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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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Finding Happiness Against the Odds
Wesley Wee | June 1, 2017

Finding Happiness Against the Odds

$8.90 $8.26 7% off

Goodreads rating: 4.6

$8.90 $8.26 7% off

Imagine being trapped in a body that limits your movement and speech. Now picture surpassing those boundaries to compose a remarkable book using your only mobile limb. "Finding Happiness Against the Odds" is Wesley Wee's life in his own painstakingly typed words, offering a raw, inspiring testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It's a triumph for anyone seeking a profound, real-life hero’s journey that reaffirms hope and perseverance.
One Last Goodbye : Sometimes only a mother's love can help end the pain - Thryft
Kay Gilderdale | Ebury Press

One Last Goodbye

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.59

$8.90

This book reaches into the deep corners of a mother's experience of unimaginable pain. Kay Gilderdale shares a story that's as heartbreaking as it is controversial, but ultimately it's a tribute to the lengths a mother will go to alleviate her child's suffering. If you're drawn to real-life dramas and ethical dilemmas, this memoir offers a rare look at the intersection of love, pain, and the quest for peace.
The Sunlight on the Garden
Elizabeth Speller | Granta Books

The Sunlight on the Garden

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$11.90

If you have a penchant for deeply moving family narratives that traverse the complexities of love, the horrors of war, and the challenges of mental illness, then "The Sunlight on the Garden" is a beautifully woven tapestry that might resonate with you. The rich historical context paired with the personal struggles and triumphs of a family offers a poignant reading experience that's both enlightening and emotionally stirring.
Dibs in Search of Self
Just Arrived
Virginia M. Axline | Ballantine Books

Dibs in Search of Self

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$8.90

63% off est. retail
If the silent struggles or inner worlds of children intrigue you, "Dibs in Search of Self" offers a profound glimpse into child psychology and therapy. It's a heartwarming read that will not just move you but also give you insights into the resilience and complexity of the young mind. This book often becomes a favorite among parents, educators, and anyone fascinated by the healing power of understanding and patience.
Mother's Ruin - Thryft
Nicola Barry | Headline

Mother's Ruin

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

79% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone seeking a raw and powerful exploration of addiction and survival. Nicola Barry's story of her mother's alcoholism and its devastating impact on their family is a gripping and harrowing tale that is not easy to forget. Through her own battle with alcoholism, Barry delivers a story of resilience and triumph that will leave readers inspired and deeply moved. The book's raw honesty and bleak humor provide a unique and unforgettable reading experience.
Daddy's Little Secret: Pregnant at 14 and There's Only One Man Who Can Be the Father
Tina Davis | Ebury Press

Daddy's Little Secret: Pregnant at 14 and There's Only One Man Who Can Be the Father

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$8.26

62% off est. retail
This powerful and heartbreaking memoir tells the story of Tina Davis, who endured unimaginable abuse and suffering at the hands of her stepfather. With courage and determination, Tina ultimately finds the strength to escape and rebuild her life. Through her raw and honest narrative, she inspires readers with her resilience and serves as a testament to the human spirit. This book is highly recommended for those seeking a poignant and empowering memoir that sheds light on the strength it takes to overcome trauma.
More, Now, Again: A Memoir
Elizabeth Wurtzel | Virago

More, Now, Again: A Memoir

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

If you've ever felt caught in a cycle of self-destruction and yearned for hope, Elizabeth Wurtzel's "More, Now, Again" could speak directly to your heart. Wurtzel’s unvarnished honesty in chronicling her struggles with addiction and depression is both harrowing and compelling. It's a raw, intense journey that mirrors the chaos of addiction, but also the tenacity of the human spirit to seek a way back from the brink.
A Million Little Pieces
James Frey | John Murray

A Million Little Pieces

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$8.90

62% off est. retail
If you're looking for a book that doesn't sugarcoat the harrowing realities of addiction, "A Million Little Pieces" might just be the wake-up call you need. Frey's visceral narrative takes you through the depths of substance abuse with an unforgiving grip on reality, offering a perspective that's as troubling as it is enlightening. His contentious approach to recounting his experiences will either leave you deeply moved or questioning—but it's certain to leave an impression.
Through the Glass Wall: Journeys Into the Closed-Off Worlds of the Autistic
Howard Buten | Bantam

