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Historical Fiction Books

Step into captivating past worlds with our Historical Fiction collection. From epic sagas to intimate tales, discover narratives that blend well-researched history with imaginative storytelling. Explore stories that make history come alive for every kind of reader.
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Memories of the Ford Administration
John Updike | Gardners

Memories of the Ford Administration

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.3

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

If you're keen on political history with a twist of personal narrative, John Updike's "Memories of the Ford Administration" could pique your interest. Updike provides a deep dive into the turbulence of the '70s, yet serves it with a side of intimate confessions and human frailties that could make you reflect on the often blurred lines between our public and private lives. It's a thought-provoking read that combines the political with the personal in a way only Updike can.
Free Enterprise: A Novel of Mary Ellen Pleasant
Michelle Cliff | City Lights

Free Enterprise: A Novel of Mary Ellen Pleasant

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

55% off est. retail
"Free Enterprise" offers a gripping take on a lesser-known side of American history, centering on the life of a remarkable woman, Mary Ellen Pleasant. It could be a captivating read for you if you're interested in historical fiction that weaves real-life figures and events with a story of resilience and defiance. Michelle Cliff delivers a narrative that not only educates but also engrosses, reflecting the complex dynamics of race, gender, and power in 19th-century America.
Delayed Rays of a Star
New
Amanda Lee Koe | Bloomsbury Publishing

Delayed Rays of a Star

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$8.26

Dive into "Delayed Rays of a Star" if historical fiction layered with powerful female narratives entices you. This novel extends an invitation to walk alongside Marlene, Anna May, and Leni, each a fascinating embodiment of success and struggle during times when the world was rapidly changing. Their complexity captures the essence of an era, making it both discerning and reflective for today's readers.
Night for Day
Patrick Flanery | July 4, 2019

Night for Day

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

Goodreads rating: 3.29

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

71% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the murky intersection of politics and art, "Night for Day" might resonate with you deeply. It's not just a historical exploration of the Red Scare's impact on Hollywood—it's a rich tapestry that evokes the paranoia and intensity of the era. Through its blend of real tension and allusions to both classic American and mythic literature, you'd experience a consuming narrative that mirrors the fear of complicity and the pain of exile, making it not just a novel but a cinematic journey through one of America's darker chapters.
Bournville: A Novel in Seven Occasions
Jonathan Coe | Viking

Bournville: A Novel in Seven Occasions

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90

If you've ever been fascinated by how big historical events impact ordinary lives, "Bournville" would be a delightful read for you. As you follow Mary across seventy-five years of British history, you'll relish the interplay of personal and societal transformation. The quaint chocolate factory setting adds a charming backdrop to a tale that expertly captures the essence of time's passage and the sometimes sweet, sometimes bitter taste of change.
The Fortress of Solitude
Jonathan Lethem | Vintage Contemporaries

The Fortress of Solitude

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$8.90

66% off est. retail
"The Fortress of Solitude" resonates not just as a vibrant portrait of Brooklyn in the '70s but as a deeply human story of friendship and the search for identity amidst the complexities of race and class. Lethem's prose is both robust and poetic, weaving superheros into a narrative that's as much about growing up as it is about the heartaches of gentrification and the power of nostalgia. It'll strike a chord if you're into tales that aren't afraid to dive deep into the cultural fabric of a time and place.
The Taste of Ginger
Mansi Shah | Lake Union Publishing

The Taste of Ginger

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$9.90

"The Taste of Ginger" could resonate with you if you've ever felt caught between cultures or struggled with the expectations of family versus your own desires. Mansi Shah weaves a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of family ties, identity, and the all-too-human quest to find where one truly belongs. It might just be the book to accompany you as you unravel your own thoughts on belonging and self-discovery.
Three Days Before the Shooting
John Callahan, Ralph Ellison, Adam Bradley  | Modern Library

