anyone who is fascinated by the world of spies, espionage, and international affairs. It delves into the true story of Roger Hollis, the head of British Intelligence, and Sonia, a Soviet master-agent. With its powerful narrative, this book provides a glimpse into the hidden world of spies, filled with secrets and betrayals that are guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Get ready for a heart-wrenching and mind-boggling journey through decades of covert operations and high-stakes espionage.

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General And Madame De Lafayette - Partners In Liberty's Cause In The American And French Revolutions - Thryft
Jason Lane

General And Madame De Lafayette - Partners In Liberty's Cause In The American And French Revolutions

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If you're intrigued by the intertwining of personal romance and political upheaval, "General And Madame De Lafayette" offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of two revolutionaries who not only shaped history but also remained unwaveringly devoted to each other. Their story resonates with bravery and the complex dance of ideology and love, making it a compelling read for those fascinated by the human stories behind grand historical events.

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Americans of 1776: Daily Life in Revolutionary America - Thryft
James Schouler

Americans of 1776: Daily Life in Revolutionary America

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If you're intrigued by the vivid tapestry of history, "Americans of 1776" is a must-read. James Schouler’s detailed account brings the era to life, far beyond the battlefields—right into the homes and daily rituals of early Americans. It's like a time machine that gives you a front-row seat to the birth of a nation, outfitting you not just with facts, but with the feel of the period.

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Diana - A Tribute to the People's Princess - Thryft
Peter Donnelly

Diana - A Tribute to the People's Princess

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If you were moved by the grace and compassion of Princess Diana, this book is a treasure trove of memories for you. Peter Donnelly offers a warm tribute with a plethora of photographs that take you on a journey through Diana’s life, reflecting why she was so beloved. It’s a chance to look back and celebrate her enduring legacy as the people's princess.

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The Trail of Tears
Joseph Bruchac

The Trail of Tears

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This book offers a chance to walk alongside the Cherokee people during one of the most challenging periods of American history. It's aimed at younger readers or those just beginning to delve into historical events, providing an accessible and emotive portrayal of the Trail of Tears. Engaging and educational, it's a stepping stone into understanding the complexities and profound impact of this event.

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The Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II: The Last Great Monarch? - Thryft
Andrew Marr

The Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II: The Last Great Monarch?

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If the mystique of royalty intrigues you, "The Diamond Queen" is a perfect fit. Andrew Marr offers a rare glimpse into the life and influence of Queen Elizabeth II, augmented by diligent research and enthralling storytelling. As a Sunday Times bestseller, the book promises to deepen your understanding of the monarchy and its evolution over the decades under the stewardship of Britain's longest-reigning monarch.

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Elizabeth the Great - Thryft
Elizabeth Jenkins

Elizabeth the Great

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This book is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the life of one of England's most fascinating monarchs. Elizabeth Jenkins' vivid storytelling and meticulous research provides readers with an intimate portrait of Queen Elizabeth I, bringing to life the complexities and contradictions of her character and reign. A standout feature of the book is its ability to humanize Elizabeth while still highlighting her impressive leadership skills and political prowess.

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I Am: #1 Sacagawea - Thryft
Anthony VanArsdale, Grace Norwich

I Am: #1 Sacagawea

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Recommended for those interested in history and biographies. This book is an inspiring story about a young woman who overcomes adversity and accomplishes incredible feats. It provides a detailed account of Sacagawea's journey with Lewis and Clark and is full of interesting historical facts. The book's engaging writing style and easy-to-read format make it accessible to readers of all ages.

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The Soong Dynasty - Thryft
Sterling Seagrave

The Soong Dynasty

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This book would be a great read for history buffs and those interested in Chinese-American relations. The Soong Dynasty provides a fascinating insider account of the influential Soong family, who played a significant role in shaping U.S.-Asia policy and contemporary Chinese history. With detailed descriptions of the family's power, wealth, and influence, readers are taken on a journey through the 20th century, exploring the dynamic intersection of politics, culture, and history.

