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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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Mark Manders, Room With Broken Sentence
Lorenzo Benedetti | Roma Publications

Mark Manders, Room With Broken Sentence

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

If you're drawn to the intimate interplay between art and space, this book is a trove of inspiration. Through thought-provoking images and diverse perspectives, you'll delve into Mark Manders' unique installation. It's not just a documentation; it’s a portal to experience the poetry of structure and the meticulous craft of a visionary artist.
Becoming Lim Tze Peng
Unknown Author

Becoming Lim Tze Peng

$21.90 $16.90 23% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$21.90 $16.90 23% off

If you're intrigued by the fusion of personal history and creative expression, "Becoming Lim Tze Peng" might captivate you. The bilingual aspect brings together different audiences, while the in-depth analyses and unpublished interviews offer an intimate connection to Lim's evolving "terrains". It's not just a glimpse into a century-spanning oeuvre; it's an educational treasure that enriches understanding of artistic legacy.
Picturing Hemingway: A Writer in His Time
Frederick Voss, Michael Reynolds  | Yale University Press

Picturing Hemingway: A Writer in His Time

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$11.90

This is a lovely pick if you want to meet Hemingway beyond the legend and see the man as he moved through his era. The photographs and paintings make his story feel immediate, almost intimate, while tracing how his public image and private life intertwined. Readers who enjoy literary history often find it especially rewarding because it feels both visual and deeply human.
Dirty Wow Wow and Other Love Stories: A Tribute to the Threadbare Companions of Childhood
Jeffrey Katz, Cheryl Katz, Hornick  | Ten Speed Press

Dirty Wow Wow and Other Love Stories: A Tribute to the Threadbare Companions of Childhood

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

85% off est. retail
If you've ever clung to a beloved stuffed animal or a frayed blanket, "Dirty Wow Wow and Other Love Stories" will resonate deeply with you. Each page tenderly captures the essence of childhood attachments through beautiful photographs and narratives that tell the tales of these love-worn treasures. It's a trip down memory lane that will fill you with nostalgia and perhaps prompt you to search for your own threadbare friend.
Saul Bass: A Life in Film & Design
Jennifer Bass, Martin Scorsese, Pat Kirkham  | Laurence King Publishing

Saul Bass: A Life in Film & Design

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.57

$12.90

85% off est. retail
If you're passionate about design or film, or simply intrigued by the marriage of the two, "Saul Bass: A Life in Film & Design" might just captivate you. The sheer breadth of Bass's influential work, brought to life through a visual feast of illustrations, makes for a fascinating dive into a creative legacy that has shaped much of the visual language we see in media today. It's not just a book; it's a comprehensive archive that invites you to explore the genius behind some of the most memorable cinematic and corporate images.
A Royal Welcome - Making Magnificence at Buckingham Palace
Anna Reynolds | Royal Collection Trust

A Royal Welcome - Making Magnificence at Buckingham Palace

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

87% off est. retail
If you've been intrigued by the regal ceremonies and the opulence of royal affairs, "A Royal Welcome" is a door you'll want to open. This book is like having VIP access to the palace's most private quarters—a glimpse at the world of those working diligently to uphold traditions of the British monarchy. It's a luxurious visual journey, complete with photographs, that celebrates and reveals preparations for royal events. Any enthusiast of the British royal family or admirer of elaborate event planning would cherish this insider's perspective.
Dancing Up Country - The Art of Dorothy Napangardi
DOROTHY NAPANGARDI | January 1, 2002

Dancing Up Country - The Art of Dorothy Napangardi

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Imagine being drawn into the pulsating heart of Australian indigenous culture through the mesmerizing patterns and stories captured by Dorothy Napangardi. Her work is not just visually striking—it invites a deeper understanding of the land and its narratives. This catalogue offers more than an exhibition; it's an intimate dance with heritage and contemporary aboriginal art. It's perfect if you're seeking to immerse yourself in a rich, cultural artistic adventure.
I Want to Be an Artist: An Autistic Savant’s Voice and a Mother's Dream Transformed Onto Canvas
Rosa C Martinez, Sarah Sh Lee  | Siew Hong Lee

