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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Dr. Joseph Warren: The Boston Tea Party, Bunker Hill, and the Birth of American Liberty - Thryft
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If you're fascinated by the unsung heroes of American history, Dr. Joseph Warren's biography will be a treasure for you. It's more than just facts; it's a compelling narrative that revives the forgotten figure who was integral to pivotal moments like the Boston Tea Party and Bunker Hill. This book is for anyone eager to delve deeper into the personal stories that shaped the foundation of American liberty.
George Washington's Indispensable Men: The 32 Aides-De-Camp Who Helped Win American Independence - Thryft
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If you're into the intricacies of American history, "George Washington's Indispensable Men" might just enrich your understanding of the Revolutionary War. It's not just a narrative about battles and declarations, but a closer look at the cogs that made the machine work. Those with an appreciation for unsung heroes and a curiosity about the inner workings of Washington's command will find this book revealing and thought-provoking.
Small Victories: Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace - Thryft
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Anne Lamott | Riverhead

Small Victories: Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace

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Goodreads rating: 3.88

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If you're feeling a bit weathered by life's challenges, Anne Lamott's "Small Victories" might feel like a balm. Her collection of essays weaves wisdom with wit, offering a light-hearted take on the pursuit of happiness and grace. It's like sitting down with a good friend who reminds you to notice the small wins that make life full. You'll find yourself chuckling one minute and pondering deep truths the next. It's a book for anyone seeking a little inspiration sprinkled with humor.
Undocumented Wonder: The Making of the Great Indian Election - Thryft
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S.Y. Quraishi | Rupa Publications

Undocumented Wonder: The Making of the Great Indian Election

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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"Undocumented Wonder" is a front-row account of the immense organizational marvel that is the Indian election. If you're intrigued by politics or management, this book offers a rich tapestry of insights into one of democracy's biggest events. Its value lies in the personal experiences of someone who's been at the helm, giving you an authentic, behind-the-scenes tour of electoral India.
The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World - Thryft
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Melinda French Gates | Pan Macmillan Uk

The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World

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Goodreads rating: 4.28

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"The Moment of Lift" is a catalyst for change. If you feel strongly about women's empowerment and social reform, Melinda Gates captures this brilliantly. Her personal journey entwined with global stories will not only inspire you but might also galvanize you to be part of the movement for equity and justice. It's more than just a book; it's an invitation to contribute to a larger and noble cause.
Scientologist!: William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' - Thryft
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David S. Wills | Beatdom Books

Scientologist!: William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult'

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Goodreads rating: 4.12

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If you're curious about how the controversial Church of Scientology influenced one of the most iconic writers of the 20th century, this is the book for you. It offers a rare glimpse into William S. Burroughs's life and explores the complex relationship between the writer and the organization. It's a deep dive into a peculiar facet of literary history that's both fascinating and informative.
Shattered Hope: The Guatemalan Revolution and the United States, 1944-1954 - Thryft
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If you have an interest in Central American history or the dynamics of international intervention, "Shattered Hope" could provide you with a well-researched and impassioned account of a significant period in Guatemala's past. Piero Gleijeses's approach lends both an academic and a human perspective to the story of a promising government's fall, offering insights that are just as relevant now as they were poignant then. This book might not only educate you but also evoke a deeper understanding of the complexities behind political upheavals and the far-reaching impacts of foreign interference.
The Only Pirate at the Party - Thryft
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Lindsey Stirling, Brooke S. Passey  | Gallery Books

The Only Pirate at the Party

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Goodreads rating: 4.14

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"The Only Pirate at the Party" could resonate with you if you appreciate tales of perseverance and unique paths to success. Lindsey Stirling's narrative is a fresh reminder that following your own tune can lead to amazing places. Her transparent account of overcoming rejection and personal struggles offers a meaningful perspective on staying true to oneself in the face of adversity, which could be incredibly inspiring if you're charting your own course.
Down Range: Navy SEALs in the War on Terrorism - Thryft
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Dick Couch | Crown

