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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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India: A Concise History - Thryft
Francis Watson | Thames And Hudson

A Concise History of India

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.28

$3.90

78% off est. retail
"India: A Concise History" offers a comprehensive overview of India's history, starting from the Indus Valley civilization till the rise of modern India. The book captures the essence of India's diversity and unity through its geographical simplicity and historical complexity. It is recommended for readers who are interested in understanding the roots of India's culture, religions, and people.
Everyday Life in Southeast Asia
Just Arrived
Holly High, Andrew Causey, Lorraine Aragon  | Indiana University Press

Everyday Life in Southeast Asia

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$10.90

75% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by cultural diversity and human stories, "Everyday Life in Southeast Asia" is a genuine treat. It doesn't just list facts; it immerses you in the lived experiences of ordinary people across an incredibly varied region. Beyond a mere textbook, it's a collection of narratives that weave together the threads of identity, family, and the palpable legacies of both past and present Southeast Asia.
Times Dictionary of Chinese Symbols: An Essential Guide to the Hidden Symbols in Chinese Art, Customs and Beliefs
Wolfram Eberhard

Times Dictionary of Chinese Symbols: An Essential Guide to the Hidden Symbols in Chinese Art, Customs and Beliefs

$48.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$48.90

If you're enthralled by the depths of Chinese art and traditions, this dictionary will serve as a treasure map, guiding you through the rich tapestry of symbols woven into the very fabric of China's heritage. It's a key to understanding the unspoken language that permeates everything from historical artifacts to modern festivities.
Finding Iris Chang - Friendship, Ambition, and the Loss of an Extraordinary Mind
Paula Kamen | Da Capo Press

Finding Iris Chang - Friendship, Ambition, and the Loss of an Extraordinary Mind

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

76% off est. retail
"Finding Iris Chang" offers a deeply personal exploration of a luminous mind that met with a devastating end. If you've been moved by Iris Chang's work or touched by the enigma of her life and sudden death, Paula Kamen’s painstaking journey through Chang’s evolution and struggles provides a touching tribute and a heartfelt investigation into the life of an extraordinary woman. As Kamen pieces together the puzzle of Chang's life from a place of genuine connection, you'll find a narrative that is as much about friendship and memory as it is about unraveling a tragic enigma.
Spirit of Asia
R. Ian Lloyd | Weatherhill

Spirit of Asia

$10.90 $9.37 14% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$10.90 $9.37 14% off

78% off est. retail
If you're someone who appreciates breathtaking photography and the rich, multifaceted cultures of Asia, then "Spirit of Asia" could be an excellent addition to your bookshelf. It's more than just a visual feast; the book captures an essence that could inspire deeper understanding and appreciation for the incredible diversity found in this part of the world.
Blood in the Hills: The Story of Khe Sanh, the Most Savage Fight of the Vietnam War
Just Arrived
Charles W. Sasser, Robert Maras  | Lyons Press

Blood in the Hills: The Story of Khe Sanh, the Most Savage Fight of the Vietnam War

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$13.90

If you're drawn to raw, unfiltered military history, "Blood in the Hills" is a visceral dive into the Vietnam War's ferocity. It's not just a recount; it’s an immersion into intense hand-to-hand combat from someone who lived through it. Bobby Maras's perspective bridges the personal struggles with the overarching narrative of the war, making it compelling for those seeking to understand the human aspects of historical battles.
Frontier Livelihoods: Hmong in the Sino-Vietnamese Borderlands
Sarah Turner, Christine Bonnin, Jean Michaud  | University Of Washington Press

Frontier Livelihoods: Hmong in the Sino-Vietnamese Borderlands

$47.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$47.90

73% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of how ethnic communities adapt to state policies and global market forces in varied political landscapes, "Frontier Livelihoods" could be an enlightening read. This ethnography delivers a nuanced look at the Hmong in Sino-Vietnamese borderlands, offering a compelling case for transnational studies over country-centric research. It's an in-depth exploration of resilience and agency among communities that navigate the challenges of development and modernization on their own terms.
China Insight Guide - Thryft
Unknown | Apa Publications

