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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Long Way Down
Ewan; Boorman McGregor, Ewan McGregor  | Sphere

Long Way Down

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

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This book could be a good read for motorcycle enthusiasts and travel lovers. It provides an insightful and entertaining account of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman's journey through Africa, including the challenges they faced and the amazing scenery they encountered. The book stands out for its humorous and honest narration, and can inspire readers to take on their own daring adventures.
Young Men & Fire - Thryft
Norman Maclean | University Of Chicago Press

Young Men & Fire

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Goodreads rating: 4.04

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"Young Men & Fire" is a poignant exploration of the Mann Gulch tragedy that goes beyond the mere recounting of events. Norman Maclean masterfully weaves a narrative that is as much about the psychology of the men involved as it is about the terrifying force of nature they faced. His quest for understanding lends a raw authenticity to the story, making it a gripping read for anyone drawn to true-life adventures, tales of heroism, or the complex dance between humankind and the natural world.
Chasing The Devil - The Search For Africa's Fighting Spirit - Thryft
Tim Butcher | Chatto & Windus

Chasing The Devil - The Search For Africa's Fighting Spirit

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Goodreads rating: 4.13

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Chasing The Devil could be a good read for someone interested in African history and politics. Tim Butcher's harrowing journey through the forested mountains and malaria-ridden plains of Sierra Leone and Liberia provides a unique perspective on post-civil war development. Butcher's exploration of the effectiveness of national and international attempts to prevent war, and the discussion around cultural beliefs in the region, makes this book a thought-provoking and insightful read for those interested in African affairs.
Working on the Edge: Surviving in the World's Most Dangerous Profession: King Crab Fishing on Alaska's High Seas

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Ready for an adventure that's both thrilling and chilling? Spike Walker's "Working on the Edge" immerses you in the perilous world of Alaskan crab fishing, where nature's fury and the quest for fortune collide. It's a read that echoes with the raw energy and precarious lives of those daring enough to take on the world's most dangerous profession. You'll feel the salt spray and the tension of survival with every page you turn.
The Kindness of Strangers

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If the state of today's world ever overwhelms you with negativity, "The Kindness of Strangers" can be a beautiful reminder that compassion and warmth still exist. Reading it is like receiving a heartfelt hug from humanity itself, inspiring you to believe in the good that comes from unexpected places and people. It might just reignite your faith in the power of kindness.
The Desert and the Sown: Travels in Palestine and Syria

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If you're someone who gets a thrill from blending deep personal memoirs with rich historical context, "The Desert and the Sown" by Gertrude Bell will satiate your appetite. Bell was a real-life superheroine of her time — as a woman, to stride so confidently into the male-dominated spaces of the early twentieth century Middle East, and not just to pass through but to deeply engage with its people and politics, is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Her perspective, as someone who shattered the glass ceilings of her era, brings a unique lens to this captivating travelogue.
Paddling North
Yoshiko Yamamoto, Audrey Sutherland  | Patagonia

Paddling North

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Goodreads rating: 4.2

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Paddling North is a serene yet thrilling journey. It's perfect for those who appreciate solitude paired with the rawness of nature. By following the author's solo kayaking trip, you're bound to be inspired by the breathtaking landscapes and the intimate reflections, evoking a sense of adventure and personal wonder.
Shadow of the Silk Road
Colin Thubron | Chatto & Windus

Shadow of the Silk Road

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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If you're drawn to tales of exploration and cultural exchange, "Shadow of the Silk Road" may just be your next great read. Through Colin Thubron's perceptive and lyrical narrative, you will travel across the heart of Asia, getting intimately acquainted with its present and past. It's a book that offers a deep understanding of this vast and historically rich area, blending travel writing with profound insights on humanity.
The AirAsia Story - How A Young Airline Made It Possible For Everyone To Fly And Became A Runaway Success Practically Overnight - Thryft

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This book could be a good read for anyone interested in the aviation industry and business success stories. The book conveys how a once young airline, AirAsia, made flying affordable to everyone and became a runaway success practically overnight. Readers can expect to learn key strategies that the airline employed to reduce costs and compete successfully in the industry.
Sea Salt : Memories and Essays - Thryft
Stan Waterman | New World Publications

Sea Salt : Memories and Essays

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Goodreads rating: 4.22

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This book, Sea Salt, is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the majestic beauty and awe-inspiring mysteries of the ocean. Stan Waterman, a true pioneer in underwater exploration, takes you on an unforgettable journey through his remarkable life. From encountering deadly sharks to diving with exotic sea creatures, his exhilarating tales will keep you on the edge of your seat. But what sets this memoir apart is Stan's poetic prose, which brings the sea to life with its profound depth and love for the ocean. Reading Sea Salt is like diving into a world of adventure, danger, and profound respect for the wonders of the sea. Get ready to be captivated by this extraordinary tale of a life well-lived amidst the ocean's embrace.
Looking for Lovedu: Days and Nights in Africa
Ann Jones | Knopf

