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History Books

Unearth the past with our wide selection of history books at Thryft. Explore ancient civilisations, world wars, and pivotal moments that shaped humanity. Whether you're a history buff or a curious learner, our collection offers both insight and intrigue.
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The Kingdom of Women: Life, Love and Death in China's Hidden Mountains
New
Choo WaiHong | I.b. Tauris & Co Ltd

The Kingdom of Women: Life, Love and Death in China's Hidden Mountains

from $17.92

Goodreads rating: 3.28

from $17.92

In stock: Very Good

Imagine a place where gender roles are flipped, where women lead in almost all aspects of life, and marriage doesn't exist as we know it. That's the essence of "The Kingdom of Women." If you're intrigued by anthropology or just want an intimate look at a culture starkly different from the mainstream, this book offers that deep dive. It's a unique chance to explore love, life, and death from a fresh, thought-provoking perspective.
The Otaku Encyclopedia: An Insider's Guide to the Subculture of Cool Japan
Patrick W. Galbraith | Kodansha Usa

The Otaku Encyclopedia: An Insider's Guide to the Subculture of Cool Japan

from $10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.9

from $10.90

In stock: Like New

If you're intrigued by Japan's vibrant pop culture or consider yourself an anime, manga, or video game enthusiast, "The Otaku Encyclopedia" could be a treasure trove for you. Patrick W. Galbraith's in-depth research and personal insight into the otaku realm make this book an informative and engaging read. It's an essential primer that connects you to the heart of Cool Japan and its colorful lexicon.
Watching the English: The Hidden Rules of English Behaviour
Kate Fox | Hodder & Stoughton

Watching the English: The Hidden Rules of English Behaviour

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

Delving into "Watching the English" is akin to being handed a secret map to navigate the intricate labyrinth of English culture. Kate Fox's approach is both scholarly and accessible, allowing you to chuckle while you appreciate the subtleties that make English people tick. It's perfect for anyone intrigued by cultural idiosyncrasies or for an expat attempting to decode the social maze of England.
Australian Language and Culture : No Worries! - Thryft

Australian Language and Culture : No Worries!

$4.90 from $3.90 Save up to 34%

$4.90 from $3.90 Save up to 34%

In stock: Well Read

This book is an absolute must-read for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Australian culture. From slang and jargon to humorous expressions, it covers all aspects of the unique language spoken down under. Whether you're planning a trip to Australia or just fascinated by their way of speaking, this comprehensive guide will have you speaking like a local in no time. It even includes a section on Aboriginal terminology, making it a truly inclusive resource. Get ready to embrace all things Aussie with this essential slang guide!
The Book of Origins - The First of Everything from Art to Zoos
Trevor Homer | Piatkus Hb/tpb

The Book of Origins - The First of Everything from Art to Zoos

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.48

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

Imagine impressing your friends with cool facts at your next hangout. "The Book Of Origins" is a perfect cocktail of quirky trivia that satisfies the curiosity about various firsts from art to zoos. It's not just a fun read; it's a conversation starter that makes you the most interesting person in the room.
Ancient Angkor
Michael Freeman, Claude Jacques  | River Books Press Dist A C

Ancient Angkor

$3.90 Save 20%

Goodreads rating: 3.45

$3.90 Save 20%

In stock: Very Good

A handbook on the ancient temples of Angkor for travellers to Cambodia and enthusiasts.

Prehistoric Life
New
Michael J. Benton | The Watts Publishing Group

Prehistoric Life

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're fascinated by creatures from the past and the sheer scale of Earth's history, "Prehistoric Life" is a time capsule waiting for you to unearth it. Its detailed content guides you through the evolution of life, offering a glimpse of what once roamed our planet long before humanity's chapter began. It's a treasure trove for anyone passionate about paleontology and natural history.
The Sea-Dyaks of Borneo
Edwin Herbert Gomes | Opus Publications Sdn Bhd

The Sea-Dyaks of Borneo

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

from $8.90

In stock: Like New

If you're intrigued by ethnography or anthropology, "The Sea-Dyaks of Borneo" presents a captivating insight into the lives and traditions of Borneo's indigenous people. It could be an enriching read, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in the depth of a culture that's been shaped by both land and water, traditions, and the pressures of changing times.
The Trouble with Names : Forms of Address in Asia - Thryft
Hyacinth Gaudart | Snp Editions