China Insight Guide

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

92% off est. retail
This guidebook is recommended for travelers wanting an immersive experience in China. The "main places" section and practical information about transportation and key places of interest provide ample guidance for travelers to explore the country. The cover flaps with reference maps add to the convenience of the travelers.
The Tiananmen Papers
Zhang Liang, Orville Schell  | Publicaffairs

The Tiananmen Papers

$29.90

Goodreads rating: 4.05

$29.90

If you're drawn to historical political dramas and revel in the gritty details of pivotal moments, "The Tiananmen Papers" promises an eye-opening perspective. It's that rare, behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of a government faced with enormous pressure, giving voice to the leaders shaping a narrative often unheard by the outside world. Your curiosity about statecraft amidst crisis might just be deeply satisfied here.
Kathmandu and the Kingdom of Nepal - Thryft
Prakash A. Raj | Lonely Planet Publications

Kathmandu and the Kingdom of Nepal

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Immerse yourself in the vibrant details of Nepal's past through vivid storytelling by Prakash A. Raj. Perfect for history buffs seeking insight into the country's captivating history and cultural heritage.
Interpreting Indonesian Politics
Leo Suryadinata | Marshall Cavendish Intl

Interpreting Indonesian Politics

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$8.90

If understanding the intricate web of Indonesian politics fascinates you, this book will be your guide. Leo Suryadinata expertly dissects the role of the military, Islam, and the fervent student movements, offering a nuanced perspective that's vital for scholars and anyone interested in the deep-rooted factors shaping a pivotal Southeast Asian nation.
The Silk Roads: A Route and Planning Guide
Paul Wilson | Unkno

The Silk Roads: A Route and Planning Guide

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$13.90

If you're bitten by the travel bug and lured by the romance of ancient trade routes, "The Silk Roads" is your passport to adventure. It's meticulously detailed, ensuring you won't miss the labyrinthine wonders connecting the East and West. Bringing history to life, it will likely become as essential to your journey as your backpack.
Shadows and Wind: A View of Modern Vietnam
Robert Templer | Penguin Books

Shadows and Wind: A View of Modern Vietnam

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.42

$8.90

73% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how a nation evolves after a tumultuous history, "Shadows and Wind" would be a compelling read for you. Templer doesn't just romanticize Vietnam; he delves into its transformation, revealing a landscape of contrasts with vivid anecdotes and meticulous research. It's a window into the soul of a place grappling with the remnants of its past and the uncertainties of capitalist ventures. This book would suit anyone keen on understanding the true fabric of a country in metamorphosis.
Singapore today =: Jinri Xinjiapo - Thryft
unknown author | Society Of Worldwide Ethnic Chinese Photographers

Singapore today =: Jinri Xinjiapo

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

If you're curious about how Singapore has blossomed into a global hub, this book takes you on a historical tour from its colonial past to its modern achievements. It's a treasure for those interested in urban development, socio-economic growth, and the unique blend of cultures that makes Singapore stand out. The vivid descriptions and thoughtful insights will make you feel as though you're walking the streets and witnessing the transformation firsthand.
Chinese Cinderella: The Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter
Yen Mah | Pearson Education

Chinese Cinderella: The Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$6.90

79% off est. retail
"Chinese Cinderella" is more than just a memoir; it's an intimate journey through adversity with a young girl whose resilience shines. As she maneuvers through a life of neglect and cruelty, her solace in literature becomes a powerful motif that evokes both heartache and inspiration. Anyone seeking a narrative to fuel their belief in the unyielding strength of the human spirit should delve into this book. It's a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of education.
The Chinese Difference - Thryft
Joseph Kraft | Saturday Review Press