Down Range: Navy SEALs in the War on Terrorism

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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If high-stakes military operations intrigue you, 'Down Range' will satisfy that craving. Experience the Navy SEALs’ grit in the War on Terrorism through Dick Couch's piercing narrative. You'll be transported right alongside these elite warriors in their most pivotal moments, as real-world geopolitical landscapes unfold under the pressure of their covert operations. It's a read that bridges the gap of understanding the intensity and complexity behind modern warfare.
Glossy: The Inside Story of Vogue - Thryft
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Glossy is a story of more than a magazine. It is a story of passion and power, dizzying fortune and out-of-this-world fashion, of ingenuity and opportunism, frivolity and malice. This is the definitive story of Vogue. Vogue magazine started, like so many great things do, in the spare room of someone's house. But unlike other such makeshift projects that flare up then fizzle away, Vogue burnt itself into our cultural consciousness. Today, 125 years later, Vogue spans 22 countries, has an international print readership upwards of 12 million and nets over 67 million monthly online users. Uncontested market leader for a century, it is one of the most recognisable brands in the world and a multi-million dollar money-making machine. It is not just a fashion magazine, it is the establishment. But what - and more importantly who - made Vogue such an enduring success? Glossy will answer this question and more by tracing the previously untold history of the magazine, from its inception as a New York gossip rag, to the sleek, corporate behemoth we know now. This will be a biography of Vogue in every sense of the word, taking the reader through three centuries, two world wars, plunging failures and blinding successes, as it charts the story of the magazine and those who ran it.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear - Thryft
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Elizabeth Gilbert | Bloomsbury

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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Elizabeth Gilbert, the bestselling author of Eat Pray Love, delves into the mysterious nature of inspiration and creativity in this insightful book. She encourages readers to embrace curiosity, let go of needless suffering, and pursue their passions fearlessly. Whether you are an aspiring writer, artist, or simply seeking more mindfulness in your life, Big Magic offers a world of wonder and joy. Sorry! Book description for this title is not available.
Playing Through: Straight Talk on Hard Work, Big Dreams, and Adventures with Tiger - Thryft
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Earl Woods | William Morrow

Playing Through: Straight Talk on Hard Work, Big Dreams, and Adventures with Tiger

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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If you're intrigued by the human stories behind athletic greatness, "Playing Through" is quite the intimate encounter. Imagine sitting with Earl Woods as he reveals the personal trials, triumphs, and profound parental strategies that shaped Tiger Woods, all told with unflinching honesty. This isn't just another sports biography; it's a heartfelt narrative of ambition, adversity, and the intricate family ties that underpin a legend's rise to fame.
Siegfried Sassoon : A Biography - Thryft
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Max Egremont | Picador

Siegfried Sassoon : A Biography

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If the blend of heroism, dissent, and literary prowess fascinates you, this biography will enrich your understanding of a complex man who became an icon of World War I. Sassoon was a decorated soldier who turned into a vocal critic of the conflict, and his life story unfolds like a novel penned by history itself. This book is perfect if you admire wartime poetry or are intrigued by the personal tales behind historical figures.
Coming to England - Thryft
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Floella Benjamin | Macmillan Children's Books

Coming to England

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Goodreads rating: 4.19

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"Coming to England" is for you if you're inspired by real-life stories of overcoming challenges and adapting to new environments. Floella's journey from Trinidad to England is not just a piece of history; it's a vivid, personal narrative that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit. Her determination to succeed against the odds is as relevant today as it was then, making her memoir an empowering read that stays with you.
Charlie Chaplin: A Brief Life - Thryft
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Peter Ackroyd | Nan A. Talese

Charlie Chaplin: A Brief Life

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If the magic of old Hollywood fascinates you and you're drawn to the enigmatic figures who shaped it, then Ackroyd’s concise biography of Charlie Chaplin is something you should consider. In the sea of extensive biographies, this one is a gem for delivering a potent narrative without overwhelming you with details, perfect for an authentic glimpse into the Little Tramp's world and beyond the silver screen.
Lawyer: A Life of Counsel and Controversy - Thryft
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Arthur L. Liman | Publicaffairs

