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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Sebastian Junger
The Perfect Storm : A True Story of Man Against the Sea
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"Takes readers into the maelstrom and shows nature's splendid and dangerous havoc at its utmost".October 1991. It was "the perfect storm"--a tempest that may happen only once in a century--a nor'easter created by so rare a combination of factors that it could not possibly have been worse. Creating waves ten stories high and winds of 120 miles an hour, the storm whipped the sea to inconceivable levels few people on Earth have ever witnessed. Few, except the six-man crew of the Andrea Gail, a commercial fishing boat tragically headed towards its hellish center.
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Gerald Durrell
My Family and Other Animals
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My Family and Other Animals is a great read for nature lovers who enjoy humorous anecdotes. Gerald Durrell's witty storytelling and fascination with the local fauna on the island of Corfu make for an enchanting read. The book is a unique perspective on childhood, offering insight into how a young boy viewed the world around him. Overall, readers will appreciate the book's ability to transport them to another time and place, immersing them in a world filled with exotic creatures and family hijinks.
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John Kaag
Hiking with Nietzsche : On Becoming Who You Are
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Hiking with Nietzsche is an introspective journey that explores the wisdom and revelations at the core of Nietzsche's philosophy. It encourages readers to come to grips with the unobtainable, defeat complacency, balance sanity and madness, and most importantly, become who they are. This book is perfect for individuals who seek meaning in life, and those who enjoy a philosophical exploration of the human condition.
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John Muir
My First Summer In The Sierra
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In the summer of 1869, John Muir, a young Scottish immigrant, joined a crew of shepherds in the foothills of California's Sierra Nevada Mountains. The diary he kept while tending sheep formed the heart of this book and eventually lured thousands of Americans to visit Yosemite country.First published in 1911, My First Summer in the Sierra incorporates the lyrical accounts and sketches he produced during his four-month stay in the Yosemite River Valley and the High Sierra. His record tracks that memorable experience, describing in picturesque terms the majestic vistas, flora and fauna, and other breathtaking natural wonders of the area.Today, Muir is recognized as one of the most important and influential naturalists and nature writers in America. This book, the most popular of the author's works, will delight environmentalists and nature lovers with its exuberant observations.
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Monte Reel
Between Man and Beast : An Unlikely Explorer, the Evolution Debates, and the African Adventure That Took the Victorian World by Storm
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Between Man and Beast is an exhilarating exploration of a young explorer who braved the hazardous rainforests of Africa, returning with evidence of gorillas, a creature previously known only in myth. The book delves into the heated evolution debates of the Victorian era and the racial concepts of that time and their impact on the young explorer's burgeoning celebrity. With vivid anecdotes and captivating writing, this book is a must-read for adventure-seekers and history buffs alike.
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Andrea Wulf
The Invention of Nature : Alexander Von Humboldt's New World
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"The Invention of Nature" could be a good read for anyone interested in the history of science and environmentalism. This book presents an in-depth account of Alexander von Humboldt’s life, his expeditions, and his discoveries, highlighting his revolutionary ideas of a complex interconnected global force called nature. The author presents a compelling case of how Humboldt influenced other naturalists and writers, and how his work shaped environmental thinking. The book has won several awards and is highly recommended for those who want to learn about the history of modern environmentalism.
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Rebecca Solnit
A Field Guide To Getting Lost
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A Field Guide to Getting Lost draws on emblematic moments and relationships in Solnit's own life to explore issues of wandering, being lost, and the uses of the unknown. The result is a distinctive, stimulating, and poignant voyage of discovery.
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Aron Ralston
127 Hours : Between a Rock and a Hard Place
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Bruce Chatwin, Nicholas Shakespeare
In Patagonia : 40th Anniversary Edition
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When Bruce Chatwin’s In Patagonia was published in 1977 it heralded the arrival of a startling new talent in British literature. Critics were surprised and spellbound by a story of an adventure which blurred the boundaries between travel writing, biography, history and memoir. All readers recognised its timeless quality – Auberon Waugh went as far as to call it ‘a classic’.Forty years later, Chatwin’s first book continues to inspire generations of travellers and writers. This 40th anniversary edition celebrates the enduring status of In Patagonia and includes a host of material from the archive to recreate the book’s genesis and publication.
