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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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Critical Play: Radical Game Design
Mary Flanagan | Mit Press

Critical Play: Radical Game Design

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$11.90

80% off est. retail
If games are more than just mere entertainment to you, and you're fascinated by how they intersect with art, politics, and society, then 'Critical Play' by Mary Flanagan should be on your shelf. Flanagan delves into how subversive games can be powerful tools for expression and change, blending historical context with modern digital examples. It's a thought-provoking read that challenges the stereotype of games as purely escapist and offers a refreshing perspective on the potential of games as a medium for serious cultural commentary.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug - Chronicles III: Art & Design
Just Arrived
Daniel Falconer, Alan Lee, Ra Vincent  | Harpercollins

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug - Chronicles III: Art & Design

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.54

$10.90

84% off est. retail
If you're mesmerized by Middle-earth, "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Chronicles - Art & Design" offers a treasure trove of visual delights that deepen that enchantment. As you pore over the 1,000-plus images, sketches, and commentary from the filmmakers, you're not just reading a book; you're embarking on a curator-guided tour of the film's creative process. It's like having VIP access to the art department of one of the most visually captivating movies of our time, making it a must-have for fans of the trilogy and lovers of film artistry. Plus, the inclusion of unique collectibles, like the fold-out portrait, adds that special touch of exclusivity.
The Grammar of Ornament
Owen Jones, John Burley Waring, John Obadiah Westwood

The Grammar of Ornament

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$10.90

If you love design, craft, or the hidden logic behind beautiful objects, this feels endlessly rewarding to dip into. Owen Jones turns ornament into something you can really see and understand, with page after page of striking motifs from across cultures. It’s the kind of book people revisit for inspiration, whether they’re artists, decorators, or simply drawn to exquisite visual detail.
世界编织（传承至今的传统编织物）/尚锦手工世界手艺系列
匿名 | China Textile Press And Apparel Press

世界编织（传承至今的传统编织物）/尚锦手工世界手艺系列

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$11.90

If you're fascinated by the artistry of weaving and cherish the idea of connecting through generations of craftsmanship, this book could be your treasure trove. It's more than a guide to knitting; it's an inspiration for decor, fashion, and reviving the creator within you. Dive into the diversity of weaves and let it spark your imagination and perhaps, even your passion for handcrafting.
Saul Bass: A Life in Film & Design
Jennifer Bass, Martin Scorsese, Pat Kirkham  | Laurence King Publishing

Saul Bass: A Life in Film & Design

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.57

$12.90

85% off est. retail
If you're passionate about design or film, or simply intrigued by the marriage of the two, "Saul Bass: A Life in Film & Design" might just captivate you. The sheer breadth of Bass's influential work, brought to life through a visual feast of illustrations, makes for a fascinating dive into a creative legacy that has shaped much of the visual language we see in media today. It's not just a book; it's a comprehensive archive that invites you to explore the genius behind some of the most memorable cinematic and corporate images.
Fashion in Detail from the 17th and 18th Centuries
Avril Hart, Susan North  | Rizzoli

Fashion in Detail from the 17th and 18th Centuries

$28.90 $17.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$28.90 $17.90 38% off

If you're captivated by the intricate beauty of historical garments, "Fashion in Detail" could be a treasure trove for you. Hart and North's meticulous photography juxtaposed with line drawings reveal the structure beneath the surface, offering a deeper appreciation for 17th and 18th-century craftsmanship. This book isn't just a delight to the eyes; it's a wellspring of knowledge and inspiration for anyone passionate about fashion's past.
The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: How Greg Heffley Went Hollywood
Just Arrived
Jeff Kinney | Harry N. Abrams

The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: How Greg Heffley Went Hollywood

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$11.90

60% off est. retail
This is a really fun behind-the-scenes peek at how Greg Heffley made the jump from page to screen. It has the same easy, humorous Wimpy Kid energy, but mixes in photos, storyboards, scripts, and costume designs that make the whole movie process feel exciting and surprisingly accessible. If you like books that feel interactive and packed with extras, this one is a great companion read.
Furniture Design / Mobel Design / Design De Meubles / Muebles De Siseno
Francisco Asensio Cerver | Te Neues Pub Group