The Trouble with Names : Forms of Address in Asia

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Well Read

This book is a treasure trove for anyone seeking to understand the cultural intricacies involved in addressing others in Asia. With clear and concise explanations, Hyacinth Gaudart opens up a world of cultural knowledge that can help readers conduct themselves with grace and courtesy, regardless of where they are in Asia. Whether you are a tourist, student, or business professional, this book is an essential guide to avoiding social missteps and making lasting connections.
The Hunting Apes - Meat Eating And The Origins Of Human Behavior - Thryft
Craig Stanford | Princeton University Press

The Hunting Apes - Meat Eating And The Origins Of Human Behavior

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.58

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Well Read

Recommendation: The Hunting Apes argues that meat eating drove human evolution, making it a must-read for those interested in anthropology, human biology, and nutrition. The book details the social significance of meat-sharing and consumption, making it a fascinating exploration of the origins and behavior of the human species.
The Oxford Companion to Beer
Garrett Oliver, Tom Colicchio  | Oxford University Press

The Oxford Companion to Beer

from $21.90

Goodreads rating: 4.39

from $21.90

In stock: Very Good

If you’ve found yourself fascinated by the frothy depths of a beer glass, The Oxford Companion to Beer could be your new best friend. Imagine an all-encompassing journey that not only dives into the beverage’s rich history but also explores the nuances that go into brewing it. Whether you're a casual sipper or a homebrew hero, this tome is like a beer festival in book form, serving up a world of knowledge with a side of cultural zest. Cheers to that!
A Far Corner: Life and Art With the Open Circle Tribe
Scott Ezell | University Of Nebraska Press

A Far Corner: Life and Art With the Open Circle Tribe

from $15.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

from $15.90

In stock: Well Read

"A Far Corner" isn't just a book; it's a portal to a rarely seen world. Imagine living with the Open Circle Tribe, sharing music, love, and life on the fringes. It's a chance to see the world through the eyes of people who are part of a sophisticated culture—almost unknown to us. The adventures of Scott Ezell in Taiwan offer a deep dive into the heart of a community that maintains its heritage against the tide of modernity. It's perfect for anyone longing to experience a profound connection with an ancient society through the lens of a contemporary American poet.
The Age of Deer - Trouble and Kinship with Our Wild Neighbors
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Erika Howsare | Catapult

The Age of Deer - Trouble and Kinship with Our Wild Neighbors

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.78

from $8.90

Out of stock

"The Age Of Deer" might really speak to you if you're intrigued by the delicate interplay between humans and wildlife. Erika Howsare intertwines rich cultural insights with the stark realities of our interactions with deer. It's not just about the animal; it's a deeper dive into how we view and coexist with nature itself, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersection of ecology, society, and the poignant symbolism deer bring to our existence.
Why Did The Chicken Cross The World? - Thryft
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Andrew Lawler | Duckworth

Why Did The Chicken Cross The World?

from $5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.74

from $5.07

Out of stock

- This book is a fascinating exploration of the unexpected global impact of chickens. It delves into the history, biology, and cultural significance of these feathered creatures, taking readers on a journey across continents and centuries. You'll be amazed at how something as simple as a chicken has shaped our world in profound ways. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just curious about our interconnected world, this book is a must-read.
Collapse : How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive - Thryft
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Jared Diamond | Penguin Books Canada, Limited

Collapse : How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive

from $12.24

Goodreads rating: 3.93

from $12.24

Out of stock

From the ghostly stone heads of Easter Island to crumbling Mayan cities hidden deep in the jungle, the mysterious ruins of lost worlds and vanished civilizations continue to haunt us. How could such mighty societies fall? And could our skyscrapers one day stand derelict and overgrown like ancient temples? Jared Diamond takes us on an epic journey around the globe, through the history of humanity and on to the future, to discover how - when tomorrow comes - we can be survivors.
The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined
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Steven Pinker | Penguin Books

