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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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Of Love and War - The Letters and Diaries of Captain Adrian Curlewis and His Family, 1939-1945
Adrian Curlewis | Lansdowne Press

Of Love and War - The Letters and Diaries of Captain Adrian Curlewis and His Family, 1939-1945

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

If you're drawn to the personal side of history—specifically World War II—this book offers a deeply moving perspective. Through Captain Curlewis's letters and diaries, you get an authentic glimpse into the lives and emotions of a family separated by war. It's a humanizing bridge across time, connecting you with the era's personal struggles and hopes. For anyone with an interest in military history, personal narratives or simply a poignant family story, this compilation stands as a touching artifact.
Reckoning: A Memoir
Magda Szubanski | Text Publishing Company

Reckoning: A Memoir

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

65% off est. retail
"Reckoning" isn't just a memoir; it's Magda Szubanski's soul on paper. If you're moved by raw, truthful stories that traverse the complexity of a life shadowed by historical events and personal struggles, then this book will speak to you. It's a deep dive into the human experience, with a narrative so engaging it could make you reflect on your own family history and personal identity.
Going Solo
Quentin Blake, Roald Dahl  | Puffin

Going Solo

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$8.26

Going Solo is a captivating memoir of Roald Dahl's bravery and survival skills during his African and wartime experiences. It offers a unique perspective on his life that fans will appreciate and adventure-seekers will find inspiring.
Audrey Hepburn
Kathryn Dixon | Taj Books International Llp

Audrey Hepburn

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.06

$9.90

You might adore Audrey Hepburn for her timeless elegance in film, but there's so much more to her story than Breakfast at Tiffany's. This book paints a striking portrait of a beloved Hollywood legend who turned her attention to the plight of the world's suffering children. Diving into her lesser-known UNICEF ambassadorship, it's inspirational for those who cherish not only cinema but also compassion and global activism.
Trained to Kill: The Inside Story of CIA Plots Against Castro, Kennedy, and Che
Carlos Harrison, David Talbot, Antonio Veciana  | Skyhorse

Trained to Kill: The Inside Story of CIA Plots Against Castro, Kennedy, and Che

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$13.90

60% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the clandestine aspects of history, you'll find Antonio Veciana's memoir riveting. His unique perspective as a participant in the covert battles of the Cold War sheds light on the darker facets of American foreign policy and espionage. This detailed recounting of intrigue and plots against Castro and Kennedy is not just another conspiracy theory—it's a firsthand narrative that promises to offer insights from the man who was there, entwined in the very fabric of these historical events.
I Survived Rumbuli - Thryft
Wolf Goodman, Frida Michelson  | Unites States Holocaust

I Survived Rumbuli

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

If you're keen on World War II history, Frida Michelson's firsthand account will immerse you in the stark realities of the Nazi occupation in Latvia. It's a sobering read, offering a voice to the silenced and a reminder of the atrocities of the past. This book is more than history; it's an intimate narrative of endurance and memory.
Churchill and the Lion City: Shaping Modern Singapore
Brian Farrell | National University Of Singapore Press

Churchill and the Lion City: Shaping Modern Singapore

$21.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$21.90

48% off est. retail
If modern Singapore's transformation fascinates you, "Churchill and the Lion City" is a must-read. It intriguingly explores the interwoven legacies of Churchill, British imperialism, and Singapore, offering a critical lens on historical narratives. Through Farrell's analysis, you'll uncover how Churchill's perceptions and policies shaped an era and how these forces continue to echo in Singapore's evolution. It's a compelling dive into the complexities of empire and identity.
The School That Escaped the Nazis

The School That Escaped the Nazis

$10.90

$10.90

42% off est. retail
This book dives deep into the heroism of Anna Essinger, who, sensing the looming threat of Nazi Germany, orchestrated a daring escape to protect her students. As you read, you'll find yourself moved by the harrowing accounts and the resilience of these children. It's not only a tale of survival, but also a remarkable example of hope and the human spirit's capacity for love and security amidst the darkest times.
A Pictorial History of Winston Churchill
Nigel Blundell | J G Pr

A Pictorial History of Winston Churchill

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

65% off est. retail
If you're drawn to historical figures who've shaped our modern world, this pictorial history is a visual delight to understand Winston Churchill beyond the text. It brings forth imagery that complements the grandeur of his legacy, offering a deeper, more personal perspective of the man who stood as a pillar during some of the twentieth century's most tumultuous times.
True Stories Of The Second World War - Thryft
Paul Dowswell, Glen Bird  | Usborne Pub Ltd

True Stories Of The Second World War

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$3.90

This book is a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the gripping accounts of World War II. With epic naval encounters, monumental battles, and suspenseful duels, it brings to life the intense and vivid experiences of those who were there. Transporting you to that era, it captures the resilience, bravery, and sacrifices made during one of the most significant conflicts in history.
Cyanide in My Shoe
Josephine Butler | This England Books

