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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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Made in China - Thryft
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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.
Origins of Chinese Music and Art - Thryft
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Li Xiaoxiang | Asiapac Books

Origins of Chinese Music and Art

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

83% off est. retail
This book is an excellent choice for those who want to unravel the mystery of Chinese culture. It provides an excellent overview of the core elements of Chinese culture, such as the Four Treasures, calligraphy, painting, and music. The book also recounts various charming and awe-inspiring stories about Chinese icons, making it an engaging read. The book's most distinctive feature is its ability to transport readers to a world of ancient Chinese traditions and art forms, leaving them fascinated by the rich cultural heritage of China.
Chinese Language and Culture : An Intermediate Reader - Thryft
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Weijia Huang, Qun Ao  | The Chinese University Of Hong Kong Press

Chinese Language and Culture : An Intermediate Reader

$11.61

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$11.61

73% off est. retail
This book is perfect for intermediate learners who want to further immerse themselves within Chinese language and culture. Each article provides a unique perspective on an aspect of Chinese society, history or geography, and is supplemented by helpful grammatical notes and exercises. Readers will find this book a valuable resource for gaining a deeper understanding of Chinese culture while simultaneously improving their language abilities.
Asia's High Performing Education Systems : The Case of Hong Kong - Thryft
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Colin J. Marsh, John Chi-kin Lee  | Routledge

Asia's High Performing Education Systems : The Case of Hong Kong

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$3.88

94% off est. retail
This book provides a deep understanding of Hong Kong's education system and highlights successful reforms that have brought about a major impact on schooling. It covers themes such as historical policy contexts, new curriculum approaches, changing pedagogies, school leadership, implementation and change, and assessment and evaluation. Recommended for educators who are interested in understanding and learning from successful education reform initiatives.
Tokyo - Thryft
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Deborah Kaufman, Alexis C. Kelly, Fodor's Travel Publications Inc.  | Fodor's

Tokyo

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

85% off est. retail
This guidebook provides up-to-date information on Tokyo's accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The must-see ratings and multi-day itineraries make planning a trip easy and efficient. The Smart Travel Tips and helpful maps ensure a stress-free travel experience. Highly recommended for first-time travelers to Japan.
Southeast Asia : The Diversity Dilemma - Thryft
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Sree Kumar | Select Books Pte Ltd

Southeast Asia : The Diversity Dilemma

$11.60

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$11.60

Southeast Asia: The Diversity Dilemma provides an insightful look into the complex identity and diversity of Southeast Asia, exploring both the intra-regional concerns and external forces that shape the region. This book is recommended for those interested in understanding the development and evolution of Southeast Asia's regional identity in the context of global influences.
China : A New History - Thryft
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John King Fairbank, Merle Goldman  | Belknap

China : A New History

$10.47

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$10.47

72% off est. retail
Recommended for history enthusiasts, traces China's rich civilization through its ups and downs with a focus on the struggles of forming and maintaining a cohesive identity, while fiercely protecting individualism, the book offers an insight into how family, intellect, and autocratic rule blend to form what is contemporary China.
Insight Guides: Vietnam - Thryft
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Insight Guides: Vietnam

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

91% off est. retail
This book is a great read for someone who wants to thoroughly explore Vietnam's beautiful landscapes, culture, cuisine, and history. The "Best of Vietnam" section is particularly useful in identifying must-see spots and activities. Additionally, the photography essays offer a unique visual experience of life in Vietnam beyond what's covered in regular travel guides.
One Billion - A China Chronicle - Thryft
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Jay Mathews | Ballantine Books

One Billion - A China Chronicle

$3.90 $2.90 26% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$3.90 $2.90 26% off

62% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for those interested in gaining a deep understanding of life in China. The authors' personal narrative provides an insightful perspective on the perspectives of Chinese people, with a particular focus on how they cope with challenging living conditions and an authoritarian government.
Red Dust - Thryft
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Ma Jian | Vintage Books

Red Dust

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$8.90

68% off est. retail
Red Dust is a must-read for those interested in China's recent history and culture. Through Ma Jian's insightful journey, readers can gain a unique perspective on China's societal challenges. The book is a compelling mix of beautiful descriptions of the country's natural beauty and commentary on the repressive nature of China's government in the 1980s.
The Rough Guide To Goa - Thryft
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David Abram | Rough Guides

The Rough Guide To Goa

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$5.07

90% off est. retail
The Rough Guide to Goa is perfect for travelers who want to explore the hidden gems of India's western coast. The book not only gives detailed information about the popular beaches and party spots, but also offers insights into Goan culture, wildlife, and neighboring regions such as Karnataka. The additional chapter on Mumbai is also a helpful resource for travelers. With practical advice and comprehensive coverage, this guidebook is a must-read for anyone planning a trip to Goa.
Introducing Japan - Thryft
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Donald Ricjie | Kodansha

