Free delivery on all orders above $30
Get 10% off all year round! Join Thryft Club
Get 10% off all year round and $10 off your next order! Join Thryft Club

Your cart

Your cart is empty

Check out these collections!

Bestselling Fiction
Bestselling Nonfiction
Bestselling Books for Children
Vintage and Rare Books
Vinyl Records
Women's Clothing
Men's Clothing

Stay in touch and win free books

Keep up with our latest sales and events, and receive
recommendations direct to your inbox. We'll only send the good stuff, promise!

By completing this form, you are signing up to receive our emails and can unsubscribe at any time

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.
Popular Filters Business Entrepreneurship Historical Inspirational Mental Health Music Politics Technology

22 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!
Theory
Clear all

22 Results

No results

Theory
Clear all
The Laura (Riding) Jackson Reader
Laura (Riding) Jackson, Elizabeth Friedmann  | Persea

The Laura (Riding) Jackson Reader

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$9.90

If you're intrigued by the evolution of a writer's mind and craft, "The Laura (Riding) Jackson Reader" offers a unique journey through decades of thought-provoking poetry and prose. You'll find the transformation from Modernist poet to profound thinker particularly fascinating as you trace the themes of truth and language shaping a single, coherent philosophical vision throughout her career. For anyone interested in Modernist literature or the nature of communication, this collection is a deep well to draw from.
The Resident Tourist (Part 9)
Troy Chin | Math Paper Press

The Resident Tourist (Part 9)

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$9.90

If you're drawn to introspective journeys and visual storytelling, "The Resident Tourist (Part 9)" might resonate with you. Troy Chin's graphic novel serves as a mirror to those grappling with the complexities of belonging and personal evolution within a city's ever-changing landscape. It's a poignant exploration for anyone who's ever felt like an outsider in their own home.
Guerrilla Warfare
Harry Villegas, Ernesto Che Guevara  | Harper Perennial, London

Guerrilla Warfare

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$14.90

If you're intrigued by revolutionary history or military strategy, Che Guevara's "Guerrilla Warfare" offers an authentic look into the mindset and tactics that changed the course of Cuban history. Guevara's firsthand account captures the passion and ideology behind guerrilla movements, making it insightful not just for history enthusiasts but for anyone interested in the dynamics of asymmetrical warfare.
Frantz Fanon - Thryft
Irene L. Gendzier | Wildwood House Ltd

Frantz Fanon: A Critical Study

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$3.90

If you're keen on understanding the complexities of post-colonial theory and the psychology of oppression, Gendzier's study of Fanon is indispensable. It delves deep into the life and works of one of the most influential thinkers on decolonization and offers a nuanced perspective that can be both educational and profoundly moving. This book is a doorway to comprehending the past struggles and their ongoing impact today.
Introducing Marxism
Oscar Zárate, Rupert Woofin, Richard Appignanesi  | Icon,totem Books

Introducing Marxism

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$13.90

If you're curious about the underpinnings of socialism and communism, "Introducing Marxism" offers a digestible overview that connects Marx's thought to the historical movements it sparked. The authors don't just rehash outdated rhetoric; they position Marxism as a relevant ethical framework that continues to challenge and provoke in today's ever-shifting socio-economic landscape. This could be the book that clarifies complex ideologies and past prejudices for you.
Females
Just Arrived
Andrea Long Chu | Verso Books

Females

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$9.90

78% off est. retail
"Females" by Andrea Long Chu offers you a radical journey through the complex terrain of gender and desire, told with an irresistible blend of wit and philosophical pessimism. This book isn't just a theoretical discourse; it's a deeply personal and daring contemplation that might challenge your views on feminism and identity. It's concise, yet packs a punch, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersection of gender studies and personal narrative.
Dialogue for the Future - Thryft
Daisaku Ikeda | Eternal Ganges

Dialogue for the Future

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Recommendation: "Dialogue for the Future is a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration and guidance on how to tackle the big issues facing our world. The book offers insightful perspectives and practical solutions from some of the most influential figures in politics, business, and academia. What makes this book truly unique is its emphasis on collaboration and inclusivity, which are crucial for building a sustainable and equitable future. Reading this book will leave you feeling hopeful and empowered to take action."
David Hume: The Philosopher as Historian
Nicholas Phillipson | Penguin Books Ltd

David Hume: The Philosopher as Historian

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$8.90

If you're someone who appreciates the interplay between philosophy and history, you'll find "David Hume: The Philosopher as Historian" particularly engaging. Nicholas Phillipson delves into Hume’s innovative approach to history, untangling it from religious and political narratives. This book isn't just a biography; it's a window into Hume's influence on the modern understanding of human action and historical processes. It’s perfect for those looking to grasp how a philosopher's ideas can reshape the recording of humanity's past.
The Little Black Book of Lawyer's Wisdom
Tony Lyons | Skyhorse

The Little Black Book of Lawyer's Wisdom

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 2.89

$15.90

If you're dabbling in or devoted to law or politics, "The Little Black Book of Lawyer's Wisdom" might prove to be an invaluable companion. This collection teems with insight from historic legal minds, offering you quick but potent reflections to inspire or guide. It's a book you’re likely to reach for whether you need an authoritative touchstone in a discussion or just a moment's intellectual connection with the greats.
Reminiscences of the Cuban Revolutionary War
Ernesto Che Guevara | Harper Pernnial

