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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 Bob Dylan Scrapbook, 1956-1966
Bob Dylan

The Bob Dylan Scrapbook, 1956-1966

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90

If you're a Dylan aficionado or a fan of rock history, "The Bob Dylan Scrapbook, 1956-1966" is a treasure trove of memorabilia that takes you back to the times when Dylan was redefining music. It's an intimate glimpse into the artist's journey, amplified by rare photographs and reproductions of handwritten lyrics. You'll feel closer to the legend himself with every page.
Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Just Arrived
Shana Knizhnik, Irin Carmon  | Dey Street Books

Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg

$14.90 $9.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$14.90 $9.90 34% off

62% off est. retail
This is a lively, affectionate portrait of Ruth Bader Ginsburg that feels both smart and wonderfully human. It goes beyond the meme to show the discipline, courage, and quiet steel that made her such a lasting force. If you like biographies with political bite and a real sense of personality, this is the kind of book that leaves you inspired and fired up.
The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination
Daniel J. Boorstin | Vintage Books

The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$11.90

76% off est. retail
This is a great read if you love big, idea-rich nonfiction that makes art feel alive across centuries. Boorstin connects giants like Homer, Picasso, and Woolf into one flowing story, so you get both vivid lives and the larger evolution of creativity itself. It feels like a guided tour through the minds that shaped culture, without losing the wonder of how art emerges from its time.
The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius, George Long  | Shambhala

The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.28

$8.90

56% off est. retail
If you're someone who appreciates the intersection of philosophy and practicality, "The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius" could resonate deeply with you. Here is a rare glimpse into the personal thoughts of a Roman emperor, which surprisingly feels as relevant today as it did centuries ago. It's a guide that simplifies the complexity of human experience into profound yet accessible insights. Marcus's meditations offer not just food for thought, but sustenance for the soul, urging us to live virtuously and with purpose.
Playful Story Set (Chinese Edition)
侯文咏 | 北京十月文艺出版社

Playful Story Set (Chinese Edition)

$42.90 $27.90 35% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$42.90 $27.90 35% off

Diving into this playful story set, you'll embark on an enriching cultural journey through Chinese narratives. The lighthearted prose may attract those with an interest in foreign literature, offering insights into the nuances of life and imagination from an Eastern perspective. It's a delightful way to experience the charm of another culture through storytelling.
Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House
Michael Wolff | Little, Brown

Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.44

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Recommended for: A political enthusiast or news junkie looking for an insider's perspective on the controversial Trump presidency. With unprecedented access to the Trump White House, Michael Wolff provides a captivating and eye-opening account of the first nine months of Trump's term. From juicy details about the president's staff dynamics to revealing the motivations behind major decisions, Fire and Fury offers a fresh and thought-provoking look at one of the most turbulent times in American politics. Get ready to dive into the chaos and drama that unfolded in the Oval Office.
Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon
Michael Lewis | Penguin

Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon

$16.90 $12.90 24% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$16.90 $12.90 24% off

74% off est. retail
"Going Infinite" is a gripping ride into the enigma that is Sam Bankman-Fried. Michael Lewis offers you a front-row seat to the unbridled ambition and tumultuous downfall of crypto's wunderkind. If you're fascinated by the volatile dance of fortunes and the human narratives intertwined with cutting-edge finance, this book is a must-read. It's a contemporary Icarus tale, complete with insider insights and compelling storytelling that could only come from a master like Lewis.
Spare
Prince Harry | Bantam

Spare

$18.90 $12.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$18.90 $12.90 32% off

74% off est. retail
"Spare" by Prince Harry peels back the layers of royal life with an honesty you might not expect from a member of the monarchy. If you've ever been fascinated by the triumphs and tribulations of the British Royals, or you're someone who appreciates candid autobiographical storytelling, this book offers a rare insider's perspective that's both intimate and eye-opening.
Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World's Most Dangerous Man
TRUMP MARY L. | Simon & Schuster Uk

Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World's Most Dangerous Man

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$13.90

If you're intrigued by the inner workings of influential families, Mary L. Trump's "Too Much and Never Enough" offers a riveting perspective. It's not just another outsider's account; as Donald Trump's niece and a clinical psychologist, Mary gives a rare insight into the formative years of a future president. Her intimate and critical take on her family's tumultuous history might provide you with a deeper understanding of the events and relationships that shaped a notable, and controversial, figure.
David Hume: The Philosopher as Historian
Nicholas Phillipson | Penguin Books Ltd

David Hume: The Philosopher as Historian

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're someone who appreciates the interplay between philosophy and history, you'll find "David Hume: The Philosopher as Historian" particularly engaging. Nicholas Phillipson delves into Hume’s innovative approach to history, untangling it from religious and political narratives. This book isn't just a biography; it's a window into Hume's influence on the modern understanding of human action and historical processes. It’s perfect for those looking to grasp how a philosopher's ideas can reshape the recording of humanity's past.
A Very Stable Genius: Donald J. Trump's Testing of America
Philip Rucker, Carol Leonnig  | Penguin Press

A Very Stable Genius: Donald J. Trump's Testing of America

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

81% off est. retail
A Very Stable Genius would be a good read for anyone interested in American politics and the inner workings of the Trump administration. This book provides an in-depth look into Trump's presidency, including the scandals and chaos that surrounded it. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the impact of Trump's presidency on America's democracy and its people. The book's most unique feature is the unprecedented access the authors had to insiders who witnessed Trump's behavior firsthand, providing a gripping and authentic insider's view of his presidency.
Why We Kneel, How We Rise
Usain Bolt, Michael Holding, Ed Hawkins  | Simon & Schuster Uk

Why We Kneel, How We Rise

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

64% off est. retail
Michael Holding's insights into racism interwoven with personal accounts from world-class athletes make this an eye-opener. It's not just about the challenges; it also offers a pathway toward understanding and societal transformation through sports. This book is a strong call to action for anyone ready to confront societal injustices and learn through the lens of athletics.
The Great Humanists: An Introduction
Jonathan Arnold | I.b. Tauris

The Great Humanists: An Introduction

$27.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$27.90

If you're fascinated by how the seeds of modern thought were sown during the turbulence of the Renaissance, "The Great Humanists" could be a treasure trove for you. Jonathan Arnold intricately weaves the biographies of influential figures like Erasmus and Thomas More with the broader cultural and philosophical shifts of their time, offering insights that resonate even in modern scholarship. It's a well-crafted introduction to the era's thinkers who shaped our understanding of humanity and laid the groundwork for the world as we know it.
Machiavelli: A Beginner's Guide
Cary J. Nederman | Oneworld Publications

Machiavelli: A Beginner's Guide

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're intrigued by the mechanisms of power and political strategy, Machiavelli's name likely resonates with you. This guide serves as a gateway to understanding the complex ideas of a man often simplistically branded as cunning or ruthless. It will offer you a more nuanced perspective of his thoughts on leadership and morality, which continue to influence thinkers and leaders to this day.
Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship, and Purpose
Joe Biden | Pan Macmillan

Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship, and Purpose

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

66% off est. retail
"Promise Me, Dad" is a profoundly human story that intertwines the personal tribulations of Joe Biden with his public responsibilities. It's an intimate look at the resilience needed to balance family and country during times of personal grief. If you're drawn to stories of emotional strength and leadership under pressure, Biden's memoir offers a powerful narrative that connects on both a personal and political level.
Queen of Our Times: The Life of Queen Elizabeth II
Robert Hardman | March 17, 2022

Queen of Our Times: The Life of Queen Elizabeth II

$21.90 $3.90 82% off

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$21.90 $3.90 82% off

90% off est. retail
If the royal family piques your interest, especially the figure of Queen Elizabeth II, "Queen of Our Times" could be for you. Robert Hardman offers an in-depth look at the Queen's long-standing reign and her adaptability through decades of global change. His access to royal insiders provides a rich, intimate portrait that could offer new insights even to those familiar with her storied life.
The Fall of Boris Johnson: The Full Story
Sebastian Payne | Pan Macmillan

