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Creative Nonfiction

Dive into the world of Creative Nonfiction at Thryft. Our collection features compelling narratives blending factual reporting with artistic storytelling. From gripping memoirs to engaging essays, explore various perspectives on our dynamic world.
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Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring: Witness poems and essays from Burma/Myanmar - Thryft
ko ko thett, Brian Haman  | Ethos Books

Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring: Witness poems and essays from Burma/Myanmar

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.61

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

83% off est. retail
If the courage of a people amid turmoil speaks to you, "Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring" offers a rare glimpse into that raw spirit. The compilation of poems and essays is not just literature; it's the heartbeat and the battle cry from the very core of Myanmar's struggle for democracy. It's an evocative and visceral anthology that binds the personal to the political, creating a poignant narrative that resonates with the universal quest for freedom and expression.
Letters of Note: Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience
Shaun Usher | Canongate Books

Letters of Note: Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Imagine holding a piece of history in your hands, not through textbooks, but through the personal words of those who made it. "Letters of Note" offers that intimate experience, allowing you to witness private thoughts and moments that have shaped our world. It's a book for those who cherish the lost art of letter writing and relish the chance to connect with the humanity behind the names we so often see in headlines and history books.
Mantel Pieces: Royal Bodies and Other Writing From the London Review of Books
Hilary Mantel | Fourth Estate

Mantel Pieces: Royal Bodies and Other Writing From the London Review of Books

$10.90 $10.71 2% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$10.90 $10.71 2% off

62% off est. retail
Mantel Pieces transports you into the brilliance of Hilary Mantel's thought process. As a fellow reader and history buff, you'll appreciate her incisive commentary and the personal touch in her writing. Whether she's dissecting royal figures or sharing candid memoirs, Mantel's wit and insight can make historical and cultural figures feel fresh and relevant. It's like having an intellectually stimulating conversation with a friend who happens to be an award-winning author.
Wild Women
Mariella Frostrup | Anima

Wild Women

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$11.90

If you're inspired by stories of extraordinary women who traversed the globe against all odds, "Wild Women" will resonate with you. It's a powerful anthology that might light a fire within you to explore and embrace the unknown, just as these fearless women did. The book serves as a reminder that adventure and discovery are not exclusive to any gender.
The Complete Poems of Sappho
Willis Barnstone, Sappho  | Shambhala

The Complete Poems of Sappho

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$9.90

65% off est. retail
Sappho's work is essential for anyone intrigued by the power of lyrical poetry to express the depths of human emotion. Though only fragments remain, each piece she's left behind is a testament to the enduring nature of love and desire. Willis Barnstone's careful curation and translation work bridges ancient Greek lyricism with modern readability, making it accessible yet preserving its haunting beauty. This collection will not only expand your literary horizons but also connect you to a voice that has resonated through millennia.
A History of the World in 6 Glasses - Thryft
Tom Standage | Bloomsbury

A History of the World in 6 Glasses

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

85% off est. retail
Imagine sipping on a drink while time-traveling through humanity's milestones—this is what Tom Standage's "A History of the World in 6 Glasses" offers. It's a creative take that will quench your thirst for knowledge about how agriculture, politics, and global trade are tightly interwoven with the evolution of our favorite drinks. It's for everyone who enjoys a blend of history with the everyday pleasures of eating and drinking.
When Churchill Slaughtered Sheep and Stalin Robbed a Bank
Giles Milton | Picador

When Churchill Slaughtered Sheep and Stalin Robbed a Bank

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$8.90

If you're the sort who revels in the bizarre and lesser-known vignettes of history, "When Churchill Slaughtered Sheep and Stalin Robbed a Bank" will captivate you. Giles Milton's easy prose unpacks these tales with a blend of wit and rigor. It's like uncovering the secret drawers of history, where the strangest and most fascinating stories have been tucked away, just waiting for a curious mind to discover them.
100 Places You Will Never Visit - Thryft
Daniel Smith | Quercus

100 Places You Will Never Visit

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 3.35

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

87% off est. retail
If you're someone who has a thrill for the clandestine or an appetite for the inaccessible, "100 Places You Will Never Visit" invites you on a vicarious journey to the planet's most closely guarded secrets. From vaults brimming with wealth to forbidden religious archives, this book promises to satisfy your curiosity without the need for a passport or a background check. It's the closest peek you'll likely ever get to these enigmatic spots.
The Rough Guide to Australia
Emma Boyle, Rough Guides  | Rough Guides

The Rough Guide to Australia

$13.90 $6.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$13.90 $6.90 50% off

83% off est. retail
Considering an adventure down under or just love uncovering hidden gems from your living room? "The Rough Guide to Australia" isn't your typical travel booklet—it's a comprehensive companion that’s as informative as it is engaging. With its thoughtful essays, you'll get lost in Australian culture and history long before you step foot on a plane. Plus, the detailed maps and off-the-path recommendations will serve as your treasure map for an authentic Aussie experience.
Mirza Ghalib: A Biographical Scenario
Gulzar | Rupa & Co.