The Chinese Difference

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

This book is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the enigmatic world of Chinese culture. With Joseph Kraft's vivid storytelling, readers are transported into the heart of China, gaining a deep understanding of its ancient traditions and contemporary society. The author's ability to delve into the complexities of Chinese life and history makes this book an enlightening and fascinating read for both novices and experts alike.
The Confucian Renaissance
Reg Little, Warren Reed  | Federation Press

The Confucian Renaissance

$23.90 $9.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$23.90 $9.90 59% off

80% off est. retail
Imagine understanding the cultural underpinnings of Asia's economic powerhouses. "The Confucian Renaissance" offers that insight by tracing how ancient philosophies have sculpted contemporary societies in Japan, China, and beyond. It's a thought-provoking read for anyone intrigued by the blend of tradition and progress in Asia's political and economic landscape.
In the Empire of Genghis Khan: An Amazing Odyssey Through the Lands of the Most Feared Conquerors in History
Just Arrived
Stanley Stewart | G05-lyons Press

In the Empire of Genghis Khan: An Amazing Odyssey Through the Lands of the Most Feared Conquerors in History

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

64% off est. retail
If you enjoy merging humor with history, "In the Empire of Genghis Khan" is more than just a travel memoir; it's a time machine with a dose of laughter. Stanley Stewart's knack for comic storytelling will whisk you through the ancient lands of the Mongols, all from the comfort of your reading nook. Imagine journeying across rugged landscapes and meeting eclectic characters, all while unraveling history's rich tapestry. This book doesn't just recount an adventure; it invites you into one.
When Broken Glass Floats: Growing Up Under the Khmer Rouge - A Memoir
Chanrithy Him | W W Norton & Co Inc

When Broken Glass Floats: Growing Up Under the Khmer Rouge - A Memoir

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$11.90

63% off est. retail
If you're drawn to powerful personal narratives that not only educate but also touch the heart, you'll find Chanrithy Him's memoir compelling. Her story isn't just a history lesson; it's a testament to human endurance and the bonds of family love in the face of unimaginable hardship. For anyone interested in the strength of the human spirit, this book promises an unforgettable journey.
Bali - Insight Guide
Scott Rutherford | Apa Publications Pte Ltd,singa

Bali - Insight Guide

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90

If you're craving an escape to Bali or want to reminisce about your travels, this book's vivid photography and expert insight will transport you. It's not merely a travel guide; it's a deep dive into the essence of Bali that will both inform and captivate you, making it a cherished keepsake for anyone who loves or is curious about this enchanting island.
Wider Bagan: Ancient and Living Buddhist Traditions
Elizabeth Moore | Iseas - Yusof Ishak Institute

Wider Bagan: Ancient and Living Buddhist Traditions

$36.90 $13.90 62% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$36.90 $13.90 62% off

85% off est. retail
If you've been fascinated by Myanmar's complex history, particularly its rich Buddhist traditions, then "Wider Bagan: Ancient and Living Buddhist Traditions" could be a treasure trove for you. Elizabeth Moore takes you beyond the well-trodden paths of Bagan's ancient capital into the surrounding landscapes where history vibrates through the tales of local resilience and diversity. You'll appreciate the meticulous research, detailed illustrations, and the infusion of local scholarship that makes this book an enlightening guide to Myanmar's enduring cultural landscapes.
Unorthodox Strategies for the Everyday Warrior: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Competitor
Just Arrived
Ralph D. Sawyer | Westview Press

Unorthodox Strategies for the Everyday Warrior: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Competitor

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.90

84% off est. retail
If you're looking to gain an edge in your personal or professional battles, "Unorthodox Strategies for the Everyday Warrior" marries timeless tactics with the realities of modern-day competition. It's for the thinker, the strategist, the competitor in you – someone who appreciates the deep roots of strategy and wants to apply that age-old wisdom to present-day challenges.
Atlas of China
Rand-McNally | Rand Mcnally

