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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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Going Solo
Quentin Blake, Roald Dahl  | Puffin Books

Going Solo

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$8.90

This book is for those who are fascinated with Dahl's life as an adult, and enjoy reading about travel, war and thriving in different cultures. Going Solo provides a rare insight into Dahl's personal experiences, and is written with his signature wit and charm. Readers will be captivated by Dahl's tales of adventure, bravery and unexpected twists of fate.
Edison & The Electric Chair: A Story of Light and Death - Thryft
Mark Essig | Walker Books

Edison & The Electric Chair: A Story of Light and Death

$11.61 $3.90 66% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$11.61 $3.90 66% off

83% off est. retail
Exploring the dichotomy of innovation and ethics, this book delves into a tale of how one of history's greatest inventors, Thomas Edison, became entwined with the development of the electric chair. Beyond the intriguing story of invention, it sheds light on the social, and political intricacies of the time, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the impacts of technology on society and the moral dilemmas innovators often face.
Don't Give Up--Don't Ever Give Up: The Inspiration of Jimmy V: One Coach, 11 Minutes, and an Uncommon Look at the Game of Life
Robyn Spizman, Nick Valvano, Justin Spizman  | Sourcebooks Inc

Don't Give Up--Don't Ever Give Up: The Inspiration of Jimmy V: One Coach, 11 Minutes, and an Uncommon Look at the Game of Life

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$8.90

If you're a fan of sports or simply love a good motivational story, "Don't Give Up—Don't Ever Give Up" is a slam dunk for you. It's not just about basketball—it's life lessons wrapped in an 11-minute speech that's remembered far beyond the court. With Jimmy V's powerful words, this book might just be the coach you need in the game of life.
The Skripal Files: Putin, Poison and the New Spy War
Mark Urban | Pan

The Skripal Files: Putin, Poison and the New Spy War

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$11.90

37% off est. retail
"The Skripal Files" is a chilling narrative that delves into real-world espionage with an immediacy that could rival any spy novel. Mark Urban's reporting unpacks a nerve-racking act of poisoning, which reads like a wake-up call to the intertwined world of international espionage and geopolitical conflict. It's compelling for anyone captivated by the shadowy dance of spies and the real consequences that unfold on the global stage.
Church Shift : Revolutionizing Your Faith, Church, and Life for the 21st Century - Thryft
Sunday Adelaja | Charisma House

Church Shift : Revolutionizing Your Faith, Church, and Life for the 21st Century

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.37

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

83% off est. retail
Church Shift by Sunday Adelaja is a must-read for anyone seeking to revamp their faith and spirituality. This powerful and inspiring book provides a guide on how to overcome the challenges faced when trying to establish God's kingdom on earth. Sunday shares his life story, from how he received the assignment to pastor and evangelize, to overcoming prejudice and persecution in a predominantly white, Orthodox Ukraine. Readers will be inspired to discover their own God-given assignments as they impact their world for the kingdom of God.
House of Bush, House of Saud: The Secret Relationship Between the World's Two Most Powerful Dynasties
Craig Unger | Scribner

House of Bush, House of Saud: The Secret Relationship Between the World's Two Most Powerful Dynasties

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

78% off est. retail
This book is recommended for those interested in understanding the complex relationships between politics and business. Through in-depth research and interviews with high-profile figures, Unger sheds light on the murky connections between the Bush family and the House of Saud, and the impact it had on American foreign policy, national security, and business. It provides a different perspective to official explanations, making it a must-read for those seeking to unravel the hidden power dynamics behind world events.
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.
Home Is Where the Heart Is
Geraldine Cox | Japan Printing House

Home Is Where the Heart Is

$29.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$29.90

If you've ever longed for a tale that explores the depth of human connection and the true meaning of home, "Home is Where the Heart is" could resonate deeply with you. It's a story that might remind you of where you come from and what truly matters in life – ideal for reflection and finding comfort in the concept of home.
Frances Partridge
Anne Chisholm | Phoenix

Frances Partridge

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

79% off est. retail
Frances Partridge's biography offers an enthralling bridge to the past, immersing you in the vibrant atmosphere of the Bloomsbury group, described from an insider's perspective. Her diaries, filled with candid encounters with key cultural figures of the era, offer more than just history; they're a moving personal journey through triumph, tragedy, and the relentless pursuit of life’s richness. It's a compelling read for anyone fascinated by personal narrative woven into the larger tapestry of 20th-century intellectual society.
The Fundamentals of Hogan
David Leadbetter | Doubleday / Sleeping Bear

