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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 Proper Study of Mankind: An Anthology of Essays
Andrew Marr, Isaiah Berlin  | Vintage

The Proper Study of Mankind: An Anthology of Essays

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$12.90

If you have a deep appreciation for the thinkers who've shaped intellectual history, you'll find Isaiah Berlin's anthology enriching. Berlin's writing is accessible, tying complex theories to the personalities behind them, which makes for a lively and enlightening read. This collection is particularly relevant for anyone interested in how historical ideas reflect in current issues, offering wisdom that feels applicable today.
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis
J.D. Vance | William Collins

Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$13.90

"Hillbilly Elegy" might resonate with you if you're intrigued by personal stories that also shed light on larger societal issues. J.D. Vance's journey from a struggling Rust Belt town to the halls of Yale Law School offers a raw, often poignant look into the lives of the white working class. It's both an intimate memoir and a reflection on American society that could offer a new perspective on the challenges faced by a significant part of the population.
The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed the World
Michael Lewis | Penguin Books Ltd

The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed the World

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$8.90

58% off est. retail
If you're enthralled by the human mind and how our decisions can be influenced by unconscious biases, "The Undoing Project" offers an intellectual adventure. Lewis delves into the lives and work of two psychologists, Amos Tversky and Daniel Kahneman, whose ground-breaking theories forever changed our understanding of human judgment. It's a story about friendship, collaboration, and the transformative power of ideas that's as emotional as it is thought-provoking.
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 Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds
New
Michael Lewis | W. W. Norton & Company

The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds

$21.90 $14.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$21.90 $14.90 32% off

63% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone who is curious about how the human mind works and wants to delve into the world of decision-making. Michael Lewis vividly recounts the groundbreaking work of Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, whose collaboration in the field of behavioral economics reshaped our understanding of reality. Through their extraordinary lives and research, this book offers a captivating exploration of the power of intuition, the limitations of human judgment, and the potential of algorithms to shape our lives. Get ready to have your mind blown and gain new insights into the workings of your own mind.
Dishonesty Is the Second-Best Policy and Other Rules to Live By
David Mitchell | Guardian Faber Publishing

Dishonesty Is the Second-Best Policy and Other Rules to Live By

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$8.90

If you find yourself shaking your head at today's headlines with a mix of disbelief and a craving for clever wit, David Mitchell's "Dishonesty Is the Second-Best Policy" might be your perfect companion. It offers a blend of humor and insight that can turn the dreariest current events into something to chuckle about. Consider it a dose of intelligent company and laughter in a world that often seems to have lost the plot.
Why We Kneel, How We Rise
Usain Bolt, Michael Holding, Ed Hawkins  | Simon & Schuster Uk

Why We Kneel, How We Rise

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

64% off est. retail
Michael Holding's insights into racism interwoven with personal accounts from world-class athletes make this an eye-opener. It's not just about the challenges; it also offers a pathway toward understanding and societal transformation through sports. This book is a strong call to action for anyone ready to confront societal injustices and learn through the lens of athletics.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Holt Paperbacks

Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

79% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by real-life explorations of the challenges faced by low-wage workers, "Nickel and Dimed" could deeply resonate with you. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just narrate; she immerses herself in the struggle, offering a raw and compelling firsthand account that could change the way you see the service industry and the economy.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America
Barbara Ehrenreich | Picador

Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$3.90

"Nickel and Dimed" offers more than just an eye-opening look into the struggle of low-wage workers; it's a deep dive into the reality of economic survival. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just observe, she gets her hands dirty, and her firsthand experiences bring an authenticity that's both enlightening and deeply humanizing. If you want to understand the flip side of American prosperity and the lives of the people who serve your meals, clean your offices, and ring up your purchases, this book is a profoundly compelling start.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Picador

Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

85% off est. retail
Imagine walking miles in shoes that don't fit. That's what Barbara Ehrenreich does in "Nickel and Dimed," but with jobs that chafe just as much. When she dives into the world of low-wage labor, you're right there with her, feeling the pain and fatigue that come from trying to make ends meet. It's an authentic journey that might change how you see every service worker you meet.
The Naysayer's Book Club: 26 Singaporeans You Need to Know
New
Simon Paul Vincent | Epigram Books

The Naysayer's Book Club: 26 Singaporeans You Need to Know

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$15.90

If you're intrigued by perspectives that challenge the norm, "The Naysayer's Book Club" offers a fascinating journey through the minds of 26 prominent Singaporean thinkers and activists. You'll be privy to intimate interviews that reveal the power and importance of dissent in shaping a society. This book isn't just about the individual stories but a collective voice that invites you to question and reflect. It's ideal for readers who appreciate intellectual rigor and societal introspection.
The Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II: The Last Great Monarch? - Thryft
Andrew Marr | Picador

The Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II: The Last Great Monarch?