Lawyer: A Life of Counsel and Controversy

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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If the intricacies of a legal career and the stories behind major cases pique your interest, Arthur L. Liman's memoir will be an engaging read. You'll get an insider's perspective on the evolution of the legal profession and reflecting on controversial decisions, it's a real treat for anyone fascinated by the ethics and drama of the courtroom.
The Kingfisher Soccer Encyclopedia - Thryft
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Clive Gifford | Kingfisher

The Kingfisher Soccer Encyclopedia

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Goodreads rating: 4.08

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If you're passionate about soccer, this encyclopedia is a treasure trove that will deepen your love for the game. Imagine understanding the intricate rules and tactics like a pro, getting up close with the sport's greatest icons, and relishing the dramatic moments that have shaped soccer. This book offers a thrilling overview, from grassroots to global phenomena, perfect for fans eager to immerse themselves in the beautiful game.
Italo Calvino : Letters, 1941-1985 - Updated Edition - Thryft
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Diving into Italo Calvino's letters offers a unique backstage pass to the thoughts and influences of a literary maestro. You're not just reading correspondence; you're peering into the intellectual dialogues that shaped his and other luminaries' works. It's like witnessing the creative process unfold, a narrative in itself that enriches your understanding of his novels and the literary landscape of his time.
Changing Stages: A View of British Theatre in the Twentieth Century - Thryft
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For anyone who cherishes the rich tapestry of British theatre, "Changing Stages" is a treasure trove. Imagine sitting down for a cozy, insightful chat with Sir Richard Eyre, as he takes you on a tour through the evolving landscape of British plays, personalities, and performances of the last century. It's storytelling that not only educates but also captivates through a passionate lens that only insiders like Eyre and Wright could provide.
The Obstacle Race: The Fortune of Women Painters and Their Work
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If you're someone who's intrigued by art history and the challenges faced by female artists throughout centuries, then "The Obstacle Race" is a must-read. Germaine Greer uncovers the often-overlooked triumphs and trials of brilliant women painters, providing a perspective that challenges traditional art narratives. This book not only sheds light on hidden figures but also offers a richly illustrated journey, which might change the way you view art history and female contributions to it.
Inuit Women Artists
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Marion E. Jackson, Minnie Aodla Freeman, Odette Leroux  | Douglas & Mcintyre

Inuit Women Artists

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Goodreads rating: 4.5

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If you're drawn to the intersect of culture and art, "Inuit Women Artists" offers an immersive visual journey. The book illuminates the role of Inuit women in shaping a powerful art movement, showcasing stunning works that resonate with an authenticity deeply rooted in the Arctic lifestyle. Let the vibrant colours and evocative imagery from these pioneering artists transport you to the heart of Inuit artistic expression.
ME Talk Pretty One Day - Thryft
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David Sedaris | Little, Brown & Co

ME Talk Pretty One Day

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"Me Talk Pretty One Day" is a collection of essays about the everyday life of the author, David Sedaris. In it, he sheds light on the little details of everyday life, highlighting strange encounters he has had in a number of different contexts. Accordingly, there are too many small interactions laid out in the book to mention here. What’s important to grasp, though, is that Sedaris is interested in exposing not only the absurdities that people overlook in daily life, but also the humor that can be found in even the most mundane situations.
The Hope Circuit: A Psychologist's Journey from Helplessness to Optimism - Thryft
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One of the most influential living psychologists looks at the history of his life and discipline, and paints a much brighter future for everyone.When Martin E. P. Seligman first encountered psychology in the 1960s, the field was devoted to eliminating it was the science of how past trauma creates present symptoms. Today, thanks in large part to Seligman's Positive Psychology movement, it is ever more focused not on what cripples life, but on what makes life worth living -- with profound consequences for our mental health.In this wise and eloquent memoir, spanning the most transformative years in the history of modern psychology, Seligman recounts how he learned to study optimism -- including a life-changing conversation with his five-year-old daughter. He tells the human stories behind some of his major findings, like CAVE, an analytical tool that predicts election outcomes (with shocking accuracy) based on the language used in campaign speeches, the international spread of Positive Education, the launch of the US Army's huge resilience program, and the canonical studies that birthed the theory of learned helplessness -- which he now reveals was incorrect. And he writes at length for the first time about his own battles with depression at a young age.In The Hope Circuit , Seligman makes a compelling and deeply personal case for the importance of virtues like hope, gratitude, and wisdom for our mental health. You will walk away from this book not just educated but deeply enriched.
The Boat Who Wouldn't Float
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Farley Mowat | Starfire