The Fundamentals of Hogan

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$11.90

If golfing is your passion or you are just beginning to explore the green, "The Fundamentals of Hogan" will be like having a personal session with one of the game’s legends, Ben Hogan. The use of original photographs provides an authentic touch, making it more than a mere instructional book—it's a piece of golfing history in your hands. You'll get to study Hogan's form in unprecedented detail, potentially transforming your own game.
Past Imperfect: Autobiography - Thryft
Joan Collins | Hodder & Stoughton Ltd

Past Imperfect: Autobiography

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

This autobiography is a captivating journey through the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, offering an intimate look into the rollercoaster life of a talented and resilient actress. Joan Collins bares it all, sharing intricate details of her broken marriages, passionate love affairs, and the heart-wrenching struggle of her daughter's accident and recovery. With her unyielding spirit and determination, she reminds us of the indomitable strength within us all. A mesmerizing read for fans of showbiz and those seeking inspiration to overcome life's challenges.
King Robert the Bruce
Alexander Falconer Murison | Waverley Books Ltd

King Robert the Bruce

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're drawn to tales of heroism, resilience, and the stirring history of nations, "King Robert The Bruce" by Alexander Falconer Murison could resonate with you. It's not just a retelling of historical events; it's a journey into the life of a man whose determination helped shape a country. The book makes the distant past feel immediate and important, a testament to the enduring influence of Robert The Bruce on Scotland and beyond.
The Twat Files
Dawn French

The Twat Files

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$10.90

74% off est. retail
"The Twat Files" delivers an unconventional humor that resonates with those who appreciate satire and the ridiculousness of the everyday. If you enjoy a book that takes you by surprise, challenges societal norms, and makes you laugh at the absurd, this could be your next favorite read. It's for anyone looking for a break from the ordinary and an entry into a world where wit reigns supreme.
An Explorer's Handbook - Thryft
Christina Dodwell | Hodder & Stoughton Ltd

An Explorer's Handbook

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

"An Explorer's Handbook" is perfect for those with a thirst for adventure and exploration. This book takes readers on a journey filled with captivating tales of the author's personal experiences traveling around the world. From navigating treacherous terrain to experiencing different cultures, this book offers a unique and inspiring perspective on what it means to be an explorer. The author's vivid storytelling and firsthand accounts make this book a must-read for anyone looking to expand their horizons and explore the unknown.
Going to Extremes
Joe McGinniss | Plume

Going to Extremes

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

73% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the world's harshest climes and the people who thrive in them, "Going to Extremes" could be a fascinating read for you. It's an invitation to adventure through the planet's most severe conditions, challenging what you thought was humanly possible. The book offers a window into the resilience of both nature and the human spirit.
Keeping My Mandarin Alive: Lee Kuan Yew's Language Learning Experience
Chee Lay Chua | World Scientific Publishing Company

Keeping My Mandarin Alive: Lee Kuan Yew's Language Learning Experience

$28.02

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$28.02

This book is an inspiring guide for individuals who aspire to learn a new language. Lee Kuan Yew's experience with learning Mandarin, including the software he used and resources he relied on, is particularly useful to beginners. Users will appreciate the inclusion of a demo version of the software, samples of resource materials, and a resource guide with recommendations for further learning. Lee Kuan Yew's insights on the process of language acquisition are invaluable and make this book a must-read for anyone aiming to learn a new language.
I Feel Great and You Will Too!: An Inspiring Journey of Success with Practical Tips on How to Score Big in Life - Thryft
Pat Croce | Touchstone

I Feel Great and You Will Too!: An Inspiring Journey of Success with Practical Tips on How to Score Big in Life

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

86% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for anyone who needs a boost of motivation and inspiration. Pat Croce's journey from the training room to the boardroom is a captivating tale of resilience and positivity. With his irrepressible attitude and practical tips on goal setting, communication, and creative thinking, readers are sure to be inspired to achieve greatness in their own lives. Plus, his "Ten Commandments of Customer Service" provide valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Get ready to feel great and score big in life!
1776: Year of Illusions - Thryft
Thomas Fleming | W.w. Norton & Company

1776: Year of Illusions

$24.90 $7.90 68% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$24.90 $7.90 68% off

