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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The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry
Kathleen Flinn | Penguin Publishing Group

The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry

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Goodreads rating: 3.69

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66% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If your taste buds are tingling for a story that combines the zest of a culinary pilgrimage with the heartfelt journey toward self-discovery, Kathleen Flinn's "The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry" could be a perfect pairing. As you flip through the pages, you'll virtually stroll through Parisian alleys, taste the fervor of Le Cordon Bleu, and perhaps find the courage to take your own leap of faith. The blend of gastronomy and personal growth in Flinn's memoir is as enchanting as it is relatable, perfect for foodies and dreamers alike.
Eating Animals
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Jonathan Safran Foer | Hachette Book Group Usa

Eating Animals

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Goodreads rating: 4.21

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In stock: Very Good

If you've ever felt conflicted about your dining choices, "Eating Animals" could resonate deeply with you. Jonathan Safran Foer's personal journey through the ethics of meat consumption is compelling, eye-opening, and might just challenge the way you think about the food on your plate. Engaging yet deeply informative, it's a read that's likely to stay with you long after the last page.
Dearie: The Remarkable Life of Julia Child
Bob Spitz | Knopf

Dearie: The Remarkable Life of Julia Child

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Goodreads rating: 3.88

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48% off est. retail

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Julia Child isn't just a name; she's an inspiration. This book delves deep into her spirited life, from her OSS beginnings to transforming American cuisine. If you ever wondered how a towering woman with an endearing warble became synonymous with French cooking in the US, this biography is a warm, affectionate dish you'll savor.
Lunch in Paris: A Love Story, with Recipes
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Elizabeth Bard | Back Bay Books

Lunch in Paris: A Love Story, with Recipes

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

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In stock: Very Good

If you're a romantic at heart who also revels in the delights of food, "Lunch in Paris" could satiate both your love for a good love story and your palate. With Elizabeth Bard's charming narrative, you get to experience the wonders of Paris and the intimate journey of love and cuisine. This memoir will not just whet your appetite for French delicacies but also for life's unexpected turns towards happiness.
Miss Dahl's Voluptuous Delights Recipes for Every Season, Mood, and Appetite - Thryft
Sophie Dahl | William Morrow Cookbooks

Miss Dahl's Voluptuous Delights Recipes for Every Season, Mood, and Appetite

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Goodreads rating: 3.86

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82% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you cherish the satisfaction of a meal that tingles your taste buds without tipping the scales, "Miss Dahl's Voluptuous Delights" could be your culinary companion. Sophie Dahl translates her zeal for food into recipes that harmonize indulgence with health, and her seasoned storytelling adds the perfect garnish to this flavorful collection. It's a book that brings both the seasons and your moods to your table.
In The Danger Zone - Thryft
Stefan Gates | Clearway Logistics Remainders

In The Danger Zone

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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In stock: Very Good

This book is a thrilling and eye-opening exploration of how food intertwines with the most extreme circumstances. Stefan Gates' firsthand experiences and vivid storytelling make you feel like you're right there with him as he navigates war zones, tries unconventional dishes, and meets resilient individuals. Through the lens of food, "In The Danger Zone" sheds light on the human condition, igniting empathy and sparking thought-provoking discussions. It's a captivating journey that combines adventure, ethics, and a deeper understanding of our world.
Jamie's Kitchen - Thryft
Jamie Oliver | Gardners Books

Jamie's Kitchen

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

Regular price $10.90 from $4.90 62% off

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In stock: Like New

"Jamie's Kitchen" isn't just a cookbook—it's an inspirational guide, especially for those of you looking to sharpen your culinary skills with a touch of creativity. Jamie Oliver guides you with a personal touch, diving into not only recipes but also the passion and stories behind the dishes. His simple, charming approach can turn any kitchen novice into a more confident cook.
Cooking for Friends
Gordon Ramsay | Harpercollins

Cooking for Friends

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Goodreads rating: 4.06

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In stock: Well Read

If you cherish the joy of cooking for loved ones, Gordon Ramsay's "Cooking for Friends" is a heartfelt compilation reflecting both his professional finesse and personal touch. It invites you to experience the casual yet sophisticated side of Ramsay's kitchen, where each recipe promises to elevate your gatherings into memorable culinary events.
40 Chances: Finding Hope in a Hungry World

