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Biographies & Memoirs

Explore the stories of remarkable lives in our Biographies & Memoirs section at Thryft. Discover firsthand accounts of influential figures and captivating memoirs that'll inspire and educate. Our collection is carefully curated to ensure you find the perfect narrative to delve into.
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The Billionaire Who Wasn't : How Chuck Feeney Secretly Made and Gave Away a Fortune - Thryft
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Conor O'Clery | Publicaffairs

The Billionaire Who Wasn't : How Chuck Feeney Secretly Made and Gave Away a Fortune

$5.59 $3.35 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$5.59 $3.35 40% off

92% off est. retail
This book is recommended for readers who are interested in learning about the life of an extraordinary man who chose to give away his fortune to charitable causes. It provides insight into Chuck Feeney's journey of amassing and then giving away his wealth, as well as the challenges and moral dilemmas he faced along the way. The unique and distinctive feature of this book is that it offers a rare glimpse into the world of high-stakes philanthropy and the complexities involved in managing and disbursing billions of dollars to worthy causes.
Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo - Thryft
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Amy Schumer | Simon & Schuster Export Editions

Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo

$15.90 $10.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$15.90 $10.90 31% off

64% off est. retail
"Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys comedy and, more importantly, honesty. Amy Schumer's essays are both funny and vulnerable, as she shares personal stories from her life and career. Her unique perspective on topics like body image and relationships is refreshing and relatable. Readers will appreciate her candidness and be left with a deeper understanding of the woman behind the comedy.
Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim - Thryft
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David Sedaris | Abacus

Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

60% off est. retail
Recommended for readers who enjoy humorous memoirs. Sedaris' essays are full of self-deprecating humor and sarcastic observations, providing an offbeat look at everyday life. Each story is a glimpse into his quirky family's dynamics and peculiarities, making for an entertaining and quick read.
The Game : Undercover in the Secret Society of Pickup Artists - Thryft
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Neil Strauss | Reganbooks

The Game : Undercover in the Secret Society of Pickup Artists

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$5.07

Hidden somewhere, in nearly every major city in the world, is an underground seduction lair. And in these lairs, men trade the most devastatingly effective techniques ever invented to charm women. This is not fiction. These men really exist. They live together in houses known as Projects. And Neil Strauss, the bestselling author, spent two years living among them, using the pseudonym Style to protect his real-life identity. The result is one of the most explosive and controversial books of the year -- guaranteed to change the lives of men and transform the way women understand the opposite sex forever. On his journey from AFC (average frustrated chump) to PUA (pick-up artist) to PUG (pick-up guru), Strauss not only shares scores of original seduction techniques but also has unforgettable encounters with the likes of Tom Cruise, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, Heidi Fleiss, and Courtney Love. And then things really start to get strange -- and passions lead to betrayals lead to violence. The Game is the story of one man's transformation from frog to prince -- to prisoner in the most unforgettable book of the year.
The Last Lecture
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Randy Pausch, Jeffrey Zaslow  | Hodder & Stoughton

The Last Lecture

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$3.90

"The Last Lecture" strikes a personal chord as it distills the life lessons Randy Pausch wanted to leave behind, particularly about achieving dreams and facing obstacles. The author doesn't focus on his impending death but chooses to highlight the vitality of life and the importance of legacy. It's an inspiring read that offers perspective on what truly matters, making it a powerful and motivating book for anyone looking to reflect on their own life and aspirations.
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.
Seven Deadly Sins : My Pursuit of Lance Armstrong - Thryft
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David Walsh | Simon & Schuster Ltd

Seven Deadly Sins : My Pursuit of Lance Armstrong

$3.18 $2.00 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$3.18 $2.00 37% off

89% off est. retail
Recommended for avid sports fans seeking truth. The book provides a gripping account of a journalist's 13-year battle to reveal the truth about Lance Armstrong's doping and conspiracy of silence within the sport. It delves deep into the murky world of professional cycling and the devastating impact on those who dare to speak up. The book is an eye-opener and a must-read for all sports enthusiasts seeking the truth about their idols.
And You Visited Me - Thryft
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Betty McKay | Christian Focus

