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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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Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis
J.D. Vance | William Collins

Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

"Hillbilly Elegy" might resonate with you if you're intrigued by personal stories that also shed light on larger societal issues. J.D. Vance's journey from a struggling Rust Belt town to the halls of Yale Law School offers a raw, often poignant look into the lives of the white working class. It's both an intimate memoir and a reflection on American society that could offer a new perspective on the challenges faced by a significant part of the population.
The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds
Michael Lewis | W. W. Norton & Company

The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds

$24.90 $16.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$24.90 $16.90 32% off

58% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone who is curious about how the human mind works and wants to delve into the world of decision-making. Michael Lewis vividly recounts the groundbreaking work of Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, whose collaboration in the field of behavioral economics reshaped our understanding of reality. Through their extraordinary lives and research, this book offers a captivating exploration of the power of intuition, the limitations of human judgment, and the potential of algorithms to shape our lives. Get ready to have your mind blown and gain new insights into the workings of your own mind.
Introducing Marxism
Oscar Zárate, Rupert Woofin, Richard Appignanesi  | Icon,totem Books

Introducing Marxism

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

If you're curious about the underpinnings of socialism and communism, "Introducing Marxism" offers a digestible overview that connects Marx's thought to the historical movements it sparked. The authors don't just rehash outdated rhetoric; they position Marxism as a relevant ethical framework that continues to challenge and provoke in today's ever-shifting socio-economic landscape. This could be the book that clarifies complex ideologies and past prejudices for you.
Why We Kneel, How We Rise
Usain Bolt, Michael Holding, Ed Hawkins  | Simon & Schuster Uk

Why We Kneel, How We Rise

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

64% off est. retail
Michael Holding's insights into racism interwoven with personal accounts from world-class athletes make this an eye-opener. It's not just about the challenges; it also offers a pathway toward understanding and societal transformation through sports. This book is a strong call to action for anyone ready to confront societal injustices and learn through the lens of athletics.
The Utopians: Six Attempts to Build the Perfect Society
Anna Neima | Picador

The Utopians: Six Attempts to Build the Perfect Society

$23.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$23.90

47% off est. retail
If you've ever daydreamed about a perfect society, "The Utopians" might just be the reality check that fascinates you. Anna Neima takes you on a historical journey through the successes and, more intriguingly, the failures of six utopian communities. This book isn't just about the past; it's a mirror to our own aspirations and the complex challenges of collective living.
Toward a Better World: Memoirs of a Life in International and Development Economics
Gerald (Gerry) Helleiner | University Of Toronto Press

Toward a Better World: Memoirs of a Life in International and Development Economics

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$11.90

This is a thoughtful, grounded memoir for anyone curious about how economics meets real lives and real policy. Helleiner brings you behind the scenes of African fieldwork and major international meetings, so it feels both personal and historically revealing. Readers who like reflective life stories with big-world stakes will find it honest, idealistic, and refreshingly unvarnished.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Holt Paperbacks

Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

83% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by real-life explorations of the challenges faced by low-wage workers, "Nickel and Dimed" could deeply resonate with you. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just narrate; she immerses herself in the struggle, offering a raw and compelling firsthand account that could change the way you see the service industry and the economy.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America
Barbara Ehrenreich | Picador

Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

"Nickel and Dimed" offers more than just an eye-opening look into the struggle of low-wage workers; it's a deep dive into the reality of economic survival. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just observe, she gets her hands dirty, and her firsthand experiences bring an authenticity that's both enlightening and deeply humanizing. If you want to understand the flip side of American prosperity and the lives of the people who serve your meals, clean your offices, and ring up your purchases, this book is a profoundly compelling start.
The Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II: The Last Great Monarch? - Thryft
Andrew Marr | Picador

The Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II: The Last Great Monarch?

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

67% off est. retail
If the mystique of royalty intrigues you, "The Diamond Queen" is a perfect fit. Andrew Marr offers a rare glimpse into the life and influence of Queen Elizabeth II, augmented by diligent research and enthralling storytelling. As a Sunday Times bestseller, the book promises to deepen your understanding of the monarchy and its evolution over the decades under the stewardship of Britain's longest-reigning monarch.
The Wrong Carlos: Anatomy of a Wrongful Execution - Thryft
James S. Liebman | Columbia University Press