Three Days Before the Shooting

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$9.90

87% off est. retail
Recommendation: 1. This book is a thought-provoking exploration of race, politics, and power in America. It delves into complex themes through the eyes of multiple characters, giving readers a deep understanding of the issues at hand. With its intense and gripping narrative, "Three Days Before The Shooting" is a must-read for those interested in understanding the complexities of racial dynamics in society and the role of politics in shaping them. 2. "Three Days Before The Shooting" is more than just a book; it's a journey through the heart and soul of America's troubled history. Through Ellison's powerful storytelling, readers are transported to a world of political intrigue and racial tension, where the lines between right and wrong blur. This book will challenge your beliefs, spark conversations, and leave a lasting impact on your understanding of race and power dynamics in our society. 3. Are you ready for a gripping and emotionally charged read? "Three Days Before The Shooting" takes you on a rollercoaster of political drama, racial tension, and personal growth. Through the eyes of an elderly black preacher summoned by a dying racist senator, this book delves deep into the complexities of America's troubled past. Get ready to be captivated by its powerful narrative, thought-provoking themes, and unforgettable characters.
English Passengers
Matthew Kneale | Gardners Books

English Passengers

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$10.90

46% off est. retail
"English Passengers" is for you if you're drawn to novels that blend history with an adventurous spirit. Kneale weaves an impressive array of narratives together, each offering a unique perspective that transforms history's complexities into a personal exploration for each reader. The vivid characters will transport you to an era of exploration and confrontation, where moral dilemmas and cultural clashes play out in a richly depicted Tasmanian backdrop.
Brazzaville Beach
William Boyd | Penguin Canada

Brazzaville Beach

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

67% off est. retail
If you're looking for a story that blends the excitement of scientific discovery with the depth of personal introspection, "Brazzaville Beach" will captivate you. The novel's intertwining of Hope Clearwater’s personal journey with the tumultuous politics of a corner of Africa offers a rich tapestry of conflict and contemplation. Boyd’s masterful narrative will make you ponder the complexities of life and our place in the world.
Horse
Geraldine Brooks | Viking

Horse

$29.90

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$29.90

31% off est. retail
"Horse" isn't just about a majestic animal; it's an intricate tapestry of human and equine connections that spans centuries. Geraldine Brooks masterfully weaves narratives from the past and present, creating an emotional and intellectual journey that explores the bounds of obsession, the nuances of art, and the persistent shadows of racial injustice. You'll find it's more than a story—it's a resonating conversation on the legacies we inherit and the stories we tell.
The Gap of Time: The Winter's Tale Retold (Hogarth Shakespeare) - Thryft

The Gap of Time: The Winter's Tale Retold (Hogarth Shakespeare)

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

69% off est. retail
Recommendation: This enchanting retelling of Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale takes readers on a mesmerizing journey of lost identity, heartbreak, and ultimate redemption. Jeanette Winterson's clever and beautiful prose breathes new life into the timeless story, leaving readers emotionally moved and intellectually captivated. Pulsating with authenticity and imaginative generosity, this novel demands multiple readings to fully appreciate its many layers. Prepare to be transported to a world where the past and present collide, where lost things are found, and where forgiveness prevails. A must-read for lovers of Shakespeare and those seeking a truly unforgettable literary experience.
And We Sold The Rain - Contemporary Fiction From Central America - Thryft
Rosario Santos | Four Walls

And We Sold The Rain - Contemporary Fiction From Central America

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

This book could be a good read for you if you are intrigued by the untold stories of Central America's tumultuous past. Through powerful narratives, the author brings to light the harsh realities of massacres, guerrilla warfare, and the effects of a fragile economy on the oppressed. Prepare to be moved by the enduring spirit of the characters as they navigate through family life, depression, and the fight for justice.
Go Set a Watchman
Harper Lee | William Heinemann

Go Set a Watchman

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.31

$8.26

"Go Set a Watchman" might stir mixed emotions for a fan of "To Kill a Mockingbird" but will certainly offer a more complex perspective on its characters. You'll connect again with Scout, now all grown up, as she navigates through familiar grounds under the harsh light of adult realities. This novel bravely challenges the convictions shaped by Lee's earlier work and invites readers on a journey that questions the past and its heroes. It's a poignant exploration for anyone interested in the evolution of characters and themes over time.
Shape-Shifter
Pauline Melville | Bloomsbury

