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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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AL JOLSON - Thryft
Michael Freedland | Abacus

AL JOLSON

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Jolson called himself 'The World's Greatest Entertainer'.His films and music are certainly still in great demand.Michael Freedland has recaptured the amazing love affair which existed between Jolson and his audience.Even his two wives when petitioning for divorce cited 'the Audience' as the other party.This is a lively biography packed with anecdotes and it reveals the man behind the makeup.
K.D. Lang
Paula Martinac | Chelsea House Pub

K.D. Lang

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

If you're intrigued by artists who defy conventions and you have a soft spot for hauntingly beautiful music, this biography of k.d. lang could resonate with you. It's more than just a peek into her career—it's a lens into the experiences that shaped her into an iconoclastic figure in the music industry. The included photographs add a rich visual element to her stirring narrative.
Revolution: The Making of the Beatles' White Album
David Quantick | Unanimous

Revolution: The Making of the Beatles' White Album

$18.90 $11.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$18.90 $11.90 37% off

If you're intrigued by the labyrinth of The Beatles' genius during their most experimental phase, "Revolution: The Making of The Beatles' White Album" is a deep dive you shouldn't miss. David Quantick's intricate exploration into the iconic album's creation peels back layer after layer of the music, the mayhem, and the magic that only the Fab Four could conjure in the recording studio. It's a read that will enrich your appreciation of their craft and the unforgettable White Album.
Britney Spears
Carlton Books | Carlton Books Ltd

Britney Spears

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$9.90

If you've ever hummed "Baby One More Time" or danced to "Toxic", diving into this biography will be like stepping behind the curtain of Britney Spears' life. It's more than a timeline of her career; it's a visual and anecdotal experience offering you a closer look at her personal tastes and pivotal moments, all while satisfying your nostalgia with phenomenal photographs.
The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star
Nikki Sixx | Simon & Schuster Uk

The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

"The Heroin Diaries" might resonate with you if you're drawn to the gritty realities of fame and its darker shades. Reading Nikki Sixx's personal journey offers a visceral experience not just about the perils of addiction, but also about redemption and the strength needed to overcome one's demons. It's an intimate diary that doesn't shy away from the abyss, yet inspires with a story of survival and change.
Satchmo Illustrated Edition
Gary Giddins | Da Capo Press

Satchmo Illustrated Edition

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

If you loved the emotional depth and heartwarming narrative of "The Blind Side," then "Satchmo Illustrated Edition" is the book that digs into the true story that inspired the film. With a closer look at Michael Oher's life and the unique relationship with the Touhys that changed his destiny, this book offers a real, behind-the-scenes glimpse into their lives beyond the big screen. You'll be inspired by the raw tenacity and touching generosity displayed in these pages.
Weber: Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
Anthony Friese-Greene | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Weber: Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$15.90

If you're fascinated by the lives of classical composers and want to immerse yourself in the world of Carl Maria von Weber, this biography offers a meticulous exploration of his work and influence. It's more than just a history lesson; it's an invitation to understand the man behind the music that changed the Romantic era. With illustrations and engaging narrative, you'll find this book a harmonious blend of art and storytelling.
World's Best Jazz Club: The Story Of Bennets Lane - Thryft
David James | Major Street Publishing

World's Best Jazz Club: The Story Of Bennets Lane

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

This book would be a good read for anyone who wants to dive deep into the captivating world of Australian jazz. Through over 50 insightful interviews, David James brings the history of Bennetts Lane, one of the world's best jazz clubs, to life. As a journalist and jazz musician himself, James takes you on a melodic journey that explores the characters, musical styles, and changing aesthetics of Australian jazz. Prepare to be enchanted by the passion and talent that resonates throughout this iconic club's story.
Secrets of a Sparrow - Thryft
Diana Ross | Villard