The Boat Who Wouldn't Float

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Goodreads rating: 4.11

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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.
A Daughter of Isis: The Autobiography of Nawal El Saadawi
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Nawal El Saadawi's fight for gender equality is as raw as it is powerful. Her story isn't just an autobiography; it's a moving testament to resilience in the face of stark oppression. As a woman growing up in a traditional society, her words don't just recount memories—they serve as a battle cry for freedom and justice. You'll find inspiration in her journey from a small village to becoming a voice that resonates globally.
Vengeance - The True Story of an Israeli Counter-Terrorist Team - Thryft
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Vengeance is a true story that reads like a novel. It is the account of five ordinary Israelis, selected to vanish into "the cold" of espionage secrecy -- their mission to hunt down and kill the PLO terrorists responsible for the massacre of eleven Israeli athletes at the Munich Olympics in 1972.This is the account of that secret mission, as related by the leader of the group -- the first Mossad agent to come out of "deep cover" and tell the story of a heroic endeavor that was shrouded in silence and speculation for years. He reveals the long and dangerous operation whose success was bought at a terrible cost to the idealistic volunteer agents themselves."Avner" was the leader of that team, handpicked by Golda Meir to avenge the monstrous crime of Munich. He and his young companions, cut off from any direct contact with Israel, set out systematically to find and kill the central figures of the PLO's Munich operation, tracking them down wherever they lived.The mechanics, the horror, the day-by-day suspense of what they did surpass by far anything John le Carré or Robert Ludlum could imagine, as they themselves were tracked in turn (and some killed) by PLO assassins, changing identities constantly, moving from country to country, devoting their young lives to the brutal task of vengeance.Vengeance is a profoundly human document, a real-life espionage classic that plunges the reader into the shadow world of terrorism and political murder. But it goes far beyond that, to explore firsthand the feelings of disgust and doubt that gradually came to torment each member of the Israeli team, and that in the end inexorably changed their view of the mission -- and themselves.Vengeance opens a window onto a secret world, a book that at the same time inspires and horrifies. For its subject is an act of revenge that goes to the very heart of the ancient biblical questions of good and evil.
Busting Vegas: The MIT Whiz Kid Who Brought the Casinos to Their Knees - Thryft
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He played in casinos around the world with a plan to make himself richer than anyone could possibly imagine -- but it would nearly cost him his life. Semyon Dukach was known as the Darling of Las Vegas. A legend at age twenty-one, this cocky hotshot was the biggest high roller to appear in Sin City in decades, a mathematical genius with a system the casinos had never seen before and couldn't stop — a system that has never been revealed until now; that has nothing to do with card counting, wasn't illegal, and was more powerful than anything that had been tried before. Las Vegas. Atlantic City. Aruba. Barcelona. London. And the jewel of the gambling crown — Monte Carlo. Dukach and his fellow MIT students hit them all and made millions. They came in hard, with stacks of cash; big, seemingly insane bets; women hanging on their arms; and fake identities. Although they were taking classes and studying for exams during the week, over the weekends they stormed the blackjack tables only to be harassed, banned from casinos, threatened at gunpoint, and beaten in Vegas's notorious back rooms. The stakes were high, the dangers very real, but the players were up to the challenges, consequences be damned. There was Semyon Dukach himself, bored with school and broke; Victor Cassius, the slick, brilliant MIT grad student who galvanized the team; Owen Keller, with stunning ability but a dark past that would catch up to him; and Allie Simpson, bright, clever, and a feast for the eyes. In the classroom, they were geeks. On the casino floor, they were unstoppable. Busting Vega$  is Dukach's unbelievably true story; a riveting account of monumental greed, excess, hubris, sex, love, violence, fear, and statistics that is high-stakes entertainment at its best.
12 Years a Slave (Movie Tie-In) - Thryft
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Henry Louis Gates Jr., Ira Berlin, Solomon Northup  | Penguin Books