The Fall of Boris Johnson: The Full Story

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

62% off est. retail
Considering the whirlwind of politics that swirls around figures like Boris Johnson, this book digs deep into the specifics of his fall from the pinnacle of UK power. It's an intriguing read if you're into the mechanics of political upheaval and leadership crises. It's particularly fitting for those who follow British politics or enjoy understanding the behind-the-scenes of historical political events.
The Utopians: Six Attempts to Build the Perfect Society
Anna Neima | Picador

The Utopians: Six Attempts to Build the Perfect Society

$23.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$23.90

47% off est. retail
If you've ever daydreamed about a perfect society, "The Utopians" might just be the reality check that fascinates you. Anna Neima takes you on a historical journey through the successes and, more intriguingly, the failures of six utopian communities. This book isn't just about the past; it's a mirror to our own aspirations and the complex challenges of collective living.
Musings. Series One
Tai Ho Woon, George Yong-boon Yeo  | Wspc

Musings. Series One

$40.90 $24.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$40.90 $24.90 39% off

75% off est. retail
If you're drawn to books that not only provide a window into a leader's mind but also traverse a variety of weighty topics, George Yeo's "Musings" might pique your curiosity. It's like sitting down with a philosopher-statesman; Yeo's conversations with Woon Tai Ho cover everything from the personal to the global, offering insights into his vision for Singapore and reflections on international affairs. This book promises a reflective journey through the thoughts of a man who has seen Singapore's narrative intertwined with the world's.
The Umbrella Murder: The Hunt for the Cold War's Most Notorious Killer
Ulrik Skotte | Wh Allen

The Umbrella Murder: The Hunt for the Cold War's Most Notorious Killer

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$16.90

If you've got a taste for true crime stitched with the fabric of espionage, "The Umbrella Murder" is a gripping dive into one of the Cold War's most chilling episodes. As you walk alongside journalist Ulrik Skotte, you'll be piecing together a historical puzzle that has captivated the world for decades. It's not just history; it's a detective story that promises to hold your attention with every turned page.
The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper
Hallie Rubenhold | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$13.90

If you're intrigued by true crime and are drawn to untold stories, "The Five" is a poignant shift from the glorification of the infamous Jack the Ripper to a compassionate focus on his victims. Hallie Rubenhold delves into their backgrounds with care, humanizing these women beyond being mere footnotes in a notorious tale. It's an absorbing read that not only serves as a tribute to their forgotten lives but also as a reflection on society's long-held narratives about women and victimhood.
Steve Jobs
Walter Isaacson | Little, Brown

Steve Jobs

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$13.90

70% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the genius behind Apple. Through exclusive interviews with Steve Jobs and his close associates, Walter Isaacson presents a captivating account of Jobs' life and his relentless pursuit of innovation. From his early days to the founding of Apple and his revolutionary products, iSteve offers a deep dive into the mind of one of the greatest innovators of our time. Get ready to be inspired and captivated by this incredible biography.
Great Speeches
John Grafton, Abraham Lincoln, Roy P. Basler  | Dover Publications

Great Speeches

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

62% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the art of oratory or the timeless impact of powerful words, "Great Speeches" by Abraham Lincoln might just resonate deeply with you. It's more than a history lesson; it's a journey through the heart and mind of one of America's most revered leaders, whose skill with words shaped the nation profoundly. Reading his speeches offers a personal encounter with Lincoln's convictions and his exceptional ability to express complex ideas with clarity and moral force.
The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds
Michael Lewis | W. W. Norton & Company

The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds

$24.90 $16.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$24.90 $16.90 32% off

58% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone who is curious about how the human mind works and wants to delve into the world of decision-making. Michael Lewis vividly recounts the groundbreaking work of Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, whose collaboration in the field of behavioral economics reshaped our understanding of reality. Through their extraordinary lives and research, this book offers a captivating exploration of the power of intuition, the limitations of human judgment, and the potential of algorithms to shape our lives. Get ready to have your mind blown and gain new insights into the workings of your own mind.
What Happened
Hillary Rodham Clinton | Simon & Schuster

