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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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An Impeccable Spy: Richard Sorge, Stalin's Master Agent - Thryft
Owen Matthews | Bloomsbury Publishing

An Impeccable Spy: Richard Sorge, Stalin's Master Agent

$13.90 from $7.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$13.90 from $7.90 43% off

79% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're intrigued by real-life spy dramas, "An Impeccable Spy" is worth your time. Owen Matthews delves deep into the fascinating life of Richard Sorge, the man whose espionage skills swayed the direction of WWII. It's not just a tale of clandestine operations; it's a lesson in how one individual's intelligence work can alter the course of history. Plus, for any enthusiast of wartime spy tactics and political intrigue, this narrative reads like a thrilling novel yet educates as a history lesson.
The Job - Topical Writings and Interviews - Thryft
William S. Burroughs | John Calder

The Job - Topical Writings and Interviews

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

In stock: Very Good

If you enjoy intense cultural critique interwoven with personal anecdotes, "The Job" offers a provocative dive into the mind of William S. Burroughs. It's less of a traditional book and more of an exploration into the fringes of society and thought. Fans of Burroughs's unfiltered style of commentary and those with a curiosity for the counter-cultural movements of the past will find this book a fascinating read.
The Free Voice: On Democracy, Culture and the Nation
Ravish Kumar | Speaking Tiger Books

The Free Voice: On Democracy, Culture and the Nation

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

In stock: Very Good

If you're curious about how democracy is shaped by and shapes culture and national identity, "Free Voice: On Democracy, Culture and the Nation" offers an enlightening journey. It's a thought-provoking read that merges political theory with cultural critique, perfect for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the democratic process and its wider implications. It will invite you to reflect on the foundations and future of your own civic participation.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Holt Paperbacks

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

$12.90 from $6.90 47% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$12.90 from $6.90 47% off

62% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

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.
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

$11.90 from $9.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$11.90 from $9.90 20% off

51% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

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.
Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Owl Books (henry Holt)

Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America

$8.90 from $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90 from $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

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.
White American Youth: My Descent Into America's Most Violent Hate Movement - And How I Got Out - Thryft
Christian Picciolini | Hachette Books

White American Youth: My Descent Into America's Most Violent Hate Movement - And How I Got Out

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

78% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"White American Youth" is an eye-opener that if you've ever wondered about the realities of hate groups and the power of redemption, this memoir by Christian Picciolini will grip you. It's an honest reflection of his descent into, and out of, one of the most notorious movements, showing that change is possible even from the darkest of places. It might challenge your perceptions and inspire hope for transformation in those who have lost their way.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Picador

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

$8.90 from $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90 from $3.90 56% off

81% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

Imagine walking miles in shoes that don't fit. That's what Barbara Ehrenreich does in "Nickel and Dimed," but with jobs that chafe just as much. When she dives into the world of low-wage labor, you're right there with her, feeling the pain and fatigue that come from trying to make ends meet. It's an authentic journey that might change how you see every service worker you meet.
All the Houses I've Ever Lived In: Finding Home in a System That Fails Us
New
Kieran Yates | Simon Schuster Uk

All the Houses I've Ever Lived In: Finding Home in a System That Fails Us

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're drawn to personal journeys through social issues, Kieran Yates's memoir will resonate deeply. Yates's experience with Britain's housing crisis offers a raw, insightful look at what "home" means when stability is elusive. It's not just a story, but a reflection of a systemic struggle that brings humanity to the forefront of a political issue.
The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America
George Packer | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America

$14.90 from $10.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$14.90 from $10.90 32% off

74% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

The Unwinding is like a tapestry, interweaving personal narratives with the grander political and social landscape of modern America. It offers a ground-level view of the nation's transformation over three tumultuous decades, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate both intimate human stories and macro reflections on societal change. If you're intrigued by the intersection of personal struggle and national identity, Packer's book could be an enlightening journey for you.
Why We Kneel, How We Rise
Usain Bolt, Michael Holding, Ed Hawkins  | Simon & Schuster Uk

Why We Kneel, How We Rise

from $9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.47

from $9.90

53% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

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.
Trust Me, I'm Lying: Confessions of a Media Manipulator
New
Ryan Holiday | Portfolio

Trust Me, I'm Lying: Confessions of a Media Manipulator

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.86

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're both fascinated and horrified by how the digital age has transformed the way news is made and consumed, "Trust Me, I'm Lying" is an eye-opener. Ryan Holiday reveals the mechanics behind the media curtain, taking you on an insider's journey through the murky waters of blogs and online journalism. It's a must-read if you've ever wondered about the authenticity of the stories that shape our world.
The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed the World
New
Michael Lewis | W. W. Norton & Company

The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed the World

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.98

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

The Undoing Project showcases two brilliant minds working in tandem, paving the way for the field of behavioral economics. Through their research, they revolutionized the way society views the human mind, providing insight into the ways in which we make judgments in uncertain situations. This book would be a great read for anyone interested in psychology and human behavior, providing a fascinating look into the lives of two men who made a profound impact on our understanding of decision-making.
Conscience of a Conservative - Thryft
Jeff Flake | Random House

Conscience of a Conservative

$13.90 from $7.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$13.90 from $7.90 43% off

62% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

If your interests lie in understanding conservative values as they stand traditionally in contrast to modern, populist iterations, "Conscience of a Conservative" could offer insightful perspectives. Jeff Flake represents a Republican standpoint that feels overshadowed by recent shifts toward nationalism and Trump-era politics. In these pages, he's not just offering criticism but a plea to return to a conservatism that prioritizes country over party, which might resonate with readers yearning for politics rooted in established ideas and cooperative governance.
Hello Chok Tong, Goodbye Kuan Yew
George Nonis | Angsana Books

Hello Chok Tong, Goodbye Kuan Yew

$5.90 from $3.90 92% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$5.90 from $3.90 92% off

In stock: Well Read

This book offers a rare, humorous critique of Singapore's iconic leaders and the society they've shaped. If you're interested in an irreverent and witty perspective on the local political scene and enjoy a good laugh at cultural quirks, "Hello Chok Tong, Goodbye Kuan Yew" might just be the refreshing read you're looking for. It's a bold, playful exploration of themes that are often discussed in hushed tones.
Russia : Broken Idols, Solemn Dreams - Thryft

Russia : Broken Idols, Solemn Dreams

$7.90 from $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$7.90 from $3.90 56% off

In stock: Well Read

This book would be a good read for someone interested in gaining a firsthand account of life in modern Russia. Through interviews with common citizens, the author paints a vivid and honest portrayal of the country's society and their perspectives on the government, the U.S., and the quality of life in the Soviet Union. One of the most distinct features of the book is its unbiased and personal approach, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the country and its people. Overall, readers would find this book a valuable and insightful read.
The Wrong Carlos: Anatomy of a Wrongful Execution - Thryft
James S. Liebman | Columbia University Press

The Wrong Carlos: Anatomy of a Wrongful Execution

$13.78 from $7.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$13.78 from $7.90 43% off

74% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

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 Fifties - Thryft
David Halberstam | Ballantine Books

The Fifties

$10.90 from $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$10.90 from $5.90 46% off

78% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

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.
Hello Chok Tong, Goodbye Kuan Yew - Thryft
George Nonis | Angsana Books

Hello Chok Tong, Goodbye Kuan Yew

from $3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

from $3.90

In stock: Well Read

This book could be a good read for someone looking for a bold, no-holds-barred critique of Singapore politics and lifestyle. Written with wit and satire, it offers a refreshing perspective that challenges the norm and shines a light on the often unspoken aspects of society. A collector's item, it is a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of Singapore's political landscape and the intricacies of its culture.
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 from $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$11.90 from $8.90 31% off

60% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
Enslaved The New Slavery - Thryft
Janet Wise Rahila Gupta | Harpercollins India

Enslaved The New Slavery

$9.90 from $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$9.90 from $4.90 51% off

87% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

Imagine stepping into the hidden world of those marginalized by an issue that often evades the public eye. "Enslaved The New Slavery" offers a valuable and eye-opening perspective on the pervasive, yet covert, modern crisis of human trafficking and slavery. Through gripping, personal accounts, the book not only educates but also elicits empathy for those whose voices are routinely silenced. It's a significant read for anyone who cares about human rights and social justice, and wants to understand the complexity and human cost behind current immigration policies.
The Big Breach - From Top Secret to Maximum Security - Thryft
Richard Tomlinson | Global Pr

The Big Breach - From Top Secret to Maximum Security

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

In stock: Very Good

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.
The Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II: The Last Great Monarch? - Thryft
Andrew Marr | Picador

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

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

55% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

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 Marcos Dynasty - Thryft
Sterling Seagrave | Harpercollins

The Marcos Dynasty

$8.90 from $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90 from $4.90 51% off

83% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"The Marcos Dynasty" is an extraordinary window into the complex world of political power plays, where personal ambition and state governance merge uncomfortably. If you're intrigued by real stories of corruption, entwined with global politics and clandestine affairs, this investigative account of the Marcos era will captivate you with its detailed exploration of how personal, criminal, and political dimensions can intertwine at the highest levels of power.
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

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

76% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

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.
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 from $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$8.90 from $3.90 64% off

In stock: Well Read

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?
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 from $3.90 70% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$10.90 from $3.90 70% off

82% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
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 from $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90 from $4.90 51% off

87% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
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

$9.90 from $6.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$9.90 from $6.90 31% off

48% off est. retail

Out of stock

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.
Foucault for Beginners
Sold out
Lydia Alix Fillingham | For Beginners

Foucault for Beginners

$6.90 from $4.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$6.90 from $4.90 34% off

48% off est. retail

Out of stock

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.
Malaysian Maverick : Mahathir Mohamad in Turbulent Times - Thryft
Sold out
Barry Wain | Palgrave Macmillan

Malaysian Maverick : Mahathir Mohamad in Turbulent Times

from $42.20

Goodreads rating: 4.09

from $42.20

62% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommended for readers interested in Malaysian politics and economics, seeking to understand the complex character of Mahathir Mohamad who combined economic pragmatism with repressive political policies, and who sought to represent the Third World and Islam in the face of Western dominance. The book portrays the leader as a strong-willed, independent-minded, and unyielding figure who left a mixed legacy for Malaysia.

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.