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Essays

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Politics
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In Praise of Idleness : And Other Essays - Thryft
Howard Woodhouse, Anthony Gottlieb, Bertrand Russell

In Praise of Idleness : And Other Essays

from $10.76

Intolerance and bigotry lie at the heart of all human suffering. So claims Bertrand Russell at the outset of In Praise of Idleness, a collection of essays in which he espouses the virtues of cool reflection and free inquiry; a voice of calm in a world of maddening unreason. From a devastating critique of the ancestry of fascism to a vehement defense of 'useless' knowledge, with consideration given to everything from insect pests to the human soul, this is a tour de force that only Bertrand Russell could perform.

from $10.76

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Citizen : An American Lyric - Thryft
Claudia Rankine

Citizen : An American Lyric

from $8.23

A provocative meditation on race, Claudia Rankine’s long-awaited follow up to her groundbreaking book Don’t Let Me Be Lonely: An American Lyric Claudia Rankine’s bold new book recounts mounting racial aggressions in ongoing encounters in twenty-first-century daily life and in the media. Some of these encounters are slights, seeming slips of the tongue, and some are intentional offensives in the classroom, at the supermarket, at home, on the tennis court with Serena Williams and the soccer field with Zinedine Zidane, online, on TV—everywhere, all the time. The accumulative stresses come to bear on a person’s ability to speak, perform, and stay alive. Our addressability is tied to the state of our belonging, Rankine argues, as are our assumptions and expectations of citizenship. In essay, image, and poetry, Citizen is a powerful testament to the individual and collective effects of racism in our contemporary, often named “post-race” society.

from $8.23

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On Liberty and Other Essays - Thryft
John Gray, John Stuart Mill

On Liberty and Other Essays

from $5.61

Collected here in a single volume for the first time are John Stuart Mill's On Liberty, Utilitarianism, Considerations on Representative Governmen t, and The Subjection of Women . These essays show Mill applying his liberal utilitarian philosophy to a range of issues that remain vitaltoday--the nature of ethics, the scope and limits of individual liberty, the merits of and costs of democratic government, and the place of women in society. In his Introduction John Gray describes these essays as applications of Mill's doctrine of the Art of Life , as set out in A System ofLogic . Using the resources of recent scholarship, he shows Mill's work to be far richer and subtler than traditional interpretations allow.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expertintroductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

from $5.61

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We Were Eight Years in Power : 'One of the foremost essayists on race in the West' Nikesh Shukla, author of The Good Immigrant - Thryft
Ta-Nehisi Coates

We Were Eight Years in Power : 'One of the foremost essayists on race in the West' Nikesh Shukla, author of The Good Immigrant

from $9.36

THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER'I've been wondering who might fill the intellectual void after James Baldwin died. Clearly it is Ta-Nehisi Coates' Toni Morrison'Searing. One of the foremost essayists on race in the West... [He] is responsible for some of the most important writing about what it is to be black in America today' Nikesh Shukla, editor of The Good ImmigrantAn essential account of modern America, from Obama to Trump, from black lives matter to white supremacists rising - by the bestselling author of Between the World and MeObama's presidency was a watershed moment in American history. From 2008-2016, the leader of the free world was a black man. In those eight years, Obama transformed the conversation around race, gender, class and wealth - inspiring hope but also attracting criticism and breeding discontent.In this unflinching book, Ta-Nehisi Coates takes stock of Obama's eight years in power, through such iconic, unmissable essays as 'Fear of a Black President' and 'The Case for Reparations'. His account traverses the intersections of the political, the ideological and the cultural, presenting an America in radical flux and yet still in the grip of racial injustice, class warfare and institutional conspiracy. And it reflects on the author's own journey through these eight years, charting the public through the private in passages of startling intimate and piercingly relevant memoir.Ta-Nehisi Coates is one of our most brilliant, most fearless and most essential living writers - and his work is crucial to understanding race in America today.Finalist for the Los Angeles Book Prize 2018Longlisted for the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence 2018RAVE READER REVIEWS:'Brilliantly written, incisive, and extremely relevant. Read it with your families, use it in your classrooms, give copies to your friends' (Liz)'Coates thinks more deeply and writes more clearly about the national tragedy and disgrace that is our collective failure to confront the legacy of White Supremacy than just about anyone... I can't recommend it highly enough' (Worddancer Redux)'Every white person who wants to really know how it looks from 'the other side' should take on the responsibility of reading Coates' eye-opening, informative book... A must read for everyone of every colour' (Indy JV)'A masterful understanding of how the USA really works' (shedgirl)'If you want to know the wellsprings of racism in America - then read this book!' (David C. R. Hancock)

from $9.36

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Azadi - Freedom. Fascism. Fiction - Thryft
Arundhati Roy