What Happened

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$15.90

If you've ever been intrigued by the dynamics and drama of American politics, Hillary Rodham Clinton's "What Happened" could offer you an intimate backstage pass. It's especially captivating if you're curious about the personal side of public figures and the intricacies of being a woman on the front lines of a historically contentious election. Her narrative doesn't just dissect the events; it's a broader discussion on democracy, resilience, and navigating criticism that could resonate with anyone who's faced their own professional or personal battles.
Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II
Robert Hardman | Macmillan

Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II

$21.90 $14.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$21.90 $14.90 32% off

If you're keen on royal history or simply intrigued by figures who've shaped the 20th century, "Queen of Our Times" promises a rich, textured dive into Queen Elizabeth II's remarkable life. This biography by renowned royal expert Robert Hardman offers unprecedented insights, drawing on exclusive access to royal documents and personal accounts. It's a masterful blend of historical gravitas and personal detail, celebrating a legacy of resilience and service.
The Story of My Experiments with Truth
Mahatma Gandhi | Rupa & Co.

The Story of My Experiments with Truth

$16.90 $10.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$16.90 $10.90 36% off

Reading Gandhi's autobiography feels like a conversation with a wise elder, reflecting on a deeply personal yet vastly influential life. His candid recount of his experiments with truth reveals his humanity—his doubts, failures, and triumphs—and provides inspiration for anyone striving for personal growth or understanding the power of peaceful resistance in shaping history.
The Wright Brothers
Just Arrived
David McCullough | Simon & Schuster Paperbacks

The Wright Brothers

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$11.90

This is the kind of history that feels vivid and intimate rather than distant, turning the Wrights into real people with stubbornness, brilliance, and heart. McCullough makes their achievement feel almost unbelievable in the best way, especially knowing how little the world first understood what they had done. If you like biography with momentum and a strong human core, this one really soars.
Red Roulette: An Insider's Story of Wealth, Power, Corruption and Vengeance in Today's China
Just Arrived
Desmond Shum | Simon & Schuster Uk

Red Roulette: An Insider's Story of Wealth, Power, Corruption and Vengeance in Today's China

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$13.90

This powerful and disturbing New York Times bestseller is written by Desmond Shum, and centers on his wife Whitney Duan, who, together, rose to the top levels of power and wealth—then fell out of favor. Whitney had disappeared four years earlier, but the book chronicles her dramatic reemergence. As Desmond Shum grew up impoverished in China, he vowed his life would be different. Through hard work and tenacity he earned an American college degree and returned to his native country to establish himself in business. There, he met his future wife, Whitney Duan, who was determined to make her mark within China's male-dominated society. Whitney and Desmond formed an effective team and, aided by relationships with top members of China’s Communist Party—the so-called red aristocracy—he vaulted into China’s billionaire class. They developed major projects, traveled on private jets, funded multi-million-dollar buildings and endowments, and purchased expensive homes, vehicles, and art. But in 2017, their fates diverged irrevocably when Desmond, while residing overseas with his son, learned that his now-ex-wife Whitney had vanished along with three coworkers.
Letters of Note: Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience
Shaun Usher | Canongate Books

Letters of Note: Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Imagine holding a piece of history in your hands, not through textbooks, but through the personal words of those who made it. "Letters of Note" offers that intimate experience, allowing you to witness private thoughts and moments that have shaped our world. It's a book for those who cherish the lost art of letter writing and relish the chance to connect with the humanity behind the names we so often see in headlines and history books.
Freedom
Just Arrived
Sebastian Junger | Fourth Estate

