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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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Boris Hembry

Malayan Spymaster : Memoirs of a Rubber Planter, Bandit Fighter and Spy

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This is a true story of 1930s Malaysia, of jungle operations, submarines and spies in WWII, and of the postwar Malayan Emergency, as experienced by an extraordinary man. Boris Hembry went out to Malaya as a rubber planter in 1930 to work on estates in Malaya and Sumatra. Following the Japanese invasion in December 1941 he volunteered for Freddy Spencer Chapman's covert Stay Behind Party and spent a month in the jungle behind enemy lines before escaping by sampan across the Malacca Strait to Sumatra. Hembry returned to Singapore shortly before its surrender then escaped to Java and subsequently to India, where he joined V Force, a clandestine intelligence unit operating in Burma. In 1943 Hembry was recruited into the Secret Intelligence Service - given the bland cover name Inter-Services Liaison Department (ISLD) - and returned to Sumatra and Malaya several times by submarine on intelligence-gathering missions. He became Head of Malayan Country Section ISLD in 1944, liaised with Force 136, and was responsible for the most successful intelligence coup of the Malayan war. After WWII, Hembry returned to planting at Sungei Siput, Perak, where the murder of three colleagues on 16 June 1948 signalled the start of the Malayan Emergency. Assuming the leadership of the local planting community, he formed the first Home Guard unit in Malaya, was an early proponent of squatter control (later incorporated into the Briggs Plan), served on district, state and federal security committees, and survived several attempts on his life.

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Indira Gandhi

My Truth

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My Truth is a must-read for anyone interested in getting a unique insider's perspective on India's political history since independence. Through her own words, Indira Gandhi offers a rare and beautiful portrait of her life, from her childhood to her involvement in public life, and provides breathtaking insights into major events that shaped India's destiny. Her thought process and initiatives, along with her personal outlook on life, make this book a fascinating read for anyone interested in Indian political history, culture, land, and people.

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Joe Studwell

Asian Godfathers : Money and Power in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia

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"Asian Godfathers" is an insightful book that delves into the lives of the 50 wealthiest families in Southeast Asia, providing an intimate account of their rise to power. Author Joe Studwell's meticulous research sheds light on the historic, economic, and political influences that gave rise to these families. Recommended for those interested in understanding the complex power dynamics of Southeast Asia.

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Henry Walter Bates

Naturalist on the River Amazon

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The book offers a detailed and lively description of the natural world in the Amazon, and the author's passion for exploration shines through in his writing. It is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the flora and fauna of the region and the history of scientific exploration. Bates' vivid descriptions of the Amazonian ecosystem and his insights into evolutionary biology make this book a timeless classic. The book is recommended for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers who can appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world.

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Peter Mandelson

The Third Man : Life At The Heart Of New Labour

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The revelatory memoir of one of New Labor’s three founding architects is devoted to the "soap opera" years of Labour government and the breakdown of relationships between Mandelson, Tony Blair, and Gordon Brown Drawing heavily on detailed diary notes he took during the events that shaped the British government for more than 25 years. Peter Mandelson tells his story of a life played out in the back rooms and on the front lines of the Labour Party during its unprecedented three terms in government in this mixture of autobiography, personal reflection, and political history. He began writing the book while serving as European Commissioner and completed it since leaving office in May 2010. His revelations include that the relationship between Tony Blair and Gordon Brown became so hostile that Blair described his chancellor as "mad, bad, dangerous, and beyond redemption" and likened Brown's behaviour to that of a "mafioso" in his dealings with him. Much has been written about Mandelson as the person at the heart of the New Labour project, but here is the unvarnished truth from the man himself.

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Simon Sebag Montefiore

Speeches That Changed the World

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Recommendation: This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of words and their impact on the world. Through gripping historical footage and transcripts, it captures the essence of 20 of the most significant speeches of the 20th century and over 30 other momentous orations from throughout history. Dive into the stories of the speakers, learn why the world changed as a result, and witness the true power of persuasive communication. Experience the profound impact of these speeches and be inspired by the courage and conviction of those who delivered them.