The Wrong Carlos: Anatomy of a Wrongful Execution

$17.01 $5.90 65% off

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$17.01 $5.90 65% off

84% off est. retail
If you've ever pondered the grim reality of wrongful convictions, "The Wrong Carlos" is a startling deep-dive into such a nightmare. The meticulous research by the Columbia Law team unravels the chilling story of Carlos DeLuna, creating a compelling narrative that’s as much about the failings of the criminal justice system as it is about DeLuna himself. Engrossing and unsettling, it’s a poignant reminder of the human cost of judicial errors and a call to reform.
The Power of Half
Kevin Salwen, Hannah Salwen  | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

The Power of Half

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.26

$11.90

If you're looking for inspiration on how to make a significant change in your life, "The Power of Half" might be the catalyst you need. The Salwens' story isn't just heartwarming; it challenges the fundamental way we think about our resources and our potential to impact the world. It might just stir something in you to take your own leap towards altruism.
The Fifties - Thryft
David Halberstam | Ballantine Books

The Fifties

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

78% off est. retail
If you're curious about the undercurrents that shaped modern America, "The Fifties" is a treasure trove just for you. David Halberstam masterfully connects the dots between the decade's tranquil facade and its profound societal shifts. You'll emerge from this book with a profound understanding of the events and personalities that laid the groundwork for the country you know today.
The Responsible Company: What We've Learned From Patagonia's First 40 Years
Just Arrived
Vincent Stanley, Yvon Chouinard  | Patagonia

The Responsible Company: What We've Learned From Patagonia's First 40 Years

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$11.90

This is a grounded, unusually candid look at how a beloved brand tried to do business without looking away from its impact. It’s especially good if you like big ideas backed by real mistakes, real trade-offs, and practical next steps. You come away feeling that responsible business isn’t just idealism here—it’s something messy, doable, and worth building toward.
Prodigal Sons: The New York Intellectuals and Their World - Thryft
Alexander Bloom | Oxford University Press

Prodigal Sons: The New York Intellectuals and Their World

$19.90 $5.90 70% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$19.90 $5.90 70% off

89% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the inner workings of intellectual circles and the evolution of thought through pivotal historical moments, "Prodigal Sons" will feel like a personal backstage pass. Alexander Bloom's meticulous research translates into a narrative brimming with the life stories of the influential figures you might have only previously encountered in bylines and bibliographies. As you trace their journeys from the fringes to the core of American intellectual life, the book itself becomes an exploration of cultural change, identity, and the power of ideas.
Sahara: The Untold Story
Tamal Bandyopadhyay | Jaico Publishing House

Sahara: The Untold Story

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

84% off est. retail
If corporate intrigue fascinates you, "Sahara: The Untold Story" could be your next absorbing read. Tamal Bandyopadhyay has meticulously researched the Sahara India Pariwar, showing a multitude of faces from the aspirational to the allegedly exploitative. It's a deep dive into the complexities of Indian finance and the controversial struggles between a business tycoon and regulatory forces, promising both depth and drama.
Philippine Politics and the Marcos Technocrats: The Emergence and Evolution of a Power Elite
Just Arrived
Teresa S. Encarnacion Tadem | Ateneo De Manila University Press

Philippine Politics and the Marcos Technocrats: The Emergence and Evolution of a Power Elite

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$11.90

This is a sharp, revealing look at how expertise, not just dynasty, became a route to power in the Philippines. You get a richer picture of the Marcos years by seeing how technocrats navigated government, business, and global institutions like the IMF and World Bank. If you like political history that explains who really shapes policy behind the scenes, this feels especially rewarding.
Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families
J. Anthony Lukas | Knopf

Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families

$28.90 $17.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$28.90 $17.90 38% off

If you're drawn to exploring the complex interactions of race, politics, and education in America's history, "Common Ground" could resonate with you. J. Anthony Lukas meticulously intertwines the lives of three Boston families across the divides of class and color during the tumultuous 1970s. It's not just an award-winning non-fiction narrative; it's a deep dive into a decisive era that still echoes in today's societal challenges.
Deer Hunting with Jesus: Guns, Votes, Debt and Delusion in Redneck America
Joe Bageant | Portobello Books

Deer Hunting with Jesus: Guns, Votes, Debt and Delusion in Redneck America

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

82% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the socio-political landscape of rural America, "Deer Hunting With Jesus" offers a raw and eye-opening perspective. It's a deep dive into the heart of working-class struggles, deftly combining humor with stark reality, giving voice to those often unheard in mainstream narratives. An essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities beneath the surface of 'redneck' America.
Paradise Is Closing Down and Other Plays
Pieter-Dirk Uys | Penguin Books Ltd