Cyanide in My Shoe

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$14.90

If tales of daring, wit, and audacity capture your imagination, "Cyanide in My Shoe" is right up your alley. Josephine Butler offers a rare glimpse into the life of a female spy during World War II, imbuing history with a personal touch that's both enlightening and thrilling. This memoir transcends the genre, giving you a front-row seat to the clandestine operations against the backdrop of one of the most tumultuous times in recent history.
Playing for Time
Arthur Miller, Fania Fénelon, Marcelle Routier  | Nick Hern Books

Playing for Time

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

71% off est. retail
"Playing for Time" is a poignant choice for anyone interested in the human spirit's resilience under the most harrowing conditions. Arthur Miller's adaptation of Fania Fénelon's experiences offers an intimate look at how the power of art can prove to be a lifeline amidst the darkest atrocities. It's a testament to hope and solidarity in a place designed to strip away all humanity. A necessary, if heart-wrenching, read.
Going Solo
Roald Dahl, Quentin Blake  | Puffin

Going Solo

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$8.26

Imagine sitting with a world-renowned storyteller as he shares his personal tale of bravery and adventure. 'Going Solo' does just that, giving you a front-row seat to the real-life escapades of Roald Dahl. It's not just a glimpse into the young life of a literary legend, but an inspiring travelogue filled with danger, humor, and the kind of vivid storytelling prowess that Dahl is celebrated for. If you're enamored with history, or if Dahl's fiction has charmed you, exploring his actual exploits will add thrilling context to the stories you've loved.
The Dachau Concentration Camp, 1933 to 1945 - Text and Photo Documents from the Exhibition, with CD
Ludwig Eiber, Thomas Felsenstein, haus-der-bayerischen-geschichte-international-dachau-committee-kz-gedenkstatte-dachau  | Edition Lipp

The Dachau Concentration Camp, 1933 to 1945 - Text and Photo Documents from the Exhibition, with CD

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$8.90

If the stark realities of human history intrigue you, this book could offer a sobering perspective. It’s not just a reading experience but a visual journey through one of the darkest periods of modern civilization. The inclusion of the CD-ROM allows for a comprehensive exploration of the Dachau Concentration Camp, making the historical narrative even more poignant and educational.
Odette
Jerrard Tickell | Headline Review

Odette

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

74% off est. retail
"Odette" offers more than a glimpse into a riveting wartime narrative. It's the real-life odyssey of one woman's indomitable spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. Readers who find strength in tales of human resilience and the complexities of clandestine operations will discover in Odette a soul-stirring account that resonates with courage and the enduring human capacity for hope.
Madame Chiang Kai-Shek: China's Eternal First Lady
Laura Tyson Li | Atlantic Monthly Press

Madame Chiang Kai-Shek: China's Eternal First Lady

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$9.90

If you're intrigued by powerful women in history who've played pivotal roles in global politics, Madame Chiang Kai-Shek's biography could offer a compelling read. Laura Tyson Li brings to light the enigmatic life of a woman who navigated through China's most turbulent times with grace and strength, influencing not just her country but also the foreign policies of major world powers. Her life's narrative unfolds against a backdrop of war and revolution, offering a unique look at China's journey through the 20th century.
Crown of Glory, Crown of Thorns: The Salvation Army in Wartime - Thryft
Berni Georges, Paul Mortlock, Shaw Clifton  | Salvation Books

Crown of Glory, Crown of Thorns: The Salvation Army in Wartime

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

If history with a touch of human compassion fascinates you, "Crown of Glory, Crown of Thorns" will resonate deeply. Shaw Clifton delivers an exhaustive exploration into The Salvation Army's altruistic role during wars. It's a unique lens on historical events, ideal for anyone intrigued by the intersection of faith, charity, and the tumult of war.
Port Chicago Mutiny - Thryft
Robert L. Allen | Harperpb

Port Chicago Mutiny

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

75% off est. retail
If you're drawn to untold narratives that intertwine history with themes of social justice, "Port Chicago Mutiny" is a compelling choice. It sheds light on a significant but often overlooked chapter of WWII history, highlighting the racial inequalities that precipitated a profound and controversial trial. This is an essential read for anyone interested in the complexities of civil rights within the military and the enduring fight for equality.
A Few Good Men: The Story of the Fighting Fifth Marines
Ronald J. Brown | Presidio Press

A Few Good Men: The Story of the Fighting Fifth Marines

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$12.90

If you're fascinated by military history and heroics, "A Few Good Men" by Ronald J. Brown will immerse you in the storied past of the 5th Marine Regiment. Spanning from World War I to other significant 20th-century conflicts, the detailed accounts and visual aids like photos and maps bring history to life. It provides an in-depth exploration of the bravery and strategy that makes the Marine Corps respected and revered. Whether you're a history enthusiast or seeking to understand the legacy of military valor, this book serves as a testament to the courage and commitment of the Marines.
The Hiding Place
Corrie Ten; Sherrill Boom | Hodder & Stoughton