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Martin Gilbert

Churchill and America

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Named Churchill's official biographer in 1968, renowned historian Sir Martin Gilbert has amassed exclusive archival and personal documentation to explore the statesman's famed affinity for and relationship with the United States. Churchill and America tells the intensely personal story of Winston Churchill's profound connection to America, which resulted in an Anglo-American alliance that has stood at the center of international relations for more than a century. Drawing on this extensive store of Churchill's own words -- his private letters, his articles and speeches, and press conferences and interviews given to American journalists on his journeys throughout the United States -- Gilbert paints a rich portrait of the Anglo-American relationship, illuminated by its most famous proponent.

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Eldra Pearl Brod Solomon, Maynard Solomon

Beethoven

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Book in NEW condition, never read, but has a sale price sticked affixed to front cover

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Pierre Rigoulot, Kang Chol-Hwan

Aquariums of Pyongyang : Ten Years in the North Korean Gulag

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North Korea is today one of the last bastions of hard-line Communism. Its leaders have kept a tight grasp on their one-party regime, quashing any nascent opposition movements and sending all suspected dissidents to its brutal concentration camps for "re-education." Kang Chol-hwan is the first survivor of one of these camps to escape and tell his story to the world, documenting the extreme conditions in these gulags and providing a personal insight into life in North Korea. Part horror story, part historical document, part memoir, part political tract, this record of one man's suffering gives eyewitness proof to an ongoing sorrowful chapter of modern history.

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Tom Brokaw

Boom! - Voices Of The Sixties : Personal Reflections On The '60S And Today

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Boom! provides valuable insights into how the '60s changed American institutions from politics to social values. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the impact of the cultural upheaval that defined this pivotal era in our nation's history.

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Idanna Pucci, Djelantik

The World Odyssey of a Balinese Prince

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This book would be a great read for anyone interested in exploring different cultures and learning about the historical events that have shaped them. Dr. Djelantik's extraordinary life experiences make for a fascinating and engaging read, while the short story format makes it easily accessible for readers of all levels. The inclusion of Dr. Djelantik's watercolor illustrations adds an engaging visual element to the storytelling. Overall, this book is both educational and entertaining, offering readers a window into a world they may never have encountered otherwise.

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Peter Sís

Tibet: through the Red Box

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A father's diary, an artist's memoir. By the author of the best-selling Three Golden Keys. While my father was in China and Tibet, he kept a diary, which was later locked in a red box. We weren't allowed to touch the box. The stories I heard as a little boy faded to a hazy dream, and my drawings from that time make no sense. I cannot decipher them. It was not until I myself had gone far, far away and received the message from my father that I became interested in the red box again . . . In New York, Peter Sis receives a letter from his father. "The Red Box is now yours," it says. The brief note worries him and pulls him back to Prague, where the contents of the red box explain the mystery of his father's long absence during the 1950s. Czechoslovakia was behind the iron curtain; Vladimir Sis, a documentary filmmaker of considerable talent, was drafted into the army and sent to China to teach filmmaking. He left his wife, daughter, and young son, Peter, thinking he would be home for Christmas. Two Christmases would pass before he was heard from Vladimir Sis was lost in Tibet. He met with the Dalai Lama; he witnessed China's invasion of Tibet. When he returned to Prague, he dared not talk to his friends about all he had seen and experienced. But over and over again he told Peter about his Tibetan adventures. Weaving their two stories together - that of the father lost in Tibet and that of the small boy in Prague, lost without his father - Sis draws from his father's diary and from his own recollections of his father's incredible tales to reach a spiritual homecoming between father and son. With his sublime pictures, inspired by Tibetan Buddhist art and linking history to memory, Peter Sis gives us an extraordinary book - a work of singular artistry and rare imagination. This title has Common Core connections. Tibet Through the Red Box is a 1999 Caldecott Honor Book and the winner of the 1999 Boston Globe - Horn Book Award for Special Citation.

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Lee Kuan Yew

The Singapore Story Abridged Edition [Paperback] Lee Kuan Yew

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This book could be a good read for you if you are curious about the history and development of Singapore and the role of Lee Kuan Yew in it. Lee Kuan Yew, a renowned political genius, shares his personal experiences, from his boyhood to his political career, providing valuable insights into the making of modern Singapore. Discover how his visionary leadership transformed a small island nation into a thriving global hub of economic success. Get inspired by the tenacity and strategic thinking of a leader who shaped the destiny of a nation.

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Aminatta Forna

The Devil That Danced on the Water : A Daughter's Memoir

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This book is a recommended read for those interested in learning about the political climate of post-independence Africa, and the impact it had on families. Aminatta Forna's personal account of her family's experience, and her tireless search for the truth surrounding her father's imprisonment, makes for a compelling and emotional read. The book also sheds light on the corruption and dictatorships that characterized many African governments during this time period.