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Great Tales from English History: Cheddar Man to the Peasants' Revolt - Thryft
Robert Lacey

Great Tales from English History: Cheddar Man to the Peasants' Revolt

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If you resonate with the tapestry of England's history, this book might be your next favorite read. Robert Lacey has a remarkable gift for storytelling, making the historical figures and pivotal events from Cheddar Man to the Peasants' Revolt come alive in a way that is both educational and immensely engaging. It's history told with vim and vigor, ideal for anyone looking to dive into the ancestral sagas that shaped a nation.

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Queen Elizabeth II: A Birthday Souvenir Album
Jane Roberts

Queen Elizabeth II: A Birthday Souvenir Album

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If you're intrigued by royal history or looking to indulge in an intimate pictorial biography, this book offers a splendid glance into the Queen's personal and state affairs. It's like leafing through a family album, but for one of the most recognizable figures in the world. For anyone interested in understanding not just the monarch, but the woman behind the crown, it’s a must-have.

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Robert Louis Stevenson					A Biography - Thryft
Claire Harman

Robert Louis Stevenson A Biography

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If Stevenson's own creative worlds captivated you, then this biography by Claire Harman will be a treasure. Drawing from unprecedented correspondence, Harman exposes the riveting complexities of Stevenson's character and life. It's perfect for anyone intrigued by the man behind Long John Silver and Jekyll & Hyde, offering a deep understanding of his innovative spirit that seemed well beyond the confines of Victorian literature.

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The Father of Spin : Edward L. Bernays and the Birth of Public Relations - Thryft
Larry Tye

The Father of Spin : Edward L. Bernays and the Birth of Public Relations

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Recommendation: This book is an eye-opening account of the life and work of Edward L. Bernays, the pioneer of modern public relations. Readers interested in the history of advertising, marketing, and politics will appreciate this engaging narrative that exposes the techniques Bernays used to shape public opinion and bring about change.

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Pillar of Fire					America in the King Years 1963-65 - Thryft
Taylor Branch

Pillar of Fire America in the King Years 1963-65

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Immerse yourself in a defining period of American history with "Pillar of Fire," as it takes you through the intricate and impassioned struggle for civil rights between 1963 and 1965. The vivid storytelling and meticulous research by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Taylor Branch make this not just a book but a visceral journey alongside icons like Dr. King. It's the perfect read for someone looking to understand the roots of contemporary social justice movements and the sacrifices that forged them.

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The Revolution Remembered: Eyewitness Accounts of the War for Independence - Thryft
John C. Dann

The Revolution Remembered: Eyewitness Accounts of the War for Independence

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If you're looking to connect with history on a personal level, "The Revolution Remembered" offers a compelling and intimate experience. By delving into these firsthand accounts, you'll step into the boots of those who witnessed the American Revolution. It's a rare opportunity to hear directly from the mouths of the warriors who fought for independence, bridging the gap between past and present through their stories. This book not only educates but also enthralls, bringing to life the voices of a fledgling nation's struggle.

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Belonging to the Army: Camp Followers and Community During the American Revolution - Thryft
Holly A. Mayer

Belonging to the Army: Camp Followers and Community During the American Revolution

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If you're drawn to untold perspectives of history, "Belonging to the Army" might just be the missing piece in your Revolutionary War puzzle. Holly A. Mayer sheds light on the essential civilians who've long been overshadowed by soldiers' tales. Their struggle and dedication to support the Continental Army reveals a depth of patriotism and community resilience that's both enlightening and inspiring. This book could change the way you view the war's home-front heroes.

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Memories of the Great and the Good - Thryft
Alistair Cooke

Memories of the Great and the Good

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This book is for those who enjoy reading about the lives of famous individuals as recounted by someone who not only interviewed them but knew them personally. Alistair Cooke's well-written anecdotes about celebrities such as Dwight D. Eisenhower and Jelly Roll Morton provide a unique and insightful glimpse into their lives. The book's most distinctive feature is the author's ability to explain why each of these individuals left the world a better or more interesting place. Overall, this book is a great read for those with an interest in the lives of famous people and those who appreciate good storytelling.