Paradise Is Closing Down and Other Plays

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're someone who appreciates theater that isn't just for entertainment but also for its poignant commentary, "Paradise Is Closing Down and Other Plays" might be your cup of tea. These plays by Pieter-Dirk Uys use satire to dissect and expose the absurdities of Apartheid, offering both sharp wit and sobering insights that remain relevant today. It's a powerful read that combines humor with a critical examination of social injustice.
The Bootleggers: The Story of Chicago's Prohibition Era - Thryft
Kenneth Allsop | True Crime Library

The Bootleggers: The Story of Chicago's Prohibition Era

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.45

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

68% off est. retail
Delving into "The Bootleggers" gives you a front-row seat to the city's tumultuous era when illicit booze fueled both crime and commerce. If you're intrigued by the jazz age, the lore of gangsters like Al Capone, and the complex socio-political landscape of 1920s America, then this time capsule is the perfect pick for a nuanced historical understanding.
The Claws of the Dragon: Kang Sheng - The Evil Genius Behind Mao and His Legacy of Terror in People's China - Thryft
Robert Pack, John Byron  | Touchstone Books

The Claws of the Dragon: Kang Sheng - The Evil Genius Behind Mao and His Legacy of Terror in People's China

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

82% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the often veiled intricacies of historical political power plays, "The Claws of the Dragon" could provide you with a chilling deep dive into the shadowy figure of Kang Sheng. By highlighting the sinister aspects of Chinese politics during a tumultuous period, this book promises a gripping and eye-opening account that isn't just abstract history—it's a testament to human ambition and its darker consequences.
Women on board making a real difference - Thryft
Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) | Singapore Institute Of Directors

Women on board making a real difference

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Reasons to read: - This book showcases the real-life experiences of women who have made a difference in their respective fields. It provides a valuable insight into the challenges they faced and the strategies they employed to overcome them. - By highlighting the achievements and contributions of women in leadership positions, this book serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for aspiring female leaders. - It offers a unique perspective on the importance of gender diversity in the corporate world and the positive impact it can have on businesses. - Whether you are a woman looking for role models or a professional with an interest in promoting equality and diversity, this book is a must-read.
The Big Breach - From Top Secret to Maximum Security - Thryft
Richard Tomlinson | Global Pr

The Big Breach - From Top Secret to Maximum Security

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

If you're fascinated by the secretive world of spies and crave a thrilling narrative that's more than just fiction, 'The Big Breach' is a perfect match. You'll dive deep into Richard Tomlinson's personal accounts of his time in MI6, exploring the shadier side of international relations and espionage. Tomlinson invites you to walk in a spy's shoes, giving that rare, authentic peek behind the curtain of intelligence.
去问李光耀 - 一代总理对中国, 美国和全世界的深思
艾利．韋恩, 格雷厄姆．艾利森, 羅伯特．布萊克維爾  | 時報出版

去问李光耀 - 一代总理对中国, 美国和全世界的深思

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$9.90

If you're intrigued by geopolitics and leadership, Lee Kuan Yew's reflections in "去问李光耀" offer a treasure trove of wisdom. His astute observations and strategic insights into the global roles of China and the United States could broaden your understanding of international affairs, all from a man who transformed a nation.
The Birthday Book: Narratives, Undiscovered and Underway - Thryft
Naidu, Vieshaalan, Maniam, Aaron, Cheryl Chung  | Pagesetters Services

The Birthday Book 2019: Narratives Undiscovered and Underway

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$11.90

If you're intrigued by the blend of personal storytelling and broader social reflection, 'The Birthday Book 2019' is for you. It's like a mosaic of Singapore itself, with each essay offering a unique piece that when put together, reveals a complex and fascinating picture. Whether you're from Singapore or curious about its tapestry of stories, this book is a thought-provoking journey through individual lives and shared dreams.
Facebook Effect: The Inside Story of the Company That Is Connecting the World
David Kirkpatrick | Virgin Publishing

Facebook Effect: The Inside Story of the Company That Is Connecting the World

$14.90 $11.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$14.90 $11.90 20% off

51% off est. retail
If you have an interest in how a dorm room project turned into a global phenomenon, "Facebook Effect" is the guide you're looking for. David Kirkpatrick's access to key figures provides an authoritative inside scoop. For anyone drawn to tech, business, or the societal impacts of social media, this book is bound to be an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Disrupt - Filipina Women: Proud. Loud. Leading Without A Doubt - Thryft

