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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 Search for the Pink-Headed Duck
Rory Nugent | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

The Search for the Pink-Headed Duck

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$10.90

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.
Italian Neighbours: An Englishman in Verona
Tim Parks | Mandarin

Italian Neighbours: An Englishman in Verona

$21.90 $8.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$21.90 $8.90 59% off

If you've ever dreamed of living la dolce vita in Italy, Tim Parks' "Italian Neighbours" is a must-read. His wit and eye for detail transform the narrative into a vivid tapestry of Italian life, revealing the quirks and passions of its people. It's a charming, insightful journey that might just have you yearning for your own Italian adventure.
Around the Bloc: My Life in Moscow, Beijing, and Havana
Stephanie Elizondo Griest | Random House Publishing Group

Around the Bloc: My Life in Moscow, Beijing, and Havana

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$12.90

62% off est. retail
If wanderlust and political intrigue stir your soul, "Around the Bloc" is your kind of adventure. Stephanie Elizondo Griest's vivid storytelling might just make you feel the icy Moscow chill, taste Beijing's street food, and move to the rhythms of Havana. It's a journey that brings humanity and humor to places often painted in stark shades of oppression, giving you a rare grassroots perspective on life under Communism.
Lights Out for the Territory: 9 Excursions in the Secret History of London
Iain Sinclair | Penguin Books

Lights Out for the Territory: 9 Excursions in the Secret History of London

$12.90 $4.90 62% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$12.90 $4.90 62% off

Imagine a London you've never seen before, one with veiled histories and intriguing mysteries. "Lights Out for the Territory" is more than a walk through the city; it's an invitation to unearth the layers of time and space that form London's unique character. If you have a keen interest in urban exploration or psychogeography, Sinclair's vivid narrative will transform your understanding of the streets beneath your feet.
Land Below the Wind
Agnes Newton Keith | Natural History Publications

Land Below the Wind

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$8.90

If you're drawn to memoirs that paint vivid images of a world now lost, "Land Below the Wind" wouldn't disappoint. Agnes Newton Keith's account of life in North Borneo before World War II feels like travelling back in time. Her evocative storytelling immerses you in the beauty and the challenges of a bygone era, making it a captivating read for anyone interested in historical memoirs or tropical adventures.
All the Clean Ones Are Married and Other Everyday Calamities in Moscow
Lori Cidylo | Academy Chicago Publishers

All the Clean Ones Are Married and Other Everyday Calamities in Moscow

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$10.90

If the idea of an American woman's adventurous and often comical adaptation to post-Soviet Russia intrigues you, "All the Clean Ones Are Married" is your ticket to an engaging read. Lori Cidylo tells her stories with an infectious humor that brings the challenges of daily life in a constantly changing Moscow to vibrant life. It's a candid peek behind the Iron Curtain's successor, filled with nuances only a keen and witty observer could unveil.
Runaway
Skye Sinclair | Hodder & Stoughton

Runaway

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

If resilience in the face of adversity inspires you, Skye Sinclair’s “Runaway” might be the next book on your nightstand. Her remarkable journey from a troubled childhood to globetrotting adventures, and eventually to a life dedicated to humanitarian work, is a testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and find purpose. You'll find yourself rooting for her as she overcomes each obstacle, and her story could give you a fresh perspective on your own life challenges.
No Full Stops in India
Mark Tully | Penguin

No Full Stops in India

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$10.90

76% off est. retail
If you're looking to delve into the colors, contrasts, and complexities of India beyond the surface, "No Full Stops in India" is a compelling read. Mark Tully's collection of stories is not just vibrant narrative journalism, but an intimate portrait of a nation's soul. It's an insightful journey for anyone fascinated by the cultural and spiritual richness of India and its resistance to neat conclusions.
Journeys - Modern Voices
Will Stone, Stefan Zweig  | Hesperus Press

Journeys - Modern Voices

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

If you're feeling the weight of routine, "Journeys" by Stefan Zweig could be the breath of fresh air you need. These tales do more than just transport you; they free you from the ties that bind, offering a sense of liberation that's both uplifting and invigorating. It's like finding the spirit of adventure in the comfort of your own reading nook.
Wuhu Diary : : The Mystery of My Daughter Lulu - Thryft
Emily Prager | Vintage

Wuhu Diary : : The Mystery of My Daughter Lulu

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

75% off est. retail
"Wuhu Diary" is a heart-warming memoir of a mother and daughter's journey to uncover the mystery of the child's birthplace. Emily Prager's vivid descriptions capture the essence of the Chinese town and its people, amidst the backdrop of political conflict. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in cross-cultural relationships and self-discovery.
The Yage Letters Redux - Thryft
Oliver Harris, Allen Ginsberg, William S. Burroughs  | City Lights Publishers (san Francisco)