The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.16

from $11.90

Out of stock

Imagine flipping through history with an optimistic lens—that's the journey Steven Pinker offers in "The Better Angels of Our Nature." Pinker doesn't just tell you that violence has declined; he painstakingly proves it, scrutinizing the past and offering a refreshing, hopeful perspective on the trajectory of human behavior. This chunky tome offers more than stats and facts—it's a deep-dive into the better side of our nature that might just leave you feeling surprisingly optimistic about the world.
A Million Years in a Day: A Curious History of Daily Life
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Greg Jenner | Weidenfeld & Nicolson

A Million Years in a Day: A Curious History of Daily Life

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.73

from $8.90

Out of stock

If you ever wonder why we do the things we do, "A Million Years in a Day" by Greg Jenner is a delightful guide through the history of our everyday activities. Jenner’s spark of humor lightens the vast timeline, making the connections from past to present both relatable and entertaining. It's a read that transforms the mundane into a series of mini adventures through the annals of human existence.
The Origins of Political Order: From Prehuman Times to the French Revolution
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Francis Fukuyama | Profile Books

The Origins of Political Order: From Prehuman Times to the French Revolution

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

from $8.90

Out of stock

The Origins of Political Order by Francis Fukuyama is an insightful and comprehensive analysis of the development of political systems throughout history. Fukuyama explores the evolution of political systems, tracing the origins of institutions and ideas that shaped society as we know it today. By examining the paths that different societies have taken, this magisterial study provides readers with a better understanding of the origins of political order and how it affects society today. Readers interested in history, politics and anthropology would find this book informative and thought-provoking.
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down - Thryft
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Anne Fadiman | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Out of stock

"The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" is a profound exploration into the clash between two worlds - the Hmong culture's deeply rooted traditions and the stark rationality of Western medicine. Understanding this book could open your eyes to the complexities of cultural assimilation and the often overlooked nuances in healthcare. It's a must-read if you're interested in the ways in which cultural differences impact lives in very real, tangible ways.
The Neanderthal's Necklace: In Search of the First Thinkers - Thryft
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Juan Luis Arsuaga, Andy Klatt  | Four Walls Eight Windows

The Neanderthal's Necklace: In Search of the First Thinkers

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Out of stock

If you've ever been fascinated by the distant relatives of modern humans, "The Neanderthal's Necklace" offers a richly detailed portal into the lives of these ancient beings. Juan Luis de Arsuaga brings a blend of scientific rigor and narrative charm, providing a vivid picture of Neanderthals and sparking intriguing questions about our own place in the evolutionary tale. This book is a patchwork of paleontology and heartfelt curiosity that grips you with a quest to understand our oldest ancestors.
The Sun, The Genome, and The Internet : Tools of Scientific Revolution - Thryft
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Freeman Dyson | New York Public Library

The Sun, The Genome, and The Internet : Tools of Scientific Revolution

$7.46 from $5.22 Save up to 30%

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$7.46 from $5.22 Save up to 30%

Out of stock

The Sun, The Genome, and The Internet is a must-read for anyone interested in the potential of emerging technologies to make the world a better place. Dyson argues that solar energy, genetic engineering, and the internet have the power to create a more equal society, eliminating cultural isolation and restoring economic vitality to communities that have been devalued by globalization. His passionate conviction about the ethical uses of science make this book an inspiring call to action for people who want to be part of this transformative movement.
The Human Past: World Prehistory & The Development of Human Societies - Thryft
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Christopher Scarre | Thames & Hudson

The Human Past: World Prehistory & The Development of Human Societies

$16.90 from $11.90 Save up to 32%

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$16.90 from $11.90 Save up to 32%

Out of stock

"The Human Past" is a treasure for anyone intrigued by the depths of our ancestral heritage. Christopher Scarce's extensive volume, graced with insights from a host of archaeological experts, paints a vivid picture of how humanity has evolved socially, culturally, and economically over the span of millions of years. If stories of ancient civilizations and the ways archaeologists uncover the past fascinate you, this book will be an invaluable guide through the epochs.
History of the World in 100 Modern Objects: Middle-Class Stuff (and Nonsense)
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Francesca Hornak | Portico