Disrupt - Filipina Women: Proud. Loud. Leading Without A Doubt

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

If you're looking to be inspired by the diverse achievements and experiences of Filipina women around the world, "Disrupt" is a must-read. The book offers powerful insights into how these leaders navigate the intersections of identity, migration, gender, and leadership. It's not just a collection of stories but a blueprint for anyone aspiring to make an impact in their field. The synthesis of recommendations also provides tangible advice for future trailblazers.
It Takes a Village and Other Lessons Children Teach Us
Hillary Rodham Clinton | Simon & Schuster

It Takes a Village and Other Lessons Children Teach Us

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you've ever felt the weight of raising a child in today's hectic society, "It Takes a Village" could lend you perspective and solace. Hillary Clinton weaves personal anecdotes with her vision for a society that supports families. You may find it compelling in its hopeful outlook on how communities can come together for the betterment of our children's future.
Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Owl Books (henry Holt)

Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

81% off est. retail
If you've ever wondered about the reality behind the low-wage struggle in the U.S., "Nickel and Dimed" will open your eyes. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just tell a story; she lives it, revealing the daunting challenges faced by many Americans in witty, yet poignant prose. Her journey is a powerful testimony to tenacity and resilience in the face of a system that often overlooks the most hardworking among us. This book serves as a stark reminder of the hidden human cost behind those everyday low prices.
A Refugee's Journey from Iran - Leaving My Homeland
Heather C. Hudak | Crabtree Pub Co

A Refugee's Journey from Iran - Leaving My Homeland

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

If you're looking to step into the shoes of those forced to flee their home, "A Refugee's Journey from Iran" offers a window into the challenges and hopes that shape a refugee's experience. It's a poignant story that balances the harsh realities with the resilience of the human spirit, offering both empathy and understanding without shying away from the difficult truths. This book will leave you moved and possibly more informed about an incredibly relevant social issue.
A Home From Home : From Immigrant Boy to English Man - Thryft
George Alagiah | Little Brown & Co

A Home From Home : From Immigrant Boy to English Man

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Martin is new to the neighborhood, and wants to make a good impression on his new teammates. But when he loses his lucky baseball bat, Martin fears that he has also lost his ability to play baseball. Will Martin be able to continue his winning streak without the bat?
White Shotgun: The Sicilian Mafia in Their Own Words
Attilio Bolzoni | Pan Books

White Shotgun: The Sicilian Mafia in Their Own Words

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 2.97

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

80% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the clandestine complexities of criminal networks, "White Shotgun" offers an unparalleled, raw look into the Sicilian Mafia—a topic that often is shrouded in myth and speculation. Bolzoni's access to insider accounts provides a gripping narrative that's both authentic and riveting, transporting you to the heart of Sicilian organized crime. It's a read that's as enlightening as it is chilling, perfect for those interested in true crime and the real stories behind the headlines.
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 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

89% 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.
Hope Dies Last: Making a Difference in an Indifferent World
studs-terkel | Granta Books

Hope Dies Last: Making a Difference in an Indifferent World

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$10.90

If you're feeling disillusioned by today's headlines and hungry for authentic stories of courage and conviction, "Hope Dies Last" could be a timely read. Terkel masterfully weaves together diverse voices, from celebrities to the unsung heroes of activism, each sharing their unique perspective on hope. Their tales resonate with a shared stubbornness to enact change that might just reignite your own belief in the power of persistence.
Impossible Dream The Marcoses, the Aquinos, and the Unfinished Revolution - Thryft
Sandra Burton | Grand Central Pub

Impossible Dream The Marcoses, the Aquinos, and the Unfinished Revolution

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

90% off est. retail
If you have a keen interest in the political tapestry that shapes a nation, this book takes you right into the heart of the Philippines' most tumultuous times. Sandra Burton not only gives you an eyewitness account but also delves into the complex and destructive relationship between two powerful families. It's a compelling read for anyone fascinated by history coming alive through intense personal and political dramas.
Foucault for Beginners
Sold out
Lydia Alix Fillingham | For Beginners

Foucault for Beginners

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

63% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the interplay between power, knowledge, and society, Foucault for Beginners distills complex theories into digestible bits, complemented by engaging illustrations. It's an accessible starting point to explore the challenging ideas of one of the 20th century's most influential thinkers. Whether you're a student or a curious mind, it paints a vivid picture of Foucault's critique on societal structures.
Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China
Sold out
Leslie T. Chang | Picador Usa

Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90

54% off est. retail
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.

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.