Introducing Japan

$2.72

Goodreads rating: 3.39

$2.72

Introducing Japan could be a good read for someone who wants to understand the unique aspects of Japan's heritage and customs. The book is written by two American experts who have lived in Japan for a long time and have ample experience with the country. Users would appreciate the book's concise nature, with just 72 pages, yet it covers Japan's history in a comprehensive manner.
Wish Lanterns : Young Lives in New China - Thryft
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Alec Ash | Picador

Wish Lanterns : Young Lives in New China

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$8.26

61% off est. retail
This is the generation that will change China. The youth, over 320 million of them in their teens and twenties, more than the population of the USA. Born after Mao, with no memory of Tiananmen, they are destined to transform both their nation and the world.These millennials, offspring of the one-child policy, face fierce competition to succeed. Pressure starts young, and their road isn't easy. Their stories are also like those of young people all over the world: moving out of home, starting a career, falling in love.Wish Lanterns follows the lives of six young Chinese. Dahai is a military child and netizen; 'Fred' is a daughter of the Party. Lucifer is an aspiring superstar; Snail a country migrant addicted to online games. Xiaoxiao is a hipster from the freezing north; Mia a rebel from Xinjiang in the far west.Alec Ash, a writer in Beijing of the same generation, has given us a vivid, gripping account of young China as it comes of age. Through individual stories, Wish Lanterns shows with empathy and insight the challenges and dreams that will define China's future global impact.
The Singapore Story: Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew
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Lee Kuan Yew | Times Media Private Limited

The Singapore Story: Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew

$4.90

Goodreads rating: 4.46

$4.90

This memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in politics, leadership, and the incredible transformation of Singapore. Through the eyes of Lee Kuan Yew, the founding father of modern Singapore, you'll gain insights into his visionary leadership and the strategies he employed to turn a small, resource-poor nation into a thriving global hub. Lee's candid and pragmatic approach to governance will leave you inspired and in awe of Singapore's success story.
Escape from Camp 14 : One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West - Thryft
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Blaine Harden | Penguin Books

Escape from Camp 14 : One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West

$7.59

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$7.59

65% off est. retail
"Escape from Camp 14" is a vivid account of the life inside North Korea's political prison. The book portrays the story of Shin Dong-hyuk, the only person born inside one of these camps to have escaped. It highlights the inhumane conditions of the political prison camps and the brutalities people had to deal with on a daily basis. It is a must-read for those interested in human rights and political issues.
Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited
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Cherian George | Ethos Books

Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.42

$11.90

56% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate blend of comfort and central control in Singapore's society. Through a compilation of essays by Cherian George, it provides critical insights into the country's political culture, shedding light on both its mastery of the environment and the potential risks it poses to individual autonomy and sustainability. With updated reflections on continuity and change, this 20th anniversary edition offers a comprehensive exploration of Singapore's unique societal dynamics, making it a must-read for those intrigued by the complexities of this nation.
First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers
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Loung Ung | Harper Perennial

First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$8.90

64% off est. retail
This book is a gripping and harrowing memoir that takes you on a journey through the terrifying experiences of a young girl during the Cambodian genocide. Loung Ung's story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of love and courage in the face of unimaginable brutality. If you are looking for a deeply moving and inspiring read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, this book is for you.
Jesus in Beijing : How Christianity Is Transforming China and Changing the Global Balance of Power - Thryft
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David Aikman | Regnery Publishing

Jesus in Beijing : How Christianity Is Transforming China and Changing the Global Balance of Power

$24.90 $17.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$24.90 $17.90 28% off

63% off est. retail
The book provides a unique and insightful look into the religious transformation happening in China, and the potential implications it could have on the country's politics. Aikman's firsthand experience as a journalist in Beijing allows him to provide a detailed and accurate portrayal of the situation. Recommended for anyone interested in the intersection of religion and politics, particularly in China.
Falling Leaves : The Memoir of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter - Thryft
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Adeline Yen Mah | Broadway Books

Falling Leaves : The Memoir of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$6.34

73% off est. retail
Born in 1937 in a port city a thousand miles north of Shanghai, Adeline Yen Mah was the youngest child of an affluent Chinese family who enjoyed rare privileges during a time of political and cultural upheaval. But wealth and position could not shield Adeline from a childhood of appalling emotional abuse at the hands of a cruel and manipulative Eurasian stepmother. Determined to survive through her enduring faith in family unity, Adeline struggled for independence as she moved from Hong Kong to England and eventually to the United States to become a physician and writer.A compelling, painful, and ultimately triumphant story of a girl's journey into adulthood, Adeline's story is a testament to the most basic of human needs: acceptance, love, and understanding. With a powerful voice that speaks of the harsh realities of growing up female in a family and society that kept girls in emotional chains, Falling Leaves is a work of heartfelt intimacy and a rare authentic portrait of twentieth-century China.

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.