Through the Glass Wall: Journeys Into the Closed-Off Worlds of the Autistic

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$10.90

If you've ever wondered about the experiences and thoughts of children who don't communicate the way most of us do, "Through the Glass Wall" will be an eye-opening read. Howard Buten's compassionate approach to understanding and connecting with autistic children provides a powerful narrative that's as educational as it is moving. His stories could challenge how you perceive autism, offering a blend of scientific perspective and deeply human storytelling that may well inspire both empathy and admiration.
Malignant Sadness: The Anatomy of Depression
Lewis Wolpert | Faber And Faber

Malignant Sadness: The Anatomy of Depression

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$8.90

52% off est. retail
If you've ever felt alone in your struggle with depression or simply want to understand it better, "Malignant Sadness" could be a grounding read for you. Lewis Wolpert combines personal experience with scientific investigation, providing an accessible yet thorough examination of this complex condition. It could offer both solace and knowledge, shedding light on a topic frequently shrouded in silence.
Stronger: Changing Everything I Knew About Women's Strength
Poorna Bell | Bluebird

Stronger: Changing Everything I Knew About Women's Strength

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.90

35% off est. retail
"Stronger" speaks directly to the heart of any woman who's doubted her worth or strength. Poorna Bell's personal transformation from someone who shunned P.E. to a powerlifter is not just inspiring; it's a call to redefine what strength means for women. This book is less about lifting weights and more about lifting spirits, shattering the old conventions and celebrating a woman's journey to personal empowerment. If you've ever felt less than enough, Poorna's words might just be the nudge you need to start rewriting your story.
You Don't Look Sick!, Second Edition
Steven S. Overman, Joy H. Selak  | Demos Health

You Don't Look Sick!, Second Edition

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

84% off est. retail
"You Don't Look Sick!" offers a unique perspective combining a patient's personal experiences with a physician's insightful commentary on navigating chronic illness. It extends beyond just the medical aspects; it underscores the emotional journey from denial to acceptance, making it relatable for those with chronic conditions as well as providing profound insights for caregivers looking to understand their loved ones' experiences. The dual narrative fosters a deep sense of empathy and empowerment.
Murphy's Boy
Torey L. Hayden | William Morrow Paperbacks

Murphy's Boy

$4.90

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$4.90

"Murphy's Boy" might resonate with you if you're moved by stories of resilience and the power of dedicated care. Torey Hayden's commitment to Kevin's recovery provides a heartfelt testament to the impact one person can have on another's life. It's a book that celebrates the triumph of human connection over past trauma - a truly inspiring narrative for anyone who believes in the possibility of healing through empathy and understanding.
In My Skin: A Memoir
Kate Holden | Arcade Publishing

In My Skin: A Memoir

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Kate Holden's memoir is not just another addiction tale; it's a profound exploration into the very depths of human frailty and the strength it takes to pull oneself back from the brink. You can't help but be drawn into her no-holds-barred portrayal of life's darkest corners, yet you'll find resilience and hope in her words. It's raw, it's real, and it might just change the way you see the world.
I Believe in Miracles
Kathryn Kuhlman | Bridge Publishing

I Believe in Miracles

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.43

$10.90

If you're someone who seeks stories where faith and hope triumph, "I Believe in Miracles" might resonate with you deeply. It's not just the tales of physical healing that might move you, but the stirring sense of community and shared belief in something greater. The book carries an undercurrent of inspiration that could bolster your own beliefs, à la Kathryn Kuhlman's compelling narrative.
Dear Michael, Love Dad
Iain Maitland

Dear Michael, Love Dad

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$16.90

If you're a fan of heartfelt true stories, "Dear Michael, Love Dad" could be a deeply touching read. Its candid showcase of a father's evolving emotions, put together through letters and personal reflections, paints a powerful picture of familial bonds. This book not only resonates with anyone who's navigated complex family dynamics but also provides a poignant insight into the struggle with mental health. It's a thought-provoking journey that promises hope and the power of love.
Maybe I Don't Belong Here: A Memoir of Race, Identity, Breakdown and Recovery
David Harewood | Bluebird