Secrets of a Sparrow

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

89% off est. retail
Secrets of a Sparrow is a gripping and inspirational memoir that captures Diana Ross's journey from poverty and struggle to becoming a cultural icon. Her clear and confident voice and humorous yet earthy writing style makes the book a joy to read. The book also reveals Ross's devotion to her family and love of life, making it a must-read for anyone in need of inspiration and motivation. The stunning photographs included in the book also provide a unique glimpse into Ross's life and career.
Mozart on the Stage - Thryft
Just Arrived
John A. Rice | Cambridge University Press

Mozart on the Stage

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$13.90

79% off est. retail
This is a great pick if you want Mozart to feel alive rather than monumental. It shows how each opera was shaped by real people onstage and behind the scenes, from singers to designers to audiences, which makes the creative process surprisingly vivid. Readers who enjoy music history with a strong sense of performance and collaboration will find it especially rewarding.
Boyzone, Our World: The Official Book Written with the Full Cooperation of Boyzone
Eddie Rowley | Ebury Press

Boyzone, Our World: The Official Book Written with the Full Cooperation of Boyzone

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you've hummed along to Boyzone's tunes and followed their journey, "Boyzone, Our World" is like revisiting old friends. Eddie Rowley offers a peek into their lives both on tour and at home, making it a nostalgic trip for fans who've been there since the beginning. It's the kind of read that's cozy, familiar, and a little bit like fan service wrapped up in hardcover. A perfect memento for Boyzone's heartfelt following.
Sweet Songs of Zion: Selected Radio Talks
John Betjeman | Hodder Hb

Sweet Songs of Zion: Selected Radio Talks

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.90

If hymns have ever touched your heart or you appreciate the art of poetry in song, "Sweet Songs of Zion" might just sing to your soul. John Betjeman's affection for these melodic poems is palpable, gently guiding you through the history and emotional resonance that hymns carry for many. As you read, it's like listening to a favorite radio show that blends education with the soothing power of well-loved melodies.
100% Unofficial BTS: Everything You Need to Know About the Kings of K-Pop
Malcolm MacKenzie | Dean

100% Unofficial BTS: Everything You Need to Know About the Kings of K-Pop

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

If you're caught in the magnetic pull of BTS and K-pop, diving into this book will be like exploring a treasure trove of the band's secrets and achievements. It’s a backstage pass for ARMYs, illuminating the members’ journeys, talents, and the phenomenon that has taken the world by storm. This guide feeds your fandom with rich profiles and pictures, satisfying your curiosity and bringing you closer to your idols.
Sex Money Kiss: Family Jewels - Thryft
Gene Simmons | Phoenix Books, Inc.

Sex Money Kiss: Family Jewels

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

84% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone looking for inspiration and motivation to achieve success in life. Gene Simmons, the legendary rocker, shares his unconventional life philosophy and reveals how he achieved both wealth and happiness. With his unapologetic attitude and outside-the-box thinking, Simmons offers valuable insights and tips for anyone who wants to break free from societal norms and live life on their own terms. Get ready to be inspired and empowered to make your dreams a reality!
Taylor Swift: Unauthorised - The Whole Story
Chas Newkey-Burden | Harpercollins

Taylor Swift: Unauthorised - The Whole Story

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

70% off est. retail
If you're a "Swifty" or just fascinated by celebrity success stories, this book will feel like a backstage pass to Taylor Swift's life. It's not just a tale of fame, but a look at the authentic challenges and triumphs she faced. You'll uncover the real stories behind her songs and get a glimpse of what it takes to stay true to oneself in the spotlight.
As I Remember Them - Thryft
Galina von Meck | Dennis Dobson

As I Remember Them

$16.69 $3.90 77% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$16.69 $3.90 77% off

"As I Remember Them" offers a unique, intimate glimpse into the life and times surrounding one of the greatest composers, Tchaikovsky, through the eyes of his grandniece. If you're intrigued by personal stories that history often leaves untold, this book feels like uncovering a private treasure chest of cultural and familial insights. The connection to such iconic figures adds a layer of depth to the memoir that you, as a reader, will find both fascinating and enriching.
Leonard Bernstein - The Political Life Of An American Musician - Thryft
Barry Seldes | University Of California Press

