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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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Elizabeth Revealed: 500 Facts About the Queen and Her World
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Lucinda Hawksley | Scala

Elizabeth Revealed: 500 Facts About the Queen and Her World

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

72% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by royalty and the person behind the crown, "Elizabeth Revealed" offers a treasure trove of snippets that paint a multifaceted picture of Queen Elizabeth II. It's a delightful read for anyone who enjoys historical tidbits and personal insights, serving as a mosaic of the Queen's public and private persona.
Memoirs of the Court of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, Complete
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Jeanne-Louise-Henriette Campan | Echo Library

Memoirs of the Court of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, Complete

$21.90 $13.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$21.90 $13.90 37% off

If you're fascinated by the depths of royal history, particularly the intricate and often misunderstood life of Marie Antoinette, this book is like stepping through a time portal. It offers a personal glimpse into the day-to-day happenings and the lavish lifestyle of the last Queen of France before the French Revolution. The memoirs could change your perspective on her life and the events that surrounded her – perfect for history buffs looking to enrich their understanding of this tumultuous period.
Dead Famous: An Unexpected History of Celebrity from Bronze Age to Silver Screen
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Greg Jenner | Weidenfeld & Nicolson

Dead Famous: An Unexpected History of Celebrity from Bronze Age to Silver Screen

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

64% off est. retail
"Dead Famous" offers an unexpected journey, taking you well beyond the present-day glitz of social media influencers back to the intriguing origins of celebrity culture. Greg Jenner masterfully uncovers the earliest stars and their stories, providing an absorbing narrative that's not only about how people became icons but also how their fame shaped society. It's a must-read if you enjoy peeling back the layers of history to understand how past celebrity culture informs our current obsession with fame.
Royal Childhood - Souvenir Album
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Anna Reynolds, Lucy Peter  | Royal Collection Trust

Royal Childhood - Souvenir Album

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

84% off est. retail
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.
George Washington's Indispensable Men: The 32 Aides-De-Camp Who Helped Win American Independence - Thryft
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Arthur S. Lefkowitz | Stackpole Books

George Washington's Indispensable Men: The 32 Aides-De-Camp Who Helped Win American Independence

$12.90 $4.90 62% off

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$12.90 $4.90 62% off

89% off est. retail
If you're into the intricacies of American history, "George Washington's Indispensable Men" might just enrich your understanding of the Revolutionary War. It's not just a narrative about battles and declarations, but a closer look at the cogs that made the machine work. Those with an appreciation for unsung heroes and a curiosity about the inner workings of Washington's command will find this book revealing and thought-provoking.
Italo Calvino : Letters, 1941-1985 - Updated Edition - Thryft
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Italo Calvino, Martin McLaughlin, Michael Wood  | Princeton University Press

Italo Calvino : Letters, 1941-1985 - Updated Edition

$23.90 $5.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$23.90 $5.90 75% off

90% off est. retail
Diving into Italo Calvino's letters offers a unique backstage pass to the thoughts and influences of a literary maestro. You're not just reading correspondence; you're peering into the intellectual dialogues that shaped his and other luminaries' works. It's like witnessing the creative process unfold, a narrative in itself that enriches your understanding of his novels and the literary landscape of his time.
Changing Stages: A View of British Theatre in the Twentieth Century - Thryft
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Nicholas Wright, Richard Eyre  | Bloomsbury Pub Ltd

Changing Stages: A View of British Theatre in the Twentieth Century

$19.90 $9.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$19.90 $9.90 50% off

82% off est. retail
For anyone who cherishes the rich tapestry of British theatre, "Changing Stages" is a treasure trove. Imagine sitting down for a cozy, insightful chat with Sir Richard Eyre, as he takes you on a tour through the evolving landscape of British plays, personalities, and performances of the last century. It's storytelling that not only educates but also captivates through a passionate lens that only insiders like Eyre and Wright could provide.
A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains
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Isabella Lucy Bird | John Beaufoy Publishing