85% off est. retail
If you’re drawn to pivotal moments in history, "1776" will take you to the heart of America’s push for independence. Thomas Fleming presents the events of this decisive year with compelling storytelling, bringing to life the political strategies, battlefield struggles, and the characters that shaped a nation. History buffs and those seeking an understanding of America’s origins will find this an enlightening and engaging read.
The Long Walk
Slavomir Rawicz | Constable And Robinson

The Long Walk

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$12.90

If you're drawn to true tales of resilience and adventure, you'll be captivated by "The Long Walk." Slavomir Rawicz’s account of escape and survival is not just a geographical journey across some of the most treacherous terrains, but also an inspirational testament to the human spirit's determination. It's for those who appreciate the raw reality of a historical narrative infused with the will to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.
Stones Into Schools: Promoting Peace With Books, Not Bombs, In Afghanistan And Pakistan
Greg Mortenson, Rika Iffati Farihah, Khaled Hosseini  | Viking

Stones Into Schools: Promoting Peace With Books, Not Bombs, In Afghanistan And Pakistan

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

Imagine you're yearning for a tale of heroism in the most unlikely places. Greg Mortenson's "Stones Into Schools" offers just that, by taking you along his incredible journey to overcome geopolitical and cultural hurdles. The warmth of human spirit shines through every page, as Mortenson fosters hope through education in places marked by conflict and hardship. This true story will likely redefine your view of courage and commitment.
Country of My Skull
New
Antjie Krog | Vintage/ebury (a Division Of Random

Country of My Skull

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$9.90

65% off est. retail
"Country of My Skull" is not merely a historical account; it's a deep dive into the heartache and healing of a nation. Antjie Krog masterfully captures the chaos and catharsis of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, giving voice to stories that both shock and inspire. If you're drawn to works that explore the human capacity for forgiveness and the complexities of justice, this book will resonate with you deeply.
Bomb Hunters : In Afghanistan with Britain's Elite Bomb Disposal Unit - Thryft
Sean Rayment | Collins

Bomb Hunters : In Afghanistan with Britain's Elite Bomb Disposal Unit

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

78% off est. retail
Bomb Hunters is a poignant account of the lives of British army's elite bomb disposal experts, who risk their lives every day defusing bombs in Helmand province, Afghanistan. This book will appeal to those interested in military memoirs, as it takes the reader on an unforgettable journey into the heat and dust of Helmand Province. The author's narration captures the bravery and skill of the Bomb Hunters and their experiences dealing with the psychological battle of detecting and defusing the Improvised Explosive Device (IED).
The Fat Ladies Club 2: Facing the First Five Years - Thryft
Hilary Gardener, Andrea Bettridge, Sarah Groves  | Penguin Global

The Fat Ladies Club 2: Facing the First Five Years

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

83% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for any new mom who is looking for an honest and relatable account of the challenges and joys of motherhood. Through a refreshingly open and intimate writing style, the Fat Ladies Club takes you on a journey filled with laughter, tears, guilt, and giggles. You'll find solace in knowing that you're not alone in facing the ups and downs of the first five years of motherhood.
Losing My Virginity: The Autobiography
Richard Branson | Virgin Pub

Losing My Virginity: The Autobiography

$26.90 $19.90 26% off

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$26.90 $19.90 26% off

If you're drawn to tales of relentless ambition mixed with the thrills of high-stake ventures, Branson's autobiography won't disappoint. It's like taking a roller coaster ride through the highs and lows of building a business empire. Branson's frankness and wit give you an intimate tour of his dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, making it a captivating read for anyone interested in the backstory of one of the most charismatic business leaders of our time.
Becoming
Michelle Obama | Crown

Becoming

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 4.44

$7.90

83% off est. retail
Dive into 'Becoming' if you seek inspiration from a truly influential figure. Michelle Obama shares her heartfelt journey with a blend of candor and warmth that feels like a chat with a wise friend. Her narrative embodies the challenges and triumphs encountered in carving a space for oneself, making it resonate with anyone on their path to self-discovery and becoming.
Forbes' Greatest Business Stories of All Time
Daniel Gross | Wiley

Forbes' Greatest Business Stories of All Time

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're fascinated by the intersection of great fortunes and innovative thinking, this book will speak to you. It delves into the narratives of luminaries whose daring decisions and business acumen not only built empires but also shaped the modern world. It's a treasure trove of motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs and a captivating read for anyone intrigued by the giants whose shoulders today's business world stands upon.
Madhouse : True Stories of the Inmates of Hostel 4 - Thryft
Urmilla Deshpande | Westland Books Pvt Ltd