Atlas of China

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

If you're fascinated by the intricate geographical and societal makeup of the world's most populous country, "Atlas of China" is for you. It offers a window into China's vast regions with an array of maps that paint a picture of its terrain, climates, and economic zones as they stood in 1990, making it a historical as well as an educational gem.
Wrapping Culture: Politeness, Presentation and Power in Japan and Other Societies
Joy Hendry | Clarendon Press

Wrapping Culture: Politeness, Presentation and Power in Japan and Other Societies

$53.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$53.90

78% off est. retail
If you've ever marveled at the intricacies of cultural expression or pondered why societies do things a certain way, "Wrapping Culture" could illuminate those corners of human behavior for you. Joy Hendry thoughtfully explores how different cultures communicate through layers of symbolism, from the physical act of gift-wrapping to complex social customs. It's a fascinating deep dive into intercultural communication that might just change the way you perceive and interact with the world around you.
The Earth and its Peoples : A Global History - Thryft
Richard W. Bulliet, Daniel R. Headrick, Pamela Kyle Crossley  | Cengage Learning

The Earth and its Peoples : A Global History

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.12

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

99% off est. retail
Recommended for those interested in learning about global environmental history. The book takes a comparative approach to present a balanced perspective on the topic. The strong web component also provides students with additional review and assessment tools.
Business Journey to the East - Thryft
Fred Combe, Chow-Hou Wee  | Mcgraw-hill Education / Asia

Business Journey to the East

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

89% off est. retail
Business Journey to the East provides a unique insight into the cultural differences between Asian and Western companies. The book suggests that adopting a new business approach, one that blends the best of East and West, can lead to greater success in Asia. Through anecdotes and insights from Asian influencers, as well as the works of Chinese philosophers and strategists, readers will gain a deeper understanding of how Asians strategize and practice business. The authors make a compelling case for why the West needs to urgently reappraise its role in Asia, and how a fresh business approach can substantially increase success rates. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to do business in Asia or looking to improve their understanding of Asian business culture.
Postmodern Singapore
Just Arrived
William Siew Wai Lim | Select Pub

Postmodern Singapore

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$8.26

This book would be of interest to readers looking for a critical analysis of Singapore's social, cultural, and political landscape. Shearman does a fantastic job of dissecting the complexities of modern Singapore by providing a refreshing perspective on the city-state's development. This book stands out because of its unique voice and the author's ability to deconstruct Singapore's progress in a critical yet insightful manner. Overall, Postmodern Singapore is an unmatched read for anyone wanting to examine Singapore's transformation in recent years.
Singapore: The Next Lap
Just Arrived
Anonymous | Times Edition Pte Ltd.

Singapore: The Next Lap

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.26

If you're fascinated by transformations of city-states, "Singapore: The Next Lap" will feel like a time capsule that offers insights into how Singapore envisioned its future back in 1991. It's a peek into the aspirations and plans of a nation on the brink of major developments. Understanding these historical perspectives might give you a fuller appreciation for Singapore's journey and its current status on the world stage.
Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities
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Ooi Giok Ling | Institute Of Southeast Asian S

Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$11.90

If you're fascinated by urban development and the complexities of city life in the dynamic context of Southeast Asia, "Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities" could be a thought-provoking read. It delves into the heart of critical issues affecting burgeoning metropolises, offering a blend of scholarly insight and real-world case studies that could widen your understanding of urban planning struggles and progress in this vibrant region.
A Treasury of China's Wisdom
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Tang Chinghua | Foreign Languages Press

A Treasury of China's Wisdom

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

If you're enchanted by the depth of Chinese culture, this book is a treasure trove for you. It gracefully bridges the past with the present, offering storied lessons in philosophy and folklore that resonate with timeless relevance. Ideal for anyone seeking to understand the foundational stories that have shaped Chinese thought.
The Interpreter's Daughter
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Teresa Lim | Michael Joseph