Mirza Ghalib: A Biographical Scenario

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$10.90

This feels like stepping into Ghalib’s world through Gulzar’s sensitive, cinematic lens. It’s a lovely pick if you enjoy literary lives, especially when the person’s wit, sorrow, and genius are allowed to breathe on the page. Readers drawn to Urdu poetry, history, or artist biographies will likely find it deeply atmospheric and quietly moving.
The Missionary & the Libertine: Love and War in East and West - Thryft
Ian Buruma | Faber

The Missionary & the Libertine: Love and War in East and West

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're intrigued by cross-cultural examinations, Ian Buruma's "The Missionary & the Libertine" offers a stimulating dive into the East-West dichotomy. Through essays that range from cinematic sexuality in Japan to the poignant legacies of Pearl Harbor and Hiroshima, you'll find a treasure trove of analyses and anecdotes that provoke thought on how these two worlds intersect and clash. Buruma's work could broaden your perspective on international relations and societal narratives.
Let There Be Facebook - Status Updates From God, Gaga, And Everyone In Between - Thryft
Travis Harmon, Jonathan Shockley  | Gallery Books

Let There Be Facebook - Status Updates From God, Gaga, And Everyone In Between

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

82% off est. retail
Recommended for history buffs who enjoy humor and pop culture references woven into their historical retellings. This book offers a unique perspective on history through the lens of social media, making it an entertaining and educational read. Readers will enjoy the juxtaposition of ancient history and the modern mediums of social media which provides a humorous, yet relatable connection to the past.
The Diary of a Young Girl
Anne Frank | Penguin Books, Limited (uk)

The Diary of a Young Girl

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

67% off est. retail
Anne Frank's diary offers a personal, poignant window into the life of a young girl facing unimaginable adversity. Her honest narration resonates with universal themes of growing up—identity, hope, and fear—even as it speaks to the historical horrors of World War II. It's a powerful reminder of the enduring strength found in the human spirit, which makes it an essential read.
Spilling the Beans : Historical Heroes and Vintage Villains - Thryft

Spilling the Beans : Historical Heroes and Vintage Villains

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 2.92

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

94% off est. retail
Recommended for history buffs who enjoy shorter reads. The book covers famous figures from different eras and regions, presenting their lives and achievements through engaging stories. Readers will appreciate the concise writing and vivid characterizations, which offer a fresh perspective on well-known historical figures.
Casablanca: As Times Goes By: 50th Anniversary Commemorative - Thryft
Frank Miller, Linda Sunshine  | Andrews Mcmeel Pub

Casablanca: As Times Goes By: 50th Anniversary Commemorative

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

87% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for film lovers and romantics alike. "Casablanca: As Time Goes By..." takes you on a captivating journey behind the making of one of the most beloved movies of all time. Discover the secrets, lucky breaks, and choices that led to the creation of a timeless classic. With stunning illustrations and never-before-seen photos, memos, and blueprints, this book offers a complete picture of the movie that has mesmerized audiences for over 50 years. Immerse yourself in the captivating story behind the scenes and fall in love with "Casablanca" all over again.
The Bumper Book of Lies
Attila the Hun, Shaun Hutsom  | Crombie Jardine Publishing Limited

The Bumper Book of Lies

$16.90 $6.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 2.63

$16.90 $6.90 59% off

If you appreciate humor with a twist of history, "The Bumper Book of Lies" is your chuckle companion. Attila the Hun, notorious in his own right, presents a fictional yet entertaining take on history. Curl up for an evening of laughter that's as delightful as it is deceitful. You'll find yourself sharing these tall tales, masquerading as historical facts, with friends for a good laugh.
Book Of Lasts - The Stories Behind The Endings That Changed The World - Thryft
Ian Harrinson, Gene Cernan  | Cassell

Book Of Lasts - The Stories Behind The Endings That Changed The World

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.52

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

90% off est. retail
The Book Of Lasts is a must-read for history buffs and those who enjoy stories of interesting endings. The book covers a wide range of subjects such as personal lasts, historic lasts, last journeys, and last words. The authors provide fascinating insights into various events, practices, and people that have left an indelible mark on history. The book's most unique feature is its ability to capture the essence of memorable endings in an engaging and captivating way, leaving readers with a lasting impression.
I Wish I'd Been There: Twenty Great Moments in History by Twenty Great Historians
Theodore K. Rabb, Byron Hollinshead

