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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Wild: A Journey from Lost to Found
Cheryl Strayed | Atlantic Books

Wild: A Journey from Lost to Found

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Goodreads rating: 4.05

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51% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're yearning for a story that combines the rawness of personal loss with the healing power of nature, "Wild" is a compelling companion. Cheryl Strayed's brutally honest memoir isn't just an adventure through the wilderness, but a journey of emotional survival that leaves footprints on the heart. It's for those who appreciate when a person bares their soul and transforms their life, step by rugged step.
A Walk in the Woods
Bill Bryson | Doubleday

A Walk in the Woods

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Goodreads rating: 4.06

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Bill Bryson's "A Walk in the Woods" will draw you into a voyage of self-discovery and challenge laced with laugh-out-loud observations. If you have a thirst for adventure or just want a humor-filled insight into human versus wild, this memoir is like a breath of fresh mountain air, invigorating your love for nature and laughter. Perfect for armchair travelers and seasoned hikers alike.
A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains
Isabella Lucy Bird | John Beaufoy Publishing

A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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Imagine stepping back into the unspoiled grandeur of the 1870s' American West with Isabella Bird as your guide. "A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains" isn't just travel literature; it's a time machine wrapped in eloquent prose. Bird's candid letters offer an intimate glimpse of pioneering life, complete with all its perils and wonders. For anyone intrigued by personal tales of courage and adventure in the face of nature's majesty, this book promises an immersive journey.
Rowing to Latitude: Journeys Along the Arctic's Edge - Thryft
Jill Fredston | North Point Press

Rowing to Latitude: Journeys Along the Arctic's Edge

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Goodreads rating: 4.16

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89% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

Imagine gliding through icy waters, the silent Arctic expanse around you. Jill Fredston does more than evoke this image; she lived it, rowing thousands of miles alongside her husband. Her narrative isn't just about the physical journey; it's a tapestry of wilderness, self-discovery, and a profound connection with nature. If the call of the wild—tempered with introspection and marital dynamics—resonates with you, then "Rowing to Latitude" could be a book you'll find hard to put down.
The Salt Path
Raynor Winn | Penguin Books

The Salt Path

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Goodreads rating: 4.03

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55% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

The Salt Path is a heartwarming memoir about overcoming adversity and grief through a 630-mile walk on the South West Coast Path. Raynor Winn's story is a beautiful portrayal of the healing power of nature and finding strength through hardship. This book is recommended for readers who love inspiring and uplifting true stories of endurance and resilience.
One Man's Wilderness: An Alaskan Odyssey - Thryft
Sam Keith, Richard L. Proenneke  | Alaska Northwest Books

One Man's Wilderness: An Alaskan Odyssey

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Goodreads rating: 4.35

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70% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

If you've ever imagined leaving it all behind to embrace nature, "One Man's Wilderness" is your call to the wild. Richard Proenneke's journey into the Alaskan wilderness will awe and inspire you. His detailed account of self-sufficiency and profound connection with nature speaks to the hermit in all of us, offering a beautifully penned escape from modern hustle.
Throwim Way Leg: An Adventure
Tim Flannery | Penguin Books Ltd

Throwim Way Leg: An Adventure

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Goodreads rating: 4.11

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If you’re drawn to the raw spirit of adventure and yearn to dip into the vivid tapestry of cultures less touched by the modern world, "Throwim Way Leg" will lure you in. Tim Flannery’s journey is not just a physical trek but an emotional voyage that bridges the gap between ancient traditions and contemporary challenges. His experiences will likely resonate with the adventurous soul seeking profound encounters and ecological wonders.
Young Men & Fire - Thryft
Norman Maclean | University Of Chicago Press

Young Men & Fire

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Goodreads rating: 4.04

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89% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"Young Men & Fire" is a poignant exploration of the Mann Gulch tragedy that goes beyond the mere recounting of events. Norman Maclean masterfully weaves a narrative that is as much about the psychology of the men involved as it is about the terrifying force of nature they faced. His quest for understanding lends a raw authenticity to the story, making it a gripping read for anyone drawn to true-life adventures, tales of heroism, or the complex dance between humankind and the natural world.
Sea Salt : Memories and Essays - Thryft
Stan Waterman | New World Publications