The Interpreter's Daughter

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$12.90

56% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of family histories and the rich cultural tapestries that form our identities, "The Interpreter's Daughter" offers a profound exploration of such themes. Through Teresa Lim's uncovering of her family's past, you too can experience the deep digs into historical events and personal sacrifices that shaped the lives of her ancestors, an emotional journey that spans continents and eras, revealing stories that resonate with the power of remembrance and the silent strength of women. This memoir could be a treasure trove of insight for anyone fascinated by the convergence of personal narrative and broader historical contexts, akin to peeling back layers of time with each page.
The Age of Kali: Indian Travels & Encounters
Sold out
William Dalrymple | Flamingo

The Age of Kali: Indian Travels & Encounters

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$8.90

58% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the complexities and contrasts inherent in modern Indian society, "The Age of Kali" offers you a front-row seat. Dalrymple's storytelling weaves through the extreme diversities of India with a skilled narrative that brings to life characters ranging from political luminaries to ordinary citizens caught up in extraordinary circumstances. It paints a picture that's at once haunting and vibrant, perfect for anyone interested in the social and cultural undercurrents shaping India today.
A Walking Tour: Bangkok
Sold out
Gregory Byrne Bracken | Times Editions

A Walking Tour: Bangkok

$18.90 $7.90 58% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$18.90 $7.90 58% off

If you feel like the thrills of traveling to Bangkok are out of reach, then slipping into 'A Walking Tour: Bangkok' might just be the ticket you need. Gregory Byrne Bracken's intricate detailing, stemming from his perspective as an architect, offers you insights that might even elude the seasoned traveler. It's an intimate walk with the city's soul, past the obvious into the veins that give it life. This book could become your silent local guide, enriching your understanding of Bangkok's vibrant architecture and culture.
A Walking Tour of Hong Kong
Sold out
Gregory Byrne Bracken | Times Editions

A Walking Tour of Hong Kong

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

59% off est. retail
You have an eye for architecture and an itch to explore urban landscapes, so let this book be your guide to the contrasts and charms of Hong Kong. Imagine strolling along the city’s bustling streets, uncovering hidden gems sketched by G. Byrne Bracken's deft hand. With thoughtful maps and fascinating cultural insights, this walking tour becomes an intimate encounter with the soul of the city.
Top 10 Singapore - DK Eyewitness Travel - Thryft
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D.K. Publishing | Dk Eyewitness Travel

Top 10 Singapore - DK Eyewitness Travel

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

78% off est. retail
If Singapore is on your travel radar, this pocket-sized guide is a must. It simplifies planning with its top 10 lists and itineraries, ensuring you won't miss the architectural splendor of Thian Hock Keng Temple or the vibrant scenes at Marina Bay. The included pull-out map and practical tips make navigation and discovery a breeze, whether you're looking to indulge in local cuisine or find free things to do. It's like having a local in your pocket!
Explore Bangkok - Insight Guides - Thryft
Sold out
Insight Guides | Insight Guides

Explore Bangkok - Insight Guides

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

76% off est. retail
If you're planning a trip to Bangkok, you'll find 'Explore Bangkok' by Insight Guides an invaluable travel companion. It doesn't just list places; it weaves the vibrant tapestry of the city through carefully planned routes that touch on history, culture, and modern attractions. From food recommendations to historical context, this book seems to understand the city's pulse and how to navigate its colorful and chaotic streets with a sense of wonder.
Out of China : Culture and Traditions - Thryft
Sold out
Evelyn Lip | Addison-wesley

Out of China : Culture and Traditions

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

If you're intrigued by the resilience of cultural heritage and have a desire to dive deep into the heart of a civilization that has both influenced and been influenced by the world, "Out of China: Culture and Traditions" is a meaningful choice. It's more than a historical account; it's a journey through the layered richness of China's customs, arts, and societal norms. It could broaden your perspective on how traditions withstand the test of time and global interaction.
Some Splendid Crafts of the "Support" Foundation of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand
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Thanphuying Maniratana (letter of introduction) Bunnag | The Siam Society Under Royal Patronage