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Arlington National Cemetery - Thryft
Richard Stein

Arlington National Cemetery

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"Arlington National Cemetery" would be a good read for a user interested in learning more about the history of the United States, particularly in the context of national pride and honoring the sacrifices of American heroes. This book provides a unique glimpse into the lives and stories of those buried at Arlington, as well as the history behind the cemetery's establishment and development. Readers will appreciate the author's attention to detail and the way he weaves together larger historical events with stories of individual bravery and commitment to service.

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The Shroud Of Jesus Christ In Turin. Critical Review Of Technical Aspects And Characteristics - Thryft

The Shroud Of Jesus Christ In Turin. Critical Review Of Technical Aspects And Characteristics

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If you're fascinated by the intersection of faith and science, particularly by one of the most controversial and talked-about relics in history, this book is for you. It offers a critical examination of the technical aspects and characteristics of the Shroud of Turin, approached with a blend of reverence and scholarly skepticism. It dives deep into the fabric of both the shroud and the debate surrounding it, making it a compelling read for enthusiasts of religious artifacts and the mysteries they hold.

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Rebecca Skloot

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

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Recommendation: - "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" is a gripping and powerful true story that unveils the untold contributions of Henrietta Lacks to modern medicine. Through the lens of Henrietta's daughter Deborah, the book sheds light on the ethical and racial complexities of scientific research. It beautifully captures the human consequences of scientific discovery and the enduring legacy of Henrietta's cells, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of ethics, race, and medicine.

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Mark Logue

The King's Speech : How one man saved the British monarchy

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This book is a captivating and heartwarming tale of how one man's patience and determination transformed a hesitant Duke into a confident king. Through the eyes of an Australian speech therapist, Lionel Logue, we witness the struggles and triumphs of the British monarchy during its darkest hour. With exclusive access to Logue's diaries and archive, this intimate portrayal offers a rare perspective that will leave you inspired by the power of friendship and loyalty. Perfect for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking a remarkable story of courage and resilience.

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Amy Stanley

Stranger in the Shogun's City : A Woman's Life in Nineteenth-Century Japan

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A vivid, deeply researched work of history that explores the life of an unconventional woman in Edo – now known as Tokyo – and a portrait of a great city on the brink of momentous changeThe daughter of a Buddhist priest, Tsuneno was born in 1804 in a rural Japanese village and was expected to live a life much like her mother’s. But after three divorces – and with a temperament much too strong-willed for her family’s approval – she ran away to make a life for herself in one of the largest cities in the world: Edo, a bustling metropolis at its peak.With Tsuneno as our guide, we experience the drama and excitement of Edo just before the arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry's fleet, which would open Japan up to trade and diplomacy with the West for the first time. During this pivotal moment in Japanese history, Tsuneno bounces from tenement to tenement, marries a masterless samurai and eventually ends up in the service of a famous city magistrate. An extraordinary woman at an extraordinary time, Tsuneno’s life provides a window into nineteenth-century Japanese culture – and a rare view of a woman who sacrificed her family and her reputation to make a new life for herself, despite social conventions.Immersive and gripping, Stranger in the Shogun’s City is a revelatory work of history, layered with rich detail and delivered in beautiful prose, about the life of a woman, a city and a culture.

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Michael Jones, David Baldwin, Philippa Gregory

The Women of the Cousins' War

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In this unique presentation, Gregory and her collaborators offer extensive biographical essays on the lives of three key figures from her Wars of the Roses novels: Jacquetta, Duchess of Bedford; Elizabeth Woodville; and Margaret Beaufort.In her essay about Jacquetta, Gregory breaks new ground, creating the first summation on the duchess’s life ever written and based on primary sources. David Baldwin, author of four books about the people and events of the Wars of the Roses, tells the story of Elizabeth Woodville, and Michael Jones, fellow of the Royal Historical Society, writes Margaret Beaufort’s story.The Women of the Cousins’ War also includes an insightful introduction by Gregory, which answers many of the questions posed by her fans and history scholars: What is the difference between writing history and writing historical fiction? How much of a role does speculation play in writing each? How much fiction and how much fact should there be in a historical novel?