The Yage Letters Redux

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

77% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the Beat Generation or unconventional travel narratives tinged with dark humor and sharp observations, "The Yage Letters Redux" can offer an intoxicating experience. Through William S. Burroughs' eyes, you'll traverse the South American landscape in a search that's as much about inner discovery as it is about finding yage. This edition, enriched with meticulous editing and additional material, is a cultural artifact that deepens the understanding of Burroughs and Ginsberg's literary significance.
Clear Waters Rising: A Mountain Walk Across Europe - Thryft
Nicholas Crane | Penguin Uk

Clear Waters Rising: A Mountain Walk Across Europe

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

85% off est. retail
Clear Waters Rising is a great read for adventure seekers who enjoy a non-fictional, personal experience narrative. The book takes you on a seventeen-month journey across Europe's mountains, meeting people and exploring the wilderness along the way. The unique appeal of this book lies in the author's solo journey and his encounters with people living on the periphery.
Driven to Distraction
Jeremy Clarkson | Penguin Uk

Driven to Distraction

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

If you're craving a blend of fast cars and wry British humor packaged in a rant about contemporary life, then "Driven to Distraction" could be your cup of tea. Jeremy Clarkson's distinctive voice and unfiltered opinions make for an entertaining read that feels akin to having an amusing chat with a knowledgeable, albeit opinionated, friend. It's for those who appreciate an irreverent take on life and love of automobiles.
Crazy Little Heaven: An Indonesian Journey
Mark Heyward | Transit Lounge Publishing

Crazy Little Heaven: An Indonesian Journey

$66.90

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$66.90

If you're drawn to tales where travel transforms and culture captivates, "Crazy Little Heaven" is your ticket to experience Indonesia beyond the postcard views. Mark Heyward's narrative is like a richly woven tapestry, blending adventure with a poignant love story, against the backdrop of a nation's vibrant heart. It's a read that will take you on a journey through the allure and complexities of life in Indonesia, inviting you to explore a world where every turn is a potential revelation.
Clarkson on Cars - Thryft
Jeremy Clarkson | Penguin

Clarkson on Cars

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

82% off est. retail
Recommendation: Clarkson on Cars is a must-read for any car enthusiast who appreciates irreverent humor and insightful commentary on a diverse range of car-related topics. Jeremy Clarkson's writing is both entertaining and informative, blending his passion for cars with his acerbic wit. Whether you're a fan of his work on Top Gear or not, this collection of classic Clarkson is sure to have you in stitches.
Michael Palin's Hemingway Adventure
Michael Palin | Thomas Dunne Books

Michael Palin's Hemingway Adventure

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$9.90

If you're a fan of both travel and literature, Michael Palin's exploration of Hemingway's world strikes the perfect chord. Palin's wit and keen eye for detail bring the landscapes and experiences that shaped one of the greatest writers to life. This book is a window to Hemingway's soul, painted with the colors of his adventures and musings. It's like taking a walk with a knowledgeable friend through the pages of history.
They Lived to Tell the Tale
Reader's Digest Association | Reader's Digest

They Lived to Tell the Tale

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$10.90

If you're drawn to stories that celebrate the resilience and indomitable spirit of individuals facing unbelievable adversities, "They Lived to Tell the Tale" could leave you inspired. It manages to capture the human capacity for endurance in situations that test the limits of what one can bear. Each story is a testament to courage and the will to survive that could stir feelings of awe and deep respect for the protagonists' perseverance.
Don't Stop Me Now
Jeremy Clarkson | Penguin

Don't Stop Me Now

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

68% off est. retail
If you fancy a good laugh alongside a dose of unfiltered opinion, Jeremy Clarkson's "Don't Stop Me Now" should be right up your alley. It's not just about the cars; it's Clarkson's take on the world, delivered with the wit and irreverence you'd expect. Perfect for anyone who enjoys a blend of humor with their automotive passion or just wanted a glimpse into the mind of one of the most distinctive voices in motoring journalism.
Investment Biker: On the Road with Jim Rogers
Jim Rogers | Random House

Investment Biker: On the Road with Jim Rogers

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$11.90

If you're intrigued by the blend of high-stakes investment strategies and the raw thrill of adventure, "Investment Biker" might just be your next favorite read. Jim Rogers doesn't just take you through markets; he takes you across continents, offering a perspective that's as expansive as the horizons he rides towards. It's a rare glimpse into the world's economic playgrounds from the seat of a motorbike.
Long Way Round: Chasing Shadows Across the World
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Charley Boorman | Time Warner Books

Long Way Round: Chasing Shadows Across the World

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$6.90

71% off est. retail
"Long Way Round" isn't just about the thrill of a motorcycle adventure; it's a testament to friendship and the human spirit. If you've got a bit of wanderlust, or even if you just enjoy a good narrative of persistence against the odds, Ewan McGregor's account of this epic journey will resonate with you. Their encounters with diverse cultures and the challenges they face will surely give you a taste of the world through their eyes, from the comfort of your armchair.
Great-Uncle Harry: A Tale of War and Empire
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Michael Palin | Penguin Books