A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Imagine stepping back into the unspoiled grandeur of the 1870s' American West with Isabella Bird as your guide. "A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains" isn't just travel literature; it's a time machine wrapped in eloquent prose. Bird's candid letters offer an intimate glimpse of pioneering life, complete with all its perils and wonders. For anyone intrigued by personal tales of courage and adventure in the face of nature's majesty, this book promises an immersive journey.
A Leaf In The Bitter Wind: A Memoir - Thryft
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Ting-xing Ye | Anchor Canada

A Leaf In The Bitter Wind: A Memoir

$15.90 $11.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$15.90 $11.90 25% off

61% off est. retail
This book is a powerful and heart-wrenching account of Ting-Xing Ye's journey through the tumultuous years of the Cultural Revolution in Maoist China. It offers a firsthand perspective of the harsh realities faced by individuals, the persecution they endured, and their unwavering spirit to survive against all odds. A Leaf In The Bitter Wind is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and an inspiring story of refusing to be defeated by an unjust system. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the true impact of historical events on individuals' lives.
The Daughters Of Kobani - A Story Of Rebellion, Courage, And Justice - Thryft
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Gayle Tzemach Lemmon | Penguin Press

The Daughters Of Kobani - A Story Of Rebellion, Courage, And Justice

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$6.34

83% off est. retail
This book is a captivating and empowering account of the courageous women who defied all odds to stand up against ISIS. It not only sheds light on the terrifying reality of war but also celebrates the power of women as leaders and fighters. Through their unwavering determination and sacrifice, these women not only fought for their own liberation but also became a symbol of hope for women everywhere. Prepare to be inspired by their remarkable journey of resilience and the unwavering pursuit of justice.
Big Chief Elizabeth : How England's Adventurers Gambled and Won the New World - Thryft
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Giles Milton | John Murray

Big Chief Elizabeth : How England's Adventurers Gambled and Won the New World

$6.80

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$6.80

68% off est. retail
This book is a captivating historical adventure that delves into the fascinating story of Queen Elizabeth I and her favorite, Sir Walter Ralegh. Set in the Elizabethan era, it follows their daring expedition to establish the first English settlement in the New World. Through first-hand accounts, the author unveils a thrilling tale of heroism, mystery, and the forgotten history of early English colonization. If you enjoy immersive historical narratives, this book will transport you back in time and keep you mesmerized until the very end.
Forty Autumns : A Family's Story of Courage and Survival on Both Sides of the Berlin Wall - Thryft
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Nina Willner | William Morrow

Forty Autumns : A Family's Story of Courage and Survival on Both Sides of the Berlin Wall

$15.83

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$15.83

63% off est. retail
"Forty Autumns" is a captivating memoir set in East Germany during the Cold War. It tells the story of five women separated by the Berlin Wall and their eventual reunion after years of longing. The book offers a personal and emotional account of life under Communist rule, as well as insights into the work of an intelligence officer. With vivid descriptions and a strong sense of familial love, "Forty Autumns" is a compelling read for anyone interested in history, espionage, and the human experience.
From Saint Hildegard's Kitchen : Foods of Health, Foods of Joy - Thryft
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Jany Fournier-Rosset | Liguori Publications

From Saint Hildegard's Kitchen : Foods of Health, Foods of Joy

$8.57

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$8.57

73% off est. retail
From Saint Hildegard's Kitchen contains a collection of tasty and healthy recipes that are easy to follow. The book emphasizes the use of fresh vegetables and herbs from the garden, and the recipes are easy to adapt to a variety of dietary restrictions. The book also includes a brief biography of Hildegard and blessings from Saint Benedict. It would make a great gift for anyone interested in healthy and delicious cooking.
Gladys Aylward : The Little Woman - Thryft
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Gladys Aylward, Christine Hunter  | Moody Press, U.s.