I Want to Be an Artist: An Autistic Savant’s Voice and a Mother's Dream Transformed Onto Canvas

$32.90 $21.90 33% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$32.90 $21.90 33% off

If you're looking for a touching and inspiring true story, this book could resonate deeply with you. It's the heartfelt tale of a mother's dedication and her son's extraordinary journey through art and autism. Witness the power of love and determination as you flip through the pages filled with emotive illustrations, which themselves tell a story of triumph and beauty.
Light and Life - Henning Larsen, the Man and the Architect
Henrik Sten Moller | Politektens Forlag

Light and Life - Henning Larsen, the Man and the Architect

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're drawn to the intersection of artistry and engineering, "Light And Life" will resonate deeply. It's not just a study of Henning Larsen's architectural achievements but an immersion into the philosophy of spaces that he envisioned. This book could be the key for anyone interested in how buildings can profoundly affect human experience.
A Solitude of Space
Arnold Skolnick, Francine Miller  | Down East Books

A Solitude of Space

$26.90 $18.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$26.90 $18.90 30% off

69% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the interplay between an artist's life narrative and their creative doctrine, 'Thomas Crotty: A Solitude of Space' is a compelling read for you. It's not just a peek into Crotty's personal journey but also an exploration of his artistic convictions directly from the voice of a romantic-realist—or as he preferred, a naturalist. This book could give you a fresh perspective on modern art theories through the lens of Crotty's experience and commentary.
Giorgio Armani
Cristina Garbagna | Electa

Giorgio Armani

$14.90 $13.90 7% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$14.90 $13.90 7% off

90% off est. retail
If you've ever wanted to understand the mind behind a fashion empire, "Giorgio Armani" offers that insider glimpse. It's more than a biography; it's inspiration bound in pages, showing how Armani’s vision revolutionized modern fashion with his minimalist approach. This book invites you into the world of sophisticated design and timeless style, making it a must-read for fashion aficionados and aspiring designers alike.
Essential Guide to Pantang: TABOOS AND SUPERSTITIONS OF SINGAPORE AND MALAYSIA - Thryft
Miel | Gartbooks

An Essential Guide to Pantang!

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

The Essential Guide to Pantang is a great read for users who are interested in learning about the cultural beliefs and traditions of Singapore and Malaysia. The author, Bill Gartshore, presents these superstitions and taboos in a light-hearted manner, making it an easy and enjoyable read. The line drawings also add to the overall appeal of the book. Users can expect to expand their knowledge on the local Malay, Indian, and Chinese people's life patterns and gain insight into their beliefs and superstitions.
Chen Yi Fei - Thryft
Liu Zhi Designer | Generic

Chen Yi Fei

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Delve into this hardcover piece and immerse yourself in Chen Yifei's visual repertoire. It's a visual chronology that captures the silent, yet profound evolution of one of China's most prominent contemporary artists. The absence of textual analysis lets the artwork speak directly to you, making it an intimate and personal experience as you interpret each piece through your own lens.
Stardust: The Work and Life of Jeweler Extraordinaire Frédéric Zaavy
John Taylor, Dianne Dubler, Gilles Hertzog  | Officina Libraria

Stardust: The Work and Life of Jeweler Extraordinaire Frédéric Zaavy

$48.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$48.90

59% off est. retail
If you're entranced by the fusion of fine art and luxury craftsmanship, "Stardust" is a ticket into Frédéric Zaavy's glittering world. It's not just a celebration of his stunning jewelry pieces; it's a narrative that interlaces his creative process with personal philosophy. As you turn each page awash with exquisite photography, you'll come to appreciate jewelry as a form of storytelling, painting with gems in a way that captures both beauty and transience.
My Name Is Jason. Mine Too. Our Story. Our Way.
Jason Reynolds, Jason Griffin  | Atheneum/caitlyn Dlouhy Books

My Name Is Jason. Mine Too. Our Story. Our Way.