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Tan Siok Sun

Goh Keng Swee : A Portrait

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Dr Goh Keng Swee's public career spanned two eventful decades. He was a founding and key member of Singapore's ruling political party, and played a significant role in creating and shaping the destiny of Singapore today. His areas of responsibility were wide-ranging, including finance, defence and education. Yet for all his accomplishments, he was a private man and few were fully aware of all the influences that shaped his thoughts and actions.During his periods of service as Minister for Finance, Defence and Education during the 1960s and 1970s, Dr Goh oversaw Singapore's achievement of Independence, the creation of the Singapore Armed Forces, the start of National Service, and the establishment of the Jurong Industrial Estate.Based on extensive research, including interviews with family members, friends and colleagues, this is an anecdotal account of Dr Goh's life story told by the author, his daughter-in-law. The author traces Dr Goh's footsteps from his humble beginnings in Melaka, to his days at Raffles College and the London School of Economics, to his service in the Singapore Government, and, finally, to his retirement.The book traces the evolution of Dr Goh's thought, as he moved on in life: a top student in school, a civil servant under colonial rule, a young Nationalist, and finally one of the key architects of post-independence Singapore. Dr Goh's story is one of daring, moral courage and of friendships forged over many years. Above all, his achievements in helping create the modern landscapes of institutions, environments and values that constitute Singapore today represent a vital legacy for the nation's present and future generations.

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Oren Harman

The Price Of Altruism : George Price and the Search for the Origins of Kindness

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The Price of Altruism is an absorbing read that delves into the scientific quest for understanding human kindness. Harman expertly weaves together personal, political, and scientific narratives to paint a vivid picture of George Price's extraordinary life and his pivotal role in the field of evolutionary biology. The book highlights how Price's work bridged the gap between altruism and selfishness, and sheds light on the complex interplay between evolutionary theory and broader societal and political issues. Recommended for anyone interested in the fascinating landscape where science, politics, and ideology intersect.

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Donna Sinisgalli, Lance Armstrong, Sally Jenkins

Every Second Counts

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The four-time Tour de France winner and number 1 New York Times bestselling author returns with an inspirational account of his recent personal and professional victories—and some failures—and an intimate glimpse into how almost dying taught him to really live.Since the release of his megabestseller, It’s Not About the Bike , Lance Armstrong has enjoyed a new series of thrilling rides, from the birth of his twin daughters, to an astounding succession of Tour de France triumphs, to being chosen as Sportsman of the Year by Sports Illustrated in 2002. Continuing the inspiring story begun in his first book, Every Second Counts captures the mind-set of a man who has beaten incredible odds and considers each day an opportunity for excellence.Armstrong’s previous book recounted his journey from a grim diagnosis of testicular cancer, which had spread to his lungs and brain, to a stunning recovery that culminated in his winning the 1999 Tour de France—the ultimate evidence that he had also won a daunting battle with death.His new book addresses the equally daunting challenge of living in the aftermath of this experience and making the most of every breath of life. Armstrong candidly discusses his prickly relationship with the French and the ultimately disproved accusations of doping within his Tour de France team, and he writes about his recent achievements, including celebrating five years of cancer survival and how he restored a magnificent chapel in his beloved Spain.A fresh perspective on the spirit of survivors everywhere, Every Second Counts will invigorate and enthrall Armstrong’s millions of admirers.

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Chris Chase, Jean-Claude Baker

Josephine Baker : The Hungry Heart

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Based on twenty years of research and thousands of interviews, this authoritative biography of performer Josephine Baker (1906-1975) provides a candid look at her tempestuous life. Born into poverty in St. Louis, the uninhibited chorus girl became the sensation of Europe and the last century's first black sex symbol. A heroine of the French Resistance in World War II, she entranced figures as diverse as de Gaulle, Tito, Castro, Princess Grace, two popes, and Martin Luther King, Jr.Yet Josephine was also, as one critic put it, "a monster who made Joan Crawford look like the Virgin Mary." Jean-Claude Baker's book also reveals her outbursts that resulted in lasting feuds, her imperious treatment of family and entourage members, and her ambivalent attitudes concerning her ethnic background.Reconciling Josephine's many personas―Jazz-age icon, national hero of France, proponent of Civil Rights, mother of children from across the globe― Josephine: The Hungry Heart gives readers the inside story on a star unlike any other before or since.

