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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 Utopians: Six Attempts to Build the Perfect Society
Anna Neima | Picador

The Utopians: Six Attempts to Build the Perfect Society

$23.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$23.90

47% off est. retail
If you've ever daydreamed about a perfect society, "The Utopians" might just be the reality check that fascinates you. Anna Neima takes you on a historical journey through the successes and, more intriguingly, the failures of six utopian communities. This book isn't just about the past; it's a mirror to our own aspirations and the complex challenges of collective living.
The Fall of Boris Johnson: The Full Story - Thryft
Sebastian Payne | Macmillan Uk

The Fall of Boris Johnson: The Full Story

$16.90 $6.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$16.90 $6.90 59% off

76% off est. retail
Whether you're a politico or just curious about the machinations within British politics, "The Fall of Boris Johnson: The Full Story" could quench that thirst. Sebastian Payne offers an intimate, fly-on-the-wall perspective on the cascade of missteps leading to a leader's undoing. Imagine having a backstage pass to one of the most pivotal political dramas in recent UK history—this book is that pass.
Nothing But the Truth: Stories of Crime, Guilt and the Loss of Innocence
The Secret Barrister | Panmacmillan Uk

Nothing But the Truth: Stories of Crime, Guilt and the Loss of Innocence

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

61% off est. retail
If you've ever been intrigued by the mystique of the courtroom and the barristers who navigate its complexities, "Nothing but the Truth" is a must-read. The Secret Barrister pulls back the curtain to reveal the gruelling reality of becoming a barrister, with a candid look at the personal transformation that comes with grappling with a flawed justice system. Entertaining and eye-opening, this book will likely change the way you think about law and justice.
Do Right and Fear No One: A Life Dedicated to Fighting for Justice
Leslie Thomas QC | Simon & Schuster Uk

Do Right and Fear No One: A Life Dedicated to Fighting for Justice

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$9.90

If you're drawn to the stories of individuals who've dedicated their lives to upholding justice and representing the underdog, this could be your next great read. Leslie Thomas QC's unwavering commitment to his cause is as inspirational as it is eye-opening. It gives a rare insight into the personal sacrifices made by those who fight on the front lines of legal battles.
Dongri to Dubai : Six Decades of the Mumbai Mafia - Thryft
Vikram Chandra, S. Hussain Zaidi  | Roli Books

Dongri to Dubai: Six Decades of Mumbai Mafia

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the inner workings of organized crime and the dark allure of mafia tales, "Dongri to Dubai" might be an irresistible read for you. Zaidi offers a rare look at Mumbai's menacing underbelly with a detailed account of Dawood Ibrahim's rise from a local thug to a global don. This narrative doesn't just chronicle crime; it delves into the culture and politics of the Indian mafia, making it a richly textured portrayal of power dynamics in India's criminal history.
A Better India: A Better World - Thryft
N.R. Narayana Murthy | Penguin Global

A Better India: A Better World

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$5.90

If you're intrigued by the socio-economic transformation of nations, "A Better India: A Better World" could resonate with your interests deeply. N.R. Narayana Murthy, a celebrated visionary in India's tech revolution, extends his insights into societal betterment. His pragmatic approach, emphasizing core values and leadership, reflects in how he steered Infosys to success—a narrative that's both inspiring and instructive if you're looking to understand the mechanics of nurturing a nation towards its potential.
Nick Clegg - Thryft
Chris Bowers | Biteback Publishing

Nick Clegg

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.37

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

85% off est. retail
This book is a great read for those interested in modern British politics, particularly the rise and fall of one of its most talked-about figures. Through this book, readers will gain insight into Nick Clegg's personality, beliefs, and motivations, as well as his political journey from an obscure politician to the Deputy Prime Minister of the UK. Bowers' vivid writing style and extensive research make this book an engaging and informative read for anyone interested in politics.
Women on board making a real difference - Thryft
Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) | Singapore Institute Of Directors

Women on board making a real difference

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Reasons to read: - This book showcases the real-life experiences of women who have made a difference in their respective fields. It provides a valuable insight into the challenges they faced and the strategies they employed to overcome them. - By highlighting the achievements and contributions of women in leadership positions, this book serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for aspiring female leaders. - It offers a unique perspective on the importance of gender diversity in the corporate world and the positive impact it can have on businesses. - Whether you are a woman looking for role models or a professional with an interest in promoting equality and diversity, this book is a must-read.
Courage Is Contagious: Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things to Change the Face of America
John Kasich | Doubleday