Azadi - Freedom. Fascism. Fiction

from $6.58

FROM THE BEST-SELLING AUTHOR OF MY SEDITIOUS HEART AND THE MINISTRY OF UTMOST HAPPINESS, A NEW AND PRESSING DISPATCH FROM THE HEART OF THE CROWD AND THE SOLITUDE OF A WRITER'S DESKAzadi-Urdu for Freedom-is the refrain in the iconic chant of the Kashmiri freedom struggle. And now, while Kashmir's streets have been silenced, the irony is that its people's anthem, with similar lyrics, rhythm and cadence, echoes on the streets of the country that most Kashmiris view as their coloniser. What lies between the silence of one street and the sound of the other? Is it a chasm, or could it become a bridge?In this series of penetrating essays on politics and literature, Arundhati Roy examines this question and challenges us to reflect on the meaning of freedom in a world of growing authoritarianism.Roy writes of the existential threat posed to Indian democracy by an emboldened Hindu nationalism, of the internet shutdown and information siege in Kashmir-the most densely militarized zone in the world-and India's new citizenship laws that discriminate against Muslims and marginalized communities and could create a crisis of statelessness on a scale previously unknown. The essays include mediations on language, public as well as private, and the role of fiction and alternative imaginations in these disturbing times.Azadi, she warns, hangs in the balance for us all.

from $6.58

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Rights of Man, Common Sense, and Other Political Writings - Thryft
Mark Philp, Thomas Paine

Rights of Man, Common Sense, and Other Political Writings

$5.28 from $3.70 Save up to 30%

The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of political thought and social change. Paine's writings provide an essential insight into the importance of individual rights, natural justice, and the need for political control by the people. The author's ideas have shaped the Western liberal democratic tradition and also inspired social liberation movements all over the world. The book itself is fully annotated, providing helpful notes and up-to-date bibliographies to further explore the topic.

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I am America (and So Can You!) - Thryft
Stephen Colbert

I am America (and So Can You!)

from $11.03

Recommendation: "I Am America (And So Can You!)" is a must-read for fans of Stephen Colbert and anyone who enjoys biting political satire. Colbert's unique brand of humor offers insightful commentary on current events, religion, and the state of the nation. His clever quips and razor-sharp wit will leave you laughing out loud while also making you think. This book is a perfect pick-me-up for anyone in need of a good chuckle and a dose of reality.

from $11.03

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I Have a Dream : Writings and Speeches That Changed the World - Thryft
James Melvin Washington, Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King

I Have a Dream : Writings and Speeches That Changed the World

from $6.21

Recommendation: - If you're looking to be inspired and motivated, "I Have a Dream: Writings and Speeches That Changed the World" is a must-read. This book captures the powerful words of Martin Luther King Jr., a true visionary and leader in the fight for civil rights. His speeches continue to resonate today, reminding us of the importance of equality and justice. Prepare to be moved by his timeless messages that have shaped history and inspired generations.

from $6.21

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On Liberty - Thryft
John Stuart Mill

On Liberty

from $5.27

In one of the most influential philosophical works ever writer, John Stuart Mill explores the risks and responsibilities of liberty. Examining the tyranny that can come both from government and from the herd-like opinion of the majority, Mill proposes a freedom to think, unite, and pursue our pleasures as the most important freedoms, as long as we cause no harm to others. GREAT IDEAS. Throughout history, some books have changed the world. They have transformed the way we see ourselves - and each other. They have inspired debate, dissent, war and revolution. They have enlightened, outraged, provoked and comforted. They have enriched lives - and destroyed them. Now Penguin brings you the works of the great thinkers, pioneers, radicals and visionaries whose ideas shook civilization and helped make us who we are.

from $5.27

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The Suffragettes - Thryft
Emmeline Pankhurst

The Suffragettes

$0.00

'Once they are aroused, once they are determined, nothing on earth and nothing in heaven will make women give way; it is impossible.'A potted history of the women who pioneered feminism and changed the world.One of 46 new books in the bestselling Little Black Classics series, to celebrate the first ever Penguin Classic in 1946. Each book gives readers a taste of the Classics' huge range and diversity, with works from around the world and across the centuries - including fables, decadence, heartbreak, tall tales, satire, ghosts, battles and elephants.