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67% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"40 Chances" could resonate with you deeply if you're intrigued by real-world challenges and solutions. Howard G. Buffett offers a compelling narrative that blends personal experience with a committed vision. The stories in this book will likely inspire you with their mix of practical wisdom and humanitarian passion, especially if you're interested in sustainability or global issues.
The Seventh Daughter: My Culinary Journey from Beijing to San Francisco
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"The Seventh Daughter" is more than a cookbook; it's an intimate journey through Cecilia Chiang's life, from her roots in Beijing to her culinary success in San Francisco. If you enjoy a blend of evocative storytelling with traditional recipes, this book offers a window into the rich tapestry of northern Chinese cuisine, infused with the personal history of a pioneering food icon.
French Women for All Seasons: A Year of Secrets, Recipes & Pleasure

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61% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're looking to infuse your routine with a bit of French sophistication, this is the read for you. It's not just about food; it's a lifestyle guide that gracefully merges secrets, recipes, and pleasures, distilled through the luscious French perspective on living well year-round. It's like a friend sharing her timeless wisdom on enjoying life's every moment.
How to Cook a Wolf
M.F.K. Fisher | North Point Press

How to Cook a Wolf

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Goodreads rating: 4.15

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53% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

This book is like a friend in tough times, not just for its culinary wisdom but for its soulful approach to cooking when resources are scarce. It’s a timeless piece that shows how cooking can be an act of resistance and celebration despite the odds. Anyone looking to be inspired in the kitchen, no matter the circumstances, will find M. F. K. Fisher's work a treasure trove of not only recipes but also comfort and creativity.
Toujours Provence - Thryft
Judith Clancy, Peter Mayle  | Penguin Books, Limited (uk)

Toujours Provence

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Goodreads rating: 4.03

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74% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're longing for a getaway, "Toujours Provence" will mentally transport you to the lavender fields and sunbathed villages of the French countryside. Peter Mayle's wit and descriptive prowess bring out the essence and humor of Provencal life, making you feel as if you're tasting that rich truffle or sipping pastis beside quirky locals. It's a literary vacation that promises laughter and a delightful exploration of sensory pleasures.
Monsoon Diary: Reveries and Recipes from South India
Shoba Narayan | Bantam

Monsoon Diary: Reveries and Recipes from South India

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Goodreads rating: 3.72

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In stock: Well Read

If you've ever longed to experience the rich tapestry of South Indian culture through a personal lens, "Monsoon Diary" offers just that. It's more than a collection of recipes; it's a delicately woven narrative of food, family, and tradition that evokes a powerful sense of place. Each page serves not just a culinary lesson but a slice of life, beckoning you to explore a world where every meal has a story.
Toast: The Story of a Boy's Hunger
Nigel Slater | Uk General Books

Toast: The Story of a Boy's Hunger

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Goodreads rating: 3.78

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"Toast" by Nigel Slater is for anyone who understands that food is not just sustenance, but a vessel for memories and emotion. Slater's writing style brings warmth and vulnerability to the story of his upbringing, enveloping the reader in the vivid tableau of 1960s England through his culinary lens. Your senses will sharpen as Slater's personal journey through food evokes your own reflections of family, love, and growth.
The De' Medici Kitchen - Thryft
Lorenza De' Medici | Collins Pub San Francisco

The De' Medici Kitchen

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Goodreads rating: 3.82

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90% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

Contains a collection of recipes taken from the television show for first, middle, and main courses, vegetables, and desserts, and with illustrations and instructions when needed
The Pedant in the Kitchen
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Julian Barnes | Atlantic Books