Great-Uncle Harry: A Tale of War and Empire

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$8.90

58% off est. retail
If you're drawn to narratives that blend personal discovery with historical intrigue, "Great-Uncle Harry" might resonate with you. Michael Palin leads us on a quest that is as much about family and memory as it is about the echoes of war. The book connects the past with the present through painstaking research that reveals not just a family member's life, but also a slice of world history. His storytelling could offer you both an emotional connection and a richer understanding of the Great War's personal impact.
The Greatest Adventure: The Balloonists' Own Epic Tale of Their Round-the-World Voyage
Sold out
Bertrand; Jones Piccard, Brian W. Jones  | Headline

The Greatest Adventure: The Balloonists' Own Epic Tale of Their Round-the-World Voyage

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$8.90

If you've ever wondered about the daring spirit of adventurers, "The Greatest Adventure" offers an intimate look into the trials and victories of circumnavigating the globe in a balloon. Piccard and Jones's tale is both exhilarating and harrowing, revealing the courage it takes to forge through the unknown. The authenticity of their experience, facing unimaginable challenges in the stratosphere, is sure to inspire and capture the imagination of anyone who dreams of great exploits.
The Boat Who Wouldn't Float
Sold out
Farley Mowat | Starfire

The Boat Who Wouldn't Float

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

64% off est. retail
If the sea calls to you, but life's kept it just out of reach, "The Boat Who Wouldn't Float" can serve as both a cautionary tale and a source of riotous fun. Mowat's knack for storytelling brings to life the boisterous journey of a man and his leaky boat. With each page, you'll feel the salty breeze and the exasperated love for a ship with a mind of its own. It's an adventure you wouldn't want to have, but would never want to end.
Notes From a Small Island
Sold out
Bill Bryson | Black Swan

Notes From a Small Island

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

78% off est. retail
If you've ever wondered what makes Britain tick, Bryson's keen observations wrapped in his signature wit might be just the ticket. He unpacks the quirks and foibles of British life with affectionate humor, making 'Notes from a Small Island' a candid and entertaining read that's like a leisurely stroll through the UK from the comfort of your favorite chair.
Left for Dead: My Journey Home from Everest - Thryft
Sold out
Stephen G. Michaud, Beck Weathers  | Dell

Left for Dead: My Journey Home from Everest

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

64% off est. retail
If you've ever faced a mountain, literally or metaphorically, Beck Weathers' story in "Left for Dead" will resonate with you. This isn't just a tale of surviving against nature's harshest elements; it's a profound journey of personal redemption and the power of human spirit. The raw honesty with which Weathers confronts his relationship with climbing and its impact on his family life adds a layer of depth that extends beyond the thrill of survival. It reminds us of the strength we can summon in our darkest hours and the second chances life can offer.
Runaway - Thryft
Sold out
Skye Sinclair | Hodder & Stoughton

Runaway

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.26

Skye's story is one of survival against the odds. Abandoned by her mother at the age of four and placed in a series of horrible institutions, she learnt to fend for herself from an early age. After a horrific rape when she was ten, she ran from the care home and went to live with the gypsies in the New Forest. She always yearned for freedom and was fearless and impulsive. Her curiosity took her all over the world -- from the abattoirs of France at the age of 15 to the dizzy heights of the Paris fashion world, onto the underbelly of Amsterdam where she became a diamond smuggler at the age of 17 and then to the film studios of Hollywood where she worked as a stunt woman on films like Blues Brothers. Her life took a very different turn when she moved to the island of Phuket in Thailand, adopted four children from different backgrounds, Angelia Jolie-style, and started to sponsor another three. With a group of friends she helped set up an orphanage for street children in neighbouring Cambodia who were eking out a miserable existence on one of the municipal rubbish dumps in Pnom Phen.At the age of 45 her life revolves around children, both her own four and the Cambodians she has pledged to help. The runaway street child has fianlly found a reason to stop running.
A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains
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Isabella Lucy Bird | John Beaufoy Publishing

A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

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.
Big Chief Elizabeth : How England's Adventurers Gambled and Won the New World - Thryft
Sold out
Giles Milton | John Murray

Big Chief Elizabeth : How England's Adventurers Gambled and Won the New World

$6.80

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$6.80

68% off est. retail
This book is a captivating historical adventure that delves into the fascinating story of Queen Elizabeth I and her favorite, Sir Walter Ralegh. Set in the Elizabethan era, it follows their daring expedition to establish the first English settlement in the New World. Through first-hand accounts, the author unveils a thrilling tale of heroism, mystery, and the forgotten history of early English colonization. If you enjoy immersive historical narratives, this book will transport you back in time and keep you mesmerized until the very end.
Looptail : How One Company Changed the World by Reinventing Business - Thryft
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Bruce Poon Tip | Business Plus