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Frank Freidel

The Presidents : Of the United States of America

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George Washington spoke of the 'Republican model of Government' as 'the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people'. At its heart was the presidency. As the nation grew strong, the presidency evolved into the world's mightiest office. Washington, as the first president, devoutly wished that the precedents he established 'be fixed on true principles'. Tempered by the times, each president has lent his talents and some have given their lives, to Washington's 'great experiment'. The profiles presented in The Presidents reflect how each president, in his own way has committed himself to Washington's first precedent: 'The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty'. This newly revised and re-designed book is published with the White House Historical Association. The important stories of the lives and administrations of each of the forty-three American presidents from George Washington to George W. Bush are illustrated by portraits in the White House collection. Gilbert Stuart's famous p

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Ellen T. White

Simply Irresistible : Unleash Your Inner Siren and Mesmerize Your Man, with Help from the Most Famous and Infamous Women in History

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Simply Irresistible is a fun and empowering read that teaches women how to hone their seductive skills by drawing inspiration from the most iconic and influential women in history. The book offers practical advice on modern seduction, presenting different archetypes of the siren and sharing the histories of real-life women who have successfully used their allure to charm and captivate men. The book is both humorous and informative, offering a range of quizzes, quotes, and personal stories that are sure to entertain and inspire readers. If you're looking to enhance your seductive skills and unleash your inner siren, this is the book for you.

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Simon Singh, John Lynch

Fermat's Enigma - The Epic Quest To Solve The World's Greatest Mathematical Problem

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This book is a fascinating journey that delves into the mysterious world of mathematics and the quest to solve one of its greatest puzzles. Through the captivating storytelling of Simon Singh, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of excitement, heartbreak, and triumph. Prepare to be amazed, as Fermat's Enigma unveils the secrets behind an unsolved mathematical problem that baffled the greatest minds for over three centuries. Get ready to embark on an epic adventure that will forever change your perception of numbers and the power of human determination. Happy reading!

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Henry Kissinger

Years of Upheaval

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An incisive account of the turbulent years of Nixon's second administration focuses on such events as the Watergate scandal, the October war of 1973 in the Middle East, shuttle diplomacy, and the Vietnam War

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Bob Woodward

After Watergate

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"After Watergate" provides an in-depth account of how the presidency has been permanently altered following the Watergate scandal. It delves into the subsequent presidencies of Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, and Clinton and how each administration failed to handle the inquisitorial environment of the media and Congress. Using presidential documents, interviews, and prosecutorial records, Woodward shows the impact of the new ethics laws on presidents and the country. This book is a must-read for those interested in the history of the presidency and the consequences of unchecked power.

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Roberts Liardon

God's Generals

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Recommendation: "God's Generals" is a must-read for anyone seeking to learn from the experiences and teachings of powerful ministers who have made an impact on Christianity. Roberts Liardon beautifully tells the life stories of these influential spiritual leaders, teaching readers how they worked and discovered the spiritual realm. This book is an inspiration to those looking to understand the spiritual world and relate better with God.

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Rohini Mohan

The Seasons of Trouble : Life Amid the Ruins of Sri Lanka's Civil War

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The Seasons of Trouble is a vivid and heart-wrenching account of the devastating effects of war on ordinary citizens. Through the personal stories of Sarva, Indra, and Mugil, the reader gains a deeper understanding of the complexities and turmoil of Sri Lanka's civil war. This book is highly recommended for those interested in gaining insight into the impact of conflict on individuals, families, and communities. Rohini Mohan's writing is both honest and empathetic, offering a raw and nuanced view of life amid the ruins of war.

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Lee Kuan Yew, Henry Kissinger

From Third World To First : The Singapore Story: 1965-2000

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This book is a must-read for those interested in the history of Singapore. Lee Kuan Yew offers a frank and unique perspective on how a tiny country managed to transform into a prosperous and secure modern society in just a few decades. He shares his disapproving approach to political opponents and his unorthodox views, making this a candid and insightful account of Singapore's survival. Lee's relationships with political peers such as Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan also add to the interest. Overall, this book is a brilliant portrayal of an influential man and his role in Singapore's incredible journey towards development.

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John Eidinow, David Edmonds

Rousseau's Dog : Two Great Thinkers at War in the Age of Enlightenment

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For history buffs interested in famous thinkers' feud.