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Aung San Suu Kyi, Desmond M. Tutu, Václav Havel

Freedom from Fear : And Other Writings

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Freedom from Fear - collected writings from the Nobel Peace prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi Aung San Suu Kyi's collected writings - edited by her late husband, whom the ruling military junta prevented from visiting Burma as he was dying of cancer - reflects her greatest hopes and fears for her fellow Burmese people, and her concern about the need for international co-operation in the continuing fight for Burma's freedom. Bringing together her most powerful speeches, letters and interviews, this remarkable collection gives a voice to Burma's 'woman of destiny', whose fate remains in the hands of her enemies. Recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, and leader of Burma's National League for Democracy, Aung San Suu Kyi is one of the world's greatest living defenders of freedom and democracy, and an inspiration to millions worldwide. This book sits alongside Nelson Mandela's memoir Long Walk to Freedom. 'This book is bound to become a classic for a new generation of Asians who value democracy even more highly than Westerners do, simply because they are deprived of the basic freedoms that Westerners take for granted'The New York Times 'Aung San Suu Kyi's extraordinary achievement has been to confront the regime peacefully, reasonably and persuasively... [in] one of the most laudable continuing acts of political courage' Financial Times 'Such is the depth of passion and learning that she brings to her writings about national identity and its links with culture and language that she has attracted the admiration of intellectuals around the world' Sunday Times Aung San Suu Kyi is the leader of Burma's National League for Democracy. She was placed under house arrest in Rangoon in 1989, where she remained for almost 15 of the 21 years until her release in 2010, becoming one of the world's most prominent political prisoners. She is also the author of Letters from Burma.

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Li Cunxin

Mao's Last Dancer

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Raised in a desperately poor village during the height of China's Cultural Revolution, Li Cunxin's childhood revolved around the commune, his family and Chairman Mao's Little Red Book. Until, that is, Madame Mao's cultural delegates came in search of young peasants to study ballet at the academy in Beijing and he was thrust into a completely unfamiliar world. When a trip to Texas as part of a rare cultural exchange opened his eyes to life and love beyond China's borders, he defected to the United States in an extraordinary and dramatic tale of Cold War intrigue. Told in his own distinctive voice, this is Li's inspirational story of how he came to be Mao's last dancer, and one of the world's greatest ballet dancers.

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Jung Chang

Wild Swans

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An alternative cover for this ISBN can be found hereIn Wild Swans Jung Chang recounts the evocative, unsettling, and insistently gripping story of how three generations of women in her family fared in the political maelstrom of China during the 20th century. Chang's grandmother was a warlord's concubine. Her gently raised mother struggled with hardships in the early days of Mao's revolution and rose, like her husband, to a prominent position in the Communist Party before being denounced during the Cultural Revolution. Chang herself marched, worked, and breathed for Mao until doubt crept in over the excesses of his policies and purges. Born just a few decades apart, their lives overlap with the end of the warlords' regime and overthrow of the Japanese occupation, violent struggles between the Kuomintang and the Communists to carve up China, and, most poignant for the author, the vicious cycle of purges orchestrated by Chairman Mao that discredited and crushed millions of people, including her parents.Includes black and white photographsFamily treeChronologyMap