$0.00

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Letters to a Young Muslim - Thryft
Omar Saif Ghobash

Letters to a Young Muslim

from $9.39

**A New York Times Editor's Pick**From the Ambassador of the UAE to Russia comes Letters to a Young Muslim, a bold and intimate exploration of what it means to be a Muslim in the twenty-first century.In a series of personal and insightful letters to his sons, Omar Saif Ghobash offers a vital manifesto that tackles the dilemmas facing not only young Muslims but everyone navigating the complexities of today’s world. Full of wisdom and thoughtful reflections on faith, culture and society. This is a courageous and essential book that celebrates individuality whilst recognising it is our shared humanity that brings us together.Written with the experience of a diplomat and the personal responsibility of a father; Ghobash’s letters offer understanding and balance in a world that rarely offers any. An intimate and hopeful glimpse into a sphere many are unfamiliar with; it provides an understanding of the everyday struggles Muslims face around the globe.*One of Time 's Most Anticipated Books of 2017, a Bustle Best Nonfiction Pick for January 2017, a Chicago Review of Books Best Book to Read in January 2017, a Stylist Magazine Best Book of 2017, included in New Statesman 's What to Read in 2017*

from $9.39

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Fight of the Century : Writers Reflect on 100 Years of Landmark ACLU Cases - Thryft
Ann Patchett, Ayelet Waldman, Michael Chabon

Fight of the Century : Writers Reflect on 100 Years of Landmark ACLU Cases

from $20.10

"Fight of the Century" is a compelling anthology that brings together some of the greatest living writers and their personal takes on a century's worth of landmark civil liberties cases. Written by Michael Chabon and Ayelet Waldman in partnership with the ACLU, this book is perfect for history buffs and those passionate about civil rights and social justice issues. The essays are crafted in a way that educates and entertains, making them accessible to a broad readership. The focus on each of the famous and not so famous cases is unique and offers readers an opportunity to understand how each has influenced modern society.

from $20.10

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How To Be Right : ... in a world gone wrong - Thryft
James O'Brien

How To Be Right : ... in a world gone wrong

from $9.55

Every day, James O’Brien listens to people blaming hard-working immigrants for stealing their jobs while scrounging benefits, and pointing their fingers at the EU and feminists for destroying Britain. But what makes James’s daily LBC show such essential listening – and has made James a standout social media star – is the incisive way he punctures their assumptions and dismantles their arguments live on air, every single morning.In the bestselling How To Be Right, James provides a hilarious and invigorating guide to talking to people with unchallenged opinions. With chapters on every lightning-rod issue, James shows how people have been fooled into thinking the way they do, and in each case outlines the key questions to ask to reveal fallacies, inconsistencies and double standards.If you ever get cornered by ardent Brexiteers, Daily Mail disciples or corporate cronies, this book is your conversation survival guide.

from $9.55

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Why We Can't Wait
Martin Luther King Jr., Jesse Jackson

Why We Can't Wait

from $8.90

"Why We Can't Wait" is indispensable reading for anyone interested in the Civil Rights Movement or social justice. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. provides a deeply personal account that is both historically significant and powerfully resonant today. This book captures the urgency of the struggle for equality and the enduring spirit of resistance against racial injustices. It's educational, inspirational, and a poignant reminder of King's profound impact.

from $8.90

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No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference - Thryft
Greta Thunberg

No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference

$8.90 from $7.90 Save 11%

If you're looking for a dose of inspiration or a spark to ignite your own passion for environmental activism, Greta Thunberg's "No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference" might just be the match you need. Her determination and clarity give a poignant insight into the climate change movement through the eyes of a courageous young leader. It's a short read that could have a long-lasting impact on your perspective.

$8.90 from $7.90 Save 11%

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Bad Feminist - Thryft
Roxane Gay

Bad Feminist

from $6.68

Pink is my favorite color. I used to say my favorite color was black to be cool, but it is pink—all shades of pink. If I have an accessory, it is probably pink. I read Vogue, and I’m not doing it ironically, though it might seem that way. I once live-tweeted the September issue.In these funny and insightful essays, Roxane Gay takes us through the journey of her evolution as a woman of color while also taking readers on a ride through culture of the last few years and commenting on the state of feminism today. The portrait that emerges is not only one of an incredibly insightful woman continually growing to understand herself and our society, but also one of our culture.Bad Feminist is a sharp, funny, and spot-on look at the ways in which the culture we consume becomes who we are, and an inspiring call-to-arms of all the ways we still need to do better.Feel me, see me, hear me, reach me --Peculiar benefits --Typical first year professor --To scratch, claw or grope clumsily or frantically --How to be friends with another woman --Girls, girls, girls --I once was Miss America --Garish, glorious spectacles --Not here to make friends --How we all lose --Reaching for catharsis : getting fat right (or wrong) and Diana Spechler's Skinny --The smooth surfaces of idyll --The careless language of sexual violence --What we hunger for --The illusion of safety/the safety of illusion --The spectacle of broken men --A tale of three coming out stories --Beyond the measure of men --Some jokes are funnier than others --Dear young ladies who love Chris Brown --So much they would let him beat them --Blurred lines, indeed --The trouble with Prince Charming, or, He who trespassed against us --The solace of preparing fried foods and other quaint remembrances from 1960s Mississippi : thoughts on The help --Surviving Django --Beyond the struggle narrative --The morality of Tyler Perry --The last day of a young black man --When less is more --The politics of respectability --When Twitter does what journalism cannot --The alienable rights of women --Holding out for a hero --A tale of two profiles --The racism we all carry --Tragedy, call, compassion, response --Bad feminist : take one --Bad feminist : take two

from $6.68

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Against Everything : Essays - Thryft
Mark Greif