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Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry In America

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`I could have been American; after all I was nearly born there. So I wanted to find out what is it that makes the United States of America so unique, so diverse, so very American...'The beauty. The grandeur. The extraordinary contradictions.But enough about Stephen.What of America, the thrillingly varied colossus of a country that Stephen went to explore? What is the reality beneath the stereotypes of gun-toting and Bible-bashing?In his chariot of Englishness - a black London cab - Stephen starts his epic journey on the east coast and zig-zags across America, stopping in every state from Maine to Hawaii. En route he discovers the south Side of Chicago with blues legend Buddy Guy, marches with Zulus in New Orleans' Mardi Gras, and drums with the Sious Nation in South Dakota; joins a Georgia family for Thanksgiving, `picks' with Bluegrass hillbillies, and finds himself in a Tennessee garden full of dead bodies.Whether in a club for failed gangsters (yes, those are real bullet holes) or celebrating Halloween in Salem (is there anywhere better?), Stephen is welcomed by the people of America - mayors, sheriffs, newspaper editors, park rangers, teachers and hobos. This is the best of the big country, the best of the big brain and the best book about America by Stephen Fry you'll ever read. What more need be said?

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Pu Yi, W.J.F. Jenner

From Emperor to Citizen : Autobiography of Aisin-Gioro Pu Yi

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It is a great read for history enthusiasts who want to know about the last emperor of China's life. The book covers his life as a puppet emperor of "Manchukuo", his journey of being in war criminal prisons, and his life after his pardon as an ordinary citizen of People's China. The book offers a unique perspective on Chinese history and the remoulding of a person through political and social changes.

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Tom Watt, David Beckham

Beckham : Both Feet on the Ground: An Autobiography

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Beckham's autobiography is an insightful and exposed view of his life as a professional soccer player and his journey to becoming an international icon. Readers will appreciate his honesty about his personal life, including fame's difficulties and his struggle to be a present father and husband. This book provides a unique perspective on the life of a celebrity athlete, identifying its challenges and rewards.

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Philipp Blom

A Wicked Company - The Forgotten Radicalism Of The European Enlightenment

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Recommendation: - This book is a fascinating journey into the forgotten radicalism of the European Enlightenment. Blom skillfully brings together a group of brilliant minds who challenged the status quo and sparked a revolution of ideas. With atheism, passion, and reason as their driving forces, they forged a new path in philosophy and society. A Wicked Company is a must-read for those curious about the intellectual foundations that shaped our modern world.

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Alison Plowden

The Young Elizabeth

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The first volume of Plowden's acclaimed Elizabethan quartet charts the first 25 years of Elizabeth's life Alison Plowden's captivating portrait of the young Elizabeth Tudor, bringing to life her many identities as ruler, woman, and politician, is a triumph of narrative history. Elizabeth I is perhaps England's most famous monarch. She was born in 1533, the product of the doomed marriage of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. Her mother was condemned as a witch and after her death, Elizabeth was disinherited and finally imprisoned by her jealous half-sister, Mary. Her childhood was one of fear and danger, as she was aware from the outset that the eyes of the world were upon her and that to survive she would have to rely on her own judgment and strength of character. Many tried to use her for their own ends, however she rose out of the shadows and on the death of her sister, she became Gloriana—England's most iconic queen.

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Legs McNeil, Gillian McCain

Please Kill Me : The Uncensored Oral History of Punk

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What Britain refined, America defined. Assembled by two key figures at the heart of the movement and told through the voices o musicians, artists, iconoclastic reporters and entrepreneurial groupies, PLEASE KILL ME is the full decadent story of the American punk scene, through the early years of Andy Warhol's Factory to the New York underground of Max's Kansas City and later, its heyday at CBGB's, spiritual home to the Ramones, Talking Heads, Television and Blondie. PLEASE KILL ME goes backstage and behind apartment doors to chronicle the sex, drugs and power struggles that were the very fabric of the American punk community, to the time before piercing and tattoos became commonplace and when every concert, new band and fashion statement marked an absolute first. From Iggy Pop and Lou Reed to the Clash and the Sex Pistols (the first time around), McNeil and McCain document a time of glorious self-destruction and perverse innocence - possibly the last time so many will so much fun in the pursuit of excess.