Some Splendid Crafts of the "Support" Foundation of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

If you appreciate the intersection of culture, history, and art, this book is a treasure trove that celebrates Thailand's rich crafts heritage. The preservation efforts by Queen Sirikit are vividly documented here, making it a fascinating and visually rich journey through the cultural tapestry of Thailand. Through beautiful imagery and insightful text, it captures a nation's gratitude and the tangible outcomes of patronage in the arts.
Arts and Crafts of Thailand
Sold out
William Warren | Chronicle Books Llc

Arts and Crafts of Thailand

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

78% off est. retail
This book would be a treasure trove for anyone with a keen interest in cultural artistry and traditional craftsmanship. The vivid details and photography will transport you to the heart of Thailand, showcasing everything from textiles to jewelry. If you're looking for a rich cultural journey or inspiration for your own creative endeavors, the profound insights offered by the authors' extensive experience in Thailand make this book a captivating read.
Kinship, Gender, and the Cosmic World: Ethnographies of Birth Customs in Taiwan, the Philippines, and Indonesia
Sold out
Katsuhiko (ed) Yamaji | Smc Pub

Kinship, Gender, and the Cosmic World: Ethnographies of Birth Customs in Taiwan, the Philippines, and Indonesia

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

If you're intrigued by anthropology and the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian cultures, this collection will fascinate you. It's a window into how the deeply personal act of birth is celebrated and ritualized, revealing much about gender roles and cosmic beliefs in these societies. It's not just about the event of birth but a broader understanding of three diverse cultures interwoven by tradition.
Gathering Medicines: Nation and Knowledge in China’s Mountain South - Thryft
Sold out
Lili Lai, Judith Farquhar  | University Of Chicago Press

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

$17.11

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$17.11

69% off est. retail
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.
In Search of India and Her Neighbours
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Reader's Digest | Reader's Digest Association Limited

In Search of India and Her Neighbours

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're curious about the complexities and diversity of India, this book is like a time capsule that offers a rich tapestry of stories, bringing to life the country's heritage and its intricate connections with neighboring nations. It's also a treasure for anyone interested in how India's past shapes its present relationships.
Restless Empire: China and the World Since 1750 - Thryft
Sold out
Odd Arne Westad | The Bodley Head Ltd

Restless Empire: China and the World Since 1750

$11.97

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$11.97

As the twenty-first century dawns, China stands at a crossroads. The largest and most populous country on earth and currently the world’s second biggest economy, China has recently reclaimed its historic place at the center of global affairs after decades of internal chaos and disastrous foreign relations. But even as China tentatively reengages with the outside world, the contradictions of its development risks pushing it back into an era of insularity and instability—a regression that, as China’s recent history shows, would have serious implications for all other nations.In Restless Empire, award-winning historian Odd Arne Westad traces China’s complex foreign affairs over the past 250 years, identifying the forces that will determine the country’s path in the decades to come. Since the height of the Qing Empire in the eighteenth century, China’s interactions—and confrontations—with foreign powers have caused its worldview to fluctuate wildly between extremes of dominance and subjugation, emulation and defiance. From the invasion of Burma in the 1760s to the Boxer Rebellion in the early 20th century to the 2001 standoff over a downed U.S. spy plane, many of these encounters have left Chinese with a lingering sense of humiliation and resentment, and inflamed their notions of justice, hierarchy, and Chinese centrality in world affairs. Recently, China’s rising influence on the world stage has shown what the country stands to gain from international cooperation and openness. But as Westad shows, the nation’s success will ultimately hinge on its ability to engage with potential international partners while simultaneously safeguarding its own strength and stability.An in-depth study by one of our most respected authorities on international relations and contemporary East Asian history, Restless Empire is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand the recent past and probable future of this dynamic and complex nation.
Bali - Thryft
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Insight Guides | Insight Guides

