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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Getting the Bugs Out: The Rise, Fall, and Comeback of Volkswagen in America
David Kiley | Wiley

Getting the Bugs Out: The Rise, Fall, and Comeback of Volkswagen in America

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Goodreads rating: 3.57

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If you find yourself drawn to the tales of corporate comebacks, "Getting the Bugs Out" could be right up your alley. It's not just car enthusiasts who'll get a kick out of Volkswagen's storied American revival; this is a captivating case study of branding, strategy, and resilience. Plus, the Beetle's iconic status makes its story resonate even more.
The Plot To Get Bill Gates - An Irreverent Investigation Of The World's Richest Man-- And The People Who Hate Him - Thryft

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Recommendation: - The Plot To Get Bill Gates is an insightful read that sheds light on the controversies surrounding the world's richest man in a witty and humorous manner. This book is highly recommended for those interested in the tech industry and the cult of celebrity surrounding some of its pioneers. The author presents a balanced yet irreverent approach to exploring the lives of the rich and famous and offers readers a unique perspective on the man behind Microsoft.
Blackberry: The Inside Story of Research in Motion

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If you've ever been intrigued by the signature thumb-scroll of a BlackBerry or marveled at how a single gadget revolutionized communication, "Blackberry: The Inside Story of Research in Motion" captures that magic. Rod McQueen takes you behind the screens of the iconic device, weaving the tale of its creation with the business tenacity that propelled it to fame. It's not just about the technology but the people and ambition that drove an industry—and for anyone interested in the inner workings of tech giants, it's an enlightening read.
Fiasco: Blood in the Water on Wall Street - Thryft
Frank Partnoy | Profile Books Ltd

Fiasco: Blood in the Water on Wall Street

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

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Imagine diving into the chaotic heart of the '90s financial scene. "Fiasco: Blood In the Water on Wall Street" offers that adrenaline rush via Frank Partnoy's first-hand account. You'll practically feel the tension and frenzy of an era where the complexity of securities bewilder even their creators. It's a must-read if you're fascinated by the intricate, often murky world of high finance and want a genuine peek behind the curtain.
Buckle Down: How I Invented South Korea's First Automobile Engine
Hyun-Soon Lee | Harriett Press

Buckle Down: How I Invented South Korea's First Automobile Engine

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Goodreads rating: 3.0

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Buckle Down is a captivating narrative that could resonate with you if you're drawn to authentic success stories, especially those involving remarkable feats in engineering. Dr. Lee's transition from the comfort of General Motors to the uncharted territories of Hyundai is not just inspiring but offers valuable insights into perseverance and innovation in the face of adversity. Whether you're an aspiring engineer or just love underdog tales, this book puts the 'drive' in the drive to succeed.
True Tales from a Private Investigator

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If you're intrigued by the real-life Sherlock Holmes' of our world, "True Tales from a Private Investigator" is your backstage pass to the gritty, yet clever world of professional snooping. As the curtain is pulled back on actual cases, you may find yourself seeing your everyday surroundings in a new light, your observational skills sharpening with every page. Whether it's for the true-crime allure or the practical insight into human behavior, this book promises to deliver both entertainment and enlightenment.
If you're intrigued by the mavericks who reinvent entire industries and how they leap from idea to industry dominance, "The Upstarts" is a book you'll likely get lost in. Brad Stone delivers a compelling narrative of ambition and innovation, making you witness to the birth of businesses that have reshaped how we live. It's a must-read if you're fascinated by the collision of technology, business, and societal norms.
The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon
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If you're intrigued by the ingenuity behind Amazon's transformation from a humble bookshop to a colossal marketplace, "The Everything Store" unravels that mystery. It's an eye-opener into the aggressive strategies and bold vision of Jeff Bezos that will likely change how you perceive the digital giant and its impact on global commerce. Plus, if understanding the psyche of high-impact entrepreneurs fascinates you, this book is your window into Bezos's tenacious mind.
Console Wars : Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle That Defined a Generation - Thryft
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"A mesmerizing, behind-the-scenes business thriller that chronicles how Sega, a small, scrappy gaming company led by an unlikely visionary and a team of rebels, took on the juggernaut Nintendo and revolutionized the videogame industry--in development as a feature film from Sony PicturesIn 1990, Nintendo had a virtual monopoly on the videogame industry. Sega, on the other hand, was just a faltering arcade company with big aspirations and even bigger personalities. But all that would change with the arrival of Tom Kalinske, a former Mattel executive who knew nothing about videogames and everything about fighting uphill battles. His unconventional tactics, combined with the blood, sweat, and bold ideas of his renegade employees, completely transformed Sega and led to a ruthless, David-and-Goliath showdown with Nintendo. Little did he realize that Sega's success would create many new enemies and, most important, make Nintendo stronger than ever.The battle was vicious, relentless, and highly profitable, eventually sparking a global corporate war that would be fought on several fronts: from living rooms and school yards to boardrooms and Congress. It was a once-in-a-lifetime, no-holds-barred conflict that pitted brother against brother, kid against adult, Sonic against Mario, and the United States against Japan.Based on more than two hundred interviews with former Sega and Nintendo employees, Console Wars is the tale of how Tom Kalinske miraculously turned an industry punch line into a market leader. Blake J. Harris brings into focus the warriors, the strategies, and the battles and explores how they transformed popular culture forever. Ultimately, Console Wars is the story of how a humble family man, with an extraordinary imagination and a gift for turning problems into competitive advantages, inspired a team of underdogs to slay a giant and, as a result, give birth to a sixty-billion-dollar industry"--
The Wild, Wild East: An American Art Critic's Adventures in China: By Barbara Pollack - Thryft
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If you're intrigued by the convergence of art and economics, "The Wild, Wild East" provides a unique perspective on China's contemporary art scene. Barbara Pollack’s narrative is not just an overview; it's a story rich with personal encounters and sharp observations, offering an intimate understanding of a rapidly growing art market through the eyes of a seasoned critic. It's a must-read if you want to grasp the complex dynamics that shape China's cultural exports and financial power plays in the global art world.
Amazon.com : Get Big Fast - Thryft
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Robert Spector | Harper Business

Amazon.com : Get Big Fast

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Goodreads rating: 3.64

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If you're interested in the story of one of the most recognized brand names on the internet and how it became that way, "Amazon.com: Get Big Fast" is the book for you. This unauthorized account of the company's creation, its rise, and its uncertain future provides a behind-the-scenes story of how Jeff Bezos built something the world had never seen. Robert Spector, the journalist and best-selling author, presents an up-to-date, fast-paced, and revealing account of Amazon.com.
Elon Musk: How the Billionaire CEO of SpaceX and Tesla Is Shaping Our Future
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If you're fascinated by modern innovators or dream of interplanetary travel, reading about Elon Musk's life could offer you both inspiration and insight. This biography paints a complex picture of a man who is shaping the future while battling personal demons, making it a compelling story for anyone curious about the human side of technological triumph.
Steve Jobs
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Walter Isaacson | Simon & Schuster

Steve Jobs

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Goodreads rating: 4.15

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72% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the enigmatic Steve Jobs and the tech revolution he fueled, Walter Isaacson's biography is a must-read. Every page is ripe with the raw intensity of Jobs' personality and the groundbreaking innovations he led. This book doesn't just recount the life of a tech mogul; it delves deep into the psyche of a man who forever changed how we interact with technology. It's a compelling narrative that might ignite your own creativity and ambition.

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.