Courage Is Contagious: Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things to Change the Face of America

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$3.90

88% off est. retail
This book could be a great read for anyone looking for inspiration from real-life stories of people who have made a difference in their community. It showcases individuals who have brought positive changes to society without the aid of the government. John Kasich provides unique insight into the lives of these individuals and their contributions, making this a refreshing read on American politics.
People - Private Lives
The Editors of People Weekly Magazine | Oxmoor House

People - Private Lives

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

If the glossy pages of celebrity tales fascinate you, 'People - Private Lives' promises a closer look behind the fame. It's like a VIP pass to the quieter, more personal spaces of the stars you follow. This book serves as a time capsule from 1991, offering nostalgia and a sense of intimacy with pop culture icons.
Statecraft: Strategies for a Changing World - Thryft

Statecraft: Strategies for a Changing World

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If politics and history intrigue you, Thatcher's "Statecraft" could be an enriching read. Her no-nonsense perspective offers an incisive look into the mind of a formidable politician at the turn of the millennium. Amidst the cacophony of spin and soundbites, her clarity and conviction stand out, potentially offering lessons on leadership and resolve.
Disrupt - Filipina Women: Proud. Loud. Leading Without A Doubt - Thryft

Disrupt - Filipina Women: Proud. Loud. Leading Without A Doubt

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

If you're looking to be inspired by the diverse achievements and experiences of Filipina women around the world, "Disrupt" is a must-read. The book offers powerful insights into how these leaders navigate the intersections of identity, migration, gender, and leadership. It's not just a collection of stories but a blueprint for anyone aspiring to make an impact in their field. The synthesis of recommendations also provides tangible advice for future trailblazers.
America Attacked : Terrorists Declare War on America - Thryft
Gabriel Beck, Sara Jess, R. Joseph  | University Pr

America Attacked : Terrorists Declare War on America

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 2.4

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

80% off est. retail
Recommendation: This book offers a thorough and detailed account of the events of September 11th, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the motives of the terrorists responsible for the attack. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the impact of this tragedy on American society and culture. Readers will find the book engaging, informative and insightful.
A Refugee's Journey from Iran - Leaving My Homeland
Heather C. Hudak | Crabtree Pub Co

A Refugee's Journey from Iran - Leaving My Homeland

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

If you're looking to step into the shoes of those forced to flee their home, "A Refugee's Journey from Iran" offers a window into the challenges and hopes that shape a refugee's experience. It's a poignant story that balances the harsh realities with the resilience of the human spirit, offering both empathy and understanding without shying away from the difficult truths. This book will leave you moved and possibly more informed about an incredibly relevant social issue.
Paradise Is Closing Down and Other Plays
Pieter-Dirk Uys | Penguin Books Ltd

Paradise Is Closing Down and Other Plays

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're someone who appreciates theater that isn't just for entertainment but also for its poignant commentary, "Paradise Is Closing Down and Other Plays" might be your cup of tea. These plays by Pieter-Dirk Uys use satire to dissect and expose the absurdities of Apartheid, offering both sharp wit and sobering insights that remain relevant today. It's a powerful read that combines humor with a critical examination of social injustice.
Heart to Heart with Asian Leaders: Exclusive Interviews on Crisis, Comebacks & Character
Alvin Foo, John Ng  | Wspc

Heart to Heart with Asian Leaders: Exclusive Interviews on Crisis, Comebacks & Character

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.8

$12.90

If you're intrigued by leadership and personal growth, particularly within the context of Asia's dynamic landscape, this book is like having a mentor in your hands. It doesn't just touch on success; it delves into the trials and tribulations that shape influential figures. Reading about how these leaders have navigated crises and engineered comebacks could provide you with a fresh perspective on overcoming your own challenges.
去问李光耀 - 一代总理对中国, 美国和全世界的深思
艾利．韋恩, 格雷厄姆．艾利森, 羅伯特．布萊克維爾  | 時報出版