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Dava Sobel

Galileo's Daughter: a Historical Memoir of Science, Faith and Love

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The Barnes & Noble ReviewDeemed by Albert Einstein to be "the father of modern physics...of modern science altogether," the man who dropped cannonballs from the Tower or Pisa, improved the telescope to discover the moons of Jupiter, and defended Nicolaus Copernicus's theory of the Earth's orbit was, in his day, considered a heretic. Dava Sobel, the author of Longitude, the story of John Harrison's invention of the chronometer, returns with Galileo's Daughter, a fascinating biography that gives an intimate look at the life of Galileo through the 124 letters written by his eldest daughter, Virginia, published in translation for the first time from the Italian. Virginia was one of Galileo's three children born out of wedlock. Together with her depressive younger sister, she was placed in the Convent of San Matteo near Galileo's Florence home at the age of 13, where she took the name Suor Maria Celeste, in tribute to her father's work. Galileo recognized in Virginia an "exquisite mind," and she, in turn recognized the depth of her father's faith in Catholicism and proved to be an unwavering source of loyalty, support, comfort, and strength for him when he was brought to trial before the Holy Office of the Inquisition in 1633. Born in Pisa on February 15, 1564, to a mathematician and the daughter of cloth merchants, Galileo betrayed his father's wishes to become a doctor and instead studied mathematics and philosophy, for he believed that "philosophy is written in this grand book the universe...but the book cannot be understood unless one first learns to comprehend the language and to read the alphabet in which it is composed...mathematics." He began his career teaching at the University of Pisa and the University of Padua until he eventually procured the patronage of the Medici Grand Dukes. Galileo's first commercial invention was the geometric and military compass in 1597, which functioned as an early pocket calculator. But the invention that would announce him to the world came ten years later, when he improved the Dutch spyglass, augmenting the power of the lens manifold times to focus the instrument on the moon and the stars. This reinvented telescope eventually enabled Galileo to discover four of Jupiter's moons, which he documented in his book, The Starry Messenger. His next book, Discourse on Bodies that Stay Atop Water or Move Within It, both challenged Aristotelian physics and announced the presence of sunspots, angering his colleagues and beginning his troubled future. Of course, the real problems for Galileo began when he sought to publish Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems, in which he began to establish proof of Copernicus's theory that the Earth revolves around the sun. While the bubonic plague was claiming lives throughout Europe and the Thirty Years' War was raging, Pope Urban VIII found Galileo's work most threatening. The pope believed that the motions of the heavenly bodies were the domain of the Holy Fathers of the Church and not of science or philosophy, and he found Galileo to be the greatest enemy of the Catholic Church since Martin Luther. The pope betrayed his former friend further when he forced a sickly Galileo to endure the grueling trials before the Inquisition, threatening him with torture and forcing him to live under house arrest for the remainder of his life. Throughout his life, and especially during the trials, Suor Maria Celeste served her infamous father, whom she addressed as Lord Father, as she would a patron saint. She cared for her him from the convent, whose grounds she never left, through her constant letters, which were sent along with baskets carrying shirts she cleaned and mended for him, confectioneries and health tonics she prepared, and legible, ornate transcriptions of his notes as she prepared his final manuscripts. As these letters reveal, though she was profoundly dedicated to her calling, her devotion to her father, and his love and appreciation for her, was steadfast. She never once doubted his faith or his controversial scientific discoveries. They worried for one another during their frequent illnesses, offered heartfelt condolences when colleagues or relatives passed away. His daughter remained Galileo's constant reader and companion until her death of dysentery at age 27. Though she kept all of his correspondence, his letters have disappeared, likely to have been destroyed by the Mother Abbess of the convent. By turns a moving portrait of the loving relationship between a father and daughter, a riveting chronicle of one of the most intensive battles between scientific truth and religious belief, and a fresh, revelatory biography of one of the most magnificent minds the world has ever known, Galileo's Daughter is a masterful weaving of the lives of the mind, the body, and the soul. —Kera Bolonik

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Graham Salter, Hilary Macaskill, Florian Schweizer

Charles Dickens at Home

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This book delves into the life of Charles Dickens and the impact his homes had on his writing. It offers a unique perspective on the author and his works, making it a great read for fans of Dickens' literature. The book provides an in-depth look at the places where the author lived, and how they influenced the setting and characters of his novels. Dickens' attention to detail and acute observation are highlighted, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the author's life and work. The book is illustrated with archive material and original photography, making it a beautiful addition to any book lover's collection.

