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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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Rebels in White Gloves: Coming of Age with Hillary's Class--Wellesley '69 - Thryft
Miriam Horn | Anchor

Rebels in White Gloves: Coming of Age with Hillary's Class--Wellesley '69

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

86% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of personal evolution and seismic cultural shifts, "Rebels in White Gloves" promises an intimate exploration. It narrates the transformative journey of Hillary Clinton's class, encapsulating the pivotal moments that redefined norms for women in America during a time of revolution – ambitions, ideologies, and the wrestle for identity amidst societal turbulence. This book resonates the spirit of change and the making of modern womanhood.
100 Inspiring Rafflesians, 1823-2003
Guan Heng Tan | World Scientific Publishing Company

100 Inspiring Rafflesians, 1823-2003

$32.90 $25.90 21% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$32.90 $25.90 21% off

66% off est. retail
If you're someone who finds inspiration in the achievements and stories of past scholars, "100 Inspiring Rafflesians, 1823-2003" might be just what you need. The book is a wellspring of motivation, offering a glimpse into the lives of individuals who've walked the corridors of a prestigious institution, leaving behind legacies that continue to shape futures. It's educational, thought-provoking, and a perfect addition to your bookshelf if you appreciate history meshed with the power of personal triumph.
100 Inspiring Rafflesians, 1823-2003
Guan Heng Tan | Wspc

100 Inspiring Rafflesians, 1823-2003

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$12.90

If you're fascinated by how history shapes leaders and visionaries, "100 Inspiring Rafflesians, 1823-2003" could resonate with you. It offers a sweeping exploration of individuals who have shaped the ethos of a prestigious institution over 180 years. Perfect for those who draw motivation from the past triumphs and trials of influential figures.
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.
Passages: Stories of Unspoken Journeys
Yong Shu Hoong | Ethos Books

Passages: Stories of Unspoken Journeys

$11.43

Goodreads rating: 2.82

$11.43

If you appreciate profound narratives that illuminate the often overlooked aspects of society, "Passages: Stories of Unspoken Journeys" could resonate with you deeply. The book offers a rare vista into the lives of those on the margins in Singapore, conveyed through a prism of empathy and understanding by local writers. It's not just a collection of stories; it's a bridge to the resilience and beauty found in the human spirit, even amidst struggle.
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.
Operation Desert Light : Standing Up for Those Caught in the Middle East Crossfire - Thryft
Brother Andrew, Al Janssen  | Revell

Operation Desert Light : Standing Up for Those Caught in the Middle East Crossfire

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

83% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the interplay of religion and politics or have a keen interest in Pentecostal movements, this might be your next engrossing read. Brother Andrew dives into complex theological differences, and his findings could offer some thought-provoking insights about the dynamics within modern Christianity. It's especially meaningful if you appreciate critical examinations of religious practices against foundational texts.
Dream: The Words and Inspiration of Martin Luther King, Jr. - Me We
Desmond Tutu, Martin Luther King Jr.  | Blue Mountain Arts

Dream: The Words and Inspiration of Martin Luther King, Jr. - Me We

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$12.90

If you’re moved by the power of words that have shaped history, "Dream - The Words and Inspiration of Martin Luther King, Jr. - Me We," will resonate with you. This collection captures the essence of King's wisdom and his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. It’s a stirring reminder of the impact one voice can have on the world.
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.
The Times of Their Lives - Thryft
Patricia Scott Deetz, James Deetz  | W. H. Freeman

The Times of Their Lives

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

90% off est. retail
"The Times of Their Lives" brings an unexpected vibrancy to the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony, shattering the monochrome myth we've all been taught. It delves deeply into the daily lives, struggles, and even scandals of these early settlers through tangible artifacts and personal narratives. If you've ever been curious about the authentic human stories behind the Thanksgiving legends, this meticulously researched book promises to enrich your understanding with its fresh and lively perspective.
Love Of Blood - The True Story Of Notorious Serial Killer Joanne Dennehy - Thryft
Christopher Berry-Dee | John Blake

Love Of Blood - The True Story Of Notorious Serial Killer Joanne Dennehy

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.32

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

75% off est. retail
Love of Blood is not for the faint of heart. The book offers a captivating account of a chilling murder case that shook the UK. Christopher Berry-Dee's detailed description of Joanne Dennehy and her heinous acts would leave readers with goosebumps. If you're a true-crime enthusiast looking for a unique and disturbing read, Love of Blood is the book for you.
Collected Poems, 1947-1985 - Penguin Twentieth-Century Classics
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.
Benjamin Banneker - Colonial Leaders - Thryft
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Bonnie Hinman | Chelsea House Pub

Benjamin Banneker - Colonial Leaders

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

88% off est. retail
Benjamin Banneker's story is incredibly inspiring. His ability to overcome the constraints of his time and teach himself complex subjects like mathematics and astronomy speaks to a fierce intellect and determination. If you're interested in the unsung heroes of American history or have a passion for stories of self-education and significant contribution despite adversity, this book will be a valuable addition to your library.
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
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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
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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.
The Daughters Of Kobani - A Story Of Rebellion, Courage, And Justice - Thryft
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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
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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.
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.
Radhika's Story: Surviving Human Trafficking - Thryft
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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
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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.