Against Everything : Essays

from $9.75

In Against Everything, Mark Greif makes us rethink the ordinary, taking our own lives seriously, exploring how we might live an honest life in these dishonest times. In a series of coruscating set pieces, Greif asks why we put ourselves through the pains of exercise, what shopping in organic supermarkets does for our sense of self-worth, what the political identity of the hipster might be, and what happens to us when we listen to too much Radiohead. From such counter-intuitive observations, Greif exposes the fundamental contradictions between our actions, desires and the excuses that we make to ourselves in hope of consolation. With the wit and seriousness of David Foster Wallace, Against Everything is the most thought-provoking study and essential guide to everyday life under 21st-century capitalism.

from $9.75

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The Good Immigrant - Thryft
Varaidzo, Nikesh Shukla, Chimene Suleyman

The Good Immigrant

from $9.74

How does it feel to be constantly regarded as a potential threat, strip-searched at every airport?Or be told that, as an actress, the part you’re most fitted to play is ‘wife of a terrorist’? How does it feel to have words from your native language misused, misappropriated and used aggressively towards you? How does it feel to hear a child of colour say in a classroom that stories can only be about white people? How does it feel to go ‘home’ to India when your home is really London? What is it like to feel you always have to be an ambassador for your race? How does it feel to always tick ‘Other’?Bringing together 21 exciting black, Asian and minority ethnic voices emerging in Britain today, The Good Immigrant explores why immigrants come to the UK, why they stay and what it means to be ‘other’ in a country that doesn’t seem to want you, doesn’t truly accept you – however many generations you’ve been here – but still needs you for its diversity monitoring forms.Inspired by discussion around why society appears to deem people of colour as bad immigrants – job stealers, benefit scroungers, undeserving refugees – until, by winning Olympic races or baking good cakes, or being conscientious doctors, they cross over and become good immigrants, editor Nikesh Shukla has compiled a collection of essays that are poignant, challenging, angry, humorous, heartbreaking, polemic, weary and – most importantly – real.

from $9.74

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This Is What Inequality Looks Like (New Edition) - Thryft
You Yenn Teo

This Is What Inequality Looks Like (New Edition)

from $3.88

This book delves into the societal issues of poverty and inequality in a Singaporean context. It provides insight into the structural conditions and experiences of low-income individuals, offering perspectives that will encourage readers to examine their own preconceptions and biases. Teo You Yenn skillfully combines empathy, analysis, and theoretical rigor to shine a light on the lives of those often overlooked. A must-read for those seeking to gain a better understanding of the complexities of social inequality.

from $3.88

Out of stock

Discontent and Its Civilizations : Dispatches from Lahore, New York and London - Thryft
Mohsin Hamid

Discontent and Its Civilizations : Dispatches from Lahore, New York and London

from $6.18

'When I was younger, I thought of being a migrant and being foreign as things that made me different, an outsider. Now I think these experiences are increasingly universal…'Since the year 2000, novelist Mohsin Hamid has been writing about what it means to be an individual in an increasingly fragmented world. In the pieces gathered here, he gives us a portrait of a man coming to terms with not only his place in that world but also how its convulsions and changes shape so many of us—for good and ill. Whether writing of his home life, about being a migrant or of today's geopolitical fault lines, Hamid gives us his deeply personal take on life at the beginning of the twenty-first century.'As simple, immediate and moving as any of Hamid's fiction.' —Financial Times'Excellent. Lucid, informative and drily funny… Hamid is one of the most perceptive commentators on contemporary global politics.' —Sunday Times'Reasonable, intelligent, humble. Just the sort of commentator the world could do with right now.' —Independent''Accessible, wise and beautifully clear.' —Metro'As a Pakistani who spent his childhood in the United States and his adult life in London, Hamid has a unique perspective on the civilization clash which has defined this era. These elegantly crafted essays confront everything from the future of Pakistan and the death of Osama bin Laden to fatherhood and falling in love.' —Prospect

from $6.18

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Who Killed My Father - Thryft
Édouard Louis, Lorin Stein

Who Killed My Father

$8.87 from $6.21 Save up to 30%

This book is recommended for those who have struggled with their relationship with their father or for those who wish to understand the complexities of masculinity, class, homophobia, shame, and social poverty. Edouard Louis tells his father's story with such compassion and urgency that it is impossible not to be moved by it. What sets this book apart is the way it unflinchingly takes aim at systems that disadvantage those they seek to exclude, and how it goes beyond the personal and speaks to larger societal issues. It is a powerful reminder that even in the toughest of circumstances, love and compassion can prevail.