Leonard Bernstein - The Political Life Of An American Musician

$11.90 $6.90 42% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$11.90 $6.90 42% off

88% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersections of art and politics, Barry Seldes's biography of Leonard Bernstein presents a compelling portrait that goes beyond his musical achievements. Seldes peels back the layers of Bernstein's public persona to reveal how his compositions and career were inextricably linked with his social and political values. It's an enlightening read that might deepen your appreciation for the man's work and his commitment to social change through music.
Playing for Time
Arthur Miller, Fania Fénelon, Marcelle Routier  | Nick Hern Books

Playing for Time

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

81% off est. retail
"Playing for Time" is a poignant choice for anyone interested in the human spirit's resilience under the most harrowing conditions. Arthur Miller's adaptation of Fania Fénelon's experiences offers an intimate look at how the power of art can prove to be a lifeline amidst the darkest atrocities. It's a testament to hope and solidarity in a place designed to strip away all humanity. A necessary, if heart-wrenching, read.
These Music Exams
Clara Taylor

These Music Exams

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$12.90

If you're feeling the pressure of music exams, you're not alone. Clara Taylor's "These Music Exams" might be just what you need to ease the tension. The book provides insight and tips for musicians at any level, offering a comforting perspective that blends humor with practical advice. Consider it your backstage pass to acing those nerve-wracking performances.
What Does This Button Do? : An Autobiography - Thryft

What Does This Button Do? : An Autobiography

$16.90 $3.90 77% off

$16.90 $3.90 77% off

91% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for fans of Bruce Dickinson and Iron Maiden. It offers a rare glimpse into the life of a true rock icon, showcasing Dickinson's immense talent as a singer and songwriter, as well as his many other passions and accomplishments such as being an airline captain, aviation entrepreneur, and even a world-class fencer. With his bold, honest, and humorous storytelling, Dickinson's autobiography is guaranteed to inspire and entertain readers, leaving them in awe of his incredible journey.
My Rights, My God
Robin Wells | Monarch Books

My Rights, My God

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

This book is a great read for those who feel the pull of a higher purpose outside of just obtaining wealth and material possessions. Through interviews with real-life missionaries, the book offers a rare insight into the joys and difficulties of dedicating one's life to serving others and achieving a higher calling. For readers who are searching for a meaningful direction to their life, this book provides a wealth of inspiration and encouragement.
Composer's World: Mozart
Wendy Thompson | Faber Music

Composer's World: Mozart

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

If you're curious about the man behind classics like "Eine kleine Nachtmusik," then "Composer's World: Mozart" will surely delight you. It's more than just a biography; it offers a visually engaging gateway to understand how Mozart's era shaped his music. Perfect for young readers and adults alike, this book intertwines history and melody on a rich, illustrative canvas.
Unscripted with Sarah Meier and Vicky Herrera - Thryft
Sarah Meier | Jaime Daez

Unscripted with Sarah Meier and Vicky Herrera

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

This book would be a good read for anyone seeking inspiration from real-life stories of success. Unscripted offers candid and unfiltered conversations with influential figures from various fields, providing valuable insights and lessons learned. It captures the essence of these conversations, allowing readers to delve into the minds of these inspiring individuals and learn from their journeys. It's a book that reminds us that success is not scripted, but rather a result of passion, hard work, and perseverance.
All for the Love of Music
John Schroeder | Troubador Publishing Ltd

All for the Love of Music

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

If you're fascinated by the evolution of the music industry and enjoy peeking behind the curtains, John Schroeder's memoir offers an intimate recount of the biz. From discovering talent to creating chart-topping hits, his experiences will resonate with anyone passionate about music's transformative power and the stories of those who sculpt it. This book doesn't just tell a story; it immerses you into the golden days of producing, promising nostalgia and insights in equal measure.
Love Lives of the Great Composers
Basil Howitt | Sound And Vision