去问李光耀 - 一代总理对中国, 美国和全世界的深思

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$9.90

If you're intrigued by geopolitics and leadership, Lee Kuan Yew's reflections in "去问李光耀" offer a treasure trove of wisdom. His astute observations and strategic insights into the global roles of China and the United States could broaden your understanding of international affairs, all from a man who transformed a nation.
Beyond 9/11: Portraits of Resilience
Marco Grob | Time

Beyond 9/11: Portraits of Resilience

$30.90

Goodreads rating: 4.57

$30.90

As you reflect on the impact of 9/11, "Beyond 9/11: Portraits of Resilience" offers an immersive, emotional dive into the personal accounts that defined a decade. The raw, candid interviews paired with evocative images help to humanize the historical event and highlight the perseverance of the human spirit that emerged from the smoke and debris. It's more than a historical recap; it's a powerful narrative of loss and hope that resonates deeply.
The Birthday Book: Narratives, Undiscovered and Underway - Thryft
Naidu, Vieshaalan, Maniam, Aaron, Cheryl Chung  | Pagesetters Services

The Birthday Book 2019: Narratives Undiscovered and Underway

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$11.90

If you're intrigued by the blend of personal storytelling and broader social reflection, 'The Birthday Book 2019' is for you. It's like a mosaic of Singapore itself, with each essay offering a unique piece that when put together, reveals a complex and fascinating picture. Whether you're from Singapore or curious about its tapestry of stories, this book is a thought-provoking journey through individual lives and shared dreams.
The World's Greatest Royal Scandals - Thryft
Nigel Cawthorne | Bounty Books

The World's Greatest Royal Scandals

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.13

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

This book is a gripping collection of true royal scandals that have captured the attention of the world. Dive into the lives of monarchs and uncover the hidden stories of intrigue, betrayal, and scandal that have shaped history. With compelling narratives and juicy details, this book will keep you hooked from start to finish. So, if you're fascinated by the secrets and drama of royalty, this is a must-read for you. Get ready to uncover the scandalous side of the crown!
Gustavo Cisneros, The Pioneer - Thryft
Carlos Fuentes, Edith Grossman, Pablo Bachelet  | Planeta Publishing

Gustavo Cisneros, The Pioneer

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

88% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the minds behind major business transformations, "Gustavo Cisneros, The Pioneer" could offer you a compelling insight. Pablo Bachelet's work isn't just a biography; it's a journey through the risks and innovations that shaped modern Latin American business. You'll get a front-row seat to the strategic decisions and bold moves, including the remarkable story of trumping Pepsi with Coke, which altered corporate landscapes. It's a masterclass in entrepreneurship, painted through the life of a man whose vision extended beyond borders to capture the burgeoning U.S. Hispanic market. This book might just change the way you think about business, media, and leadership.
The Way Things Ought to Be
Rush Limbaugh | Pocket Books

The Way Things Ought to Be

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

86% off est. retail
Dive into "The Way Things Ought to Be" if Rush Limbaugh's unmistakable, conservative voice resonates with you, or if you're simply curious about the thoughts and philosophies that powered one of radio's most formidable figures. This book isn't just about political positions; it's a journey through Limbaugh's influential anecdotes, wrapped in his characteristic humor. Whether you're a supporter looking to echo his sentiments or a critic seeking to understand the other side, this book has a way of gripping your attention.
Last Watch of the Night Essays Too Personal and Otherwise - Thryft
Paul Monette | Abacus

Last Watch of the Night Essays Too Personal and Otherwise

$18.90 $3.90 79% off

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$18.90 $3.90 79% off

82% off est. retail
If you're seeking profound, personal insights mixed with broader societal reflection, "Last Watch of the Night" could captivate you. Monette's writing, shaped by his own experiences as a gay man during the AIDS epidemic, intertwines the deeply personal with the universal. The essays offer a raw and unflinching look into struggles and hope, giving a voice to a community's fight for dignity and recognition. This could be more than just a read; it could be an emotional journey and a historical witness.
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.
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.
Prince Philip 1921-2021 A Celebration
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Charles III, Sally Goodsir  | Royal Collection Trust

Prince Philip 1921-2021 A Celebration

$12.90 $4.90 62% off

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$12.90 $4.90 62% off

84% off est. retail
If you've been intrigued by the man beside the Queen, this book takes you beyond the public gaze. It's a respectful and intimate portrait filled with private archives and first-time-revealed photographs, showcasing not just a royal but a devoted individual who served his nation, loved sport, and championed various causes. It's a piece of history and a tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh's century-long legacy.
La Prisonniere - Twenty Years In A Desert Goal - Thryft
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Malika Oufkir, Michèle Fitoussi  | Bantam