Shape-Shifter

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$10.90

"Shape-Shifter" is a book that intertwines the fantastical with the mundane. If you're drawn to stories that transport you to the Caribbean and blend folklore with the complexities of modern life, this collection will captivate you. Pauline Melville's ability to lure you into worlds where the surreal feels at home alongside the daily grind makes this a uniquely mesmerizing read.
David's Story
Zoë Wicomb | Kwela Books

David's Story

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.37

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

"David's Story" delves into the complex layers of South African history and identity. Zoë Wicomb weaves a narrative that's as personal as it is political, providing a unique lens into the struggles of the country's past. It's a fitting book for anyone seeking to understand the human side of apartheid's legacy through the eyes of compelling, richly detailed characters.
The Emperor
Ahmed Essop | Ravan Press

The Emperor

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail
Essop's "The Emperor" offers a profound look into the dynamics of power and the inevitability of change, set against a South African background. If you're interested in the interplay of political and personal narratives, this book will resonate with you. It's a unique lens on authority and revolution, infused with local color and context.
End of the Drive
Louis L'Amour | Bantam Books

End of the Drive

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

68% off est. retail
Louis L'Amour's 'End of the Drive' offers an authentic glimpse into the Western frontier, perfect for those who appreciate the raw essence of Americana. Each story delves into themes of survival, justice, and rugged individualism. If you're drawn to the untamed landscapes and the compelling struggles of early American settlers, this book promises to transport you right into the heart of the West.
Beloved
Toni Morrison | Knopf

Beloved

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$11.90

If you're looking to immerse yourself in a profound narrative that grapples with the horrors of slavery and its long-lasting impact, "Beloved" by Toni Morrison is an essential read. Morrison's masterful storytelling vividly brings to life the psychological depth of her characters, making it an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after the final page.
Vinegar Hill - Thryft
A. Manette Ansay | Harper Perennial

Vinegar Hill

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.39

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

81% off est. retail
"Vinegar Hill" is more than just a journey back to 1972 Wisconsin; it's a deep dive into the resilience of the human spirit. As you navigate through Ellen Grier's life, you're sure to resonate with her plight—living under the weight of oppressive in-laws and a community bound by harsh, judgmental faith. Ellen's struggle for self-determination and her courage in the face of grim realities promise to inspire and provoke thought about the battles we all fight for personal freedom.
The Plot Against America - Thryft

The Plot Against America

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

79% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for those who are captivated by alternate history narratives that explore the impact of political decisions on individual lives. Through the eyes of a young Jewish boy in Newark, Philip Roth crafts a chilling tale of fear and uncertainty as America falls under the control of a president with anti-Semitic beliefs. With its striking parallels to contemporary politics, this book offers a thought-provoking reflection on the fragility of democracy and the dangers of populist leaders. Prepare to be gripped from beginning to end by the haunting and unsettling atmosphere created by Roth's masterful storytelling.
Charming Billy
Alice McDermott | Delta Trade Paperbacks

Charming Billy

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.48

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

73% off est. retail
"Charming Billy" isn't just a book, it's a heartfelt journey through the intricacies of family lore, dashed hopes, and the ties that bind a community. With Alice McDermott's deft storytelling, you'll find yourself immersed in the tender, yet unflinching examination of the ripple effects one man's life—and death—can have. It's a story that stays with you, illuminating the strength and fragility of human connections. If you're drawn to tales told with lyrical prose and deep empathy, let "Charming Billy" be your next read.
Turbott Wolfe
William Plomer | Ad. Donker

Turbott Wolfe

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

If you gravitate towards books that were ahead of their times, igniting debates and challenging status quos, "Turbott Wolfe" might just resonate with you. William Plomer's narrative delves deep into the theme of racism with a boldness that was especially striking for its era. It's not just an engaging story about societal and racial tensions in 1920s South Africa, but a historical milestone that echoes the complexities of human relationships across color lines.
Symphony of Secrets
Brendan Slocumb | Anchor