Looptail How One Company Changed the World by Reinventing Business

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

85% off est. retail
This book would be a great read for anyone interested in entrepreneurship and business innovation. Bruce Poon Tip's first-person account of starting and developing G Adventures will captivate you from the beginning. The most distinctive feature of "Looptail" is the author's unconventional management secrets that not only keep employees engaged but also keep customers extremely happy. It's a refreshing take on business and will inspire you to think outside the box and revolutionize your own venture.
Under The Tuscan Sun - Thryft
Sold out
Frances Mayes | Transworld Pub

Under The Tuscan Sun

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

63% off est. retail
If you're a foodie and love travel, you'll adore this charming memoir about restoring a villa in Tuscany. Mayes' descriptions of the local cuisine and Italian culture are vivid, and her recipes inspired by the seasonal ingredients she finds at the markets are delicious. This book is a feast for the senses and a great escape for armchair travelers seeking a delightful Italian adventure.
Medallion Status - True Stories From Secret Rooms - Thryft
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John Hodgman | Viking

Medallion Status - True Stories From Secret Rooms

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

91% off est. retail
Medallion Status by John Hodgman is a witty memoir that explores the author's experiences with fame, success, and, ultimately, losing that status. Hodgman's humorous tone makes this an enjoyable read, while his honest reflections on issues of identity and self-worth will resonate with anyone who has experienced a sudden change in their social status.
Life in the Skies - Thryft
Sold out
Tony Fernandes, Lim Khoy Hing  | Marshall Cavendish

Life in the Skies

$6.83

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$6.83

74% off est. retail
Life in the Skies offers a unique perspective on air travel and airplane safety from the perspective of a lifelong pilot. Captain Lim shares his personal experiences and provides valuable insights for air travelers and aspiring pilots alike. The book is complemented with over 40 full-color illustrations, making it an engaging read from start to finish. Readers will enjoy the entertaining anecdotes and stories, while also learning about the intricacies of becoming a pilot and the safety regulations that govern air travel. Overall, Life in the Skies is a must-read for anyone interested in aviation or air travel.
Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything - Thryft
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Elizabeth Gilbert | Bloomsbury

Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

66% off est. retail
"Eat, Pray, Love" is a must-read for anyone who is looking for inspiration to change their life. Elizabeth Gilbert's journey is relatable and her experiences enriching and enlightening. This book is an authentic exploration of self-discovery and transformation, and is perfect for anyone seeking adventure and inspiration to rediscover themselves.
Red Dust - Thryft
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Ma Jian | Vintage Books

Red Dust

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$8.90

68% off est. retail
Red Dust is a must-read for those interested in China's recent history and culture. Through Ma Jian's insightful journey, readers can gain a unique perspective on China's societal challenges. The book is a compelling mix of beautiful descriptions of the country's natural beauty and commentary on the repressive nature of China's government in the 1980s.
Bridge Across My Sorrows - Thryft
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Christina Noble | Corgi Books

Bridge Across My Sorrows

$6.04 $4.23 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$6.04 $4.23 30% off

75% off est. retail
Bridge Across My Sorrows is an inspiring autobiography of Christina Noble who dedicated her life to helping destitute children in Vietnam. Her unorthodox methods of dealing with the challenges she faced while helping vulnerable children will make you laugh, cry, and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on you. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to be inspired and gain a new perspective on life.
Charles Dickens at Home - Thryft
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Graham Salter, Hilary Macaskill, Florian Schweizer  | Frances Lincoln

Charles Dickens at Home

$15.59 $10.91 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$15.59 $10.91 30% off

84% off est. retail
This book delves into the life of Charles Dickens and the impact his homes had on his writing. It offers a unique perspective on the author and his works, making it a great read for fans of Dickens' literature. The book provides an in-depth look at the places where the author lived, and how they influenced the setting and characters of his novels. Dickens' attention to detail and acute observation are highlighted, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the author's life and work. The book is illustrated with archive material and original photography, making it a beautiful addition to any book lover's collection.
Larger Than Life: Celebrating the Human Spirit
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Belinda Lee | Marshall Cavendish International (asia) Pte Ltd

Larger Than Life: Celebrating the Human Spirit

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 4.57

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

69% off est. retail
"Larger Than Life" is a heart-warming collection of stories about people who have dedicated their lives to helping others. Belinda Lee introduces readers to these amazing individuals who have chosen to follow the road less trodden and work for unusual social causes such as building schools, rescuing street children, and helping war-affected people. This book celebrates the human spirit and restores faith in the goodness of humanity. If you are looking for inspiring stories about ordinary people doing extraordinary things, this book is for you.

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.