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

67% off est. retail
If the mystique of royalty intrigues you, "The Diamond Queen" is a perfect fit. Andrew Marr offers a rare glimpse into the life and influence of Queen Elizabeth II, augmented by diligent research and enthralling storytelling. As a Sunday Times bestseller, the book promises to deepen your understanding of the monarchy and its evolution over the decades under the stewardship of Britain's longest-reigning monarch.
The Wrong Carlos: Anatomy of a Wrongful Execution - Thryft
James S. Liebman | Columbia University Press

The Wrong Carlos: Anatomy of a Wrongful Execution

$17.01 $5.90 65% off

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$17.01 $5.90 65% off

84% off est. retail
If you've ever pondered the grim reality of wrongful convictions, "The Wrong Carlos" is a startling deep-dive into such a nightmare. The meticulous research by the Columbia Law team unravels the chilling story of Carlos DeLuna, creating a compelling narrative that’s as much about the failings of the criminal justice system as it is about DeLuna himself. Engrossing and unsettling, it’s a poignant reminder of the human cost of judicial errors and a call to reform.
Ben & Jerry's Double-Dip: Lead With Your Values and Make Money, Too
Ben Cohen | Simon & Schuster Trade

Ben & Jerry's Double-Dip: Lead With Your Values and Make Money, Too

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

84% off est. retail
If you've ever dreamed of starting a business that doesn't compromise on its ethos for profits, "Ben & Jerry's Double-Dip" is a scoop of inspiration. Ben and Jerry show how they churned ethical practices with entrepreneurial spirit to create a brand synonymous with both taste and integrity. Their story might just be the secret ingredient you need to blend success with social responsibility in your own ventures.
It Takes a Village and Other Lessons Children Teach Us
Hillary Rodham Clinton | Simon & Schuster

It Takes a Village and Other Lessons Children Teach Us

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$8.90

If you've ever felt the weight of raising a child in today's hectic society, "It Takes a Village" could lend you perspective and solace. Hillary Clinton weaves personal anecdotes with her vision for a society that supports families. You may find it compelling in its hopeful outlook on how communities can come together for the betterment of our children's future.
Facebook Effect: The Inside Story of the Company That Is Connecting the World
David Kirkpatrick | Virgin Publishing

Facebook Effect: The Inside Story of the Company That Is Connecting the World

$14.90 $11.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$14.90 $11.90 20% off

51% off est. retail
If you have an interest in how a dorm room project turned into a global phenomenon, "Facebook Effect" is the guide you're looking for. David Kirkpatrick's access to key figures provides an authoritative inside scoop. For anyone drawn to tech, business, or the societal impacts of social media, this book is bound to be an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families
J. Anthony Lukas | Knopf

Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families

$28.90

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$28.90

If you're drawn to exploring the complex interactions of race, politics, and education in America's history, "Common Ground" could resonate with you. J. Anthony Lukas meticulously intertwines the lives of three Boston families across the divides of class and color during the tumultuous 1970s. It's not just an award-winning non-fiction narrative; it's a deep dive into a decisive era that still echoes in today's societal challenges.
Impossible Dream The Marcoses, the Aquinos, and the Unfinished Revolution - Thryft
Sandra Burton | Grand Central Pub

Impossible Dream The Marcoses, the Aquinos, and the Unfinished Revolution

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

90% off est. retail
If you have a keen interest in the political tapestry that shapes a nation, this book takes you right into the heart of the Philippines' most tumultuous times. Sandra Burton not only gives you an eyewitness account but also delves into the complex and destructive relationship between two powerful families. It's a compelling read for anyone fascinated by history coming alive through intense personal and political dramas.
The Big Breach - From Top Secret to Maximum Security - Thryft
Richard Tomlinson | Global Pr

The Big Breach - From Top Secret to Maximum Security

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

If you're fascinated by the secretive world of spies and crave a thrilling narrative that's more than just fiction, 'The Big Breach' is a perfect match. You'll dive deep into Richard Tomlinson's personal accounts of his time in MI6, exploring the shadier side of international relations and espionage. Tomlinson invites you to walk in a spy's shoes, giving that rare, authentic peek behind the curtain of intelligence.
A Home From Home : From Immigrant Boy to English Man - Thryft
George Alagiah | Little Brown & Co

A Home From Home : From Immigrant Boy to English Man

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Martin is new to the neighborhood, and wants to make a good impression on his new teammates. But when he loses his lucky baseball bat, Martin fears that he has also lost his ability to play baseball. Will Martin be able to continue his winning streak without the bat?
Deer Hunting with Jesus: Guns, Votes, Debt and Delusion in Redneck America
Joe Bageant | Portobello Books

Deer Hunting with Jesus: Guns, Votes, Debt and Delusion in Redneck America

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

73% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the socio-political landscape of rural America, "Deer Hunting With Jesus" offers a raw and eye-opening perspective. It's a deep dive into the heart of working-class struggles, deftly combining humor with stark reality, giving voice to those often unheard in mainstream narratives. An essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities beneath the surface of 'redneck' America.
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.
The Fifties - Thryft
David Halberstam | Ballantine Books

The Fifties

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

78% off est. retail
If you're curious about the undercurrents that shaped modern America, "The Fifties" is a treasure trove just for you. David Halberstam masterfully connects the dots between the decade's tranquil facade and its profound societal shifts. You'll emerge from this book with a profound understanding of the events and personalities that laid the groundwork for the country you know today.
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.
Foucault for Beginners
Sold out
Lydia Alix Fillingham | For Beginners

Foucault for Beginners

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

63% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the interplay between power, knowledge, and society, Foucault for Beginners distills complex theories into digestible bits, complemented by engaging illustrations. It's an accessible starting point to explore the challenging ideas of one of the 20th century's most influential thinkers. Whether you're a student or a curious mind, it paints a vivid picture of Foucault's critique on societal structures.
Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China
Sold out
Leslie T. Chang | Picador Usa

Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90

54% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the personal stories behind the headlines of China's economic surge, "Factory Girls" is for you. Leslie T. Chang dives deep into the lives of two women navigating the chaotic world of migrant labor, shedding light on the human cost of the products we often take for granted. It offers a profound, eye-opening experience that's both socially relevant and emotionally resonant.

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.