Symphony of Secrets

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$18.90

If the eloquence of music and the intrigue of a mystery novel are what normally captivates you, "Symphony of Secrets" might just be your next favorite read. It's a thrilling investigation into the complex fabric of legacy, talent, and deception that weaves together the past and the present, pulling you into a quest for justice and truth. Dive in and join Bern as he challenges historical narratives, making it a resonant tale for those who love to unearth buried truths.
What Maisie Knew - Thryft
Henry James | Penguin Books

What Maisie Knew

$10.13 $3.90 62% off

Goodreads rating: 3.41

$10.13 $3.90 62% off

If you're intrigued by the complexities of family dynamics and the resilience of youth, "What Maisie Knew" could be a poignant pick for you. Henry James masterfully portrays the world through the eyes of a perceptive yet vulnerable child, offering a compelling narrative that tackles the theme of innocence corrupted by adult selfishness and moral ambiguity. It's an exploration of maturity and self-awareness that's as insightful today as it was at the time of its publication.
The Road to Wanting
Wendy Law-Yone | Chatto & Windus

The Road to Wanting

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

86% off est. retail
"The Road to Wanting" takes you on a profound emotional odyssey through the life of a character who has endured much and seeks solace. Wendy Law-Yone beautifully uncovers the veiled aspects of the East, blending the raw realities of exploitation with the healing grace of facing one's past. It's an evocative read that will resonate if you're interested in deeply personal narratives set against a backdrop of cultural turmoil.
To Kill a Mockingbird
Harper Lee | Warner Books

To Kill a Mockingbird

$9.71

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$9.71

48% off est. retail
If you're looking to explore the depths of human ethics against the backdrop of a poignant Southern setting, "To Kill a Mockingbird" is that journey. Not only does it elegantly depict struggles with conscience through the innocent eyes of children but it's also underpinned by a narrative that's as moving as it is enlightening—an experience that resonates long after the last page. Harper Lee's ability to weave a story that reflects on society's imperfections while celebrating the potential for goodness makes this a must-read.
Purple Hibiscus
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie | 4th Estate

Purple Hibiscus

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

66% off est. retail
"Purple Hibiscus" could be a profound experience for you if you're drawn to stories that explore the complexities of family dynamics, personal growth, and political tension. As Kambili's narrative unfolds, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where love and tyranny coexist, prompting reflections on freedom, resilience, and the meaning of home. Plus, Adichie's prose is a delight to read—crafted with care and full of emotional depth.
Passing
Sold out
Nella Larsen | Penguin Books

Passing

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$8.90

"Passing" is a compelling read at the intersection of race, identity, and society's perceptions. It's a novel that digs into the heart of the Harlem Renaissance, with characters that live on the edge of societal norms. For anyone interested in the complexities of personal choice versus social expectation, this book hits hard, exploring themes that are as relevant today as they were in the 1920s. It's a thought-provoking choice that might lead you to question—what parts of ourselves do we hide or reveal, and at what cost?
Not Without Laughter
Sold out
Maya Angelou, Langston Hughes  | Scribner

Not Without Laughter

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.23

$10.90

60% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the resilience and complexity woven into the fabric of African-American experiences, "Not Without Laughter" could be a profound read for you. Langston Hughes captures the essence of a Black family's challenges and joys in an early 20th-century Kansas town with lyrical prowess that resonates deeply even today. It's a testament to the enduring human spirit.
The Fortune Men
Sold out
Nadifa Mohamed | Vikin

The Fortune Men

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$11.90

64% off est. retail
Imagine being wrongfully accused in an era where prejudice is rampant, and the legal system isn't what we know today. "The Fortune Men" delves deep into that scenario, threading together the life of Mahmood Mattan with the cultural tapestry of 1950s Cardiff. Your heart might race as you root for truth in the face of overwhelming adversity, making it a compelling read for those fascinated by historical dramas and the human spirit’s resilience against injustice.
The Kingdom of This World
Sold out
Alejo Carpentier, Edwidge Danticat, Harriet de Onís  | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Kingdom of This World

