Baldwin
from $18.62
Poems & Prayers
from $21.53
Bread of Angels
from $21.29
Just Kids
from $12.69
Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Everything: A Memoir
from $13.89
What My Bones Know: A Memoir of Healing from Complex Trauma
from $17.11
The Body Keeps the Score
from $16.00
Mailman
from $22.81
Dark Renaissance
from $23.05
Mother Mary Comes to Me
from $22.60
Gwyneth
from $10.09
Free Shipping on all US orders $15 or more
Best Sellers
New Releases
Featured Author
Jon Krakauer
Jon Krakauer (b. April 12th, 1954 in Brookine, Massachusetts) is an American non-fiction author who has written numerous bestselling books about the wilderness and mountain-climbing. His book Into the Wild, which chronicles the travels of American adventurer Christopher McCandless, spent two years on the New York Time's bestsellers list. His second book, Into Thin Air, is an account of Krakauer's experiences on Mount Everest in 1996 during a brutal storm. In addition to his books, Krakauer has contributed to several magazines, including National Geographic, Outside, and Rolling Stone.
More from this author
Featured Series
Become a SuperGifter with Our Gift Guides
With ReadingRewards, our free loyalty program, you earn points with every purchase toward FREE BOOK REWARDS! Work your way up in our tiers, from Reader to Literati Elite, and you'll earn even more points per dollar and other exclusive perks for our loyalty members, like exclusive end of year email badges and birthday books.
Join TodayBiographies & Memoirs: Explore Inspiring Life Stories
Welcome to ThriftBooks’ collection of biography books and memoir books—a destination for readers seeking real-life stories, personal journeys, and lessons drawn from extraordinary lives. Whether you’re captivated by the rise of leaders, artists, activists, or everyday heroes, our wide selection of books on biographies and books on memoirs and biographies offers something for every curious reader. Discover affordable used and new titles and get inspired by the people who shaped history, culture, and our collective imagination.
Why Read Biographies and Memoirs?
Biographies and memoirs go beyond mere storytelling—they offer readers a chance to step into someone else’s shoes and see the world through their eyes. Here’s why readers keep coming back to this genre:
- Inspiration: Stories of perseverance, triumph, and transformation remind us of our own potential.
- Education: Learn about different eras, cultures, professions, and pivotal moments in history through firsthand accounts.
- Empathy: Exploring the personal experiences of others fosters understanding and compassion for people from all walks of life.
- Perspective: Discover the motivations, challenges, and successes that make each life unique—helping you reflect on your own journey.
Finding the Right Biography or Memoir for You
With so many biography and memoir books available, choosing the perfect read can feel overwhelming. To help you explore, we’ve organized our selection by popular interests and themes. Whether you’re searching for a gripping account of resilience, a deep dive into history, or a personal narrative that resonates, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your taste.
By Genre and Subject
- Historical Figures: Dive into the lives of leaders, innovators, and visionaries who shaped the world.
- Celebrity Memoirs: Get an inside look at the triumphs and challenges of actors, musicians, and athletes.
- Political & Social Change: Follow the journeys of activists, politicians, and advocates for change.
- Science & Exploration: Experience the adventures of inventors, explorers, and those who pushed the boundaries of knowledge.
- Personal Growth & Overcoming Adversity: Be moved by stories of people who faced hardship and emerged stronger.
Biographies and Memoirs by Age Group
From young readers to adults, everyone can benefit from reading about real lives:
- Children’s Biographies: Simple, engaging stories introduce kids to inspiring role models and historical figures, nurturing curiosity and empathy from a young age.
- Young Adult Memoirs: Teens and young adults can connect with coming-of-age narratives, tales of perseverance, and stories that reflect their own challenges and dreams.
- Adult Biographies & Memoirs: Explore complex, nuanced perspectives on life, career, love, and legacy through detailed accounts and introspective reflections.
Tips for Choosing Biography and Memoir Books
To make the most of your reading experience, consider these tips when browsing our collection:
- Identify Your Interests: Are you drawn to stories about artists, political leaders, scientists, or unsung heroes? Narrowing your focus can help you find the most engaging titles.
- Consider the Author’s Perspective: Memoirs offer firsthand insights, while biographies provide researched overviews—think about which style you prefer.
- Read Reviews & Summaries: Check book descriptions and customer reviews to gauge the tone, depth, and themes before you buy.
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to explore different subgenres—from humorous celebrity memoirs to serious investigative biographies.
The Benefits of Shopping for Biographies and Memoirs at ThriftBooks
At ThriftBooks, we believe everyone should have access to the power of storytelling—without breaking the bank. Here’s what sets our store apart:
- Vast Selection: Our inventory spans thousands of biography books and memoir books, from timeless classics to recent bestsellers.
- Affordable Prices: Find used and new books at prices that let you explore more stories for less.
- Sustainable Shopping: Buying used books helps reduce waste and gives each story a new life in your hands.
- ReadingRewards Loyalty Program: Earn points on every purchase—and redeem them for free books. The more you read, the more you save!
- Convenient Online Browsing: Filter by subject, author, or title to discover new favorites and hidden gems.
Popular Types of Biographies and Memoirs
Not sure where to start? Here are some common types of books on memoirs and biographies you’ll find in our collection:
- Autobiographies: First-person accounts that give you an intimate look at the author’s life and thoughts.
- Authorized Biographies: Thorough, well-researched accounts often created with the subject’s input.
- Unauthorized Biographies: Independent investigations that reveal new perspectives on public figures.
- Collective Biographies: Stories that feature multiple individuals united by a common theme or era.
- Thematic Memoirs: Narratives centered on specific experiences, such as travel, recovery, or creative pursuits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Biographies & Memoirs
- What’s the difference between a biography and a memoir?
A biography covers the entire life of its subject, usually written by someone else. A memoir focuses on personal experiences and is often written by the subject themselves, centering on specific periods or themes. - Who should read biography and memoir books?
Anyone interested in learning from real-life experiences, gaining historical insight, or finding inspiration will benefit from this genre. They’re perfect for students, lifelong learners, and leisure readers alike. - How do I find the best biographies and memoirs for my needs?
Start by exploring your favorite topics or historical periods, then check out reviews, recommendations, and related titles on ThriftBooks to find a match.
Start Your Journey of Discovery
There’s nothing quite like the power of a true story. With our expansive selection of biography and memoir books, you can walk alongside trailblazers, learn from their challenges and successes, and gain new perspectives on the world. Whether you’re shopping for a thoughtful gift or looking to add to your own collection, ThriftBooks makes it easy and affordable to dive into the lives that inspire you most.
Browse our collection today and uncover stories that will motivate, educate, and move you—all while enjoying great prices and rewards. Every book you choose helps you see the world through a different lens and brings you one step closer to your next favorite read.