Reminiscences of the Cuban Revolutionary War

$14.90 $14.64 2% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$14.90 $14.64 2% off

For those fascinated by iconic historical figures, this book provides an intimate look into Che Guevara's thoughts and experiences during the Cuban Revolutionary War. It's a unique chance to understand the man behind the myth, directly from his own writings, giving readers an up-close perspective of the events that shaped him into a global symbol of revolution.
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.
Dylan's Visions of Sin
Christopher Ricks | Ecco

Dylan's Visions of Sin

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

73% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of music, literature, and philosophy, "Dylan's Visions of Sin" might be a gem for you. It delves into how Dylan's songwriting captures the essence of human vices and virtues, offering a fresh lens to view his work. It's a thoughtful read that enhances appreciation for Dylan's artistry.
The Life Inside: A Memoir of Prison, Family and Philosophy
Unknown Author

The Life Inside: A Memoir of Prison, Family and Philosophy

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

57% off est. retail
"The Life Inside" isn't just a memoir, it's a profound exploration of the human condition through the lens of incarceration. Andy West's engagement with prisoners on philosophical discussions will resonate with anyone intrigued by questions of morality, identity, and redemption. His personal connection to the world of prisons adds a layer of depth, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate vulnerability and introspection.
Blessed Be Pain - Thryft
Miguel Monge | Scepter

Blessed Be Pain

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

This book could be a good read for someone who wants to navigate the complexities of pain. Through thought-provoking insights and personal anecdotes, Miguel Monge takes readers on a journey to understand pain as not just a burden, but also as a catalyst for growth and self-discovery. Blessed Be Pain invites you to embrace the transformative power of your own struggles and find meaning within them.
Paradoxes of Peace, or The Presence of Infinity
Nicholas Mosley | Dalkey Archive Press

Paradoxes of Peace, or The Presence of Infinity

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 2.0

$8.90

51% off est. retail
If the turbulence of human emotion set against the backdrop of war and peace fascinates you, Mosley's introspective narrative could be a captivating read. It delves into the nuanced quandaries of love, duty, and morality during shifting times. Mosley's musings could resonate with you if you're intrigued by personal accounts that explore profound life paradoxes beyond the battlefield.
William James: His Life and Thought
Gerald Eugene Myers | Yale University Press

William James: His Life and Thought

$33.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$33.90

68% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the minds that sculpted modern psychology and philosophy, you'll be drawn to "William James: His Life and Thought." Gerald Myers guides you through James's life which informs his pioneering ideas, making complex theories accessible and intimately connected to the experiences that shaped them. This isn't just a biography; it's a portal into James's influential work through the lens of his personal narrative.
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 Cambridge Companion to Nietzsche
Sold out
Kathleen Higgins, Bernd Magnus  | Cambridge University Press

The Cambridge Companion to Nietzsche

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$14.90

72% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by Nietzsche's far-reaching impact on modern thought, "The Cambridge Companion to Nietzsche" is for you. It's a thorough yet accessible dive into his works and influence, perfect for both newcomers and seasoned philosophy enthusiasts. The book provides a structured look at his contributions and how they've shaped our cultural and intellectual landscape. Let this be your roadmap to understanding one of the most provocative thinkers in history.
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.
Introducing Freud - Graphic Guides
Sold out
Richard Appignanesi | Icon Books

Introducing Freud - Graphic Guides

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$8.90

36% off est. retail
If you've ever been curious about the origins of terms like "Id" and "Ego" and how they fit into our perception of self, "Introducing Freud: A Graphic Guide" makes for a compelling read. It's a visually engaging exploration of complex ideas, making Freud’s theories accessible without oversimplifying them. Perfect for a visually oriented reader or someone new to Freud, the book delivers a clever, concise biography along with an introduction to psychoanalytic concepts that have shaped modern thinking.
Birth of the Chaordic Age - Thryft
Sold out
Dee Hock | Berrett-koehler Publishers

Birth of the Chaordic Age

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

58% off est. retail
Birth of the Chaordic Age is a thought-provoking read that challenges traditional organizational forms by introducing the concept of a chaordic structure. The author, Dee Hock, uses the success of VISA to illustrate how a chaordic structure can lead to both competition and cooperation, resulting in greater success. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in innovative and effective organizational structures. Hock's fresh perspective and insightful ideas are sure to leave a lasting impact on readers.
The Pursuit Of Salvation - A Critical Guide To The Novels Of Graham Greene - Thryft
Sold out
Georg M.A. Gaston | Whitston Pub Co Inc

The Pursuit Of Salvation - A Critical Guide To The Novels Of Graham Greene

$5.67 $5.07 11% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$5.67 $5.07 11% off

92% off est. retail
Recommendation: This book would be an excellent pick for literature students who are interested in understanding the works of Graham Greene better. The book provides an in-depth analysis of Greene's unique approach towards themes of redemption and salvation, and how his life experiences influenced his writing. The extensive references to other critical studies also make it a valuable resource for academic research.

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.