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90

If you're someone who appreciates a blend of historical narrative with a dash of magical realism, "The Kingdom of This World" is a mesmerizing choice. Alejo Carpentier brings Haiti's complex past to life, weaving through the era of colonialism to the Haitian Revolution with prose that's almost lyrical in its delivery. It's a book that transports you into a realm where history and mythology coexist, offering a deeply immersive reading experience.
Island Beneath the Sea
Sold out
Isabel Allende | Harper Collins Omes

Island Beneath the Sea

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

74% off est. retail
If tales of resilience in the face of adversity captivate you, "Island Beneath the Sea" by Isabel Allende should be your next pick. Allende crafts a nuanced narrative that not only highlights the harrowing realities of slavery but also the extraordinary determination of one woman to forge her own path. This book's vivid portrayal of strength and survival could inspire you as it has many others.
Jack
Sold out
Marilynne Robinson | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

Jack

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$9.90

53% off est. retail
"Jack" is more than just a love story; it's a profound exploration of America—its history, its racial tensions, and its spirituality. Those deep into character-driven narratives will find Jack's journey to redemption, against the backdrop of a complicated era, both touching and thought-provoking. Marilynne Robinson has a knack for crafting characters that stay with you, and in "Jack," she delivers an emotional odyssey that highlights the complexities of love and belonging.
Ghost Girl, Banana
Sold out
Wiz Wharton | Hodder & Stoughton

Ghost Girl, Banana

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$11.90

58% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that feel like they speak directly to your heart, "Ghost Girl, Banana" could resonate with you. Wiz Wharton delicately unwraps the complexities of family and identity, merging humor and poignancy in a way that lets the narrative glow. It's a contemporary tale that might just redefine how you think about what it means to find where you belong.
Cry, the Beloved Country
Sold out
Alan Paton | Pearson Education

Cry, the Beloved Country

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$7.90

73% off est. retail
If you ever felt like breaking away from the mundane routine of everyday life, "Cry, The Beloved Country" will resonate with you. Witness Shirley's hilarious yet poignant journey as she swaps her domestic drudgery for a taste of romance and adventure in Greece. It's a feel-good story of self-discovery that might just inspire you to follow your own dreams.
Varina
Sold out
Charles Frazier | Sceptre

Varina

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

84% off est. retail
"Varina" offers a humanizing perspective on American history, focusing not on the battles, but on the personal struggles and moral complexities of Varina Howell. Her journey from a hopeful bride to the First Lady of the Confederacy, and eventual fugitive, paints a vivid picture of a divided nation. Sharing Varina's story gives us a window to the past, challenging us to question where we stand amidst the tides of history.
The Collaborators
Sold out
Reginald Hill | Harpercollins

The Collaborators

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

72% off est. retail
"The Collaborators" dives into the complex and emotive subject of people's choices under the oppressive Nazi occupation of France. Hill's storytelling doesn't just captivate; it challenges you to ponder the thin line between survival and betrayal. If you're drawn to human stories set against the backdrop of war, where the characters' moral choices are tested to the extreme, you would find this book both thought-provoking and engrossing.
Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures
Sold out
Emma Straub | Picador

Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

63% off est. retail
"Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures" is an invitation to immerse in the luscious era of old Hollywood and follow the transformative journey of Elsa Emerson into Laura Lamont. You get to taste the blend of glamour and the undercurrents of personal sacrifice that come with fame. It's a deep dive into a movie star's life, replete with triumphs and trials, and it might leave you reflecting on the delicate balance between public image and private reality. If you're enchanted by the golden age of cinema and relish stories of personal evolution, this book is your backstage pass to one woman's captivating life.
Property
Sold out
Valerie Martin | Abacus