Love Lives of the Great Composers

$19.90 $13.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.2

$19.90 $13.90 30% off

If you're enthralled by classical music's masters, "Love Lives of the Great Composers" offers a different tune, focusing on their personal rather than professional lives. Basil Howitt's revealing anecdotes add rich, often scandalous layers to figures you thought you knew, turning notes and compositions into tales of passion and heartbreak. Ideal for music enthusiasts craving a backstage pass to history's musical geniuses.
The Autobiography of Martin Kemp
Martin Kemp | Orion Paperbacks

The Autobiography of Martin Kemp

$14.84

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$14.84

Diving into Martin Kemp's autobiography, "True," is like a backstage pass into the highs and lows of a pop sensation turned actor. If you're fascinated by the intertwining of music, fame, crime, and resilience, this book offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a man who's been a part of iconic cultural moments. It's personal, reflective, and will resonate with anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of celebrity life, 80s music nostalgia, or the raw realities of showbiz.
The Beatles Treasures
Terry Burrows | Carlton Publishing

The Beatles Treasures

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$18.90

If you're a Beatles aficionado or a music history enthusiast, 'The Beatles Treasures' could be your next gem. Terry Burrows grants an insider's look into the band's evolution from scrappy beginnings to international stardom, complete with riveting anecdotes. It's almost like having a backstage pass to the most pivotal moments in rock 'n' roll history.
Broken Music: A Memoir
Sting | Simon & Schuster

Broken Music: A Memoir

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

"Broken Music" offers a glance behind the curtain of Sting's life, revealing his deep connection with music as both a refuge and a compass. It's a treat for music lovers, especially those who appreciate the intricate craft of songwriting and the transformative power of music. The narrative mirrors the patience and dedication of an artist committed to mastery, and inspires a similar patience in readers who are invited to uncover the layers of their own passions.
Martin T. Williams | Oxford University Press

Jazz Changes

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

If you've ever tapped your foot to a rhythm or been captivated by the soulful storytelling of a saxophone, "Jazz Changes" is your backstage pass to the jazz scene. Martin Williams's vibrant prose will transport you across decades of musical innovation, offering intimate glimpses into the lives of legends. It's more than a book; it's a timeless medley of the moments that have shaped jazz.
Offenbach – The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
Peter Gammond | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Offenbach – The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

If you're intrigued by the paradox of a composer whose work could simultaneously be seen as frivolous yet foundational, Offenbach's story is for you. Peter Gammond brings Offenbach's dichotomous life to the page with storytelling flair, blending his tuneful creations with his serious influence on the future of musical comedy. It shines a light on the life of a man whose work was adored by the very society he satirized, and whose legacy is ingrained in the fabric of musical theater. This illustrated biography could be a tuneful journey worth embarking on for anyone fascinated by music history or the complexities of artistic influence.
The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star
Nikki Sixx | Mtv Books

The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$12.90

"The Heroin Diaries" isn't just a window into the mind of Mötley Crüe's Nikki Sixx, it's a profound journey through the harrowing depths of addiction and the redemptive power of self-reinvention. If you're intrigued by the tumultuous world of rock 'n' roll and the human capacity for recovery, this unflinching narrative could leave you both shocked and inspired. It's a read that offers a visceral look at the highs and lows of a life lived on the edge.
Steven Curtis Chapman - Thryft
Melissa Riddle | Harvest House Pub

Steven Curtis Chapman

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

72% off est. retail
Steven Curtis Chapman is a must-read for anyone interested in the life of an incredibly talented musician. Melissa Riddle takes readers on a heartfelt journey through Chapman's life, providing insights into the experiences and people who influenced his music. With stunning full-color photos, this book is a great addition to any music lover's collection. Chapman's story of perseverance and dedication will inspire readers of all ages.
Pink Floyd: The Visual Documentary
Andy Mabbett, Barry Miles  | Omnibus Press