Looking for Lovedu: Days and Nights in Africa

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Goodreads rating: 3.63

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If you've ever dreamt of traversing Africa, Ann Jones' "Looking for Lovedu" offers more than mere travelogue—it's a raw, intimate expedition into Africa's heart. Jones' narrative, with its vivid landscapes and cultural tapestries, is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the quest for understanding. Her quest, peppered with challenges and insights, transcends mere adventure, leaving you thirsty for the dust of African roads and the wisdom of its people.
Chasing The Devil - The Search For Africa's Fighting Spirit - Thryft
Tim Butcher | Chatto & Windus

Chasing The Devil - The Search For Africa's Fighting Spirit

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Goodreads rating: 4.13

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This book could be a good read for someone who is fascinated by African history and culture, and is interested in exploring the lesser-known corners of the continent. Tim Butcher's audacious expedition takes readers on a thrilling journey through rugged landscapes and war-torn regions, shedding light on the complexities of the countries he visits. Through his vivid storytelling, the author captures the resilience and fighting spirit of Africa, leaving readers inspired and awed by the untamed beauty and power of the continent.
Going to Extremes
Joe McGinniss | Plume

Going to Extremes

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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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.
Busting Vegas: The MIT Whiz Kid Who Brought the Casinos to Their Knees
Semyon Dukach, Ben Mezrich  | William Morrow

Busting Vegas: The MIT Whiz Kid Who Brought the Casinos to Their Knees

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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If you've ever been captivated by tales where brains beat the odds, "Busting Vegas" could be your next page-turner. Ben Mezrich strikes again with a narrative that makes math and strategy as thrilling as a high-speed car chase. The true story element adds to the authenticity, ensuring you're not just reading a novel—you’re peeking into a world where intellect is the wild card. Dive in and you won't just witness a game; you'll feel like part of the team pulling off the ultimate gamble.
An Explorer's Handbook - Thryft
Christina Dodwell | Hodder & Stoughton Ltd

An Explorer's Handbook

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Goodreads rating: 4.21

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"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.
Rowing to Latitude: Journeys Along the Arctic's Edge - Thryft
Jill Fredston | North Point Press

Rowing to Latitude: Journeys Along the Arctic's Edge

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Goodreads rating: 4.16

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Imagine gliding through icy waters, the silent Arctic expanse around you. Jill Fredston does more than evoke this image; she lived it, rowing thousands of miles alongside her husband. Her narrative isn't just about the physical journey; it's a tapestry of wilderness, self-discovery, and a profound connection with nature. If the call of the wild—tempered with introspection and marital dynamics—resonates with you, then "Rowing to Latitude" could be a book you'll find hard to put down.
Dark Star Safari
Paul Theroux | Hamish Hamilton

Dark Star Safari

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Goodreads rating: 3.99

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For those who revel in authentic travel narratives, "Dark Star Safari" offers more than just a journey across a stunning continent—it's a deep dive into the changing face of Africa. Paul Theroux serves not just as your guide but as a thoughtful interpreter of complex and varied landscapes, both geographic and societal. If the idea of vicarious exploration that challenges perception while on a rugged, heart-rending adventure speaks to you, this is your next read.
Italian Neighbours: An Englishman in Verona
Tim Parks | Vintage

Italian Neighbours: An Englishman in Verona

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Goodreads rating: 3.71

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If you've ever dreamed about picking up your life and replanting it in the heart of Italy, 'Italian Neighbours' is your soul's looking glass. Tim Parks masterfully balances the beauty and frustration of such an endeavor. You'll laugh, nod in empathy, and perhaps find a piece of yourself longing for the cobbled streets of Verona. It's a witty, honest, and intimate cultural dissection that's as much about finding home as it is about the place itself.
The Ocean Railway : Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Samuel Cunard and the Revolutionary World of the Great Atlantic Steamships - Thryft

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If you're fascinated by human triumphs in engineering, "The Ocean Railway" is a tantalizing voyage through time. Stephen Fox has intricately woven the technological marvels of steamships with societal shifts, allowing readers to not only marvel at the grandeur of these titanic vessels but also to immerse in the personal experiences of those who journeyed across the Atlantic. It's perfect for anyone drawn to how grand visions and reality collide, especially within the pioneering spirit of the Victorian era.
AA Gill is Away - Thryft
A.A. Gill | Weidenfeld & Nicolson Ltd

AA Gill is Away

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Goodreads rating: 4.18

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Book by A.A. GILL
Lance Armstrong's War
Daniel Coyle | Harper