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're drawn to tales of camaraderie and the relentless pursuit of dreams, "My Name Is Jason. Mine Too." is speaking to you. It uniquely blends visuals and prose, chronicling the true journey of two friends with big dreams in the Big Apple. Let this book be a reminder that who we are together can often amplify what we are alone. It's a story about the collision of art, poetry, and the magic that happens when friends unite to chase their shared ambitions.
Chris Bangle
Robert Cumberford | Automobilia

Chris Bangle

$18.90 $4.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$18.90 $4.90 74% off

89% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the evolution of automotive aesthetics and visionary leadership, this book is your backstage pass. It offers insight into the disruptive and visionary world of Chris Bangle, who has redefined car design for brands like BMW. His controversial yet iconic work will inspire anyone interested in design and innovation.
Baugh: Jamaica's Master Potter
Laura Tanna | Dlt Associates

Baugh: Jamaica's Master Potter

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90

80% off est. retail
For anyone keen on immersing themselves in the blend of artistry and cultural history, "Baugh: Jamaica's Master Potter" is an enriching read. It's not just the tale of Cecil Baugh's personal growth from humble beginnings to becoming a seminal figure in Jamaican ceramics; this book also serves as a tribute to the cultural inheritance he fostered. The visual feast of photographs supplements the narrative, making it a treasure for both art aficionados and those fascinated by Jamaica's rich heritage.
Rackstraw Downes
Robert Storr, Sanford Schwartz, Rackstraw Downes  | Princeton University Press

Rackstraw Downes

$20.90 $14.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 4.83

$20.90 $14.90 29% off

If you have an appreciation for the collision between day-to-day landscapes and fine art, Rackstraw Downes' book will resonate with you. It's not just a feast for the eyes but also a thought-provoker that challenges our perception of industrial and urban environments. You'll find yourself lost in the details and the surprising beauty of spaces you might usually ignore, guided by compelling commentary from both critics and the artist himself.
America's Medicis: The Rockefellers and Their Astonishing Cultural Legacy
Suzanne Loebl | Harper

America's Medicis: The Rockefellers and Their Astonishing Cultural Legacy

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.53

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

89% off est. retail
If you're into the fusion of art, history, and philanthropy, "America's Medicis" could be an engrossing read for you. Suzanne Loebl dives deep into how the Rockefeller family uniquely shaped American culture. It's more than art collections and architecture; it's about their vision to democratize art appreciation. Their story is a testament to how passion and generosity can leave an enduring legacy on a nation's cultural landscape.
Lester Beall: Trailblazer of American Graphic Design - Thryft
R. Roger Remington | W. W. Norton & Company

Lester Beall: Trailblazer of American Graphic Design

$34.90 $9.90 72% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$34.90 $9.90 72% off

89% off est. retail
If you admire the craft of visual storytelling through design, "Lester Beall: Trailblazer of American Graphic Design" is a title that could resonate deeply with you. It's a vibrant journey of a man who shaped American visual communication, becoming a beacon for many in the field. The book doesn't just chronicle a career; it paints the era of American graphic design evolution through the legacy of a visionary. Holding this book, you'll not just leaf through Beall's achievements but also the colorful history they're set against.
Timeless Land
Brian E. Turner, Owen Marshall; Brian E. Turner, Sam Neill  | Longacre Press

Timeless Land

$17.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$17.90

If you're someone who thrives on the seamless blend of visuals and words, "Timeless Land" would tug at your heartstrings. With the remarkable ability to transport you to New Zealand's enigmatic landscapes through Grahame Sydney's paintings, complemented by Brian Turner's poetry and Owen Marshall's narrative, this book is an immersive cultural experience. It's a piece of Central Otago's soul on paper - a true collector's gem.
Steve McCurry Untold: The Stories Behind the Photographs - Thryft
Just Arrived
Steve McCurry | Phaidon Press

Untold: The Stories Behind the Photographs

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.56

$9.90

86% off est. retail
This feels like stepping inside Steve McCurry’s creative world, not just admiring the finished photographs but discovering the human stories, risks, and moments behind them. If you love photography, travel, or visual storytelling, it’s the kind of book that people linger over and return to often. The mix of personal archive material and striking full-color plates gives it the richness of both an art book and a life story.
Fit for a Princess
Sold out
Catherine Walker | Universe