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Between the World and Me - Thryft
Ta-Nehisi Coates

Between the World and Me

from $14.03

This book is a must-read for anyone wanting a better understanding of the impact of race on American history and its current society. Coates provides a deeply personal and emotional account of his experiences that are relatable to people of all backgrounds. His writing is powerful and the book offers a unique perspective on the experiences of black Americans.

from $14.03

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Nation and Narration
Homi K. Bhabha

Nation and Narration

from $23.90

"Nation and Narration" is a stirring discourse on how the concept of a nation intertwines with the narratives we construct and consume. If you're drawn to intellectual explorations that challenge how you perceive national identity and its representation in texts, this book is for you. Homi K. Bhabha frames a captivating look at nationhood that transcends traditional boundaries, promising to expand your thoughts about global literature and cultural studies.

from $23.90

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Having And Being Had - Thryft
Eula Biss

Having And Being Had

from $13.52

An incisive collection from award-winning author Eula Biss, Having and Being Had is a personal reckoning with the intricacies of money, class and capitalism.'My adult life can be divided into two distinct parts,' Eula Biss writes, 'the time before I owned a washing machine and the time after.' Having just purchased her first home, she now embarks on a roguish and risky self-audit of the value system she has bought into. The result is a radical interrogation of work, leisure and capitalism. Described by the New York Times as a writer who 'advances from all sides, like a chess player', Biss brings her approach to the lived experience of capitalism. Playfully ranging from IKEA to Beyoncé to Pokémon, across bars and laundromats and universities, she asks, of both herself and her class, 'In what have we invested?''Having and Being Had offers us a probing tour of capitalism and class that sidesteps posturing and jargon in favor of clarity, humility, and incitement.' Maggie Nelson'In this witty, genre-bending book, Eula Biss smashes the taboo against talking about money with exhilarating results . . . [and] disarming honesty and grace.' Jenny Offill'Eula Biss's prescient new book gave me new language for things I didn't know I felt . . . A brilliant, lacerating re-examination of our relationship to what we own and why, and who in turn might own us.' Alexander Chee'No contemporary writer I know explores and confronts her own societal responsibilities better than Eula Biss.' Aleksandar HemonA meditation on race, consumerism and the American caste system. And a wry, vivd assessment of our spiritual moment. It is no accident that Having and Being Had reads like the poems money would write if money wrote poems.' Jeet Thayil

from $13.52

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From Oslo To Iraq And The Road Map - Thryft
Edward W. Said

From Oslo To Iraq And The Road Map

from $8.90

If you're keen on understanding the Middle East beyond the typical news narratives, Edward Said's collection in "From Oslo To Iraq And The Road Map" is a compelling read. Said unveils the complexities of the Palestinian experience with a truthfulness that's hard to come by. His insights challenge the reader to reconsider mainstream perspectives and promises to enrich your understanding of international relations, conflicts, and the quest for peace.

from $8.90

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Incarnations : India in 50 Lives - Thryft
Sunil Khilnani

Incarnations : India in 50 Lives

from $14.48

This book is recommended for anyone interested in knowing about India's rich past and continuous evolution. Incarnations takes the reader on a journey through time and space, exploring the lives of 50 individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping India's society, culture, and politics. Khilnani's detailed and insightful portraits, coupled with stunning illustrations, provide a unique perspective on India's history, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking to understand this complex and fascinating country.

from $14.48

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A Burst of Light : and Other Essays - Thryft
Audre Lorde, Sonia Sanchez, Jen Keenan

A Burst of Light : and Other Essays

from $11.41

A Burst of Light is a powerful collection of essays by Audre Lorde that resonates with contemporary social justice warriors. Lorde's writing tackles the intersections of race, cancer, intersectionality, parenthood, and injustice, calling for a radical politics of intersectionality. Her message of caring for oneself as an act of political warfare is particularly inspiring, and her thoughts on Black women and LGBTQ+ communities organizing, as well as her insights on erotic pleasure, continue to be relevant today. This book is recommended for readers looking to expand their understanding of anti-oppression and resistance through the lens of intersectionality.

from $11.41

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The Age of Earthquakes : A Guide to the Extreme Present - Thryft
Hans Ulrich Obrist, Douglas Coupland, Shumon Basar

The Age of Earthquakes : A Guide to the Extreme Present

$8.28 from $7.44 Save up to 10%

This book is a mindbending exploration of our rapidly evolving digital landscape. It offers a culturally prescient analysis of the "extreme present" we are living in, where the Internet has not only changed our brains but also the structure of the planet. With contributions from over 30 contemporary artists, this visually striking book provides a new history of the world in a format that fits perfectly in your back pocket. Get ready to embark on a surreal journey through the digital age.