12 Years a Slave (Movie Tie-In)

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Goodreads rating: 4.21

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"12 Years a Slave" isn't just a recount of a free man's forced descent into the abyss of slavery; it’s a masterful and poignant narrative that offers a rare and educated perspective, bridging the gap between freed people and slaves. Imagine feeling Solomon Northup's piercing struggle against dehumanization while grasping the quintessence of courage in adversity. This book doesn’t just paint a picture of history; it immerses you in the raw truth of human strength and resilience.
His Bright Light - The Story Of Nick Traina - Thryft
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Danielle Steel | Corgi

His Bright Light - The Story Of Nick Traina

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Goodreads rating: 4.18

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"This is the story of an extraordinary boy with a brilliant mind, a heart of gold, and a tortured soul. It is the story of an illness, a fight to live, and a race against death."From the day he was born, Nick Traina was his mother's joy. By nineteen, he was dead. This is Danielle Steel's powerful personal story of the son she lost and the lessons she learned during his courageous battle against darkness. Sharing tender, painful memories and Nick's remarkable journals, Steel brings us a haunting duet between a singular young man and the mother who loved him--and a harrowing portrait of a masked killer called manic depression, which afflicts between two and three million Americans.Nick rocketed through life like a shooting star. Signs of his illness were subtle, often paradoxical. He spoke in full sentences at age one. He was a brilliant, charming child who never slept. And at first, even his mother explained away his quicksilver moods. Nick always marched to a different drummer. His gift for writing was extraordinary, his musical talent promised a golden future. But by the time he entered junior high, Danielle Steel saw her beloved son hurtling toward disaster and tried desperately to get Nick the help he needed--the opening salvos of what would become a ferocious pitched battle for his life.Even as he struggled, Nick's charisma and accomplishments remained undimmed. He bared his soul in his journal with uncanny insight, in searing prose, poetry, and song. When he was finally diagnosed and treated, it bought time, but too little. In the end, perhaps nothing could have saved him from the insidious disease that had shadowed him from his earliest years.At once a loving legacy and an unsparing depiction of a devastating illness, Danielle Steel's tribute to her lost son is a gift of life, hope, healing, and understanding to us all.
Betrayed - Thryft
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Lyndsey Harris, Andrew Crofts  | Arrow

Betrayed

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Goodreads rating: 3.95

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For the first few years of her life, Sarah Harris was a normal, happy, popular little girl. But from the age of six she was targeted by a vicious, manipulative but invisible enemy — and her life became a living hell.Before long she was suspended from school, alienated from her friends, completely bewildered and utterly terrified. Her happy childhood had been destroyed forever.For her mother, Lyndsey, it was a life beyond her worst nightmares.Her little girl, the daughter she loved so much, seemed to have transformed overnight — into a child she hardly recognized. A child she almost feared. Suddenly, Lyndsey was fighting to keep her family together — and to save her daughter’s sanity.But then the horrific truth started to become clear. And both Lyndsey and Sarah discovered they had been the innocent victims of the most horrifying betrayal imaginable…
Notes From a Small Island
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Bill Bryson | Black Swan

