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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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Children of Cambodia's Killing Fields: Memoirs by Survivors
Dith Pran, Kim DePaul  | Silkworm Books Ltd.

Children of Cambodia's Killing Fields: Memoirs by Survivors

$28.19

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$28.19

This book is a heart-wrenching account of the Cambodian Genocide and its aftermath, as told by survivors who recount their experiences of unimaginable horror. It provides a chilling reminder of the atrocities that took place in Cambodia from 1975 to 1979, and serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Those interested in learning about the Cambodian Genocide and its impact on survivors would find this book highly insightful and informative.
Dragon Fighter: One Woman's Epic Struggle for Peace with China - Thryft
Rebiya Kadeer, Dalai Lama XIV, Alexandra Cavelius  | Kales Press

Dragon Fighter: One Woman's Epic Struggle for Peace with China

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

89% off est. retail
Imagine a life where your very existence demands heroic resilience—that's the essence of Rebiya Kadeer's story. This book isn't just a personal memoir; it's an eye-opener to the struggles of the Uyghur people. Her transformation from a housewife to an influential political figure is bound to inspire you, revealing the indomitable spirit of a woman who stands undeterred against formidable powers for her people's freedom.
Rivonia's Children Three Families and the Cost of Conscience in White South Africa - Thryft
Glenn Frankel | Farrar Straus & Giroux

Rivonia's Children Three Families and the Cost of Conscience in White South Africa

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.23

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

90% off est. retail
If the courage and sacrifice amid South Africa's darkest times intrigue you, "Rivonia's Children" will be a compelling read. Glenn Frankel delves deep into the personal lives and ethical struggles of families during apartheid, offering an intimate portrayal of resilience. It's not just history; it's human stories woven through the fabric of a painful past.
The Claws of the Dragon: Kang Sheng - The Evil Genius Behind Mao and His Legacy of Terror in People's China - Thryft
Robert Pack, John Byron  | Touchstone Books

The Claws of the Dragon: Kang Sheng - The Evil Genius Behind Mao and His Legacy of Terror in People's China

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

82% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the often veiled intricacies of historical political power plays, "The Claws of the Dragon" could provide you with a chilling deep dive into the shadowy figure of Kang Sheng. By highlighting the sinister aspects of Chinese politics during a tumultuous period, this book promises a gripping and eye-opening account that isn't just abstract history—it's a testament to human ambition and its darker consequences.
Port Chicago Mutiny - Thryft
Robert L. Allen | Harperpb

Port Chicago Mutiny

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

75% off est. retail
If you're drawn to untold narratives that intertwine history with themes of social justice, "Port Chicago Mutiny" is a compelling choice. It sheds light on a significant but often overlooked chapter of WWII history, highlighting the racial inequalities that precipitated a profound and controversial trial. This is an essential read for anyone interested in the complexities of civil rights within the military and the enduring fight for equality.
Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Owl Books (henry Holt)

Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

81% off est. retail
If you've ever wondered about the reality behind the low-wage struggle in the U.S., "Nickel and Dimed" will open your eyes. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just tell a story; she lives it, revealing the daunting challenges faced by many Americans in witty, yet poignant prose. Her journey is a powerful testimony to tenacity and resilience in the face of a system that often overlooks the most hardworking among us. This book serves as a stark reminder of the hidden human cost behind those everyday low prices.
The Wit and Wisdom of Dr Mahathir Mohamad
Mahathir Mohamad | Didier Millet

The Wit and Wisdom of Dr Mahathir Mohamad

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$10.90

60% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by impactful political figures, "The Wit And Wisdom Of Dr. Mahathir Mohamad" paints a vivid portrait of a man who steered Malaysia through transformative years. It offers a chance to dive into the thoughts of a leader whose frankness and strategic mind have shaped a nation's path, making it not just a read but a journey through the political and socioeconomic landscape of a burgeoning Asian power.
Odette
Jerrard Tickell | Headline Review

Odette

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

74% off est. retail
"Odette" offers more than a glimpse into a riveting wartime narrative. It's the real-life odyssey of one woman's indomitable spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. Readers who find strength in tales of human resilience and the complexities of clandestine operations will discover in Odette a soul-stirring account that resonates with courage and the enduring human capacity for hope.
Provoked: The Story of Kiranjit Ahluwalia
New
Kiranjit Ahluwalia, Rahila Gupta  | Harpercollins

Provoked: The Story of Kiranjit Ahluwalia

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$11.90

If you've ever felt inspired by stories of personal transformation and resilience, "Provoked" could resonate deeply with you. It's not just a tale about the triumph over adversity; it's an intimate glimpse into Kiranjit Ahluwalia’s life and her metamorphosis from a victim of domestic abuse to a symbol of strength and hope. The emotional depth and social commentary it offers could make you reflect on the legal system, cultural challenges, and the power of the human spirit to overcome unimaginable trials.
Collected Poems, 1947-1985 - Penguin Twentieth-Century Classics
New
Allen Ginsberg | Penguin