Pink Floyd: The Visual Documentary

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

If you're a Pink Floyd fan or a connoisseur of rock history, this visual documentary will strike the right chord. You'll delve into not just the band's tumultuous dynamics and prolific performances, but you'll also unearth rare photos and artifacts that illuminate their journey. This book promises to enhance your appreciation for the band's artistry, from Syd Barrett's early contributions to the post-Waters era.
My Dear Mother: Stormy, Boastful, and Tender Letters by Distinguished Sons--From Dostoevsky to Elvis
Holly Johnson, Karen Elizabeth Gordon  | Algonquin Books

My Dear Mother: Stormy, Boastful, and Tender Letters by Distinguished Sons--From Dostoevsky to Elvis

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Dive into the candid, emotional world of some of the most interesting figures in art and literature through "My Dear Mother." Reading this book is like peeking through a hidden door into the personal lives of icons like Dostoevsky and Elvis Presley. It's not just about the fame; it's about the tender, complex relationships they had with their mothers—something that's universally relatable and deeply human.
Presenting Celia Cruz
Alexis Rodriguez-Duarte | Clarkson Potter

Presenting Celia Cruz

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.67

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

89% off est. retail
If you're drawn to powerful musical biographies and want to immerse yourself in the vibrant legacy of Cuban culture, "Presenting Celia Cruz" is for you. Delving into this book will make you feel closer to the rhythm and soul of Celia Cruz's music and story. It's a colorful and inspiring read that resonates with anyone passionate about the transformative power of art and the indomitable spirit of a true performer.
Gleeful! : A Totally Unofficial Guide to the Hit TV Series Glee - Thryft
Amy Rickman | Villard

Gleeful! : A Totally Unofficial Guide to the Hit TV Series Glee

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

83% off est. retail
This book is a must-have for any true Glee fan. Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the show's creation, the talented cast, and the iconic musical numbers. Packed with trivia, biographies, and colorful photos, Gleeful! captures the essence of the beloved TV series and keeps you in tune with all the secrets, rumors, and anticipation for the upcoming seasons. Get ready to sing and dance along with your favorite Gleeks!
Ernest Hemingway
Anthony Burgess | Thames & Hudson

Ernest Hemingway

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

81% off est. retail
If you've ever been fascinated by the sheer boldness of Hemingway's prose or his adventurous life, Anthony Burgess's biography peels back the layers of this literary titan. It's a deep dive into the psyche of a man who sought to capture life's essence in sparse yet potent language. With Burgess's eloquent narrative, you're sure to gain a richer understanding of both Hemingway the writer and Hemingway the man.
Sir Arthur Bliss - The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
John Sugden | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Sir Arthur Bliss - The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$15.90

If you're intrigued by the fusion of history and music, this biography of Sir Arthur Bliss offers a rich portrait not just of the man, but of the era that shaped him. As much as it's about personal letters and recollections, it's also about the social canvas of the time, making it a compelling read for anyone who appreciates a deep dive into a composer's world within the context of their historical backdrop.
Pops: A Life of Louis Armstrong
Terry Teachout | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Pops: A Life of Louis Armstrong

$24.90 $10.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$24.90 $10.90 56% off

77% off est. retail
"Pops" offers a deep dive into the intriguing world of Louis Armstrong. It's beautifully detailed and serves as an intimate portrayal that goes beyond his music, giving insight into the life of a man who shaped an era. If you're a fan of jazz or history, this book is like hitting a rich seam of Armstrong's personal and professional world, depicted with the kind of nuance that comes from impeccable research.
Findings - Thryft

Findings

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

84% off est. retail
If you're captivated by the power of music and its creators, "Findings" will likely resonate with you deeply. It offers a rare opportunity to traverse the internal landscape of Leonard Bernstein, a towering figure in American classical music. His intimate notes and essays, paired with photographs, don't just tell but show the intensity of his genius. It's almost as if you can hear the music through his words.

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.