The Hiding Place

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$8.90

64% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories of resilience and spiritual strength during the darkest times, "The Hiding Place" will resonate with you. Corrie ten Boom's extraordinary tale of sheltering Jews during WWII, facing betrayal and imprisonment, yet holding onto faith, offers both historical insight and inspirational fortitude. It's an enduring testament to the power of human compassion and belief in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Jungle Soldier: The True Story of Freddy Spencer Chapman
Just Arrived
Brian Moynahan | Quercus

Jungle Soldier: The True Story of Freddy Spencer Chapman

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$8.90

If tales of resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity stir something in you, Freddy Spencer Chapman's story won't disappoint. 'Jungle Soldier' is not just a recount of survival, but an embodiment of human tenacity and courage. It's a gripping adventure that transports you to the thick of Malayan jungles during the chaos of war, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by history, survival stories, or tales of extraordinary human spirit.
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.
Grand Slam Baseball: The Lore & Legends of America's Game - Thryft
Sold out
Paul Adomites | Publications International, Ltd.

Grand Slam Baseball: The Lore & Legends of America's Game

$17.42 $5.90 66% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$17.42 $5.90 66% off

If baseball is your game, this read is a home run. It's not just facts and figures; it's the untold stories and quirky trivia that will give you a new appreciation for every pitch and home run. You'll find yourself amazed and sharing these anecdotes with fellow fans.
Bad Faith: A Forgotten History of Family, Fatherland and Vichy France - Thryft
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Carmen Callil | Vintage

Bad Faith: A Forgotten History of Family, Fatherland and Vichy France

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

85% off est. retail
If history fascinates you, particularly the harrowing times of World War II and the Vichy regime, "Bad Faith" offers a stark look at one of its most notorious figures. Carmen Callil doesn't only recount the chilling actions of Louis Darquier de Pellepoix but also delves into the profound personal impact of his legacy. It's a compelling read that masterfully blends thorough research with a narrative that's as insightful as it is haunting. It’s history, but it reads with the emotional force of a personal story.
Shocking Paris - Thryft
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Stanley Meisler | St. Martin's Press

Shocking Paris

$14.86

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$14.86

66% off est. retail
"Shocking Paris" could be a great read for art lovers who are interested in immigrant artists' contributions to the School of Paris. This book provides a vivid description of the art scene in Montparnasse and portrays the lives of immigrant artists, including Chaim Soutine, Amedeo Modigliani, Marc Chagall, and Jules Pascin. The book mainly focuses on Soutine's life, who was considered the most talented artist among all immigrant artists. The book describes the struggles and hardships that Soutine and other immigrant artists faced while living in Paris before and after World War II and how the fear of persecution affected their work.
I Know Nothing! - Thryft
Sold out
Andrew Sachs | Robson Press

I Know Nothing!

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

81% off est. retail
"I Know Nothing! is a powerful memoir that follows Andrew Sachs' journey from a young child witnessing the brutality of the Nazis to his rise to fame as an actor. Sachs shares his personal experiences with honesty, humor, and humility, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the human experience during one of the darkest times in history. His story of resilience and perseverance will inspire readers of all ages."
Unbroken : A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption - Thryft
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Laura Hillenbrand | Random House

Unbroken : A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption

$16.32 $11.42 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$16.32 $11.42 30% off

74% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the true story of human resilience. Hillenbrand’s meticulous and dramatic retelling of Zamperini’s tale will keep readers gripped from start to finish. The book’s unflinching portrayal of a man’s triumph over inhuman treatment will inspire readers for years to come.
The Killer They Called a God - Thryft
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Ian Ward | Media Masters

The Killer They Called a God

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$5.90

70% off est. retail
This book is a gripping account of Colonel Masanobu Tsuji, a notorious war criminal who managed to escape justice. The author takes the reader on a thrilling journey from the blood-soaked beaches of Singapore to the baffling conclusion, unraveling the shocking secrets and the role of American and British authorities in his escape. If you're a history enthusiast seeking to understand the tangled web of politics and war, this book offers a captivating exploration into the hidden chapters of World War II.
Anne Frank's Story - Thryft
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Carol Ann Lee | Puffin

Anne Frank's Story

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

71% off est. retail
The life story of Anne Frank, from her early happy childhood in Frankfurt, growing up in Amsterdam, her two years in hiding and the last few months of her life in the concentration camps. Narrated in six clearly written chapters, this biography for children answers the many detailed questions about Anne that readers of the Diary often have, and includes interesting anecdotes from friends who survived her. There is an Historical Note at the beginning of the book and a map of Europe, so that children will be able to understand the situation at the time, and an Introduction by Anne Frank's cousin, Buddy Elias.
Singapore at War: Secrets from the Fall, Liberation and the Aftermath of WWII
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Romen Bose | Marshall Cavendish Editions

Singapore at War: Secrets from the Fall, Liberation and the Aftermath of WWII

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$10.90

70% off est. retail
If World War II history piques your interest, particularly the lesser-explored Asian theatre, "Singapore at War" will be a treasure trove for you. Romen Bose weaves together a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at pivotal events, from the fall of Singapore to its post-war legacy and remembrance. The research delves into newly uncovered secrets that could shift your understanding of how the war unfolded in Southeast Asia.

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.