Gladys Aylward : The Little Woman

$4.47

Goodreads rating: 4.39

$4.47

73% off est. retail
Recommended for those seeking inspiring missionary stories. Gladys Aylward's journey to China without any support will ignite readers' faith in God. The story of her struggles during the Sino-Japanese War and how she triumphed over impossible situations will motivate readers to live with bold faith.
HRC: State Secrets and the Rebirth of Hillary Clinton - Thryft
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Jonathan Allen, Amie Parnes  | Arrow

HRC: State Secrets and the Rebirth of Hillary Clinton

$8.09

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$8.09

56% off est. retail
This book offers an in-depth look into the career of acclaimed politician Hillary Clinton, detailing the ups and downs of her political career. Readers will appreciate the behind-the-scenes accounts of the strategies, machinations and decision-making that contributed to one of the greatest political comebacks in history. Recommended for fans of political memoirs and those interested in first-hand insights leading up to a historical moment.
The Surgeon of Crowthorne : A Tale of Murder, Madness and the Oxford English Dictionary - Thryft
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Simon Winchester | Penguin

The Surgeon of Crowthorne : A Tale of Murder, Madness and the Oxford English Dictionary

$8.23

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$8.23

57% off est. retail
"The Surgeon of Crowthorne" could be a good read for those interested in the history of the English language, as well as true crime enthusiasts. The book's most unique and distinctive feature is the unlikely story of how a convicted murderer ended up being one of the most important volunteers in the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary. Readers will be intrigued by the strange and fascinating life of W C Minor, as well as the incredible effort it took to compile the dictionary over the course of 50 years.
Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac - Thryft
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David Carter | Hesperus Press

Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

58% off est. retail
Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac provides a fascinating insight into the life of Honore de Balzac and how it influenced his impressive body of work. This book would be a great read for anyone interested in literature, particularly French realism. David Carter not only provides a comprehensive biography of the author but also sets his works in context, giving readers a deeper understanding of his contribution to literature. Many who read this book would appreciate the discoveries of Balzac's literary works and his significance in French literature.
Charles Dickens at Home - Thryft
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Graham Salter, Hilary Macaskill, Florian Schweizer  | Frances Lincoln

Charles Dickens at Home

$15.59 $10.91 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$15.59 $10.91 30% off

84% off est. retail
This book delves into the life of Charles Dickens and the impact his homes had on his writing. It offers a unique perspective on the author and his works, making it a great read for fans of Dickens' literature. The book provides an in-depth look at the places where the author lived, and how they influenced the setting and characters of his novels. Dickens' attention to detail and acute observation are highlighted, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the author's life and work. The book is illustrated with archive material and original photography, making it a beautiful addition to any book lover's collection.
Unbroken : A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption - Thryft
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Laura Hillenbrand | Random House

Unbroken : A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption

$16.32 $11.42 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$16.32 $11.42 30% off

74% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the true story of human resilience. Hillenbrand’s meticulous and dramatic retelling of Zamperini’s tale will keep readers gripped from start to finish. The book’s unflinching portrayal of a man’s triumph over inhuman treatment will inspire readers for years to come.
A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra - Thryft
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Andrei Maylunas, Sergei Mironenko  | Doubleday

A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra

$13.59

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$13.59

75% off est. retail
"A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra" is a must-read for those fascinated by the lives of the royal family. The book offers a rare glimpse into the private world of Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra, revealing their undying love for each other. The letters showcase the couple's unwavering devotion, which is both unique and touching. It is a great pick for those interested in Russian history, or anyone curious about the personal relationships of historical figures.
The Lost Painting : The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece - Thryft
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Jonathan Harr | Random House Publishing Group

The Lost Painting : The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece

$8.50

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$8.50

68% off est. retail
The Lost Painting tells the story of an Italian graduate student Francesca Cappelletti, who discovers a clue that leads to the search for a lost painting. This book is perfect for art enthusiasts who love a good mystery and want to learn about Caravaggio's life and paintings. Harr's narrative style creates suspense and adventure that keep readers hooked until the very end.
The Complete MAUS - Thryft
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Art Spiegelman | Penguin Books