History of the World in 100 Modern Objects: Middle-Class Stuff (and Nonsense)

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

from $8.90

Out of stock

If the quirks and trappings of modern middle-class life fascinate you, "History of the World in 100 Modern Objects" is your cup of tea. Hornak's columns are like peering through a series of windows into everyday moments that are at once humorous and identifiable. It's cultural commentary wrapped in charm, perfectly complemented by Joyce's vibrant illustrations—a light-hearted read that's bound to elicit knowing nods and chuckles.
The Means Of Naming - Thryft
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The Means Of Naming

from $25.16

from $25.16

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Names are never given accidentally; they are chosen and bestowed according to rules that reflect fundamental features of the society and culture concerned. This is a study of the nature and history of naming practices in Western Europe.


Author: Stephen Wilson
Publisher: Routledge
Publication Date: 1998
The Fall of Public Man - Thryft
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Richard Sennett | Gardners Books

The Fall of Public Man

$7.53 from $5.27 Save up to 30%

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$7.53 from $5.27 Save up to 30%

Out of stock

Recommendation: The Fall of Public Man is a thought-provoking analysis of the decline in public life and political involvement in recent decades. Richard Sennett's erudition and historical imagination brilliantly describe the growing imbalance between private and public experience in modern society. This book provides a fascinating perspective on the relationship between public life and the cult of the individual, and argues for a more formal public culture to reconnect with our communities.
Forests of Belonging: Identities, Ethnicities, and Stereotypes in the Congo River Basin - Thryft
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Stephanie Rupp | University Of Washington Press

Forests of Belonging: Identities, Ethnicities, and Stereotypes in the Congo River Basin

from $18.37

Goodreads rating: 3.5

from $18.37

Out of stock

Forests of Belonging examines the history and ongoing transformation of ethnic and social relationships among four distinct communities--Bangando, Baka, Bakwéle, and Mbomam--in the Lobéké forest region of southeastern Cameroon. By slotting forest communities into ecological categories such as "hunters" and "gatherers," previous analyses of social relationships in tropical forests have resulted in binary frameworks that render real-life relationships invisible and that have perpetuated correspondingly misleading labels, such as "pygmy." Through rich descriptive detail resulting from field work among the Bangando, Stephanie Rupp illustrates the complexity of social ties among groups and individuals, and their connections with the natural world. She demonstrates that social and ethno-ecological relations in equatorial African forests are nuanced, contested, and shifting, and that the intricacy of these links must be considered in the design and implementation of aid policies and strategies for conservation and development.
Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America - Thryft
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David Hackett Fischer | Oxford University Press

Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America

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Goodreads rating: 4.36

$13.10 from $7.86 Save up to 40%

Out of stock

Albion's Seed is a great read for a history enthusiast, particularly those interested in the formation of America's regional cultures. Fischer's work effectively outlines the folkways and cultural differences between early British settlers in America, and how they have persisted to varying degrees in different areas of the country. This book is a valuable resource for understanding American cultural history, and would be a particularly good fit for those studying the social sciences or anyone with a keen interest in American regionalism.
From Eden to Exile : Unravelling Mysteries of the Bible - Thryft
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Eric H. Cline | National Geographic

From Eden to Exile : Unravelling Mysteries of the Bible

from $11.11

Goodreads rating: 3.68

from $11.11

Out of stock

Book recommendation: - This book is perfect for those who are curious about the historical context of biblical stories. Eric H. Cline expertly combines archaeology, science, and history to unravel the mysteries of the Bible, separating fact from myth. His engaging writing style and ability to present complex concepts in an accessible manner make this book a captivating and informative read for both scholars and casual readers. Prepare to have your understanding of ancient Israel enriched with accurate details and fascinating theories.
Ain't There No More : Louisiana's Disappearing Coastal Plain - Thryft
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Robert Twilley, Donald Edward Davis, Carl A. Brasseaux  | University Press Of Mississippi

Ain't There No More : Louisiana's Disappearing Coastal Plain

$13.61 from $5.85 Save up to 57%

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$13.61 from $5.85 Save up to 57%