And You Visited Me

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

64% off est. retail
"And You Visited Me" is a book that contains personal and powerful testimonies of individuals whose lives have been transformed by God. The stories are of ex-inmates, prison visitors, warders and some "lifers". The book offers a unique insight into the work of visitation in 18 penal institutions in Scotland, and the commitment of the individuals who made it possible. Readers who are interested in true stories of life transformation will find this book both captivating and inspiring.
The Outsider - Thryft
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Geordan Murphy | Penguin Ireland

The Outsider

$4.65 $3.90 16% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$4.65 $3.90 16% off

93% off est. retail
The Outsider is a captivating read for rugby enthusiasts as it's written by an inspiring, acclaimed rugby star who shares experiences about the sport, his personal life and career. The book is filled with Geordan Murphy's candid reflections and is an honest, inspiring, and entertaining memoir that rugby fans would love.
This Is Going to Hurt
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Adam Kay | Pan Macmillan

This Is Going to Hurt

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.4

$8.26

51% off est. retail
Recommendation: If you're looking for a brutally honest and hilarious glimpse into the chaotic world of junior doctors, "This is Going to Hurt" is a must-read. Adam Kay's diary entries will have you laughing out loud one moment and wiping away tears the next. It's an eye-opening and emotional rollercoaster that sheds light on the highs and lows of life on the front lines of the NHS.
Glimpses and Reflections
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Wee Kim Wee | Landmark Books

Glimpses and Reflections

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

68% off est. retail
"Glimpses And Reflections" would be a heart-warming trove for you if historical narratives with a personal touch appeal to you. It's not just about the high office but the journey of an individual through significant eras of change. Wee Kim Wee's candid storytelling will endear him to you, inviting you to walk through Singapore's history from an intimate perspective.
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.
Limitless: Devotions for a Ridiculously Good Life
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Nick Vujicic | Random House

Limitless: Devotions for a Ridiculously Good Life

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$3.90

75% off est. retail
Nick Vujicic's book, "Limitless," might resonate deeply with you if you're searching for a surge of inspiration. It's not just a book of devotions; it's a testament to the human spirit, penned by someone who has turned what many would see as insurmountable obstacles into stepping stones for a fulfilling life. Reading his reflections, infused with unwavering faith, could offer you a fresh perspective on your own challenges.
Big Hearts, Big Dreams: Stories of Singaporean of the Year Nominees 2015 - 2016 - Thryft
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Wong Kim Hoh | Straits Times Press Pte Ltd

Big Hearts, Big Dreams: Stories of Singaporean of the Year Nominees 2015 - 2016

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$5.07

80% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for those who are in need of motivation or seeking inspiration from real-life experiences. The book features the stories of individuals who have been nominated for the Singaporean of the Year award, highlighting their struggles and accomplishments. The most unique and distinctive feature of this book is the way it humanizes success and showcases the extraordinary achievements of ordinary people. Readers can expect to be creatively inspired and motivated by the journey of these Singaporeans.
The Real Picture
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Li NanXing | Armour Publishing Pte Ltd

The Real Picture

$16.90 $3.90 77% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$16.90 $3.90 77% off

77% off est. retail
"The Real Picture" offers a candid glimpse into Li Nanxing's life that contrasts his on-screen personas with his true self. If you're curious about the man behind the actor, how fame can both make and unmake a person, and the strength it takes to rebuild a life from moments of despair, this book could resonate deeply with you. It's a tale of redemption and the transformative power of faith that's both compelling and uplifting.
Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother
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Amy Chua | Penguin Press

Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$8.26

If you're intrigued by parenting styles or cultural differences, "Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother" will fascinate you. Amy Chua's candid storytelling takes you through her strict approach to parenting, which may either leave you nodding in agreement or shaking your head in disbelief. It's a remarkable narrative that doesn't just reveal the hardships and successes of a family but also ignites conversations about what we value in raising children.
Living History - Thryft
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Hillary Rodham Clinton | Scribner