Madhouse : True Stories of the Inmates of Hostel 4

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

88% off est. retail
Madhouse could be a good read for someone interested in understanding the experiences and mindsets of successful politicians, strategists, IT leaders, and entrepreneurs who were once hostelmates at IIT Bombay. The book provides a unique insight into the formative years of these high achievers and their shared experiences in Hostel 4.
Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire
Amanda Foreman | Harpercollins

Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

If you're fascinated by the complexities of high society, "Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire" offers a captivating look at the exploits of an 18th-century aristocrat who still captures the imagination today. Georgiana's life was filled with the glamour and the downfall, the kind of contrasts that makes for an engaging read, especially if you’re drawn to real-life tales that echo the drama of fictional novels. Her connections to modern figures like Princess Diana add an extra layer of relevance that makes her story resonate through the centuries.
How to Dad: An Illustrated Instruction Manual for First-Time Fathers
New
T.M. Detwiler | Media Lab Books

How to Dad: An Illustrated Instruction Manual for First-Time Fathers

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$8.90

If you're about to embark on the journey of fatherhood and the mere thought of it seems daunting, 'How To Dad' can be your fun companion. T.M. Detwiler’s illustrations break down the intimidating parts of first-year parenting into something approachable and genuinely amusing. It's like having a friend who manages to make all the overwhelming parts seem conquerable, and most importantly, laughable.
Gandhi - Thryft
David Arnold | Routledge

Gandhi

$10.71 $6.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$10.71 $6.90 36% off

90% off est. retail
Embarking on this read, you'll find yourself immersed in a rich historical tapestry woven around Gandhi's life, pivotal in leading India to independence. It's not just a biography but a lens into how his philosophy impacted British political scene and triggered the unravelling of an empire. This isn't just a book; it's a journey through a transformative era in world history.
Pink Floyd: The Visual Documentary
Andy Mabbett, Barry Miles  | Omnibus Press

Pink Floyd: The Visual Documentary

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$8.90

If you're a Pink Floyd fan or a connoisseur of rock history, this visual documentary will strike the right chord. You'll delve into not just the band's tumultuous dynamics and prolific performances, but you'll also unearth rare photos and artifacts that illuminate their journey. This book promises to enhance your appreciation for the band's artistry, from Syd Barrett's early contributions to the post-Waters era.
A Million Little Pieces
James Frey | John Murray

A Million Little Pieces

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$8.90

62% off est. retail
If you're looking for a book that doesn't sugarcoat the harrowing realities of addiction, "A Million Little Pieces" might just be the wake-up call you need. Frey's visceral narrative takes you through the depths of substance abuse with an unforgiving grip on reality, offering a perspective that's as troubling as it is enlightening. His contentious approach to recounting his experiences will either leave you deeply moved or questioning—but it's certain to leave an impression.
The Times of Their Lives - Thryft
Patricia Scott Deetz, James Deetz  | W. H. Freeman

The Times of Their Lives

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

90% off est. retail
"The Times of Their Lives" brings an unexpected vibrancy to the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony, shattering the monochrome myth we've all been taught. It delves deeply into the daily lives, struggles, and even scandals of these early settlers through tangible artifacts and personal narratives. If you've ever been curious about the authentic human stories behind the Thanksgiving legends, this meticulously researched book promises to enrich your understanding with its fresh and lively perspective.
When You Dead, You Dead
Guy Martin | Virgin Books

When You Dead, You Dead

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$10.90

55% off est. retail
If the scent of motor oil mixed with the thrill of speed and a dash of British wit sounds tantalizing, "When You Dead, You Dead" may rev your engines in the best way. Guy Martin, a truck mechanic with an appetite for extreme challenges, takes you on a raw and unfiltered joyride through his most hair-raising exploits - all told with an infectious passion for life that could inspire you to tackle your bucket list with fresh gusto.
Elon Musk
New
Walter Isaacson | Simon And Schuster Uk

Elon Musk

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$13.90

You might find "Elon Musk" by Walter Isaacson a compelling read if you're fascinated by the lives of groundbreaking individuals. The author is known for his deep dives into the minds of innovators, and this time, you'll get an up-close look at a man who’s reshaped our technological landscape. It's a story that swings from personal tribulations to towering successes, giving you insight into Musk's enigmatic personality and his unwavering quest to revolutionize our world. If you find the mix of personal struggle and professional vision intriguing, this biography should be right up your alley.
The HP Way : How Bill Hewlett and I Built Our Company - Thryft
David Packard, Karen R. Lewis, David Kirby  | Harperpb