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The Pursuit of Loneliness : America's Discontent and the Search for a New Democratic Ideal - Thryft
Todd Gitlin, Philip Slater

The Pursuit of Loneliness : America's Discontent and the Search for a New Democratic Ideal

from $12.63

This book is a great read for anyone interested in understanding the negative impact of individualism on America. With a sharp critique of American society, Slater shows the consequences of our focus on competitiveness, technology addiction, and inequality. The book is a call for a new democratic ideal and a reminder that being a part of a community is crucial to our well-being. Readers will appreciate the insightful analysis and the compelling arguments presented in the book.

from $12.63

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England Your England - Thryft
George Orwell

England Your England

from $3.88

This book is a must-read for those who want to understand the complexities of the British society. Orwell's deeply felt sense of patriotism, love for his homeland, and unfailing honesty make this essay a compelling and insightful portrait of the nation. The book is clear-eyed about the nation's deep-rooted social inequality, dishonest press, and systemic issues. Written during the Second World War and speaking to the present, the book is a crucial guide to understanding modern-day Britain.

from $3.88

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This America - The Case For The Nation - Thryft
Jill Lepore

This America - The Case For The Nation

from $3.88

Recommendation: In "This America - The Case For The Nation," Jill Lepore insightfully explores the tension between nationalism and liberalism's decline in modern times. She argues eloquently for the nation and reclaims America's national history to offer a solution to our current political crisis. This book is perfect for those looking to understand the current political climate and the role of nationalism in it.

from $3.88

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Notes of a Native Son - Thryft
James Baldwin, Edward P. Jones

Notes of a Native Son

from $5.48

A new edition of the book many have called James Baldwin’s most influential workWritten during the 1940s and early 1950s, when Baldwin was only in his twenties, the essays collected in Notes of a Native Son capture a view of black life and black thought at the dawn of the civil rights movement and as the movement slowly gained strength through the words of one of the most captivating essayists and foremost intellectuals of that era. Writing as an artist, activist, and social critic, Baldwin probes the complex condition of being black in America. With a keen eye, he examines everything from the significance of the protest novel to the motives and circumstances of the many black expatriates of the time, from his home in “The Harlem Ghetto” to a sobering “Journey to Atlanta.”Notes of a Native Son inaugurated Baldwin as one of the leading interpreters of the dramatic social changes erupting in the United States in the twentieth century, and many of his observations have proven almost prophetic. His criticism on topics such as the paternalism of white progressives or on his own friend Richard Wright’s work is pointed and unabashed. He was also one of the few writing on race at the time who addressed the issue with a powerful mixture of outrage at the gross physical and political violence against black citizens and measured understanding of their oppressors, which helped awaken a white audience to the injustices under their noses. Naturally, this combination of brazen criticism and unconventional empathy for white readers won Baldwin as much condemnation as praise.Notes is the book that established Baldwin’s voice as a social critic, and it remains one of his most admired works. The essays collected here create a cohesive sketch of black America and reveal an intimate portrait of Baldwin’s own search for identity as an artist, as a black man, and as an American.

from $5.48

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Essays by George Orwell - Thryft
George Orwell

Essays by George Orwell

from $7.83

This outstanding collection brings together Orwell’s longer, major essays and a fine selection of shorter pieces that includes My Country Right or Left, Decline of the English Murder, Shooting an Elephant and A Hanging.With great originality and wit Orwell unfolds his views on subjects ranging from the moral enormity of Jonathan Swift’s strange genius and a revaluation of Charles Dickens to the nature of Socialism, a comic yet profound discussion of naughty sea-side picture postcards and a spirited defence of English cooking. Displaying an almost unrivalled mastery of English plain prose style, Orwell’s essays challenge, move and entertain.

from $7.83

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Trick Mirror - Reflections On Self-Delusion - Thryft
Jia Tolentino

Trick Mirror - Reflections On Self-Delusion

from $12.69

Trick Mirror is an enlightening, unforgettable trip through the river of self-delusion that surges just beneath the surface of our lives. This is a book about the incentives that shape us, and about how hard it is to see ourselves clearly in a culture that revolves around the self. In each essay, Jia writes about the cultural prisms that have shaped her: the rise of the nightmare social internet; the American scammer as millennial hero; the literary heroine’s journey from brave to blank to bitter; the mandate that everything, including our bodies, should always be getting more efficient and beautiful until we die.