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Jedidiah Jenkins
To Shake the Sleeping Self : A Journey from Oregon to Patagonia, and a Quest for a Life with No Regret
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NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • “With winning candor, Jedidiah Jenkins takes us with him as he bicycles across two continents and delves deeply into his own beautiful heart.” — Cheryl Strayed, author of Wild and Tiny Beautiful Things On the eve of turning thirty, terrified of being funneled into a life he didn’t choose, Jedidiah Jenkins quit his dream job and spent sixteen months cycling from Oregon to Patagonia. He chronicled the trip on Instagram, where his photos and reflections drew hundreds of thousands of followers, all gathered around the question: What makes a life worth living? In this unflinchingly honest memoir, Jed narrates his adventure—the people and places he encountered on his way to the bottom of the world—as well as the internal journey that started it all. As he traverses cities, mountains, and inner boundaries, Jenkins grapples with the question of what it means to be an adult, his struggle to reconcile his sexual identity with his conservative Christian upbringing, and his belief in travel as a way to wake us up to life back home.A soul-stirring read for the wanderer in each of us, To Shake the Sleeping Self is an unforgettable reflection on adventure, identity, and a life lived without regret. Praise for To Shake the Sleeping Self“[Jenkins is] a guy deeply connected to his personal truth and just so refreshingly present.” — Rich Roll, author of Finding Ultra “This is much more than a book about a bike ride. This is a deep soul deepening us. Jedidiah Jenkins is a mystic disguised as a millennial.” —Tom Shadyac, author of Life’s Operating Manual“Thought-provoking and inspirational . . . This uplifting memoir and travelogue will remind readers of the power of movement for the body and the soul.” —Publishers Weekly
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Sebastian Junger
The Perfect Storm : A True Story of Men Against the Sea
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"The Perfect Storm" is a gripping account of a deadly storm and fishing crew's fight for survival. The author seamlessly combines factual reporting with empathetic storytelling, making this a must-read for fans of true adventure stories and maritime disasters. Readers will be awed by the unbelievable forces of nature and the courage of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
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Gerald Durrell
My Family and Other Animals
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When the unconventional Durrell family can no longer endure the damp, gray English climate, they do what any sensible family would do: sell their house and relocate to the sunny Greek isle of Corfu. My Family and Other Animals was intended to embrace the natural history of the island but ended up as a delightful account of Durrell’s family’s experiences, from the many eccentric hangers-on to the ceaseless procession of puppies, toads, scorpions, geckoes, ladybugs, glowworms, octopuses, bats, and butterflies into their home.
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Bill Bryson
A Walk in the Woods : Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail
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The Appalachian Trail trail stretches from Georgia to Maine and covers some of the most breathtaking terrain in America–majestic mountains, silent forests, sparking lakes. If you’re going to take a hike, it’s probably the place to go. And Bill Bryson is surely the most entertaining guide you’ll find. He introduces us to the history and ecology of the trail and to some of the other hardy (or just foolhardy) folks he meets along the way–and a couple of bears. Already a classic, A Walk in the Woods will make you long for the great outdoors (or at least a comfortable chair to sit and read in).
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Robin Brown
Marco Polo : The Incredible Journey
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This book could be a great read for history buffs or anyone interested in the adventures of explorers. Brown's research sets out to discover whether Marco Polo's claims were true or legends. The incredible 24-year journey through Asia and Polo's experiences are a captivating insight into a different time and world.
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Henry Walter Bates
Naturalist on the River Amazon
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The book offers a detailed and lively description of the natural world in the Amazon, and the author's passion for exploration shines through in his writing. It is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the flora and fauna of the region and the history of scientific exploration. Bates' vivid descriptions of the Amazonian ecosystem and his insights into evolutionary biology make this book a timeless classic. The book is recommended for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers who can appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world.
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Ian Frazier
Great Plains
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The author profiles the storied Great Plains of the American Midwest, relating the history, the lore, and the stories of the current inhabitants of the area
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Gretel Ehrlich
The Solace Of Open Spaces
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The Solace Of Open Spaces is a poignant collection of essays that chronicles Ehrlich's journey into Wyoming's vast expanse. Her descriptive and captivating writing style takes readers on a journey through the beauty and cruelty of the natural elements that define the American West. This book would be a great read for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone looking for a thought-provoking exploration of the interplay between our interior lives and the world around us.
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Alexander Frater
Chasing The Monsoon : A Modern Pilgrimage Through India
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Chasing The Monsoon is a must-read for travel enthusiasts who enjoy exploring new cultures and regions. The book takes the reader on a journey through India in search of the monsoon, offering a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage and diverse landscape. Alexander Frater's vivid descriptions of the people and places he encounters, along with his personal anecdotes, make this a unique and engaging read. The book is also great for those interested in meteorology and weather patterns, as it provides in-depth knowledge of the monsoon.
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Peter Matthiessen, Kenneth Garrett
End of the Earth
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"End of the Earth" could be a good read for nature lovers who are interested in exploring the world's most unforgiving and remote locations. It provides a unique and informative insight into the wildlife and history of the region, while also showcasing Matthiessen's excellent lyrical writing style. Readers will enjoy going on a journey with the author and the crew of Akademik, as they discover the incredible creatures and landscapes of these far-flung places.