Furniture Design / Mobel Design / Design De Meubles / Muebles De Siseno

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.44

$10.90

If the interplay between aesthetics and practicality fascinates you, Cristina Montes' "Furniture Design" is a visual journey you'll appreciate. This book not only showcases diverse styles and eras but also delves into the minds of designers who make everyday objects into art. It's a conversation starter for your coffee table and a source of inspiration for anyone interested in the craft of furniture making.
World Crafts: A Celebration of Designs and Skills
Jacqueline Herald | Letts Of London

World Crafts: A Celebration of Designs and Skills

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

If you're a fan of global artistry and traditional craftsmanship, "World Crafts" is like a passport to the world's artisanal treasures. It's not just a book; it's a journey that celebrates diverse cultures through their unique designs and skills. Perfect for anyone who appreciates handiwork and cultural heritage, it could deeply enrich your understanding and appreciation for global arts.
Period Style - Thryft
MARTIN MILLER' 'JUDITH MILLER | Mitchell Beazley

Period Style

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

If you're someone who adores blending past and present in your living space, "Period Style" by Martin and Judith Miller could become your go-to guide. It's more than just an interior design book; it's an imaginative journey through history, helping you create a timeless atmosphere without being bound by strict rules. It's both a visual inspiration and a practical manual.
Skins, Bones and Empty Spaces - Atelier Thomas Pucher - Thryft
Mi Young Ed. Pyo | Damdi

Skins, Bones and Empty Spaces - Atelier Thomas Pucher

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90

90% off est. retail
If architecture captivates you, "Skins, Bones and Empty Spaces" could be your next visual feast. Delving into the projects of Atelier Thomas Pucher, the book offers a riveting glimpse into buildings that craft cityscapes. From project conception to realization, you'll appreciate the blend of innovation and practicality infused in each design. It's a window into the creative process of a world-renowned architectural firm.
Insight Smart Guides: Malta - Thryft
Insight Guides | Insight Guides

Insight Smart Guides: Malta

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

77% off est. retail
If you're gearing up for a Maltese adventure, this Smart Guide will be your travel bible. Its clever A-Z layout means quick access to precisely the info you need—whether that's local festas, hidden beaches, or the best bars. Take advice from those who know Malta inside out and tailor your trip to see what truly interests you. Plus, the handy maps included will ensure you won't miss out on any hidden gems.
Graphic Design Source Book - Thryft
Barry Kitts, Liz McQuiston  | Chartwell House

Graphic Design Source Book

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

90% off est. retail
The Graphic Design Source Book is a treasure trove of visual inspiration for graphic designers, art students, and history buffs alike. The book features a comprehensive history of modern commercial art, tracing its evolution from the early 20th century to contemporary design. With over 500 illustrations, the book showcases some of the most iconic designs in advertising, posters, book jackets, and packaging from around the world. The authors provide insightful annotations that contextualize the designs and explore their cultural and historical significance. The book is perfect for anyone looking to expand their creative horizons and deepen their understanding of the power of design in contemporary culture.
The Kitchen - History, Culture, Design
Rita Mielke | Feierabend Verlag

The Kitchen - History, Culture, Design

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're intrigued by the evolution of the household, particularly the kitchen's transition from a purely functional space to the social epicenter of the home, Rita Mielke's exploration will resonate with you. It's a deep dive into how design, culture, and the very rhythm of our daily lives are influenced by this central room. You'll come away with a newfound appreciation for the culinary theatre that likely sits at the heart of your own home.
Dandy Beano: The First Fifty Years
D.C. Thomson & Company Limited | D.c. Thomson & Co Ltd