Living History

$8.92

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$8.92

74% off est. retail
The Phenomenal #1 Worldwide Bestseller—With a New AfterwordHillary Rodham Clinton is known to hundreds of millions of people around the world. Yet few beyond her close friends and family have ever heard her account of her extraordinary journey. She writes with candor, humor and passion about her upbringing in suburban, middle-class America in the 1950s and her transformation from Goldwater Girl to student activist to controversial First Lady.Living History is her revealing memoir of life through the White House years. It is also her chronicle of living history with Bill Clinton, a thirty-year adventure in love and politics that survives personal betrayal, relentless partisan investigations and constant public scrutiny.Hillary Rodham Clinton came of age during a time of tumultuous social and political change in America. Like many women of her generation, she grew up with choices and opportunities unknown to her mother or grandmother. She charted her own course through unexplored terrain -- responding to the changing times and her own internal compass -- and became an emblem for some and a lightning rod for others. Wife, mother, lawyer, advocate and international icon, she has lived through America's great political wars, from Watergate to Whitewater.The only First Lady to play a major role in shaping domestic legislation, Hillary Rodham Clinton traveled tirelessly around the country to champion health care, expand economic and educational opportunity and promote the needs of children and families, and she crisscrossed the globe on behalf of women's rights, human rights and democracy. She redefined the position of First Lady and helped save the presidency from an unconstitutional, politically motivated impeachment. Intimate, powerful and inspiring, Living History captures the essence of one of the most remarkable women of our time and the challenging process by which she came to define herself and find her own voice -- as a woman and as a formidable figure in American politics.
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.
Modern Romance
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Aziz Ansari | Allen Lane, Imprint Of Penguin, Random House, Uk

Modern Romance

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$9.90

If navigating love in the digital age feels like a mix of excitement and exasperation, "Modern Romance" might just be your compass. Aziz Ansari's sharp wit meets sociological research, offering both laughs and insights. Imagine commiserating with a friend who’s done their homework on global dating trends—it's relatable, enlightening, and might just make your own romantic mishaps feel a bit more universal.
Caspar Lee - Thryft
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Caspar Lee, Emily Riordan Lee  | Grand Central Publishing

Caspar Lee

$3.77 $2.00 47% off

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$3.77 $2.00 47% off

95% off est. retail
"If you're a fan of Caspar Lee, this book is a must-read. Written by his mom, it's full of hilarious stories, although he claims 98% of it is lies. With anecdotes about his first day of school, his head size, and his success with the ladies, you'll be entertained from start to finish. Don't take it too seriously, but enjoy it for what it is - an amusing insight into the life of a YouTube sensation."
Blood, Sweat and Tea - Thryft
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Tom Reynolds | The Friday Project

Blood, Sweat and Tea

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

80% off est. retail
Is there anyone who hasnt wondered about the state of the occupant of an ambulance, screaming along with its sirens on and blue lights flashing? And have you wondered about the other people inside the ambulance? Meet Tom Reynolds, an Emergency Medical Technician who works for the London Ambulance Service in East London. He has kept a blog of his daily working life since 2003 and his award-winning writing is, by turn, moving, cynical, funny, heart-rending, and compassionate. From the tragic to the hilarious, the stories Tom tells give a fascinatingand at times alarming picture of life in inner-city Britain, and the people who are paid to mop up after it.
Damaged
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Cathy Glass | Harperelement

Damaged

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

65% off est. retail
"Damaged" could stir your deepest sympathies if you're moved by true stories of courage and survival against the odds. Cathy Glass not only shares the dark realities of foster care but also offers a powerful narrative of unwavering commitment to a child in desperate need. This book taps into the human capacity for kindness in the face of unimaginable challenges, which may inspire you to look at adversity with a more compassionate lens.
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.
The Last Rhinos : The Powerful Story of One Man's Battle to Save a Species - Thryft
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Lawrence Anthony, Graham Spence  | Pan Macmillan

The Last Rhinos : The Powerful Story of One Man's Battle to Save a Species

$6.86

Goodreads rating: 4.44

$6.86

59% off est. retail
When Lawrence Anthony learned that the northern white rhino, living in the war-ravaged Congo, was on the very brink of extinction, he knew he had to act. If the world lost the sub-species, it would be the largest land mammal since the woolly mammoth to go extinct. In The Last Rhinos , Anthony recounts his attempts to save these remarkable animals. The demand for rhino horns in the Far East has turned poaching into a dangerous black market that threatens the lives of not just these rare beasts, but also the rangers who protect them. The northern white rhino's last refuge was in an area controlled by the infamous Lord's Resistance Army, one of the most vicious rebel groups in the world. In the face of unmoving government bureaucracy, Anthony made a perilous journey deep into the jungle to try to find and convince them to help save the rhino. An inspiring story of conservation in the face of brutal war and bureaucratic quagmires, The Last Rhinos will move animal lovers everywhere.
American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History
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Chris Kyle, Jim DeFelice, Scott McEwen  | Harper