Bali

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

85% off est. retail
If Bali is on your bucket list or you're planning to revisit, this guide is like a local friend pointing out hidden gems. With detailed maps and insider tips, you'll experience Bali beyond the typical tourist paths. What truly stands out is the 'only in' section, which might introduce you to unique Balinese experiences you wouldn't find elsewhere. Plus, the practical A-Z list makes planning your days and nights incredibly straightforward.
Raffles: The Definitive Biography
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Maurice Collis | Marshall Cavendish Editions

Raffles: The Definitive Biography

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$8.90

If you’re fascinated by history and the birth of Southeast Asia's modern landscape, "Raffles. The Definitive Biography" is a compelling dive into the life of a man whose impact is still felt today. Maurice Collis offers a nuanced look at Raffles, humanizing the legend without diminishing the grandeur of his contributions. It’s perfect for those who appreciate historical depth mingled with the vibrancy of an individual’s life story.
Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China
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Leslie T. Chang | Picador Usa

Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90

54% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the personal stories behind the headlines of China's economic surge, "Factory Girls" is for you. Leslie T. Chang dives deep into the lives of two women navigating the chaotic world of migrant labor, shedding light on the human cost of the products we often take for granted. It offers a profound, eye-opening experience that's both socially relevant and emotionally resonant.
China Is Messing with Your Mind
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Bilahari Kausikan | Epigram Books

China Is Messing with Your Mind

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.90

If you're keen on understanding the broader geopolitical maneuvers and their impacts on a personal and national identity, "China is Messing with Your Mind" could intrigue you. Kausikan's experience as a diplomat enriches this book with authenticity and provides a non-conventional perspective on the tensions between global powers and their subtle cultural influences, particularly for Singapore. It's an especially relevant read if you're interested in international affairs, identity politics, or the dynamics of Asian geopolitics.
The Analects of Confucius - With a Selection of the Sayings of Mencius, the Way of Its Power of Laozi
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Confucius | Signature Press

The Analects of Confucius - With a Selection of the Sayings of Mencius, the Way of Its Power of Laozi

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

62% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone seeking timeless wisdom and guidance in navigating the complexities of modern-day life. Confucius' teachings, along with the selected sayings of Mencius and the powerful insights of Laozi, offer invaluable lessons on ethics, relationships, and personal growth. With a compelling blend of practical advice and profound philosophy, this book will inspire you to lead a more meaningful and virtuous life.
A Little Book of Japanese Contentments : Ikigai, Forest Bathing, Wabi-Sabi, and More (Japanese Books, Mindfulness Books, Books about Culture, Spiritual Books) - Thryft
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Ryo Takemasa, Erin Niimi Longhurst  | Chronicle Books

A Little Book of Japanese Contentments : Ikigai, Forest Bathing, Wabi-Sabi, and More (Japanese Books, Mindfulness Books, Books about Culture, Spiritual Books)

$8.55

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$8.55

69% off est. retail
Recommendation: - Dive into the wisdom of ancient Japan, as this book uncovers the philosophies that contribute to the country's long, healthy lifespan. With easy-to-follow exercises and stunning illustrations, "A Little Book of Japanese Contentments" is the perfect companion for those seeking a more balanced and gratified life. - This book is for anyone interested in Japanese culture and spirituality, as it delves into the concepts of ikigai (living with purpose), wabi-sabi (the beauty of imperfection), shinrinyoku (forest bathing), and more. Allow this book to guide you on a journey towards cultivating happiness in everyday life.
Once a Jolly Hangman: Singapore Justice in the Dock
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Alan Shadrake | October 6, 2010

Once a Jolly Hangman: Singapore Justice in the Dock

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$8.90

83% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dark underbelly of Singapore's legal system. Through in-depth interviews and meticulously researched accounts, Alan Shadrake exposes the cruelty and imprudence of the death penalty. The author's empathy with the victims and their families adds a poignant touch to this eye-opening critique. Human rights activists, in particular, will find this book to be an invaluable resource in their fight for justice.

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.