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Isabel Allende

My Invented Country : A Memoir

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Although she claims to have been an outsider in her native land -- "I never fit in anywhere, not into my family, my social class, or the religion fate bestowed on me" -- Isabel Allende carries with her even today the mark of the politics, myth, and magic of her homeland, Chile. In My Invented Country she explores the role of memory and nostalgia in shaping her life, her books, and that most intimate connection to her place of origin. The military coup and violent death of her uncle, Salvador Allende Gossens, on September 11, 1973, sent her into exile and transformed her into a writer. The terrorist attack of September 11, 2001 on her newly adopted homeland, the U.S., brought fourth from Allende an overdue acknowledgment that she had indeed left home. My Invented Country speaks compellingly to all of us who try to retain a coherent inner life and a sense of humor in a world full of contradictions.

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Kim (editor) Depaul

Children of Cambodias Killing Fields: Memoirs by Survivors

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This book would be a good read for anyone interested in gaining a deep understanding of the devastating events that took place in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime. The personal memoirs shared by survivors offer a unique and powerful perspective on the atrocities that occurred in the Killing Fields. Through their firsthand accounts, this book provides an immersive and emotional experience, shedding light on a dark chapter in history that should never be forgotten. Reading this book offers a chance to honor the resilience and strength of the survivors, and to gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of human rights and justice.

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Paul Trynka

Iggy Pop : Open Up and Bleed

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This biography provides an in-depth understanding of Iggy Pop's life, particularly his struggles with addiction, mental health, and commercial success. It offers real-life stories from his friends and fellow musicians and portrays his huge influence on the music scene. The book also delves into his relationship with his friend and mentor David Bowie. This book is a fascinating psychological study of a Jekyll/Hyde personality.

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Timothy Brook

Mr Selden's Map of China : The spice trade, a lost chart & the South China Sea

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Mr Selden's Map of ChinaIn 1659, a vast and unusual map of China arrived in the Bodleian Library, Oxford. It was bequeathed by John Selden, a London business lawyer, political activist, former convict, MP and the city's first Orientalist scholar. Largely ignored, it remained in the bowels of the library, until called up by an inquisitive reader. When Timothy Brook saw it in 2009, he realized that the Selden Map was 'a puzzle that had to be solved': an exceptional artefact, so unsettlingly modern-looking it could almost be a forgery.But it was genuine, and what it has to tell us is astonishing. It shows China, not cut off from the world, but a participant in the embryonic networks of global trade that fueled the rise of Europe - and which now power China's ascent. And it raises as many question as it answers: how did John Selden acquire it? Where did it come from? Who re-imagined the world in this way? And most importantly - what can it tell us about the world at that time?

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Dalai Lama XIV

Freedom in Exile : The Autobiography of the Dalai Lama

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Recommendation: "Freedom in Exile" is an inspiring account of the Dalai Lama's life and his fight for Tibetan independence. The book offers valuable insights into Tibetan Buddhism and its teachings, as well as the political and social struggles of the Tibetan people under Chinese Communist rule. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the spiritual journey of an esteemed leader and the power of perseverance amidst political turmoil.

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Colin Thubron

Behind the Wall : Journey Through China

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1989

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Miriam Williams

Heaven's Harlots - My Fifteen Years As A Sacred Prostitute In The Children Of God Cult

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Recommendation: This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of cults and how they manipulate their members. Miriam Williams' personal story is both disturbing and eye-opening, as she recounts her experiences as a sacred prostitute in the Children of God cult. Her struggle to break free and start anew is inspirational.

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Robert L. Heilbroner

The Worldly Philosophers

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This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our world. With engaging storytelling and thought-provoking analysis, The Worldly Philosophers takes you on a journey through the ideas of great thinkers who have shaped economic thought. It not only illuminates the past but also sheds light on the dynamics of our own contemporary society. Prepare to have your mind expanded and your perspectives challenged.