Property

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

76% off est. retail
Valerie Martin's "Property" offers a profound narrative that immerses you in the antebellum South, weaving a story that reveals the harrowing realities of ownership and autonomy. This gripping novel provides insight into the personal and societal chains that bind both owner and owned, delivering an enthralling and resonant experience that will leave you pondering long after the last page. With validation from literary giants like Toni Morrison, it promises substance that could challenge and captivate you in equal measure.
The Rain Before It Falls
Sold out
Jonathan Coe | Penguin Books

The Rain Before It Falls

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

This book, with its deep emotional undercurrents, could resonate with you if family sagas stir something in your soul. Jonathan Coe's craftsmanship in weaving secrets across generations turns the quest for truth into a compelling journey that explores the bonds and bruises of mother-daughter relationships. It's not just a tale; it's a mirror to the haunting nature of family legacies.
We Need New Names
Sold out
NoViolet Bulawayo | Random House India

We Need New Names

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$8.90

49% off est. retail
You might find "We Need New Names" eye-opening as it captures the perspective of a young girl navigating two worlds: the impoverished yet vibrant life in Zimbabwe and the starkly different challenges in America. Noviolet Bulawayo presents a story that's both tender and jarring, giving you a look into the hopes and hardships faced by those who dare to dream of a life beyond their borders. It's a contemporary odyssey that speaks to identity, displacement, and the longing for home.
The Weaver's Scar - For Our Rwanda - Thryft
Sold out
Brian Crawford | Royal Fireworks Publishing Company

The Weaver's Scar - For Our Rwanda

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

If you're looking to understand the human side of historical events, "The Weaver's Scar - For Our Rwanda" could speak to you. It's not just history; it's a boy's tale of endurance in a society being torn apart. You'll gain insight into the complexities of identity and the impacts of division, all through the lens of a young life navigating extraordinary challenges.
The Palm-Wine Drinkard; and, My Life in the Bush of Ghosts - Thryft
Sold out
Edward Geoffrey Parrinder, Michael Thelwell, Amos Tutuola  | Grove Press

The Palm-Wine Drinkard; and, My Life in the Bush of Ghosts

$10.13 $3.90 62% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$10.13 $3.90 62% off

85% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the mystical and the mythical, Amos Tutuola's "The Palm-Wine Drinkard" can transport you to otherworldly African landscapes. Its narrative, rich in folkloric charm, offers a unique glimpse into Yoruba tales, making it a compelling read for adventurers at heart who relish in the exploration of cultural depths through literature.
Pao
Sold out
Kerry Young | Bloomsbury Usa

Pao

$14.90 $5.90 60% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$14.90 $5.90 60% off

80% off est. retail
"Pao" is a novel with heart and heritage, plunging you into a vibrant, gritty Jamaica far from the postcards. Kerry Young delivers a poignant narrative told through the eyes of Pao, a character caught between the roles of a criminal godfather and a tender-hearted man. This read promises more than just thrills; it's an exploration of identity and a front row seat to a historical juncture in Jamaica's story. The allure of Pao's duality, matched with the rich backdrop of cultural fusion, gives this book a distinctive flavor that's both enlightening and entertaining.
Bitter Fruit - Thryft
Sold out
Achmat Dangor | Grove Press, Black Cat

Bitter Fruit

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.31

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

68% off est. retail
"Bitter Fruit" offers more than just a story—it's an immersion into South Africa's turbulent transition out of apartheid. If you're drawn to narratives that blend personal family dramas with sweeping political landscapes, this book will resonate with you. The nuanced portrayal of Silas and his family exposes the complex interplay between personal trauma and national healing, offering a profound commentary on the long shadow of history.
David's Story - Thryft
Sold out
Zoë Wicomb | Kwela Books

David's Story

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.37

$8.26

Unfolding in 1991 South Africa, at the moment of Nelson Mandela’s release, this novel explores the underground world of activists, spies, and saboteurs in the liberation movement—a world seldom revealed to outsiders. It also journeys back in time to find the forgotten history of "coloured" people, whose mixed-race heritage is embedded in four centuries of wrenching South African history. The effect is a bold and revisionary work—a moving exploration of the meaning of history, memory, and truth.
You Can't Get Lost in Cape Town - Thryft
Sold out
Zoë Wicomb | Virago