The HP Way : How Bill Hewlett and I Built Our Company

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

If you're inspired by origin stories of tech giants, "The HP Way" is more than a historical account; it's a blueprint for building a company that balances innovation with a human-centered approach to management. David Packard's retelling is a testament to how foundational values and employee empowerment can drive extraordinary success – a must-read for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Chanterelle: The Story and Recipes of a Restaurant Classic
Andrew Friedman, David Waltuck  | Taunton Press

Chanterelle: The Story and Recipes of a Restaurant Classic

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$18.90

If you're passionate about French cooking and love the idea of food intertwined with personal dreams, "Chanterelle" will likely resonate with you. Imagine tasting the essence of an iconic restaurant through its recipes that have captivated diners for decades, all nestled in a beautifully illustrated book ready to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Mi País Inventado
Isabel Allende | Plaza & Janes

Mi País Inventado

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

If you've ever felt a longing for a place that's both home and a distant memory, "Mi Pais Inventado" by Isabel Allende could resonate with you. It's a rich tapestry of personal and cultural reflections, filled with the poignant moments of Allende's Chile. Her storytelling here is as flavorful as the landscapes she describes, with an inherent warmth that might just transport you to the Chile of her past and invite you to reflect on your own roots.
Ben & Jerry's Double-Dip: Lead With Your Values and Make Money, Too
Ben Cohen | Simon & Schuster Trade

Ben & Jerry's Double-Dip: Lead With Your Values and Make Money, Too

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

84% off est. retail
If you've ever dreamed of starting a business that doesn't compromise on its ethos for profits, "Ben & Jerry's Double-Dip" is a scoop of inspiration. Ben and Jerry show how they churned ethical practices with entrepreneurial spirit to create a brand synonymous with both taste and integrity. Their story might just be the secret ingredient you need to blend success with social responsibility in your own ventures.
The Goddess Within - Thryft
River Huston | Running Press

The Goddess Within

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

49% off est. retail
If you're seeking a surge of feminine empowerment, "The Goddess Within" could be a beacon for you. It's a blend of wisdom and wit from influential figures that have each shaped different facets of womanhood. As you flip through the pages, you might just find the muse you need to ignite your inner goddess, thanks to the eclectic mix of voices it presents.
Who Says Elephants Can't Dance? - Thryft
Louis V. Gerstner Jr. | Harper Business

Who Says Elephants Can't Dance?

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

89% off est. retail
In 1990, IBM had its most profitable year ever. By 1993, the computer industry had changed so rapidly the company was on its way to losing $16 billion and IBM was on a watch list for extinction -- victimized by its own lumbering size, an insular corporate culture, and the PC era IBM had itself helped invent. Then Lou Gerstner was brought in to run IBM. Almost everyone watching the rapid demise of this American icon presumed Gerstner had joined IBM to preside over its continued dissolution into a confederation of autonomous business units. This strategy, well underway when he arrived, would have effectively eliminated the corporation that had invented many of the industry's most important technologies. Instead, Gerstner took hold of the company and demanded the managers work together to re-establish IBM's mission as a customer-focused provider of computing solutions. Moving ahead of his critics, Gerstner made the hold decision to keep the company together, slash prices on his core product to keep the company competitive, and almost defiantly announced, "The last thing IBM needs right now is a vision." Who Says Elephants Can't Dance? tells the story of IBM's competitive and cultural transformation. In his own words, Gerstner offers a blow-by-blow account of his arrival at the company and his campaign to rebuild the leadership team and give the workforce a renewed sense of purpose. In the process, Gerstner defined a strategy for the computing giant and remade the ossified culture bred by the company's own success. The first-hand story of an extraordinary turnaround, a unique case study in managing a crisis, and a thoughtful reflection on the computer industry and the principles of leadership, Who Says Elephants Can't Dance? sums up Lou Gerstner's historic business achievement. Taking readers deep into the world of IBM's CEO, Gerstner recounts the high-level meetings and explains the pressure-filled, no-turning-back decisions that had to be made. He also offers his hard-won conclusions about the essence of what makes a great company run. In the history of modern business, many companies have gone from being industry leaders to the verge of extinction. Through the heroic efforts of a new management team, some of those companies have even succeeded in resuscitating themselves and living on in the shadow of their former stature. But only one company has been at the pinnacle of an industry, fallen to near collapse, and then, beyond anyone's expectations, returned to set the agenda. That company is IBM. Lou Gerstener, Jr., served as chairman and chief executive officer of IBM from April 1993 to March 2002, when he retired as CEO. He remained chairman of the board through the end of 2002. Before joining IBM, Mr. Gerstner served for four years as chairman and CEO of RJR Nabisco, Inc. This was preceded by an eleven-year career at the American Express Company, where he was president of the parent company and chairman and CEO of its largest subsidiary. Prior to that, Mr. Gerstner was a director of the management consulting firm of McKinsey & Co., Inc. He received a bachelor's degree in engineering from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Harvard Business School.
In an Uncertain World: Tough Choices from Wall Street to Washington
Jacob Weisberg, Robert E. Rubin  | Random House