Out of stock

"Ain't There No More" is a must-read for anyone worried about rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and climate change. The book describes the struggles of Louisiana's coastal wetlands inhabitants and their environmental knowledge that could help global communities adapt to modern challenges. The authors use a combination of research and unpublished images to explore the history of the region and provide valuable insights and solutions. It is a powerful testimony to the human consequences of environmental policy and neglect.
Two Cheers for Anarchism : Six Easy Pieces on Autonomy, Dignity, and Meaningful Work and Play - Thryft
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James C. Scott | Princeton University Press

Two Cheers for Anarchism : Six Easy Pieces on Autonomy, Dignity, and Meaningful Work and Play

from $11.12

Goodreads rating: 3.94

from $11.12

Out of stock

Two Cheers for Anarchism could be a good read for someone looking to challenge traditional structures of hierarchy. Scott offers a unique perspective on everyday social and political interactions that inspire readers to consider constructive anarchism. The book celebrates the ingenuity and judgement of individuals exercising their creative and moral capacities. Readers will enjoy relatable anecdotes and examples that touch on a wide range of subjects, including globalization, assembly-line production, and historical explanation.
Gathering Medicines: Nation and Knowledge in China’s Mountain South - Thryft
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Lili Lai, Judith Farquhar  | University Of Chicago Press

Gathering Medicines: Nation and Knowledge in China’s Mountain South

from $17.11

Goodreads rating: 3.33

from $17.11

Out of stock

In the early 2000s, the central government of China encouraged all of the nation’s registered minorities to “salvage, sort, synthesize, and elevate” folk medical knowledges in an effort to create local health care systems comparable to the nationally supported institutions of traditional Chinese medicine. Gathering Medicines bears witness to this remarkable moment of knowledge development while sympathetically introducing the myriad therapeutic traditions of southern China.Over a period of six years, Judith Farquhar and Lili Lai worked with seven minority nationality groups in China’s southern mountains, observing how medicines were gathered and local healing systems codified. Gathering Medicines shares their intimate view of how people understand ethnicity, locality, the body, and nature. This ethnography of knowledge diversities in multiethnic China is a testament to the rural wisdom of mountain healers, one that theorizes, from the ground up, the dynamic encounters between formal statist knowledge and the popular authority of the wild.
The Time Before History - Thryft
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The Time Before History

$14.90 from $8.90 Save up to 42%

$14.90 from $8.90 Save up to 42%

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If you've ever been curious about how humanity and Earth have shaped each other, Colin Tudge's "The Time Before History" will feed your fascination. His meticulous blending of various scientific disciplines offers a cohesive journey through our planet's and species' past, making complex topics accessible. It's like a time machine that enriches your understanding of the present.
Human Devolution : A Vedic Alternative to Darwin's Theory - Thryft
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Michael A. Cremo | Bbt Science

Human Devolution : A Vedic Alternative to Darwin's Theory

from $17.03

Goodreads rating: 4.14

from $17.03

Out of stock

"Human Devolution provides an in-depth analysis of the Vedic perspective on human origins and consciousness. The book is ideal for readers interested in alternative theories to Darwin's evolution. Cremo’s meticulous research and documentation prove insightful and thought-provoking as he takes readers on a fascinating tour of time and space, exploring a wide range of enigmas and theories related to the origins of humanity. Readers will appreciate the use of state-of-the-art consciousness studies and cutting-edge research to explain how we devolved from pure consciousness to our earthly realm. Overall, this book offers a fresh perspective on human origins that is both engaging and enlightening."
Families in Asia: Home and Kin
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Stella R. Quah | Routledge

Families in Asia: Home and Kin

from $16.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

from $16.90

Out of stock

Recommended for individuals seeking cross-cultural insight.

Dive into the annals of time

At Thryft, we carry a vast collection of history books that transport you to different eras and locales. From the wonders of ancient Egypt to the complexities of the Cold War, we've curated an array of works that cater to both seasoned historians and casual readers. With selections that shed light on the socio-political landscapes of yesteryears, each book promises a journey into rich narratives and factual revelations. Expand your understanding of human progression with works that are as educational as they are exciting.