You Can't Get Lost in Cape Town

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$8.26

Zoë Wicomb's complex and deeply evocative fiction is among the most distinguished recent works of South African women's literature. It is also among the only works of fiction to explore the experience of "Coloured" citizens in apartheid-era South Africa, whose mixed heritage traps them, as Bharati Mukherjee wrote in the New York Times, "in the racial crucible of their country. "Wicomb deserves a wide American audience, on a part with Nadine Gordimer and J.M.Coetzee." - Wall St. Journal Wicomb is a gifted writer, and her compressed narratives work like brilliant splinters in the mind, suggesting a rich rhythm and shape."- Seattle Times "[Wicomb's] prose is vigorous, textured, lyrical. . . . [She] is a sophisticated storyteller who combines the open-endedness of contemporary fiction with the force of autobiography and the simplicity of family stories."-Bharati Mukherjee, New York Times Book Review For course use African literature, African studies, growing up female, world literature, women's studies Zoe Wicomb was born in 1948 and raised in Namaquland, South Africa. After 20 years voluntary exile, she returned to South Africa in 1991 to teach at the University of the Western Cape. She currently lives in Glasgow and teaches at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland. Marcia Wright is professor of history at Columbia University and a member of the executive committee for the Women Writing Africa series. Carol Sicherman is professor emerita of English at Lehman College, CUNY.
Turbott Wolfe - Thryft
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William Plomer | Ad. Donker

Turbott Wolfe

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Goodreads rating: 3.46

$8.26

“It is an inexplicable lapse on the part of literary scholars and critics,” writes Nadine Gordimer in her Introduction, “that Turbott Wolfe is not recognised as a pyrotechnic presence in the canon of renegade colonialist literature along with Conrad.” Indeed, William Plomer’s astonishing first novel, which first appeared in 1926, ignited a firestorm of controversy in his native South Africa. At the novel’s center is Turbott Wolfe, a British trader who opens a general store in Lembuland. He befriends many of his black customers but has less luck ingratiating himself with the bigoted whites who have lived in the area for generations. Eventually, Wolfe and his comrades embrace miscegenation as the key to Africa’s future—the Young Africa, where the races have blurred. Provocative and deeply questioning, Turbott Wolfe remains a powerful chronicle of the intimate human consequences of racism.
The Memory Keeper's Daughter - Thryft
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Kim Edwards | Viking Penguin

The Memory Keeper's Daughter

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Goodreads rating: 3.69

$8.26

On a winter night in 1964, Dr. David Henry is forced by a blizzard to deliver his own twins. His son, born first, is perfectly healthy. Yet when his daughter is born, he sees immediately that she has Down's Syndrome. Rationalizing it as a need to protect Norah, his wife, he makes a split-second decision that will alter all of their lives forever. He asks his nurse to take the baby away to an institution and never to reveal the secret. But Caroline, the nurse, cannot leave the infant. Instead, she disappears into another city to raise the child herself. So begins this story that unfolds over a quarter of a century - in which these two families, ignorant of each other, are yet bound by the fateful decision made that long-ago winter night. Norah Henry, who knows only that her daughter died at birth, remains inconsolable; her grief weighs heavily on their marriage. And Paul, their son, raises himself as best he can, in a house grown cold with mourning. Meanwhile, Phoebe, the lost daughter, grows from a sunny child to a vibrant young woman whose mother loves her as fiercely as if she were her own.

Travel Back in Time with Historical Fiction

At Thryft, we invite you to journey through eras gone by with the finest historical fiction. Our selection captures the essence of different times, portraying epoch-defining events and the lives of people who inhabit them. Whether it's ancient history or modern tragedies, our curated collection immerses you in the vast tapestry of human experience. Join us in exploring these rich, vivid histories.