Collected Poems, 1947-1985 - Penguin Twentieth-Century Classics

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.59

$8.90

If you're drawn to the beat generation's raw, unfiltered voice, Allen Ginsberg's "Collected Poems, 1947-1985" is like a time capsule of cultural revolution. Reading this collection is akin to witnessing the evolution of a poet who channels the zeitgeist of several decades into a potent, personal art form. It's an immersive experience—both a historical document and a testament to Ginsberg's enduring literary prowess.
Natan Sharansky: Freedom Fighter for Soviet Jews
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Blake Hoena, Daniele Dickmann  | Kar-ben Publishing ®

Natan Sharansky: Freedom Fighter for Soviet Jews

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$8.90

49% off est. retail
If you're interested in stories of resilience and the power of the human spirit, "Natan Sharansky: Freedom Fighter for Soviet Jews" could inspire you. This graphic novel isn't just a biography; it's an engaging visual journey through Sharansky's struggle for the right to live freely and embrace his Jewish identity. It's a captivating read for anyone fascinated by history, human rights, or the enduring strength of one man against an oppressive regime.
The Devil Couldn't Break Me
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Laura Aslan | Acorn Books

The Devil Couldn't Break Me

$19.90

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$19.90

If you're drawn to stories of unyielding human spirit, "The Devil Couldn't Break Me" could resonate deeply with you. It's the kind of book that showcases the strength of the human will, set against a backdrop of extreme hardship. Readers often find such narratives inspiring, grounding, and a testament to what we're capable of enduring.
The World of Mr Selfridge: The Glamour and Romance
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Alison Maloney | Simon & Schuster Uk

The World of Mr Selfridge: The Glamour and Romance

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

88% off est. retail
If you've ever been fascinated by the origins of successful department stores and how they shaped consumer culture, "The World of Mr Selfridge" is for you. It captures the life of Harry Gordon Selfridge and the pioneering methods he used to revolutionize shopping, imbued with a sense of glamour and romance that will transport you to another era. This book reflects not just a biography but an inspirational tale of innovation and persistence.
What We're Told Not to Talk About (But We're Going to Anyway) : Women's Voices from East London to Ethiopia
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Nimko Ali | Viking

What We're Told Not to Talk About (But We're Going to Anyway) : Women's Voices from East London to Ethiopia

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

64% off est. retail
This book isn’t just reading; it’s a revelation and a revolution wrapped in paper. Nimko Ali invites you into an intimate circle where women from diverse backgrounds share what's often left unsaid. It's raw, it's eye-opening, and it could be just the catalyst you need to start your own conversations without whispers. If you're eager for a fearless dive into the real narratives that shape women’s lives, this book won't just meet your expectations—it'll voice the questions you didn't even know you had.
Siegfried Sassoon : A Biography - Thryft
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Max Egremont | Picador

Siegfried Sassoon : A Biography

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

87% off est. retail
If the blend of heroism, dissent, and literary prowess fascinates you, this biography will enrich your understanding of a complex man who became an icon of World War I. Sassoon was a decorated soldier who turned into a vocal critic of the conflict, and his life story unfolds like a novel penned by history itself. This book is perfect if you admire wartime poetry or are intrigued by the personal tales behind historical figures.
Coming to England - Thryft
Sold out
Floella Benjamin | Macmillan Children's Books

Coming to England

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

70% off est. retail
"Coming to England" is for you if you're inspired by real-life stories of overcoming challenges and adapting to new environments. Floella's journey from Trinidad to England is not just a piece of history; it's a vivid, personal narrative that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit. Her determination to succeed against the odds is as relevant today as it was then, making her memoir an empowering read that stays with you.
Italo Calvino : Letters, 1941-1985 - Updated Edition - Thryft
Sold out
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.
12 Years a Slave (Movie Tie-In) - Thryft
Sold out
Henry Louis Gates Jr., Ira Berlin, Solomon Northup  | Penguin Books

12 Years a Slave (Movie Tie-In)

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

81% off est. retail
"12 Years a Slave" isn't just a recount of a free man's forced descent into the abyss of slavery; it’s a masterful and poignant narrative that offers a rare and educated perspective, bridging the gap between freed people and slaves. Imagine feeling Solomon Northup's piercing struggle against dehumanization while grasping the quintessence of courage in adversity. This book doesn’t just paint a picture of history; it immerses you in the raw truth of human strength and resilience.
Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books
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Azar Nafisi | Random House Trade Paperbacks

Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90

64% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories where literature intersects with real lives under oppressive regimes, "Reading Lolita in Tehran" will strike a chord. Azar Nafisi weaves the lives of her students with the banned Western classics they discuss, portraying the act of reading as a form of rebellion. It's a remarkable blend of literary analysis and a personal stance against censorship, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone who loves books and values freedom of expression.
The Daughters Of Kobani - A Story Of Rebellion, Courage, And Justice - Thryft
Sold out
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.
I Have a Dream : Writings and Speeches That Changed the World - Thryft
Sold out
James Melvin Washington, Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King  | Harperone

I Have a Dream : Writings and Speeches That Changed the World

$6.21

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$6.21

73% off est. retail
Recommendation: - If you're looking to be inspired and motivated, "I Have a Dream: Writings and Speeches That Changed the World" is a must-read. This book captures the powerful words of Martin Luther King Jr., a true visionary and leader in the fight for civil rights. His speeches continue to resonate today, reminding us of the importance of equality and justice. Prepare to be moved by his timeless messages that have shaped history and inspired generations.
What Happened
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Hillary Rodham Clinton | Simon & Schuster

What Happened

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

88% off est. retail
What Happened is a must-read for those interested in the behind-the-scenes of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, as it offers a compelling account of Hillary Clinton's personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings. The book also sheds light on the issues of sexism and foreign interference in politics, making it a relevant and thought-provoking read for anyone concerned about the future of democracy.
Everybody Matters : A Memoir - Thryft
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Mary Robinson | Hodder & Stoughton

Everybody Matters : A Memoir

$16.74

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$16.74

58% off est. retail
Everybody Matters is an inspirational memoir of Mary Robinson's journey as an activist, lawyer, and politician who worked tirelessly for human rights and social justice. The book is a must-read for those seeking insights into the lives of pioneers and how they overcame obstacles to achieve their goals. Mary Robinson demonstrates her deep conviction and modest pride in guiding her life, and she inspires others to change the world for the better.
Teacher - Thryft
Sold out
Sylvia Ashton-Warner | Touchstone

Teacher

$7.27

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$7.27

74% off est. retail
Teacher could be a good read for those interested in unique approaches to teaching and inspiring individuality in students. Sylvia Ashton-Warner's diary-style book shows her innovative method of using words as prized possessions to captivate students, which is particularly relevant for socially disadvantaged and non-English-speaking students. Reviews highlight the impact her method had on students, making this book a must-read for educators who want to learn new techniques to engage their students.
Bill Clinton : An American Journey - Thryft
Sold out
Nigel Hamilton | Century

Bill Clinton : An American Journey

$12.62

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$12.62

72% off est. retail
This book would appeal to readers who are interested in the personal and political life of Bill Clinton, and how they evolved together. The book offers insights into the sexual politics of the time and its impact on Clinton's life. The book also covers Clinton's rise to power and his ultimate election as President. Readers would appreciate the detailed account of his life, including his time at Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar. Overall, this book provides a thorough examination of Bill Clinton's journey, making it a good read for anyone interested in politics and personal life of historical figures.
Radhika's Story: Surviving Human Trafficking - Thryft
Sold out

Radhika's Story: Surviving Human Trafficking

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$3.88

Recommended for readers interested in understanding the reality of modern slavery and its impact on its victims. Radhika's Story provides a raw, honest account of a survivor's journey, including the complexity of trauma and the difficulty in trusting others. This book sheds light on the urgent need for systemic change to prevent human trafficking and protect the vulnerable.
My Dark Places - Thryft
Sold out
James Ellroy | Vintage

My Dark Places

$7.98 $5.59 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$7.98 $5.59 30% off

79% off est. retail
My Dark Places is a haunting, true crime story that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. James Ellroy's vivid prose is as captivating as it is painful, as he delves deep into the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles in search of a killer--and closure for his mother's murder. The most remarkable part of the book is Ellroy's honest and raw exploration of his own emotions and how his mother's death influenced his life. This book is for fans of true crime and memoirs who are not afraid to confront the darkest parts of humanity and themselves.
Long Walk To Freedom : Film Tie In - Thryft
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Nelson Mandela | Abacus

Long Walk To Freedom : Film Tie In

$11.22 $7.85 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$11.22 $7.85 30% off

71% off est. retail
Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela is a must-read for those seeking inspiration and understanding of the triumph of human spirit against hardship and oppression. It showcases Mandela's unwavering commitment to justice, dignity, and freedom, making it a timeless classic for all generations. The memoirs recount his journey from a young boy in a South African village to becoming the first democratically elected black president of the country. It is an enthralling, emotive, and uplifting account of the experiences that helped shape Mandela's destiny and of the indomitable human spirit, illuminating the path to triumph over immense adversity.
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.

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.