In an Uncertain World: Tough Choices from Wall Street to Washington

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$18.90

If you're interested in the intersection of economics and politics, "In an Uncertain World" might be your next page-turner. Robert Rubin, with his front-row seat to pivotal events shaping modern finance, presents a fascinating account of navigating through ups and downs in the economy both from Wall Street and Washington perspectives. His philosophy of probabilistic thinking and the behind-the-scenes look at decision-making are bound to resonate if you're keen on understanding the complexities of the financial world.
The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron
Peter Elkind, Bethany McLean  | Portfolio Hardcover

The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$18.90

If you're fascinated by corporate intrigue and real-life cautionary tales, "The Smartest Guys in the Room" is gripping. It's a deep dive into the hubris and deception that led to Enron's downfall, shedding light on how the mighty can fall spectacularly. Perfect for anyone interested in business ethics, finance, or the mechanics of a scandal.
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.
Things Ain't What They Used to Be
Philip Glenister | Sphere

Things Ain't What They Used to Be

$9.71

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$9.71

If you're feeling nostalgic or curious about the cultural shifts between the 70s, 80s, and today, "Things Ain't What They Used to Be" offers an engaging romp through the past. Philip Glenister injects a hearty dose of humor and personal insight as he compares the eras, making it a delightful read for anyone looking to reminisce or understand the changes in pop culture and lifestyle. It might just answer whether things were truly better back then or if we're seeing the past through rose-tinted glasses.
One Magical Sunday: - Thryft
Donald T. Phillips, Phil Mickelson  | Grand Central Publishing

One Magical Sunday:

$16.90 $3.90 77% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$16.90 $3.90 77% off

89% off est. retail
If golf captivates you, Phil Mickelson's "One Magical Sunday" will draw you in with its mix of personal memoir and sports drama. You'll get an insider's look at the triumphs and challenges one of golf's legends faced on his way to clinching that memorable Masters win. It's more than a story about golf; it's about the man behind the clubs and his journey to greatness.
Boy: Tales of Childhood
Quentin Blake, Roald Dahl  | Puffin

Boy: Tales of Childhood

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$10.90

If you've ever wondered about the real-life inspiration behind Roald Dahl's unforgettable characters, "Boy: Tales of Childhood" is the perfect peek behind the curtain. This isn't just a book for kids—adults will find themselves chuckling and perhaps even shedding a nostalgic tear over Dahl's vivid recount of his own formative years. It's storytelling that connects with any reader who appreciates the intersection of humor, honesty, and the occasional touch of the absurd.
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.
Lucky or Smart? Secrets to an Entrepreneurial Life
Bo Peabody | Random House

Lucky or Smart? Secrets to an Entrepreneurial Life

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

81% off est. retail
If you're contemplating the entrepreneurial leap or just seeking to inject that innovative spirit into your current path, "Lucky or Smart?" provides more than just insights—it offers the practical wisdom from someone who's navigated the turbulent waters of start-ups. Bo Peabody's journey delivers a candid, no-nonsense peek behind the curtain of success, making it an essential compass for trailblazers at heart.
Self-Consciousness: Memoirs
John Updike | Penguin

Self-Consciousness: Memoirs

$14.90 $6.90 54% off

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$14.90 $6.90 54% off

Delving into "Self-Consciousness" by John Updike is like embarking on a multi-layered discovery. The author's introspective analysis of his life and times, with the backdrop of major events like the Vietnam War, combined with his masterful prose, makes this memoir a resonant experience. It's a book that could appeal to anyone interested in the intersections of personal struggle, history, and the crafting of self-identity through the eyes of an acclaimed author.

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.