Dandy Beano: The First Fifty Years

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$9.90

If comic strips are a nostalgic alley for you, the 'Dandy Beano: The First Fifty Years' is a treasure trove you'd appreciate. It's a deep dive into the beloved characters and their evolution, perfect for reliving cherished childhood memories or discovering what made these comics a cultural staple.
Disney - The Ultimate Visual Guide
Russell K. Schroeder, Walt Disney Company  | A Dorling Kindersley Book

Disney - The Ultimate Visual Guide

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.4

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

87% off est. retail
If you've ever been enchanted by a Disney film, theme park, or character, then this book is a nostalgic treasure trove for you. It's more than just a read; it's a visual celebration of the Disney legacy, piecing together the creative empire from classic animations to exhilarating theme parks. This guide will have you reliving your favorite Disney memories and might just inspire your next magical adventure.
Fashion Museum Treasures
Rosemary Harden | Scala Arts & Heritage

Fashion Museum Treasures

$18.90 $7.90 58% off

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$18.90 $7.90 58% off

If you have an appreciation for how fashion reflects history and culture, "Fashion Museum Treasures" will be a delightful visual journey for you. It's not only a pleasure for those who adore the intricate details of costume design but also serves as an engaging overview for anyone interested in the progression of fashion through the centuries. With Rosemary Harden's expertise guiding you, each page becomes a learning experience adorned with stunning photography.
Asian House : Contemporary Houses of Southeast Asia - Thryft
Robert Powell | Weatherhill

Asian House : Contemporary Houses of Southeast Asia

$17.91

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$17.91

79% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for architecture enthusiasts interested in Southeast Asian aesthetics and contemporary design. The book features stunning photography of unique and innovative homes, showcasing the diverse and modern architecture of the region. The author, Robert Powell, provides insightful commentary on the design concepts and cultural influences behind each home, making this book more than just a coffee table piece.
Playing Commedia : A Training Guide to Commedia Techniques - Thryft
Barry Grantham | Nick Hern Books

Playing Commedia : A Training Guide to Commedia Techniques

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$3.90

87% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for aspiring actors and anyone interested in physical theater. It offers a practical and engaging guide to the art of Commedia Dell'Arte, providing graded games and exercises that will enhance your skills. With its focus on warm-up games, mime, movement, word games, and the use of face masks, you will learn how to bring the vibrant characters of Commedia Dell'Arte to life. Dive into the world of this traditional Italian theater form and let your creativity soar on stage.
Eternal Gandhi - Design of the Multimedia Museum
ranjit-makkuni-aditya-birla-group | Fisicalbook

Eternal Gandhi - Design of the Multimedia Museum

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you have a penchant for both history and technology, this book could be quite intriguing. It serves as a bridge between the traditional tales of Gandhi's life and teachings and the 21st century's interactive media approach. It's a wonderful exploration for those interested in experiencing historical narratives in innovative, modern formats.
The Complete Book of Home Decorating
Barbara Mayer | Murdoch Books Uk

The Complete Book of Home Decorating

$22.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$22.90

62% off est. retail
If you're looking into giving your space a makeover, this book is a treasure trove of inspiration that speaks to a variety of tastes, covering a range of design periods and international styles. Barbara Mayer guides you through the fundamentals of home decor with beautiful illustrations and accessible advice that will help you create a space that reflects your personality while being on trend. Whether you're starting from scratch or want to revamp a room, this book could be your go-to guide for creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing home environment.
Cinderella - The Shoe Rediscovered
Italy) Museo Salvatore Ferragamo (Florence

Cinderella - The Shoe Rediscovered

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

80% off est. retail
If you're enchanted by the synergies between fashion and storytelling, "Cinderella - The Shoe Rediscovered" is an intriguing read. It elegantly dances through the iconic glass slipper's journey, showcasing its influence on both cinema and haute couture. You'll find this book captivating if you adore the fusion of fairy tales and fashion evolution.
Walter Knoll: The Furniture Brand of Modernity
Sold out
Bernd Polster | Teneues Publishing Company