The Pedant in the Kitchen

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Goodreads rating: 3.66

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In stock: Well Read

If you’ve ever found yourself more recipe-bound than a pretzel and ended up with something oddly inedible, "The Pedant in the Kitchen" will resonate with you. It’s a delightful ode to the trials and tribulations of those who take their cookbooks a bit too seriously, while offering solace through its humorous self-awareness. A perfect palate cleanser between those heavy, hearty meals.
Ferran: The Inside Story of El Bulli and the Man Who Reinvented Food
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If you're enchanted by the artistry of cooking and the stories behind the world's most acclaimed chefs, "Ferran" is a compelling read. It's not just a biography; it captures a cultural and gastronomic shift led by Adrià's innovative spirit. It's a peek into the kitchen and mind that forever changed fine dining. You'll find that each page brings you closer to understanding the fervor that surrounds El Bulli and its celebrated chef.
A Year of Good Eating: The Kitchen Diaries III
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As someone who appreciates the changing seasons not just outdoors but also in the kitchen, Slater's "A Year of Good Eating" offers you a delightful company throughout the year. You'll discover the joy of adapting your cooking to what's current and fresh, finding both quick bites for hectic evenings and leisurely culinary projects for more relaxed times. With Nigel's signature simplicity in recipes paired with evocative writing, this book is bound to inspire your daily meals and turn every day into a celebration of good eating.
Backstage with Julia: My Years with Julia Child - Thryft
Nancy Verde Barr | Harvest

Backstage with Julia: My Years with Julia Child

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Goodreads rating: 3.86

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In stock: Very Good

If you're drawn to the warmth of behind-the-scenes stories with renowned figures, "Backstage with Julia" promises a tender and personal glimpse into Julia Child's world. Nancy Verde Barr offers you a seat at Julia's table, revealing the humanity and spirited passion of a chef who reshaped American cuisine. It's a heartfelt tribute, sure to inspire anyone with a love for food and the legends behind it.
The Man Who Ate the World: In Search of the Perfect Dinner

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53% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If food is your passion and travel your dream, Jay Rayner's "The Man Who Ate the World" could be your next favorite read. The book is a delightful blend of humor and gastronomic fervor as Rayner takes you on a global journey through the highs and lows of dining extravagance. His quest to find the perfect meal is not just a feast for the stomach but also a banquet for the mind, as it's peppered with fascinating insights and witty anecdotes that can make you both chuckle and salivate.
Jamie's Kitchen - Thryft
Jamie Oliver | Penguin

Jamie's Kitchen

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

Regular price $15.90 from $8.90 45% off

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Jamie's Kitchen isn't just another cookbook; it's like a personal cooking class with Jamie Oliver himself. If you love relishing great food and have been yearning to improve your cooking skills, this book will serve as your mentor, guiding you through various techniques. Plus, with more than 100 recipes, your taste buds and culinary skills are in for a treat.
Toast: The Story of a Boy's Hunger
Nigel Slater | Fourth Estate

Toast: The Story of a Boy's Hunger

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Goodreads rating: 3.78

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42% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"Toast" is a banquet for anyone who cherishes the deep connection between food and memory. It's beautifully penned, relatable, and poignant, taking you back to the tastes of your own childhood in a way that's both comforting and bittersweet. Whether you're a food lover or just nostalgic for the simplicity of youth, Slater's keen observation of life through the lens of meals is sure to resonate.
Under The Tuscan Sun - Thryft
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Frances Mayes | Transworld Pub

Under The Tuscan Sun

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Goodreads rating: 3.77

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 34% off

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44% off est. retail

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If you're a foodie and love travel, you'll adore this charming memoir about restoring a villa in Tuscany. Mayes' descriptions of the local cuisine and Italian culture are vivid, and her recipes inspired by the seasonal ingredients she finds at the markets are delicious. This book is a feast for the senses and a great escape for armchair travelers seeking a delightful Italian adventure.
Deliciously Ella: The Plant-Based Cookbook - 100 Simple Vegan Recipes to Make Every Day Delicious
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Regular price $18.90 from $13.90 32% off

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Whether you’re dipping your toes into veganism or you're already a plant-powered guru, Ella's cookbook brings you a plethora of easy-to-make recipes that don't skimp on flavor. Imagine enjoying a hearty stew or a vibrant salad and knowing it's good for your body and the planet. Ella Mills invites you into a world where each dish is a celebration of simplicity and nutrition, all while sharing her personal journey that inspired these creations.
The Soul of a Chef : The Journey Toward Perfection - Thryft
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The Soul of a Chef : The Journey Toward Perfection

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Goodreads rating: 4.05

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70% off est. retail

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Recommendation: The Soul of a Chef by Michael Ruhlman is an excellent read for anyone interested in cooking or the culinary industry. Ruhlman takes readers on a fascinating journey into the lives of two remarkable chefs, Michael Symon and Thomas Keller, and provides insights into what makes them successful. This book is a great resource for anyone looking to improve their cooking skills or gain a deeper understanding of the culinary world.

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.