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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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Word by Word : The Secret Life of Dictionaries - Thryft
Kory Stamper

Word by Word : The Secret Life of Dictionaries

$12.90 from $4.90 Save up to 62%

This book is a delightful exploration of the fascinating world of lexicography, revealing the intricate process of how dictionaries are made. With sharp wit and irreverence, Kory Stamper takes readers on a journey through the complexities of defining words and the ever-changing nature of language. Through amusing anecdotes and surprising revelations, Word by Word brings to life the quirky individuals and rich history behind the dictionaries we often take for granted. A must-read for anyone who loves words and wants to unravel the secrets of the English language.

$12.90 from $4.90 Save up to 62%

In stock

The Works of Edmund Spenser - Thryft
Edmund Spenser

The Works of Edmund Spenser

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

This book is a captivating collection of epic poetry by Edmund Spenser. Filled with tales of valor, chivalry, and mythological beings, it transports readers to a world of knights and adventure. The vivid imagery and rich storytelling make it a perfect choice for those who seek an immersive reading experience. Lose yourself in the enchanting world of Spenser's works and discover timeless tales of heroism and romance.

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Here Comes Everybody: An Introduction to James Joyce for the Ordinary Reader - Thryft
Anthony Burgess

Here Comes Everybody: An Introduction to James Joyce for the Ordinary Reader

$8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

If you've ever felt daunted by the labyrinthine prose of Joyce, Anthony Burgess extends a welcoming hand in "Here Comes Everybody." Breaking down the complexities, Burgess offers insight into Joyce's works that could turn bewilderment into admiration. For Joyce enthusiasts and wary novices alike, this book may just transform the reading experience of Joyce's daunting texts.

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The Votive Pen: Writings on Edwin Thumboo - Thryft
Nilanjana Sengupta

The Votive Pen: Writings on Edwin Thumboo

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Singapore's cultural tapestry. Through the lens of Edwin Thumboo's poetry, readers are taken on a journey that unravels the complexities of a multiracial nation grappling with its history, growth, and sense of self. Thumboo's fierce intellect and diverse influences shine through in his verses, making this collection a captivating exploration of identity, love, and purpose. Prepare to be enchanted by Thumboo's ability to seamlessly blend personal emotions with larger societal narratives, leaving readers with a profound appreciation for the power of poetry to shed light on the human experience. It's a book that will leave you questioning and reflecting long after you've turned the last page.

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Rosebud: The Story of Orson Welles - Thryft
David Thomson

Rosebud: The Story of Orson Welles

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"Rosebud" offers a deeply human look into the enigmatic life of Orson Welles, from his meteoric rise with "Citizen Kane" to his narrative of splendid failures. David Thomson, with his unique blend of critical sharpness and stylish prose, presents a portrait that is as captivating as it is informative. If you're drawn to monumental figures and their paradoxes, Thomson's account delivers a beautifully intricate tapestry of a man larger than life itself.

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The World Is What It Is: The Authorized Biography of V.S. Naipaul - Thryft
Patrick French

The World Is What It Is: The Authorized Biography of V.S. Naipaul

$18.90 from $8.90 Save up to 55%

If you're fascinated by the stories behind celebrated authors, this biography offers a penetrating glimpse into V.S. Naipaul's life. It lays bare his ambitions, personal struggles, and the unwavering pursuit of literary greatness. French's narrative doesn't shy away from Naipaul's contentious personality, creating a full, unvarnished portrayal that could change how you see his work.

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In Search of J. D. Salinger, A Biography - Thryft
Ian Hamilton

In Search of J. D. Salinger, A Biography

$8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

If you're intrigued by the mystique surrounding J.D. Salinger, this biography could be a treasure for you. It's like a literary detective story, piecing together the life of a famously reclusive writer. Ian Hamilton's meticulous research, including interviews with those who knew Salinger, offers an intimate glimpse into the experiences that shaped his world and works. It's not just the facts—it's understanding the man behind the myth, which this book does admirably.

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Navigating The Shadow World : The Unofficial Guide to Cassandra Clare's The Mortal Instruments - Thryft
Liv Spencer

Navigating The Shadow World : The Unofficial Guide to Cassandra Clare's The Mortal Instruments

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

If you're a devotee of Cassandra Clare's Shadowhunter universe, this book is like having a VIP pass to the inner circle. It's not just a surface skim—it's a deep dive that will enrich your understanding of the characters, the lore, and Clare's world-building. Plus, getting a peek into the fandom culture will make you feel right at home with fellow enthusiasts.

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Italo Calvino : Letters, 1941-1985 - Updated Edition - Thryft
Italo Calvino, Martin McLaughlin, Michael Wood

Italo Calvino : Letters, 1941-1985 - Updated Edition

$18.90 from $9.90 Save up to 50%

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.

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In stock

142-Strand - Thryft
ashton-rosemary

142-Strand

$9.90 from $4.90 Save up to 55%

Diving into "142 Strand," you'll be transported to Victorian London's hive of progressivism and intellectual discourse. Imagine a place that attracted legends like Dickens and radicals like Mazzini, all convened by the enigmatic John Chapman. It's not just a historical account; it's a portal to an era where the cultural fabric was being woven with threads of reform, debate, and literary genius. If you're drawn to the confluence of culture, politics, and history, this book will be your time machine to the heart of Victorian innovation.