I Wish I'd Been There: Twenty Great Moments in History by Twenty Great Historians

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.39

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

If you're enamored with the idea of time travel and the chance to witness pivotal moments in history firsthand, "I Wish I'd Been There" might just scratch that itch from the comfort of your reading chair. The book offers a unique collection of essays where renowned historians unleash their imaginations, diving into what it might have felt like to stand at the crossroads of history. It’s like a VIP tour through time, guided by some of the best voices in historical scholarship.
Cinéma de la Méditerranée - Thryft
Raphael Millet | Editions L'harmattan

Cinéma de la Méditerranée

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

88% off est. retail
This book offers an insightful view into the cinema of the Mediterranean, expressing the region's unique blend of old and new, tragic and sunny. Millet's analysis delves into the post-war mood of film-making, serving as a powerful bridge between the East and West and the North and South. This book is a must-read for cinema enthusiasts who are interested in exploring the rich cinematic history of the Mediterranean.
20th Century Media, 1960s - The Satellite Age - Thryft
Steve Parker | Heinemann

20th Century Media, 1960s - The Satellite Age

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

This book could be a good read for those who are interested in the evolution of media and want to explore the turning points in history of entertainment. The author charts out the development of communication media from print to electronic age, which could provide the reader with a comprehensive understanding of communications and how it has changed over time.
Heavy Words Lightly Thrown: The Reason Behind the Rhyme
Chris Roberts | Gotham

Heavy Words Lightly Thrown: The Reason Behind the Rhyme

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.37

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

79% off est. retail
If you've ever hummed a nursery rhyme and wondered about its strange lyrics, "Heavy Words Lightly Thrown" is a trove of backstory and wit. It's a delightful deep dive that'll give you a fresh perspective on the whimsical lines you thought you knew, revealing rich historical context and the often-surprising stories behind these childhood staples.
Standard Operating Procedure - Thryft
Sold out
Philip Gourevitch, Errol Morris  | Penguin Press

Standard Operating Procedure

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

88% off est. retail
"Standard Operating Procedure" offers you a chance to dive deep beneath the headlines you remember, straight into the human elements of the Abu Ghraib scandal. Not only will it challenge your perceptions of right and wrong in extraordinary circumstances, but it also offers a nuanced perspective that transcends black-and-white judgments. It's a compelling read if you're ready to confront uncomfortable truths and explore the complex tapestry of war, responsibility, and morality.
Siegfried Sassoon : A Biography - Thryft
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Max Egremont | Picador

Siegfried Sassoon : A Biography

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

87% off est. retail
If the blend of heroism, dissent, and literary prowess fascinates you, this biography will enrich your understanding of a complex man who became an icon of World War I. Sassoon was a decorated soldier who turned into a vocal critic of the conflict, and his life story unfolds like a novel penned by history itself. This book is perfect if you admire wartime poetry or are intrigued by the personal tales behind historical figures.
The Making of "Alexander" : The Official Guide to the Epic Alexander Film - Thryft
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Robin Lane Fox | R And L

The Making of "Alexander" : The Official Guide to the Epic Alexander Film

$7.59

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$7.59

70% off est. retail
This book provides exclusive, detailed behind-the-scenes information about the making of the epic Alexander film directed by Oliver Stone, including the development of the script, the actors, the locations and sets, and the filming. It gives a fascinating insight into the incredible effort and dedication that went into making this film, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the film industry or the historical figure of Alexander the Great.
Time for Socialism: Dispatches from a World on Fire, 2016-2021
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Thomas Piketty | Yale University Press

Time for Socialism: Dispatches from a World on Fire, 2016-2021

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.44

$12.90

71% off est. retail
Thomas Piketty's "Time for Socialism" offers a thought-provoking and relevant perspective on the socioeconomic turmoil of the last few years. It offers a detailed analysis of events such as Trump's presidency and Brexit from the lens of Piketty's unrelenting pursuit of a more just world. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in principles of inclusivity, equity, and environmental sustainability.

Explore Creative Nonfiction

At Thryft, our Creative Nonfiction collection invites readers to explore the boundary between fact and storytelling. Whether you're delving into an illuminating memoir or an insightful essay, these works offer unmatched perspectives. Discover narratives that not only inform but also captivate with their artistic expression.