Notes From a Small Island

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

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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.
The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon
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If you're intrigued by the ingenuity behind Amazon's transformation from a humble bookshop to a colossal marketplace, "The Everything Store" unravels that mystery. It's an eye-opener into the aggressive strategies and bold vision of Jeff Bezos that will likely change how you perceive the digital giant and its impact on global commerce. Plus, if understanding the psyche of high-impact entrepreneurs fascinates you, this book is your window into Bezos's tenacious mind.
Console Wars : Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle That Defined a Generation - Thryft
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"A mesmerizing, behind-the-scenes business thriller that chronicles how Sega, a small, scrappy gaming company led by an unlikely visionary and a team of rebels, took on the juggernaut Nintendo and revolutionized the videogame industry--in development as a feature film from Sony PicturesIn 1990, Nintendo had a virtual monopoly on the videogame industry. Sega, on the other hand, was just a faltering arcade company with big aspirations and even bigger personalities. But all that would change with the arrival of Tom Kalinske, a former Mattel executive who knew nothing about videogames and everything about fighting uphill battles. His unconventional tactics, combined with the blood, sweat, and bold ideas of his renegade employees, completely transformed Sega and led to a ruthless, David-and-Goliath showdown with Nintendo. Little did he realize that Sega's success would create many new enemies and, most important, make Nintendo stronger than ever.The battle was vicious, relentless, and highly profitable, eventually sparking a global corporate war that would be fought on several fronts: from living rooms and school yards to boardrooms and Congress. It was a once-in-a-lifetime, no-holds-barred conflict that pitted brother against brother, kid against adult, Sonic against Mario, and the United States against Japan.Based on more than two hundred interviews with former Sega and Nintendo employees, Console Wars is the tale of how Tom Kalinske miraculously turned an industry punch line into a market leader. Blake J. Harris brings into focus the warriors, the strategies, and the battles and explores how they transformed popular culture forever. Ultimately, Console Wars is the story of how a humble family man, with an extraordinary imagination and a gift for turning problems into competitive advantages, inspired a team of underdogs to slay a giant and, as a result, give birth to a sixty-billion-dollar industry"--
Goodbye My Kampong!
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Josephine Chia | Ethos Books

Goodbye My Kampong!

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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If you're intrigued by the transformation of societies and cherish personal narratives that evoke a sense of place, you'll find "Goodbye My Kampong!" deeply engaging. Josephine Chia offers a poignant window into the transitional period of Singapore from 1966 to 1975, blending the nation's growth pains with the evocative end of kampong living. Her stories will transport you to a time of collective spirit, cultural richness, and change, making it a captivating read for those interested in the resilience of communities amidst progress.
Left for Dead: My Journey Home from Everest - Thryft
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Stephen G. Michaud, Beck Weathers  | Dell

Left for Dead: My Journey Home from Everest

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Goodreads rating: 3.62

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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.
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

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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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.
Raffles: The Definitive Biography
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If you’re fascinated by history and the birth of Southeast Asia's modern landscape, "Raffles. The Definitive Biography" is a compelling dive into the life of a man whose impact is still felt today. Maurice Collis offers a nuanced look at Raffles, humanizing the legend without diminishing the grandeur of his contributions. It’s perfect for those who appreciate historical depth mingled with the vibrancy of an individual’s life story.
The Salon.com Reader's Guide to Contemporary Authors - Thryft
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Adam Begley, Laura Miller  | Penguin Group

The Salon.com Reader's Guide to Contemporary Authors

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Goodreads rating: 4.02

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If you're looking to dive deeper into the riches of contemporary literature, this guide is a treasure trove. It's not just a directory; it's a conversation starter, loaded with essays and insights from the authors themselves. Think of it as your personal literary concierge, offering you a handpicked selection of the most pivotal and exciting writers of our era.
Justice Game, The
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Geoffrey Robertson | Vintage

Justice Game, The

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

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If you're captivated by the intricacies of law and the fervor of courtroom battles, "The Justice Game" offers a front-row seat to some of the most pivotal freedom of expression cases. Geoffrey Robertson's sharp wit and clear passion for justice breathe life into legal narratives, making this book not just informative but also a genuinely engaging read. Whether you're a law enthusiast or just love a good fight for rights, this one's sure to impress.
No Place to Hide
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Glenn Greenwald | Metropolitan Books/macmillan

No Place to Hide

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Goodreads rating: 4.07

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"No Place to Hide" isn't just a thrilling account of journalistic daring; it's a sobering investigation into the modern surveillance state that could change the way you look at your privacy. Engaging with this book might just make you more critically aware of the digital footprints you leave behind every day—and the eyes that are watching them.
Lighting Fires - Thryft
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Randy Clark | Creation House