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Yossi Ghinsberg
Jungle - A Harrowing True Story Of Survival
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This book is a thrilling and captivating true story of survival that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. You'll be amazed by the strength and resilience of the characters as they face the most challenging circumstances in the unforgiving depths of the jungle. "Jungle" is a testament to the human spirit and a reminder that even in the darkest moments, hope and determination can lead to triumph. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys gripping adventure stories and tales of resilience.
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Barry Lopez
Arctic Dreams : Imagination and Desire in a Northern Landscape
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This book would be great for people who enjoy nature and travel writing. Lopez masterfully intertwines the history, ecology, and human experience of the Arctic landscape. Reading this book is like embarking on a journey to a far-off land, every page as captivating as the last. Lopez's prose is both poetic and informative, making this book a true gem for anyone seeking to learn more about the Arctic and its inhabitants.
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Kuki Gallmann
I Dreamed of Africa
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I Dreamed of Africa would be a good read for someone who is looking for a captivating and moving memoir about a woman's life in Africa. Kuki Gallmann's unique story about bringing up a family in Kenya, her relationship with the land, and the dramatic twists and turns of her life would leave readers experiencing a wide range of emotions. The book's most distinctive feature is the author's deep connection to Africa, which she expresses beautifully throughout the book.
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Arif Rafhan
Reality Bitchslap
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"Reality Bitchslap" is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the ups and downs of travel in Southeast Asia through the eyes of a relatable protagonist. The quirky black-and-white illustrations add an extra layer of humor that will keep you engaged from cover to cover. Arif Rafhan's real-life adventures are unfiltered and relatable, making this book an excellent choice for anyone who loves to travel or appreciates a good coming-of-age story.
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Jeremy Wade
River Monsters : True Stories of the Ones that Didn't Get Away
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Called “the greatest angling explorer of his generation” (Independent on Sunday), Jeremy Wade takes viewers where no wildlife program has gone before. Now Wade goes truly beneath the surface, disclosing full details of how he catches each species and recounting the off-camera highlights of his extraordinary life. From his arrest as a suspected spy in Southeast Asia to a plane crash in the rainforest, every page of the Wall Street Journal bestseller River Monsters is packed with adventure. From the heart of the Congo to the depths of the Amazon, Wade reels in fish of staggering proportions and terrifying demeanor for an unforgettable read.
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Robert Macfarlane
The Wild Places
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The Wild Places is both an intellectual and a physical journey, and Macfarlane travels in time as well as space. Guided by monks, questers, scientists, philosophers, poets and artists, both living and dead, he explores our changing ideas of the wild. From the cliffs of Cape Wrath, to the holloways of Dorset, the storm-beaches of Norfolk, the saltmarshes and estuaries of Essex, and the moors of Rannoch and the Pennines, his journeys become the conductors of people and cultures, past and present, who have had intense relationships with these places. Certain birds, animals, trees and objects snow-hares, falcons, beeches, crows, suns, white stones recur, and as it progresses this densely patterned book begins to bind tighter and tighter. At once a wonder voyage, an adventure story, an exercise in visionary cartography, and a work of natural history, it is written in a style and a form as unusual as the places with which it is concerned. It also tells the story of a friendship, and of a loss. It mixes history, memory and landscape in a strange and beautiful evocation of wildness and its vital importance.
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Robert D. Kaplan
Mediterranean Winter: The Pleasures of History and Landscape in Tunisia, Sicily, Dalmatia and the Peloponnese
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"Mediterranean Winter" isn't just a travel memoir; it transports you to the quieter side of the Mediterranean, away from the bustling tourist season. Imagine strolling through ancient ruins with Kaplan as your thoughtful guide, weaving personal reflection with deep dives into the region's rich history. It’s perfect for the introspective traveler in you, longing for a connection between landscapes and the layers of time they hold.
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John McPhee
Rising from the Plains
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This book is a great read for anyone interested in geology or curious about the formations and history of the North American continent. McPhee's writing style presents complex geological concepts in an accessible manner, making it a fascinating and informative read. The most unique and distinctive feature of the book is how McPhee weaves together the stories of geologists and their work with the geological history of North America, creating a narrative that is both educational and engaging.
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Jon Krakauer
Eiger Dreams : Ventures among Men and Mountains
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Eiger Dreams is a must-read for adventure enthusiasts and those who enjoy the thrill of risk-taking. Jon Krakauer's vivid storytelling and personal experiences make this book an engaging and inspiring read. The collection of essays includes tales of both triumph and tragedy, as well as insights into the motivations behind extreme sports and mountaineering. The book is perfect for anyone who wants to be transported to the world of daredevils, athletes, and misfits who push themselves to the limits of what is possible.
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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.
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