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.
At Home with Madame Chic: Becoming a Connoisseur of Daily Life
Jennifer L. Scott | Simon & Schuster

At Home with Madame Chic: Becoming a Connoisseur of Daily Life

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Goodreads rating: 3.74

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47% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever felt that your day-to-day life lacks a certain je ne sais quoi, "At Home with Madame Chic" could offer you a new perspective. This book isn't just about making your home look beautiful – it's about enriching your entire lifestyle with French-inspired sophistication and simplicity. Jennifer L. Scott provides practical yet stylish tips that could make the mundane magical. Embrace this chance to cultivate an everyday life that feels both luxurious and attainable.
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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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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"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.
At Home at Highclere: Entertaining at the Real Downton Abbey
Fiona Carnarvon | Rizzoli

At Home at Highclere: Entertaining at the Real Downton Abbey

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Goodreads rating: 4.15

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77% off est. retail

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Imagine being graciously whisked away to a world of refined elegance and historical charm—that's "At Home at Highclere" for you. If you're enamored with the grandeur of Downton Abbey, Lady Carnarvon's personal tour through Highclere Castle's tradition of entertainment will captivate you. It's not just a peek into aristocratic socializing; it's a handbook that intertwines history, personal anecdotes, and a dash of practicality for modern-day hosts.
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.
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.
How to Cook Everything: Bittman Takes on America's Chefs - Thryft
Mark Bittman | John Wiley & Sons Inc

How to Cook Everything: Bittman Takes on America's Chefs

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Goodreads rating: 4.19

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90% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"How to Cook Everything" is a perfect cookbook for aspiring home chefs who want to learn restaurant-style techniques. Mark Bittman is a famous food writer whose recipes are easy to follow and delicious. In this book, he challenges some of the nation's top chefs to cook their signature dishes at home-style levels. The outcome is a collection of recipes that are gourmet yet doable, perfect for those who want to impress guests with their culinary skills or cook up a fancy dinner for themselves.
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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74% off est. retail

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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In stock: Well Read

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.
The Encyclopaedia of Ireland - Thryft
Brian Lalor | Gill & Macmillan Ltd

The Encyclopaedia of Ireland

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Goodreads rating: 3.69

Regular price $14.90 from $4.90 71% off

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94% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"The Encyclopaedia of Ireland" is an essential read for anyone interested in learning about the rich history and culture of Ireland. It offers a comprehensive guide to all aspects of Irish life including literature, language, history, geography, economics, sociology, the arts, music, science, engineering, astronomy, and sport. The book is beautifully designed with over 700 stunning illustrations, making it a pleasure to read and an ideal gift for anyone with an interest in Irish culture.
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.
Kitchen Confidential
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Anthony Bourdain | Bloomsbury Pub Ltd

Kitchen Confidential

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Goodreads rating: 4.15

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34% off est. retail

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If you're keen on a no-holds-barred journey through the highs and lows of the culinary scene, "Kitchen Confidential" is an addictive read. Bourdain's brutally honest account gives foodies and casual readers alike a taste of the real heat in the kitchen. It's gritty, witty, and full of forbidden behind-the-scenes flavors that make it as savoury as it is scandalous.
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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54% off est. retail

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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.
From Saint Hildegard's Kitchen : Foods of Health, Foods of Joy - Thryft
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57% off est. retail

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From Saint Hildegard's Kitchen contains a collection of tasty and healthy recipes that are easy to follow. The book emphasizes the use of fresh vegetables and herbs from the garden, and the recipes are easy to adapt to a variety of dietary restrictions. The book also includes a brief biography of Hildegard and blessings from Saint Benedict. It would make a great gift for anyone interested in healthy and delicious cooking.

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.