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Freedom from Fear : And Other Writings - Thryft
Aung San Suu Kyi, Desmond M. Tutu, Václav Havel

Freedom from Fear : And Other Writings

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Freedom from Fear - collected writings from the Nobel Peace prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi Aung San Suu Kyi's collected writings - edited by her late husband, whom the ruling military junta prevented from visiting Burma as he was dying of cancer - reflects her greatest hopes and fears for her fellow Burmese people, and her concern about the need for international co-operation in the continuing fight for Burma's freedom. Bringing together her most powerful speeches, letters and interviews, this remarkable collection gives a voice to Burma's 'woman of destiny', whose fate remains in the hands of her enemies. Recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, and leader of Burma's National League for Democracy, Aung San Suu Kyi is one of the world's greatest living defenders of freedom and democracy, and an inspiration to millions worldwide. This book sits alongside Nelson Mandela's memoir Long Walk to Freedom. 'This book is bound to become a classic for a new generation of Asians who value democracy even more highly than Westerners do, simply because they are deprived of the basic freedoms that Westerners take for granted'The New York Times 'Aung San Suu Kyi's extraordinary achievement has been to confront the regime peacefully, reasonably and persuasively... [in] one of the most laudable continuing acts of political courage' Financial Times 'Such is the depth of passion and learning that she brings to her writings about national identity and its links with culture and language that she has attracted the admiration of intellectuals around the world' Sunday Times Aung San Suu Kyi is the leader of Burma's National League for Democracy. She was placed under house arrest in Rangoon in 1989, where she remained for almost 15 of the 21 years until her release in 2010, becoming one of the world's most prominent political prisoners. She is also the author of Letters from Burma.

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American Power and the New Mandarins - Thryft
Noam Chomsky

American Power and the New Mandarins

from $8.47

Chomsky's first political book, widely considered to be among the most cogent and powerful statements against the American war in Vietnam. Long out of print, this collection of early, seminal essays helped to establish Chomsky as a leading critic of United States foreign policy. With a new foreword by Howard Zinn, author of A People's History of the United States.

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Summer Meditations - Thryft
Václav Havel

Summer Meditations

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"Summer Meditations" offers more than a political memoir; it's a rare opportunity to peer into the thoughtful contemplations of a literary figure who found himself at the helm of a nation's turbulent transition. As someone interested in the intellectual depth behind political decisions and the personal reflections on power and responsibility, you'll appreciate Havel's honest and poetic approach to governance and the challenges of post-communist society.

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The Fire Next Time - Thryft
James Baldwin

The Fire Next Time

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A national bestseller when it first appeared in 1963, The Fire Next Time galvanized the nation and gave passionate voice to the emerging civil rights movement. At once a powerful evocation of James Baldwin’s early life in Harlem and a disturbing examination of the consequences of racial injustice, the book is an intensely personal and provocative document. It consists of two “letters,” written on the occasion of the centennial of the Emancipation Proclamation, that exhort Americans, both black and white, to attack the terrible legacy of racism. Described by The New York Times Book Review as “sermon, ultimatum, confession, deposition, testament, and chronicle…all presented in searing, brilliant prose,” The Fire Next Time stands as a classic of our literature.

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On Palestine - Thryft
Noam Chomsky

On Palestine

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"On Palestine" is a comprehensive guide to the Palestinian struggle, co-authored by two leading voices in the movement, Noam Chomsky and Ilan Pappe. The book provides critical insights into the future of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement, the viability of the binational or one-state solution, and other essential questions. This sober and unflinching analysis is a must-read for anyone concerned with the practicable change in the suffering region.

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Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited
New
Cherian George

Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited

from $11.90

This book could be a good read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate blend of comfort and central control in Singapore's society. Through a compilation of essays by Cherian George, it provides critical insights into the country's political culture, shedding light on both its mastery of the environment and the potential risks it poses to individual autonomy and sustainability. With updated reflections on continuity and change, this 20th anniversary edition offers a comprehensive exploration of Singapore's unique societal dynamics, making it a must-read for those intrigued by the complexities of this nation.

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The Two Cultures - Thryft
C.P. Snow, Stefan Collini

The Two Cultures

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The notion that our society, its education system and its intellectual life, is characterised by a split between two cultures—the arts or humanities on one hand, and the sciences on the other—has a long history. But it was C. P. Snow's Rede lecture of 1959 that brought it to prominence and began a public debate that is still raging in the media today. This 50th anniversary printing of The Two Cultures and its successor piece, A Second Look (in which Snow responded to the controversy four years later) features an introduction by Stefan Collini, charting the history and context of the debate, its implications and its afterlife. The importance of science and technology in policy run largely by non-scientists, the future for education and research, and the problem of fragmentation threatening hopes for a common culture are just some of the subjects discussed.