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David McCullough

Truman

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An alternate cover edition of this ISBN can be found here.The Pulitzer Prize–winning biography of Harry S. Truman, whose presidency included momentous events from the atomic bombing of Japan to the outbreak of the Cold War and the Korean War, told by America’s beloved and distinguished historian.The life of Harry S. Truman is one of the greatest of American stories, filled with vivid characters—Roosevelt, Churchill, Stalin, Eleanor Roosevelt, Bess Wallace Truman, George Marshall, Joe McCarthy, and Dean Acheson—and dramatic events. In this riveting biography, acclaimed historian David McCullough not only captures the man—a more complex, informed, and determined man than ever before imagined—but also the turbulent times in which he rose, boldly, to meet unprecedented challenges. The last president to serve as a living link between the nineteenth and the twentieth centuries, Truman’s story spans the raw world of the Missouri frontier, World War I, the powerful Pendergast machine of Kansas City, the legendary Whistle-Stop Campaign of 1948, and the decisions to drop the atomic bomb, confront Stalin at Potsdam, send troops to Korea, and fire General MacArthur. Drawing on newly discovered archival material and extensive interviews with Truman’s own family, friends, and Washington colleagues, McCullough tells the deeply moving story of the seemingly ordinary “man from Missouri” who was perhaps the most courageous president in our history.

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William Dalrymple

The Last Mughal : The Fall of a Dynasty: Delhi, 1857

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This book is recommended for history enthusiasts who are intrigued to understand the fall of the Mughal Dynasty and the beginning of British Raj as an important moment in history. William Dalrymple's use of previously undiscovered sources, and his ability to craft a provocative and revelatory account of the events makes this book a must-read for history enthusiasts.

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Dava Sobel

Longitude

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Longitude is the dramatic human story of an epic scientific quest. The "longitude problem" was the thorniest dilemma of the eighteenth century. Lacking the ability to measure longitude, sailors throughout the great ages of exploration had been literally lost at sea.At the heart of Dava Sobel's fascinating brief history of astronomy, navigation and horology stands the figure of John Harrison, self-taught Yorkshire clockmaker, and his forty-year obsession with building the perfect timekeeper. Battling against the establishment, Harrison stood alone in pursuit of his solution and the £20,000 reward offered by Parliament.

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Jennifer Worth

Call the Midwife : A Memoir of Birth, Joy, and Hard Times

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Recommended for readers who enjoy non-fiction narratives about historical events and those who appreciate inspiring stories of women's resilience and strength. Call the Midwife provides a glimpse into the lives of underprivileged mothers and how a community, with the help of dedicated and courageous midwives, battled through a challenging period in history. The book is an excellent choice for readers who appreciate engaging storytelling that marries inspiration with historical insights.

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Nigel Warburton

A Little History of Philosophy

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Philosophy begins with questions about the nature of reality and how we should live. These were the concerns of Socrates, who spent his days in the ancient Athenian marketplace asking awkward questions, disconcerting the people he met by showing them how little they genuinely understood. This engaging book introduces the great thinkers in Western philosophy and explores their most compelling ideas about the world and how best to live in it.In forty brief chapters, Nigel Warburton guides us on a chronological tour of the major ideas in the history of philosophy. He provides interesting and often quirky stories of the lives and deaths of thought-provoking philosophers from Socrates, who chose to die by hemlock poisoning rather than live on without the freedom to think for himself, to Peter Singer, who asks the disquieting philosophical and ethical questions that haunt our own times.Warburton not only makes philosophy accessible, he offers inspiration to think, argue, reason, and ask in the tradition of Socrates. A Little History of Philosophy presents the grand sweep of humanity's search for philosophical understanding and invites all to join in the discussion.