Maybe I Don't Belong Here: A Memoir of Race, Identity, Breakdown and Recovery

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.37

$12.90

39% off est. retail
If you’ve ever felt like an outsider in your own country, or have been intrigued by the interplay of race and identity, David Harewood's memoir will draw you in. His journey through mental health challenges, under the weight of racial identity, is not only deeply personal but also a lens into a larger societal issue. Harewood's raw honesty offers a compelling narrative that could change perspectives and offer solace to those with similar experiences.
The Only Worlds We Know
Michael Lee | Button Poetry

The Only Worlds We Know

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$10.90

If you're drawn to poetry that delves deep into the human experience, Michael Lee's "The Only Worlds We Know" might resonate with you. It examines addiction and the journey to sobriety with a candidness that's both raw and elegantly articulated. Lee's work has struck a chord with many for its intimate exploration of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of existence against the odds. It's a book that doesn't just describe a life; it makes you feel the weight and beauty of every moment lived.
The Healing Platform: Build Your Own Cure!
Annie Brandt | Best Answer For Cancer Foundation

The Healing Platform: Build Your Own Cure!

$18.90 $8.90 53% off

Goodreads rating: 4.71

$18.90 $8.90 53% off

If you're facing a health challenge or know someone who is, Annie Brandt's personal story in "The Healing Platform" offers not just hope, but a tangible roadmap to create your own holistic approach to healing. It's a mix of vulnerable storytelling and actionable advice from someone who's navigated the complexities of integrative oncology, which might just be the companion you need on your healing journey.
Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teens Talk Growing Up, Stories About Growing Up, Meeting Challenges, and Learning from Life
Just Arrived
Mark Victor Hansen, Amy Newmark, Jack Canfield  | Chicken Soup For The Soul

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teens Talk Growing Up, Stories About Growing Up, Meeting Challenges, and Learning from Life

$8.97

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$8.97

66% off est. retail
If you're navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence, this book is like an older sibling offering insights and company. Teens speaking to teens—they get it. They've faced the pressure, the identity struggles, and the school challenges. It's heartening to know others have trodden this path and are willing to share their wisdom nuggets wrapped in personal stories. So, if you're seeking camaraderie or guidance, this collection might just feel like a warm, reassuring hug.
The Daughterhood: The Good, The Bad And The Guilty Of Mother-Daughter Relationships
Natasha Fennell | Gardners Vi Books Ams006

The Daughterhood: The Good, The Bad And The Guilty Of Mother-Daughter Relationships

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$13.90

"The Daughterhood" might just resonate deeply with you if you've ever found yourself entangled in the emotional tapestry of a mother-daughter relationship. Fennell and Ingle share a collection of stories that are as touching as they are relatable, inviting us into a world of love, regret, and the shared journey towards understanding and improvement. By joining their conversation, you'll likely find solace and camaraderie in the universal quest to cherish this unique bond.
Preacher's Girl - The Life And Crimes Of Blanche Taylor Moore - Thryft
Jim Schutze | Avon Books

Preacher's Girl - The Life And Crimes Of Blanche Taylor Moore

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

54% off est. retail
This book would be a fascinating read for those intrigued by true crime stories. Explore the gripping life of Blanche Taylor Moore, the daughter of a preacher, as she navigates a web of deception and murder. With a riveting narrative, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat, uncovering the sinister secrets hidden within Blanche's life.
Prozac Nation
Elizabeth Wurtzel | Riverhead Books

Prozac Nation

$8.90 $8.26 7% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$8.90 $8.26 7% off

69% off est. retail
"Prozac Nation" could resonate with you if you're interested in personal battles with mental health, particularly from the perspective of a young person coming of age in the '90s. Wurtzel's voice is unflinchingly honest and fervent, delving into the depths of depression with a cultural backdrop that might feel familiar—or intriguingly historical if you're of a younger generation. It's a memoir that doesn't shy away from the dark, yet it captures a certain zeitgeist that makes it compelling beyond its own narrative.
How to Dad: An Illustrated Instruction Manual for First-Time Fathers
T.M. Detwiler | Media Lab Books