Lighting Fires

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Goodreads rating: 4.59

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This book could be a good read for you if you're looking for a powerful source of motivation to pursue your dreams. With its captivating storytelling and actionable insights, "Lighting Fires" will inspire you to tap into your inner potential and set the world on fire with your passion. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey that will help you ignite lasting change in your life and the lives of others.
Things I Don't Want to Know
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Deborah Levy | Penguin Uk

Things I Don't Want to Know

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Goodreads rating: 4.1

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Imagine delving into the thoughts of a writer who's masterfully intertwining her experience as a woman with the art of writing itself. Levy's narrative invites you on a contemplative and intimate odyssey that’s both enlightening and emotionally nourishing, almost akin to chatting with a wise friend. Her unique perspective is a call to introspection, especially for those drawn to the intricacies of writing and the nuances of a life lived with passionate reflection.
Runaway - Thryft
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Skye Sinclair | Hodder & Stoughton

Runaway

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Goodreads rating: 3.93

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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.
Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books
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If you're drawn to stories where literature intersects with real lives under oppressive regimes, "Reading Lolita in Tehran" will strike a chord. Azar Nafisi weaves the lives of her students with the banned Western classics they discuss, portraying the act of reading as a form of rebellion. It's a remarkable blend of literary analysis and a personal stance against censorship, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone who loves books and values freedom of expression.
The Tao of Warren Buffett : Warren Buffett's Words of Wisdom - Thryft
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Mary Buffett | Pocket Books

The Tao of Warren Buffett : Warren Buffett's Words of Wisdom

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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If you've ever wished for a mentor to guide you through the complexities of investing, "The Tao of Warren Buffett" might feel like a personal audience with the Oracle of Omaha himself. The book distills Buffett's wit and wisdom into digestible sayings and philosophies that can help shape your financial decisions, whether you're well-versed in the stock market or just starting to consider your financial future. It's a blend of simplicity and depth that could make you rethink how you approach your investments.
Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China
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If you're intrigued by the personal stories behind the headlines of China's economic surge, "Factory Girls" is for you. Leslie T. Chang dives deep into the lives of two women navigating the chaotic world of migrant labor, shedding light on the human cost of the products we often take for granted. It offers a profound, eye-opening experience that's both socially relevant and emotionally resonant.
Devotion
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Patti Smith | Yale University Press

Devotion

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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If you're drawn to the enigmatic blend of personal narrative and artistic exploration, "Devotion" will resonate with you. Patti Smith doesn't just share a story; she lets you into her mind, showing you the vivid landscapes that inspire her. For anyone who cherishes the gritty and poetic behind-the-scenes of crafting art, Patti's reflections and pilgrimages to the haunts of literary giants offer a mesmerizing glimpse into the soul of a creator.
My Story
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Lim Goh Tong | Coronet Books Inc.

My Story

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Goodreads rating: 4.06

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"My Story" by Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong isn't just a book; it's an experience. It's a front-row seat to the life of a self-made entrepreneur who turned his visions into the reality of Genting Highlands. With a mix of humility and wit, Tan Sri Lim's memoir could inspire you just as he transformed challenges into stepping stones. If you're someone who finds lessons in another's life journey or if you're curious about the man behind a success story, this book is whispering your name.
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

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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Imagine stepping back into the unspoiled grandeur of the 1870s' American West with Isabella Bird as your guide. "A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains" isn't just travel literature; it's a time machine wrapped in eloquent prose. Bird's candid letters offer an intimate glimpse of pioneering life, complete with all its perils and wonders. For anyone intrigued by personal tales of courage and adventure in the face of nature's majesty, this book promises an immersive journey.
Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World
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56% off est. retail
If tales of intrigue and elaborate financial scandals capture your imagination, "Billion Dollar Whale" is a must-read. It's a true story that reads like a crime thriller, mapping the astonishing rise and fall of Jho Low. Witness how hubris and greed weave through the fabric of Wall Street, Hollywood, and beyond, leaving you both fascinated and appalled.

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.