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A Raj Collection: On the Face of the Waters, Siri Ram--Revolutionist, Indigo, The Wild Sweet Witch - Thryft

A Raj Collection: On the Face of the Waters, Siri Ram--Revolutionist, Indigo, The Wild Sweet Witch

$9.90 from $4.90 Save up to 55%

If you're keen on exploring the cultural and political tapestry of the British Raj era, "A Raj Collection" could be your time machine. These novels offer vibrant storytelling from different perspectives, and the collection’s introduction by Saros Cowasjee provides context that enhances understanding. It’s an absorbing pick for both aficionados of historical literature and explorers of Anglo-Indian legacies.

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In stock

The Complete Polysyllabic Spree - Thryft
Nick Hornby

The Complete Polysyllabic Spree

$6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

The Complete Polysyllabic Spree by Nick Hornby is a must-read for avid readers who love reading eclectic literature. Hornby's monthly accounts of what he's read, along with his witty and humorous writing style, make this book a delightful and insightful guide to expand your reading horizons. The book is also perfect for those who are looking to diversify their reading genres and discover new books to fall in love with.

$6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

In stock

Harry Potter, You're The Best! - A Tribute From Fans The World Over - Thryft
Sharon Moore

Harry Potter, You're The Best! - A Tribute From Fans The World Over

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

This book is a beautiful tribute to the Harry Potter series, as seen through the eyes of children. It is a heartwarming reminder of the impact that the series has had on so many young readers across the globe. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the magic, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves the Wizarding World.

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Against The Next Wave - Thryft
TZU PHENG LEE

Against The Next Wave

$7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Dive into "Against The Next Wave" and be captivated by Tzu Pheng Lee's fierce resistance against societal norms. This thought-provoking book challenges us all to question the status quo and embrace our individuality. A must-read for independent thinkers who dare to challenge the next big wave.

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GCSE Revision Notes for John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men - Study Guide: All Chapters, Page-by-Page Analysis - Thryft
Joe Broadfoot

GCSE Revision Notes for John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men - Study Guide: All Chapters, Page-by-Page Analysis

$7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

This book is aimed at GCSE students of English Literature who are studying John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. The focus is on what examiners are looking for and here you will find each chapter covered in detail.

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Baudelaire - Thryft
Claude; Ziegler Pichois

Baudelaire

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If you're drawn to literary history, dipping into Claude Pichois and Jean Ziegler's 'Baudelaire' is like uncovering a treasure trove. Through diligent research, the authors breathe life into the many faces of Baudelaire: the rebellious student, the fashionable dandy, the struggling artist, and the self-imposed exile. It's an expanded glimpse into the man whose work has charmed and provoked readers for over a century.

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Here and Beyond: 12 Stories - Thryft
Cyril Wong

Here and Beyond: 12 Stories

from $5.77

Here and Beyond is a collection of poignant and thought-provoking stories that delve into the intricacies of human relationships. From forbidden love to unresolved family conflicts, these twelve tales will leave you contemplating the meaning of life and the power of connections. Recommended for readers who enjoy introspective and emotionally engaging reads.

from $5.77

Out of stock

Selected Poetry - Thryft
John Carey, John Donne

Selected Poetry

from $5.56

Recommended for poetry enthusiasts keen to explore the depths of self-awareness through Donne's personalized rhythm, form and imagery. The timeless exploration of human complexities and ambiguities makes it an enriching experience.

from $5.56

Out of stock

William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" - Thryft
Harold Bloom

William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet"

from $3.88

Offers a brief profile of the author, discusses themes, structure, and characters in "Romeo and Juliet," and includes selections from critical essays

from $3.88

Out of stock

Greatest Works of Rabindranath Tagore (Deluxe Hardbound Edition) - Thryft
Rabindranath Tagore

Greatest Works of Rabindranath Tagore (Deluxe Hardbound Edition)

from $8.57

The Greatest Works of Rabindranath Tagore is a captivating hardbound edition that includes a collection of twenty-five classic short stories, Gitanjali, his celebrated poetry, his memoir, and the well-known novel, The Home and the World. This meticulous compilation showcases Tagore's versatility as a writer and his ability to present thought-provoking stories with nuances of philosophy. With its exquisitely designed leather-bound format and small editorial notes preceding each work, this book is perfect for lovers of literature who want to indulge in stories that inspire and provoke reflection.

from $8.57

Out of stock

Gerard Manley Hopkins - Thryft
Angus Easson

Gerard Manley Hopkins

from $14.02

Gerard Manley Hopkins was among the most innovative writers of the Victorian period. Experimental and idiosyncratic, his work remains important for any student of nineteenth-century literature and culture. This guide to Hopkins’ life and work Part of the Routledge Guides to Literature series, this volume is essential reading for all those beginning detailed study of Hopkins’ work and seeking not only a guide to the poems, but a way through the wealth of contextual and critical material that surrounds them.

from $14.02

Out of stock

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.