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David Frum

The Right Man : The Surprise Presidency of George W. Bush

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The Right Man is the first inside account of a historic year in the Bush White House, by the presidential speechwriter credited with the phrase axis of evil. David Frum helped make international headlines when President George W. Bush's 2002 State of the Union address linked international terrorists to Iran, Iraq, and North Korea. But that was only one moment during a crucial time in American history, when a president, an administration, and a country were transformed. Frum not only worked with Bush in the Oval Office, but travelled with him aboard Air Force One, and studied him closely at meetings and events. He describes how Bush thinks-what this conservative president believes about religion, race, the environment, Jews, Muslims, and America's future. Frum takes us behind the scenes of one of the most secretive administrations in recent history. Most significant, he tells the story of Bush's how a president whose administration began in uncertainty became one of the most decisive, successful, and in the US at least, popular leaders of our time. Frum is a front-row observer and participant. Not since Peggy Noonan's account of her time in the Reagan White House has an insider portrayed a sitting president with such precision, verve, honest admiration, and insight. The Right Man will command international attention for its thoughtful account of George W. Bush in the midst of his greatest challenge. It will be an essential reference for anyone seeking to understand who the US president really is and how he is likely to lead his country and the western world in the future.

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Susan Griffin

Book of the Courtesans : A Catalogue of Their Virtues

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Book of the Courtesans is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the power dynamics of women's lives in European culture from the sixteenth through the nineteenth century. Susan Griffin brings to life the fascinating history of courtesans, whose lives were full of drama, wit, and glamour, and who enjoyed far greater freedom and autonomy than most women of their time. The book is a riveting account of their lives, loves, and influence that shaped European society in profound ways, and a reminder that women's emancipation is a long and complex historical process that is still ongoing.

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Daniel Domscheit-Berg

Inside WikiLeaks - My Time With Julian Assange At The World's Most Dangerous Website

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"Inside WikiLeaks" provides an insider's account of the rise of the organization and its leader, Julian Assange. The book offers never-disclosed details about the inner workings of the organization and its evolution, finances, inner tensions, and lack of transparency. The author's disenchantment with the loss of political neutrality and Assange's increasing concentration of power eventually led to his withdrawal from the organization. This book is an eye-opening account of a controversial organization that has struck fear into governments and businesses worldwide.

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Dorothy Herrmann

Helen Keller : A Life

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This book is recommended for those who seek inspiration from real-life stories of triumph against all odds. It explores the life of Helen Keller, a charismatic and high-strung woman who had to overcome the challenges of being blind and deaf. The book highlights her love affair, successful education at Radcliffe College, and her passion for advocating for the disabled. The author explores Keller's relationship with Annie Sullivan, her teacher, and how it influenced her life. The book presents Keller in a unique light that neither condemns her as a fraud nor venerates her as a saint. Readers will be inspired by Keller's story of perseverance and determination to chart her own path in life.

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wong-jan

Chinese Whispers : A Journey Into Betrayal

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"Chinese Whispers" could be a good read for those interested in learning about the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of our actions. Wong's personal journey to uncover the truth about Yin and her own past provides an intimate look at the effects of the Cultural Revolution in China. The book also explores themes of betrayal, guilt, and redemption, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read.

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Pope Benedict XVI

Jesus of Nazareth : From the Baptism in the Jordan to the Transfiguration

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Pope Benedict XVI's iconic life of Jesus, a rich, compelling, flesh-and-blood portrait of the central figure of the Christian faith."This book is . . . my personal search 'for the face of the Lord.'"--Benedict XVI In this bold, momentous work, the Pope seeks to salvage the person of Jesus from today's "popular" depictions and to restore his true identity as discovered in the Gospels. Through his brilliance as a theologian and his personal conviction as a believer, the Pope incites us to encounter Jesus face to face.From Jesus of Nazareth ". . . the great question that will be with us throughout this entire book: But what has Jesus really brought, then, if he has not brought world peace, universal prosperity, and a better world? What has he brought? The answer is very simple: God. He has brought God! He has brought the God who once gradually unveiled his countenance first to Abraham, then to Moses and the prophets, and then in the wisdom literature-the God who showed his face only in Israel, even though he was also honored among the pagans in various shadowy guises. It is this God, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, the true God, whom he has brought to the peoples of the earth. He has brought God, and now we know his face, now we can call upon him. Now we know the path that we human beings have to take in this world. Jesus has brought God and with God the truth about where we are going and where we come from: faith, hope, and love."

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Miguel Serrano

C G Jung & Hermann Hesse : A Record of Two Friendships

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This book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the profound philosophical connection between C.G. Jung and Hermann Hesse. Through the letters and conversations captured in this book, readers will gain deep insights into the thoughts and beliefs of these two great minds. The intimate details shared by Jung shortly before his death add a poignant and personal touch, making it a truly unique and captivating read.

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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.