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Between the World and Me
New
Ta-Nehisi Coates

Between the World and Me

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Between the World and Me is essential reading for anyone looking to dive deep into the American racial psyche through a personal lens. Coates' narrative feels like a father's tender, yet urgent, conversation with his son, lending a profound intimacy to the exploration of systemic racism. The poignancy comes from real-life stories that could mirror a friend's, or even your own, shaping a bridge of empathy and understanding.

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She Speaks : Women's Speeches That Changed the World, from Pankhurst to Thunberg - Thryft
Yvette Cooper

She Speaks : Women's Speeches That Changed the World, from Pankhurst to Thunberg

from $8.83

This book is a must-read for anyone looking for powerful inspiration from women who have used their voices to make a difference. From iconic figures like Margaret Thatcher to contemporary heroes like Greta Thunberg, each speech showcases the strength and impact of female oratory. Yvette Cooper MP not only introduces these speeches but also provides a personal perspective, making this a captivating and empowering read for women seeking to be heard and make their mark on history.

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Letters From London - Thryft
Julian Barnes

Letters From London

from $5.07

Letters From London would be a great read for anyone interested in essays about modern London. Julian Barnes' writing is intelligent and humorous, with a keen eye for the intricacies of British politics and society. Readers will gain a unique understanding of London life through his witty perspectives on the city, making it a must-read for fans of satirical and contemporary literature.

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Essays In Persuasion - Thryft
John Maynard Keynes

Essays In Persuasion

from $6.48

"Essays In Persuasion is a must-read for those interested in economics and politics. Keynes articulates his thoughts clearly and with great precision. He provides a unique insight into the global economy, especially during times of economic turbulence. This book is an excellent resource for students and scholars who wish to expand their economic knowledge or anyone curious about economic theories. The book is easy to read and well-organized, which makes it accessible to a broad audience."

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Cafe Europa : Life After Communism - Thryft
Slavenka Drakulić

Cafe Europa : Life After Communism

from $3.39

Croatian journalist, novelist, and essayist Slavenka Drakulić notes that Eastern Europeans are so anxious to become like their Western counterparts that every city and town has a Cafe Europa that is a pale imitation of similar establishments in cities like Paris and Rome. She presents here a collection of essays that explore life in various Eastern European countries since the fall of communism. As a citizen of Croatia (formerly part of Yugoslavia) living now in Vienna with her Swedish husband, she writes knowingly as a survivor of a communist regime, as one who realizes that pitfalls still lie ahead for nations emerging from the Soviet yoke. In Albania, she observes rage everywhere in people who seem to want to smash all vestiges of the Hoxha regime. In Romania, she comments on the execrable state in which public toilets are maintained: "[T]he standard of Romanian toilets reflects the nature of the communist system of which it is a legacy"; "the absence of any improvement is... a warning for the future of democracy" there. Drakulic's pungent and insightful ruminations not only describe life in her part of the world?she makes us feel it as well.--Publishers Weekly

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Hard Choices: Challenging the Singapore Consensus - Thryft
Sudhir Thomas Vadaketh, Donald Low

Hard Choices: Challenging the Singapore Consensus

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If you've ever been intrigued by the intricate mechanics of Singapore's political and economic systems, "Hard Choices" is a must-read. It will provoke thought on the challenges Singapore faces in maintaining its distinct social contract in an era of increasing dissent. This collection of essays is perfect for someone who appreciates critical analysis and is interested in the future of governance in modern societies.

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Interventions - Thryft
Noam Chomsky

Interventions

from $7.96

At a time when the united states exacts a greater and greater power over the rest of the world, americas leading voice of dissent needs to be heard more than ever in over thirty timely, accessible and urgent essays, chomsky cogently examines the burning issues of our post-9/11 world, covering the invasion and occupation of iraq, the bush presidency and the israeli invasion of lebanon this is an essential collection, from a vital and authoritative perspective

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Culture and Imperialism - Thryft
Edward W. Said

Culture and Imperialism

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Recommended because of its insightful analysis of the cultural imperialism that pervades Western literature and media. It covers a broad range of topics, from Jane Austen to media coverage of the Gulf War, and provides a compelling argument for the role of culture in shaping power dynamics. The book is likely to be appreciated by those interested in postcolonial theory, history, and literary studies.

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The Money Culture - Thryft
Michael Lewis

The Money Culture

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The Money Culture offers an insightful and unflinching look into the world of finance and the larger-than-life characters who shape it. Through Lewis's sharp reporting, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the ups and downs of money markets and the forces that drive them. This book is perfect for anyone interested in the inner workings of Wall Street and the larger culture of finance.

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