Lance Armstrong's War

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Goodreads rating: 3.84

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Armstrong's War is a great read for fans of Lance Armstrong or those interested in the world of professional cycling. The book provides a deep insight into the life, struggles, and controversial doping allegations of the world's most accomplished athlete. Coyle's narrative style takes readers on a rollercoaster ride from the lowest points in Armstrong's life to the pinnacle of his sixth straight victory in the Tour de France. Through Coyle's storytelling, readers get to witness Armstrong's determination, resilience, and sheer will to win. Armstrong's War highlights the Darwinian world of professional bike racing, where athletes compete fiercely and the sport chooses them.
The Last Rhinos : The Powerful Story of One Man's Battle to Save a Species - Thryft
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When Lawrence Anthony learned that the northern white rhino, living in the war-ravaged Congo, was on the very brink of extinction, he knew he had to act. If the world lost the sub-species, it would be the largest land mammal since the woolly mammoth to go extinct. In The Last Rhinos , Anthony recounts his attempts to save these remarkable animals. The demand for rhino horns in the Far East has turned poaching into a dangerous black market that threatens the lives of not just these rare beasts, but also the rangers who protect them. The northern white rhino's last refuge was in an area controlled by the infamous Lord's Resistance Army, one of the most vicious rebel groups in the world. In the face of unmoving government bureaucracy, Anthony made a perilous journey deep into the jungle to try to find and convince them to help save the rhino. An inspiring story of conservation in the face of brutal war and bureaucratic quagmires, The Last Rhinos will move animal lovers everywhere.
The Art of Travel - Thryft
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Alain de Botton | Penguin Books

The Art of Travel

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Goodreads rating: 3.83

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Any Baedeker will tell us where we ought to travel, but only Alain de Botton will tell us how and why. With the same intelligence and insouciant charm he brought to How Proust Can Save Your Life, de Botton considers the pleasures of anticipation; the allure of the exotic, and the value of noticing everything from a seascape in Barbados to the takeoffs at Heathrow. Even as de Botton takes the reader along on his own peregrinations, he also cites such distinguished fellow-travelers as Baudelaire, Wordsworth, Van Gogh, the biologist Alexander von Humboldt, and the 18th-century eccentric Xavier de Maistre, who catalogued the wonders of his bedroom. The Art of Travel is a wise and utterly original book. Don’t leave home without it.
A Life Without Limits : A World Champion's Journey - Thryft
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"A Life Without Limits" is an inspiring read for anyone looking for motivation to overcome obstacles and push themselves to their physical and mental limits. Chrissie's remarkable achievement of becoming a world champion Ironman triathlete in only her second event at the Ironman level, and her unwavering determination to bounce back from setbacks, makes this book a must-read for all sports enthusiasts. The book highlights how passion and resilience can triumph over any obstacle and encourages readers to strive for excellence in every aspect of their life.
True Grit - Thryft
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Bear Grylls | Corgi

True Grit

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Goodreads rating: 4.06

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This book is an exhilarating collection of inspirational stories that will keep you gripped from start to finish. Through the incredible feats of adventurers, explorers, soldiers, and spies, you will witness true grit and unwavering determination in the face of unimaginable challenges. These eye-watering tales of survival and endurance will inspire you to never quit and find the strength to overcome any obstacle life throws at you. Prepare to be moved and motivated by the extraordinary mental toughness displayed by these brave men and women.
A Voyage Long and Strange: On the Trail of Vikings, Conquistadors, Lost Colonists, and Other Adventurers in Early America
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If you're itching to unravel the lesser-known tales of America before the Pilgrims, Tony Horwitz’s "A Voyage Long and Strange" is your next adventure. It's a journey that stitches together historical curiosity with travelogue zest. Horwitz doesn't just recite dusty facts; he plunges into the past, taking us along for a ride that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening. Imagine retracing steps of the wild, sometimes unhinged explorers—without leaving your armchair.
The Miracle Of Castel Di Sangro - Thryft
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Joe McGinniss | Warner Books

The Miracle Of Castel Di Sangro

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Goodreads rating: 4.2

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The Miracle of Castel Di Sangro is a heartwarming and inspiring sports story that captures the triumph of an underdog team from a small town in Italy that rose to the top of the professional Italian soccer league. Through the eyes of author Joe McGinniss, readers will witness the town's passion for the game of soccer and how their dedication and hard work led to a magical transformation that inspired not only themselves but the entire nation.
Over the Edge of the World : Magellan's Terrifying Circumnavigation of the Globe - Thryft
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Recommended for history buffs and adventure-seekers, this book provides an in-depth account of Magellan's iconic journey, including his ambitions, conflicts, and discovery of the Spice Islands. The author's use of first-person accounts and vivid descriptions gives readers a personal insight into the dangers faced by Magellan and his crew.
Larger Than Life: Celebrating the Human Spirit
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Belinda Lee | Marshall Cavendish International (asia) Pte Ltd

Larger Than Life: Celebrating the Human Spirit

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Goodreads rating: 4.57

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"Larger Than Life" is a heart-warming collection of stories about people who have dedicated their lives to helping others. Belinda Lee introduces readers to these amazing individuals who have chosen to follow the road less trodden and work for unusual social causes such as building schools, rescuing street children, and helping war-affected people. This book celebrates the human spirit and restores faith in the goodness of humanity. If you are looking for inspiring stories about ordinary people doing extraordinary things, this book is for you.
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.
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.
Red Dust - Thryft
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Ma Jian | Vintage Books

Red Dust

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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Red Dust is a must-read for those interested in China's recent history and culture. Through Ma Jian's insightful journey, readers can gain a unique perspective on China's societal challenges. The book is a compelling mix of beautiful descriptions of the country's natural beauty and commentary on the repressive nature of China's government in the 1980s.

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.