How to Dad: An Illustrated Instruction Manual for First-Time Fathers

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$8.90

If you're about to embark on the journey of fatherhood and the mere thought of it seems daunting, 'How To Dad' can be your fun companion. T.M. Detwiler’s illustrations break down the intimidating parts of first-year parenting into something approachable and genuinely amusing. It's like having a friend who manages to make all the overwhelming parts seem conquerable, and most importantly, laughable.
The Hollow Heart
Martina Devlin | Penguin Ireland

The Hollow Heart

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$5.90

If you're navigating personal trials or fertility challenges, Martina Devlin's "The Hollow Heart" could resonate deeply with you. It's a starkly honest memoir that explores the emotional landscape of IVF and its toll on relationships and self. Martina's poignant storytelling charts a course through despair and lends voice to the silent struggles many face, ultimately offering hope and transformation.
Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me
Lily Collins | Harpercollins

Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

69% off est. retail
'Unfiltered' might be just what you're looking to add to your shelf if you find inspiration in personal stories that strike a chord. Lily Collins delves into her own life with a vulnerability that's as refreshing as it is relatable. Her experiences invite you into a conversation that feels both intimate and empowering, encouraging you to embrace your authentic self. If you're navigating self-acceptance or looking for celebrity insight, step into Lily's world.
Fragile Innocence: A Father's Memoir of His Daughter's Courageous Journey
James Reston Jr. | Harmony

Fragile Innocence: A Father's Memoir of His Daughter's Courageous Journey

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90

If you have an affinity for heart-wrenching memoirs that showcase the resilience of the human spirit, "Fragile Innocence" might be your next must-read. It's a touching portrayal of a family's love and determination in the face of adversity. The insights into medical and ethical challenges add depth, making it a thought-provoking narrative that stays with you.
You Only Get One Life
Brigitte Nielsen | John Blake

You Only Get One Life

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$11.90

Delve into Brigitte Nielsen's life with "You Only Get One Life" to get a raw look at stardom, personal struggles, and resilience. If you're drawn to stories where fame meets real life and the journey of overcoming odds resonates with you, this memoir offers an unfiltered glimpse into the life of a woman who's faced it all.
Roses in December
Marilyn Willett Heavilin | Harvest House Publishers

Roses in December

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$10.90

50% off est. retail
If you're navigating the heavy fog of loss, "Roses in December" might speak to you. Marilyn Willett Heavilin writes not just from research, but from the harrowing experience of losing her own sons. Her book is a compassionate companion, offering empathy and hope in the throes of sorrow. Readers often find solace in her gentle guidance on cherishing memories and finding moments of grace.
From Hollywood to Heaven
Charlene Tilton, Robin Harfouche  | Power House Publishing

From Hollywood to Heaven

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 4.57

$3.90

If you've ever felt like there's more beyond the glitz of fame, Robin Harfouche's experience might resonate. Her profound narrative blends the allure of Hollywood with a deeply personal spiritual quest, an intriguing mix for anyone attracted to tales of personal transformation and the intersection of the physical and metaphysical. Her story is a testament to resilience and the search for meaning beyond material success.
Just Another Kid
Torey L. Hayden | Harper Element

Just Another Kid

$11.90 $6.90 42% off

Goodreads rating: 4.23

$11.90 $6.90 42% off

70% off est. retail
"Just Another Kid" will pull at your heartstrings as it reveals the power of patience and love in a learning environment. Torey Hayden's unique ability to connect with children who have seen the worst of life is not just inspiring, it's a lesson in the resilience of the human spirit. If you're looking for a story that testifies to the transformative power of teaching and empathy, this one's for you.
I Remember Running: The Year I Got Everything I Ever Wanted - And ALS
Darcy Wakefield, Jonathan Eig  | Grand Central Publishing

I Remember Running: The Year I Got Everything I Ever Wanted - And ALS

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$11.90

60% off est. retail
"I Remember Running" is more than a memoir about facing ailment; it's a tribute to the indomitable human spirit. You'll find yourself rooting for Darcy as she navigates through a whirlwind of profound life events with grace and humor. It resonates deeply, providing not only a window into living with ALS but also illuminating the beauty found in cherishing every moment. It's a heartfelt reminder that even in the face of the most daunting challenges, life can be intensely meaningful.

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.