Walter Knoll: The Furniture Brand of Modernity

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

91% off est. retail
If you have an eye for design, especially the kind that transcends time with both elegance and innovative functionality, 'Walter Knoll - The Furniture Brand of Modernity' is a visual feast you shouldn't miss. It's not just another coffee table book; it's a thoughtful journey through the craftsmanship and creative legacy of a leading figure in furniture design. Whether you're a design student, a professional in the field, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and precision of well-designed objects, this book could offer you inspiration and deepen your appreciation for modern design narratives.
A House Full of Rooms, Architecture, Interiors, and Gardens
Sold out
Theresa Craig | The Monacelli Press

A House Full of Rooms, Architecture, Interiors, and Gardens

$27.90 $18.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$27.90 $18.90 32% off

76% off est. retail
If you're enchanted by the intersection of architecture, interior design, and literature, Edith Wharton's "A House Full of Rooms" could be a delightful journey for you. The way Wharton marries the grace of living spaces with the art of storytelling is akin to a curated museum walk within the covers of a book. It's an aesthete's intimate invitation to explore the symbiosis of space, function, and beauty, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of historical elegance.
Signs and Symbols: Their Design and Meaning
Sold out
Adrian Frutiger, Andrew Bluhm  | Van Nostrand Reinhold

Signs and Symbols: Their Design and Meaning

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$14.90

66% off est. retail
If you have a knack for design, history, or linguistics, "Signs and Symbols" might just scratch that very specific itch to understand the visuals that transcend language. Adrian Frutiger draws a line from ancient hieroglyphs to modern logos, making us ponder on the visual DNA of our shared global language. His expertise gives the subject a richness meant for curious minds who love unraveling the layers behind everyday symbols.
Design Writing Research - Thryft
Sold out
J. Abbott Miller, Ellen Lupton  | Phaidon Press

Design Writing Research

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$6.34

81% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone with a curiosity for the world of graphic design. It serves as a valuable resource, offering insights into the history, theory, and practices of design. Whether you're interested in typography, advertising, or the power of visual communication, this book covers it all. With thought-provoking essays on topics like post-structuralism and vernacular design cultures, Design Writing Research truly captures the essence of the art of design.
The Architectural Uncanny : Essays in the Modern Unhomely - Thryft
Sold out
Anthony Vidler | The Mit Press

The Architectural Uncanny : Essays in the Modern Unhomely

$10.63

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.63

84% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for architecture enthusiasts who are intrigued by the unconventional and uncanny elements in modern buildings. Through a captivating blend of history and theory, Anthony Vidler delves into the complex relationship between architecture, social thought, and politics. With a keen focus on renowned architects and their thought-provoking projects, Vidler unravels the disconcerting aspects of today's architecture, offering profound insights into themes of estrangement, alienation, and homelessness. Prepare to have your perspective challenged and expanded as you navigate the enigmatic world of contemporary design.
Made in China - Thryft
Sold out

Made in China

$8.26

$8.26

64% off est. retail
"Made in China" could be a great read for anyone interested in Chinese pop culture or graphic design. The book features a collection of colorful and whimsical Chinese ephemera, from candy wrappers to Chairman Mao heads, showcasing the country's fascination with vivid hues and playful graphics. Readers will be transported through time from the post-revolution '50s to modern-day China through the lens of design, making for an entertaining and visually stimulating journey.
Architecture of Regionalism in the Age of Globalization : Peaks and Valleys in the Flat World - Thryft
Sold out
Alexander Tzonis, Liane Lefaivre  | Routledge

Architecture of Regionalism in the Age of Globalization : Peaks and Valleys in the Flat World

$12.96

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$12.96

85% off est. retail
Recommendation: This book provides a clear analysis of how globalization has influenced architecture and design, while addressing issues such as identity and sustainability. It identifies the conflicts that have arisen between regionalism and globalization, and how they have shaped the design of cities. This book would be a good read for architecture enthusiasts, designers, and those interested in understanding the impact of globalization on city design.

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.