Fit for a Princess

$14.90 $9.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$14.90 $9.90 34% off

79% off est. retail
If you have an eye for regal style and a soft spot for the British royal family, "Catherine Walker: Fit for a Princess" will be an enriching read for you. It's more than just a look into royal wardrobes; it's a deep dive into the legacy of a designer who shaped the image of modern royalty. You'll get an insider's perspective into the craftsmanship and personal stories behind each garment.
Royal Childhood - Souvenir Album
Sold out
Anna Reynolds, Lucy Peter  | Royal Collection Trust

Royal Childhood - Souvenir Album

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

84% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by regal lives and intimate histories, 'Royal Childhood' could be a delightful journey for you. This book combines rare photographs with personal anecdotes, transporting you inside the walls of Buckingham Palace. It offers a unique opportunity to peek at the royal upbringing, connecting historical artifacts with present-day narratives.
Diana Style
Sold out
Colin McDowell | St. Martin's Press

Diana Style

$15.90 $5.90 63% off

Goodreads rating: 4.05

$15.90 $5.90 63% off

87% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by Princess Diana's status as a fashion icon, "Diana Style" is a visual treat that will draw you into her world of elegance. The book's array of photographs offers an intimate peek at how her style evolved, reflecting not just trends but her personal growth. It's perfect for anyone intrigued by royal fashion or the powerful personal story told through clothes.
The Obstacle Race: The Fortune of Women Painters and Their Work
Sold out
Germaine Greer | Macmillan

The Obstacle Race: The Fortune of Women Painters and Their Work

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$12.90

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
Sold out
Marion E. Jackson, Minnie Aodla Freeman, Odette Leroux  | Douglas & Mcintyre

Inuit Women Artists

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

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.
Niklaus Troxler - Thryft
Sold out
Jianping He | Page One Pub

Niklaus Troxler

$9.44

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.44

THE MASTER OF DESIGN series is a 4-book series which features the masterpieces inclusive of design philosophy and concepts of the four internationally acclaimed graphic designers. They include Niklaus Troxler (Switzerland), Eiko Ishioka (Japan), Pierre Bernard (France) and Werner Jeker (Switzerland). The four designers won great recognition in the industry through their revolutionary and innovative designs since the 1960s. Each book in the series comprises interviews and reviews that represent the monumental achievements of the designers.
The Wild, Wild East: An American Art Critic's Adventures in China: By Barbara Pollack - Thryft
Sold out
Barbara Pollack | Blue Kingfisher

The Wild, Wild East: An American Art Critic's Adventures in China: By Barbara Pollack

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.2

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

90% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the convergence of art and economics, "The Wild, Wild East" provides a unique perspective on China's contemporary art scene. Barbara Pollack’s narrative is not just an overview; it's a story rich with personal encounters and sharp observations, offering an intimate understanding of a rapidly growing art market through the eyes of a seasoned critic. It's a must-read if you want to grasp the complex dynamics that shape China's cultural exports and financial power plays in the global art world.
Romantic Visionary - Thryft
Sold out
W.B. Yeats | Gramercy

Romantic Visionary

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

60% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for someone who appreciates the beauty of words and art. The enchanting poetry of W.B. Yeats is brought to life by the stunning illustrations that accompany it, creating a truly immersive experience. It is a celebration of the Romantic vision and the creative genius of one of the world's most distinguished poets. Lose yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of Yeats' words and the captivating artwork that complements it.
The Lost Painting : The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece - Thryft
Sold out
Jonathan Harr | Random House Publishing Group

The Lost Painting : The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece

$8.50

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$8.50

68% off est. retail
The Lost Painting tells the story of an Italian graduate student Francesca Cappelletti, who discovers a clue that leads to the search for a lost painting. This book is perfect for art enthusiasts who love a good mystery and want to learn about Caravaggio's life and paintings. Harr's narrative style creates suspense and adventure that keep readers hooked until the very end.

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.