La Prisonniere - Twenty Years In A Desert Goal

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in personal narratives of strength and survival. Malika Oufkir's story of spending twenty years in a desert prison is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Her ability to keep her family's spirits high through storytelling is a testament to the power of the human spirit. This book will leave you in awe of the resilience and determination of the Oufkir family, reminding us all of the strength we possess within ourselves.
Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen - Thryft
Sold out
Jose Antonio Vargas | Dey Street Books

Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$6.34

62% off est. retail
This powerful memoir by Jose Antonio Vargas sheds light on the hidden struggles of undocumented immigrants in America. Through his personal experiences, Vargas captures the heartbreaking reality of living in constant fear and the resilience it takes to navigate a society that considers you an outsider. With raw honesty and vulnerability, he invites readers to question their own perceptions and understand the true meaning of home. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to empathize with the undocumented immigrant experience and advocate for change.
JOURNEYS: TAMILS IN SINGAPORE - Thryft
Sold out
Murugaian Nirmala | Straits Times Press

JOURNEYS: TAMILS IN SINGAPORE

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$6.34

79% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in delving deep into the rich history and heritage of the Tamil community in Singapore. With a perfect blend of historical accounts, personal anecdotes, and captivating descriptions, JOURNEYS: TAMILES IN SINGAPORE takes you on an immersive journey through the arrival, growth, and social and political contributions of the Tamils in Singapore. The inclusion of rare photographs adds a visual delight to the narrative, making it a truly enriching and enlightening read.
A Wicked Company - The Forgotten Radicalism Of The European Enlightenment - Thryft
Sold out
Philipp Blom | Basic Books

A Wicked Company - The Forgotten Radicalism Of The European Enlightenment

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$3.88

92% off est. retail
Recommendation: - This book is a fascinating journey into the forgotten radicalism of the European Enlightenment. Blom skillfully brings together a group of brilliant minds who challenged the status quo and sparked a revolution of ideas. With atheism, passion, and reason as their driving forces, they forged a new path in philosophy and society. A Wicked Company is a must-read for those curious about the intellectual foundations that shaped our modern world.
Mike Bloomberg : Money, Power, Politics - Thryft
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Joyce Purnick | Publicaffairs

Mike Bloomberg : Money, Power, Politics

$10.33 $7.23 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.52

$10.33 $7.23 30% off

82% off est. retail
This book would be a great read for those interested in the life of an unconventional businessman. It offers a unique perspective on how Mike Bloomberg's problem-solving abilities and unconventional approach led him to great success. The book highlights his rise from a childhood in the suburbs of Boston to becoming a self-made billionaire through his creation of Bloomberg L.P. It also delves deep into his successful mayoral career and controversial campaign for a third term. Overall, this book is a great read for those wanting to gain insight into the life of an individual who forged his way through his abilities rather than societal norms.
The Secret Barrister : Stories of the Law and How It's Broken - Thryft
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The Secret Barrister | Picador Uk

The Secret Barrister : Stories of the Law and How It's Broken

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$8.26

51% off est. retail
An anonymous barrister offers a shocking, darkly comic and very moving journey through the legal system – and explains how it's failing all of us.The Sunday Times number one bestseller.Winner of the Books are My Bag Non-Fiction Award.Shortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year.Shortlisted for Specsavers Non-Fiction Book of the Year.You may not wish to think about it, but one day you or someone you love will almost certainly appear in a criminal courtroom. You might be a juror, a victim, a witness or – perhaps through no fault of your own – a defendant. Whatever your role, you’d expect a fair trial.I’m a barrister. I work in the criminal justice system, and every day I see how fairness is not guaranteed. Too often the system fails those it is meant to protect. The innocent are wronged and the guilty allowed to walk free.In The Secret Stories of the Law and How It's Broken I want to share some stories from my daily life to show you how the system is broken, who broke it and why we should start caring before it’s too late.A Sunday Times top ten bestseller for twenty-four weeks.‘Eye-opening, funny and horrifying’ – Observer‘Everyone who has any interest in public life should read it’ – Daily Mail

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.