American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History

$10.90 $8.26 24% off

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$10.90 $8.26 24% off

47% off est. retail
If you're drawn to real-life military heroics and the raw truths behind them, "American Sniper" offers an unflinching look into the life and mind of Chris Kyle—a Navy SEAL legend. You'll find yourself entrenched in the harrowing experiences of war and the personal sacrifice involved, providing a perspective that only someone who has been on the front lines could offer. It's more than just a tale of combat; it's a window into the impact on a soldier's family and his own internal battles.
Somebody Else's Kids
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Torey L. Hayden | Harper Element

Somebody Else's Kids

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 4.28

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

81% off est. retail
"Somebody Else's Kids" is more than just a read; it's an emotional journey through the lives of children who've faced unimaginable challenges. Torey Hayden's compassionate storytelling does more than tell a story; it offers a glimpse into the strength and resilience of young souls. She shows us the potential of what unwavering care and dedication can achieve in the lives of those who seem the most broken. This book could deeply move you, especially if you're drawn to real-world stories of overcoming adversity.
Tuesdays with Morrie
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Mitch Albom | Sphere

Tuesdays with Morrie

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$6.90

60% off est. retail
You might find "Tuesdays With Morrie" to resonate deeply if you've ever longed for the wisdom of someone who's seen it all. Mitch Albom's recount of his visits with Morrie Schwartz not only offer profound insights into life and death, but also remind us of the value of mentorship and the beauty of human connection. It's a book that could provide comfort, perspective, and a heartfelt reminder to prioritize what truly matters.
Steve Jobs
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Walter Isaacson | Simon & Schuster

Steve Jobs

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$13.90

72% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the enigmatic Steve Jobs and the tech revolution he fueled, Walter Isaacson's biography is a must-read. Every page is ripe with the raw intensity of Jobs' personality and the groundbreaking innovations he led. This book doesn't just recount the life of a tech mogul; it delves deep into the psyche of a man who forever changed how we interact with technology. It's a compelling narrative that might ignite your own creativity and ambition.
Humans of New York
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Brandon Stanton | St. Martin's Press

Humans of New York

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 4.49

$14.90

67% off est. retail
Recommendation: - This book is a captivating collection of photos and stories that beautifully encapsulate the diverse human spirit found in New York City. - Each page offers a glimpse into the lives and experiences of individuals, bringing to light the beauty of ordinary moments and the power of human connection. - Whether you are a native New Yorker, a lover of photography, or simply someone who appreciates the depth of human stories, Humans of New York will leave you feeling inspired and connected to the world around you. So grab a cup of coffee, curl up with this book, and prepare to be moved.
An Unexpected Journey: Path to the Presidency
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S.R. Nathan, Timothy Auger  | Didier Millet

An Unexpected Journey: Path to the Presidency

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.45

$12.90

80% off est. retail
If you're captivated by stories of personal triumph that illustrate the sheer resilience of the human spirit, "An Unexpected Journey: Path to the Presidency" could be a compelling read for you. S.R. Nathan's memoir offers a deeply personal view into the life of a man who overcame adversity to lead a nation, interwoven with the growth of Singapore itself. It's more than just history; it's an inspiration for anyone who believes in the power of determination and the possibility of change.
A Work in Progress: A Memoir
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Connor Franta | Atria/keywords Press

A Work in Progress: A Memoir

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

81% off est. retail
If you've ever felt like you're still finding your place in this vast digital landscape, Connor's story in "A Work in Progress" will speak to you. His sincere reflections on family, self-discovery, and chasing his passions are like finding a friend who understands the quieter struggles of growing up. It's not just a memoir, it's a companion for anyone navigating their own path to self-acceptance and creative fulfillment.

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.