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Sonny Liew

The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye

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The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye is a biography showcasing the life and work of Chan Hock Chye, a pioneering but largely forgotten comics artist in Singapore. With a career spanning more than five decades, from pre-independent Singapore through its three Prime Ministers, Chan’s work reflects the changing political and economic environment in Singapore.Containing Chan’s original illustrations, paintings and sketches, this is a groundbreaking work and labour of love aimed at recapturing the portrait of an artist, whose deep passion for comics and country is given a fitting tribute by award-winning comics artist Sonny Liew.New York Times bestsellerWinner of the 2016 Singapore Literature Prize for FictionWinner of the 2016 Singapore Book Awards for Book of the Year and Best Book Cover DesignWinner of the 2017 Eisner Awards for: Best U.S. Edition of International Material—Asia Best Writer/Artist Best Publication Design Shortlisted for the 2017 Eisner Awards for: Best Graphic Album—New Best Coloring Best Lettering Economist Book of the Year (2016)NPR Graphic Novel Pick for 2016Washington Post Best Graphic Novel of 2016New York Post Best Books of 2016Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2016South China Morning Post Top 10 Asian books of 2016A.V. Club Best Comics of 2016Comic Books Resources Top 100 Comics of 2016Mental Floss Most Interesting Graphic Novel of 2016

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Władysław Szpilman

The Pianist

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The powerful and bestselling memoir of a young Jewish pianist who survived the war in Warsaw against all odds. Made into a Bafta and Oscar-winning film.

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Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father : A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers

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This book is a powerful and poignant memoir of a young girl's survival of the Cambodian genocide. Loung Ung's story is horrific and devastating, yet it is also a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Readers will be moved by the bravery and resilience demonstrated by Loung and her family, and gain a deeper understanding of the atrocities committed under Pol Pot's regime. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, social justice, and the triumph of hope over despair.

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Lindsey Fitzharris

The Butchering Art : Joseph Lister's Quest to Transform the Grisly World of Victorian Medicine

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This book is perfect for those interested in medical history and the evolution of medical treatments. Fitzharris provides a detailed account of Joseph Lister's groundbreaking discovery of antiseptics as a solution to germ-based infections in surgery, changing the face of medicine forever. Readers will be transported back to the grisly world of Victorian surgery, and gain a new appreciation for our modern medical practices.

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Photos, Stephen E. Ambrose

Undaunted Courage - Meriwether Lewis Thomas Jefferson And The Opening Of The American West

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In this sweeping adventure story, Stephen E. Ambrose, the bestselling author of D-Day, presents the definitive account of one of the most momentous journeys in American history. Ambrose follows the Lewis and Clark Expedition from Thomas Jefferson's hope of finding a waterway to the Pacific, through the heart-stopping moments of the actual trip, to Lewis's lonely demise on the Natchez Trace. Along the way, Ambrose shows us the American West as Lewis saw it -- wild, awsome, and pristinely beautiful. Undaunted Courage is a stunningly told action tale that will delight readers for generations.

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Antonia Fraser

Marie Antoinette

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This book is a must-read for history enthusiasts and those fascinated by the opulence and downfall of royals. Antonia Fraser paints a vivid picture of Marie Antoinette's life, from her privileged upbringing to her eventual execution. The book delves into the controversies surrounding her, exploring the accusations, rumors, and trials that shaped her legacy. Fraser's meticulous research and captivating storytelling make this a definitive and engrossing account of one of history's most iconic figures.

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Emma Claire Sweeney, Emily Midorikawa, Margaret Atwood

A Secret Sisterhood : The Literary Friendships of Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, George Eliot, and Virginia Woolf

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A Secret Sisterhood offers a refreshing re-examination of literary friendships between female authors. Midorikawa and Sweeney explore the often-overlooked partnerships between Jane Austen and Anne Sharp, Charlotte Bronte and Mary Taylor, George Eliot and Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Virginia Woolf and Katherine Mansfield. Using unpublished letters and diaries, the book offers an intimate glimpse into the complex, but often-understated relationships between these trailblazing writers. A must-read for any enthusiast of literature, biography, or female empowerment.

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Sunil Khilnani

Incarnations : India in 50 Lives

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This book is recommended for anyone interested in knowing about India's rich past and continuous evolution. Incarnations takes the reader on a journey through time and space, exploring the lives of 50 individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping India's society, culture, and politics. Khilnani's detailed and insightful portraits, coupled with stunning illustrations, provide a unique perspective on India's history, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking to understand this complex and fascinating country.

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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.