Sea Salt : Memories and Essays

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Goodreads rating: 4.22

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92% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

This book, Sea Salt, is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the majestic beauty and awe-inspiring mysteries of the ocean. Stan Waterman, a true pioneer in underwater exploration, takes you on an unforgettable journey through his remarkable life. From encountering deadly sharks to diving with exotic sea creatures, his exhilarating tales will keep you on the edge of your seat. But what sets this memoir apart is Stan's poetic prose, which brings the sea to life with its profound depth and love for the ocean. Reading Sea Salt is like diving into a world of adventure, danger, and profound respect for the wonders of the sea. Get ready to be captivated by this extraordinary tale of a life well-lived amidst the ocean's embrace.
The Search for the Pink-Headed Duck
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If you're drawn to tales that blend adventure with a sense of the quixotic, 'The Search for the Pink-Headed Duck' could be a delightful escape for you. Rory Nugent's narrative transforms a wild goose chase into a richly described odyssey through India, illustrating that sometimes the hunt is more rewarding than the find. It's a vivid reminder of how the pursuit of a seemingly unreachable goal can lead to unexpected discoveries and poignant insights into the human condition.
Where the Sea Breaks Its Back: The Epic Story of the Early Naturalist Georg Steller and the Russian Exploration of Alaska

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67% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're fascinated by tales of the unknown and the drive of human curiosity, this book offers an intimate glimpse into the adventurous life of Georg Steller amidst the harsh yet awe-inspiring Alaskan wilderness. It's not just a biography; it's an adventure that brings history alive with the thrill of discovery and the bitter fight against the elements. This book might just stir in you the spirit of exploration.
The Snow Leopard
Peter Matthiessen | Vintage

The Snow Leopard

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Goodreads rating: 4.07

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49% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Snow Leopard" isn't just a travel memoir; it's a profound meditative journey that marries the physical challenges of exploring remote regions with the spiritual quest for meaning. If you're drawn to the serene yet daunting beauty of nature and appreciate a narrative that delves into the human spirit, then Peter Matthiessen's poetic prose might resonate with you. His search for the mythical snow leopard becomes a powerful metaphor for personal discovery.
Man-Eaters of Kumaon
Jim Corbett | Oxford University Press, India

Man-Eaters of Kumaon

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Goodreads rating: 4.31

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72% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by tales of adventure and the raw courage of facing dangerous predators, "Man-Eaters of Kumaon" will captivate you. Jim Corbett's storytelling immerses you in the Indian Himalayas, offering a window into both the perils of tracking man-eaters and the rich tapestry of local life encompassing the beauty and brutality of nature. This isn't just an account of hunting; it's a historical snapshot of an era and a man who ultimately championed conservation efforts.
My Family and Other Animals
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Gerald Durrell | Puffin Books

My Family and Other Animals

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Goodreads rating: 4.17

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If you relish stories where the lines between a boisterous family and the wild nature around them blur, "My Family & Other Animals" will charm you. Gerald Durrell whisks you away to the island of Corfu, where daily life is a menagerie of absurdities and natural wonder. It's a memoir that combines the warmth of family quirks with a boy's wide-eyed engagement with nature, all painted across the canvas of a picturesque Greek isle.
Paddling North
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Yoshiko Yamamoto, Audrey Sutherland  | Patagonia

Paddling North

Regular price $18.90 $12.90 32% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.2

Regular price $18.90 $12.90 32% off

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64% off est. retail

Out of stock

Paddling North is a serene yet thrilling journey. It's perfect for those who appreciate solitude paired with the rawness of nature. By following the author's solo kayaking trip, you're bound to be inspired by the breathtaking landscapes and the intimate reflections, evoking a sense of adventure and personal wonder.

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.