The Complete MAUS

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.57

$3.88

87% off est. retail
On the occasion of the twenty-fifth anniversary of its first publication, here is the definitive edition of the book acclaimed as “the most affecting and successful narrative ever done about the Holocaust” (Wall Street Journal) and “the first masterpiece in comic book history” (The New Yorker).The Pulitzer Prize-winning Maus tells the story of Vladek Spiegelman, a Jewish survivor of Hitler’s Europe, and his son, a cartoonist coming to terms with his father’s story. Maus approaches the unspeakable through the diminutive. Its form, the cartoon (the Nazis are cats, the Jews mice), shocks us out of any lingering sense of familiarity and succeeds in “drawing us closer to the bleak heart of the Holocaust” (The New York Times).Maus is a haunting tale within a tale. Vladek’s harrowing story of survival is woven into the author’s account of his tortured relationship with his aging father. Against the backdrop of guilt brought by survival, they stage a normal life of small arguments and unhappy visits. This astonishing retelling of our century’s grisliest news is a story of survival, not only of Vladek but of the children who survive even the survivors. Maus studies the bloody pawprints of history and tracks its meaning for all of us.
Anne Frank's Story - Thryft
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Carol Ann Lee | Puffin

Anne Frank's Story

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

71% off est. retail
The life story of Anne Frank, from her early happy childhood in Frankfurt, growing up in Amsterdam, her two years in hiding and the last few months of her life in the concentration camps. Narrated in six clearly written chapters, this biography for children answers the many detailed questions about Anne that readers of the Diary often have, and includes interesting anecdotes from friends who survived her. There is an Historical Note at the beginning of the book and a map of Europe, so that children will be able to understand the situation at the time, and an Introduction by Anne Frank's cousin, Buddy Elias.
Escape from Camp 14 : One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West - Thryft
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Blaine Harden | Penguin Books

Escape from Camp 14 : One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West

$7.59

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$7.59

65% off est. retail
"Escape from Camp 14" is a vivid account of the life inside North Korea's political prison. The book portrays the story of Shin Dong-hyuk, the only person born inside one of these camps to have escaped. It highlights the inhumane conditions of the political prison camps and the brutalities people had to deal with on a daily basis. It is a must-read for those interested in human rights and political issues.
First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers
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Loung Ung | Harper Perennial

First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$8.90

64% off est. retail
This book is a gripping and harrowing memoir that takes you on a journey through the terrifying experiences of a young girl during the Cambodian genocide. Loung Ung's story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of love and courage in the face of unimaginable brutality. If you are looking for a deeply moving and inspiring read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, this book is for you.
Falling Leaves : The Memoir of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter - Thryft
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Adeline Yen Mah | Broadway Books

Falling Leaves : The Memoir of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$6.34

73% off est. retail
Born in 1937 in a port city a thousand miles north of Shanghai, Adeline Yen Mah was the youngest child of an affluent Chinese family who enjoyed rare privileges during a time of political and cultural upheaval. But wealth and position could not shield Adeline from a childhood of appalling emotional abuse at the hands of a cruel and manipulative Eurasian stepmother. Determined to survive through her enduring faith in family unity, Adeline struggled for independence as she moved from Hong Kong to England and eventually to the United States to become a physician and writer.A compelling, painful, and ultimately triumphant story of a girl's journey into adulthood, Adeline's story is a testament to the most basic of human needs: acceptance, love, and understanding. With a powerful voice that speaks of the harsh realities of growing up female in a family and society that kept girls in emotional chains, Falling Leaves is a work of heartfelt intimacy and a rare authentic portrait of twentieth-century China.
Angela's Ashes - Thryft
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Frank McCourt | Harper Perennial

Angela's Ashes

$7.51

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$7.51

61% off est. retail
Angela's Ashes is a poignant memoir that highlights the resilience of human spirit amidst poverty, despair and hardships. Frank McCourt chronicles his family's struggles in Limerick, painting vivid descriptions of the trials and tribulations they face. His witty, humorous writing style is heartwarming and adds a unique flair to his storytelling. The book is highly recommended for those who enjoy autobiographical accounts, especially ones that showcase the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.

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.