Freedom

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$11.90

56% off est. retail
A profound rumination on the concept of freedom from the New York Times–bestselling author of Tribe. Throughout history, humans have been driven by the quest for two cherished ideals: community and freedom. The two don’t coexist easily; we value individuality and self-reliance yet are utterly dependent on community for our most basic needs. In this intricately crafted and thought-provoking book, Sebastian Junger examines the tension that lies at the heart of what it means to be human. For much of a year, Junger and three friends—a conflict photographer and two Afghan war vets—walk the railroad lines of the east coast of the United States. It is an experiment in personal autonomy, but also in interdependence. Dodging railroad cops, sleeping under bridges, cooking over fires and drinking from creeks and rivers, the four men forge a unique reliance on one another. In Freedom, Junger weaves his account of this journey with other topics: primatology and boxing strategy, the history of labour strikes and Apache renegades, the role of women in resistance movements, and the brutal reality of life on the Pennsylvania frontier. Written in exquisite, razor-sharp prose, the result is a powerful examination of the primary desire that defines us.
Bazball: The Inside Story of a Test Cricket Revolution
Lawrence Booth, Nick Hoult  | Bloomsbury

Bazball: The Inside Story of a Test Cricket Revolution

$20.90 $13.90 33% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$20.90 $13.90 33% off

If you're a cricket fan intrigued by the radical transformation of England's Test team, "Bazball" is a front-row ticket to history. Authors Hoult and Booth offer an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at a sport in the midst of exhilarating change. Their direct access to players and matches means you're not just reading a story—you're stepping into the action, witnessing a once-conservative game turned thrillingly aggressive. This book could rekindle your love for the game or spark a new appreciation for the bold strategies that can redefine an age-old sport.
Unscripted: The Epic Battle for a Hollywood Media Empire
Just Arrived
James B. Stewart | Cornerstone Press

Unscripted: The Epic Battle for a Hollywood Media Empire

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$18.90

Prize-winning authors James B. Stewart and Rachel Abrams have both won Pulitzer Prizes for investigative reporting.
Battle of Brothers: William and Harry – The Friendship and the Feuds
Robert Lacey | William Collins

Battle of Brothers: William and Harry – The Friendship and the Feuds

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

If the regal drama captivates you, "Battle of Brothers" is more than just a peek behind the palace curtains – it's a deep dive into the dynamics of royal brotherhood. Robert Lacey's expertise lends authenticity to the narrative, revealing the complexities and challenges faced by Princes William and Harry. It's a compelling analysis for anyone intrigued by the personal toll of royal duty and familial bonds tested in the public eye.
Mantel Pieces: Royal Bodies and Other Writing From the London Review of Books
Hilary Mantel | Fourth Estate

Mantel Pieces: Royal Bodies and Other Writing From the London Review of Books

$10.90 $10.71 2% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$10.90 $10.71 2% off

62% off est. retail
Mantel Pieces transports you into the brilliance of Hilary Mantel's thought process. As a fellow reader and history buff, you'll appreciate her incisive commentary and the personal touch in her writing. Whether she's dissecting royal figures or sharing candid memoirs, Mantel's wit and insight can make historical and cultural figures feel fresh and relevant. It's like having an intellectually stimulating conversation with a friend who happens to be an award-winning author.
In Search of Amrit Kaur
Livia Manera Sambuy | Chatto & Windus

In Search of Amrit Kaur

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$9.90

65% off est. retail
"In Search of Amrit Kaur" isn't just a historical investigation; it's a narrative that blends glamour with the gravity of wartime sacrifices. If you have a penchant for stories that dig up the past to reveal poignant truths about the human spirit, Livia Manera Sambuy's deep dive into the life of Princess Amrit Kaur is a compelling blend of detective story and heartfelt family exploration, shedding light on a peculiar, yet captivating slice of history. It's a journey through time that will resonate with anyone who appreciates the complex weave of personal freedom, history, and legacy.
No Friend But the Mountains: The True Story of an Illegally Imprisoned Refugee
Behrouz Boochani | Picador

No Friend But the Mountains: The True Story of an Illegally Imprisoned Refugee

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Diving into "No Friend but the Mountains" gives you an unflinching perspective of Behrouz Boochani's heart-wrenching experience. As you walk through his years of being unjustly held, your understanding of the refugee crisis will deepen, and the power of human spirit and endurance will become undeniable. The book's raw emotion and striking prose make it a compelling read that's hard to put down and impossible to forget.
Moment of Glory: The Year Underdogs Ruled Golf
John Feinstein | Little, Brown And Company

Moment of Glory: The Year Underdogs Ruled Golf

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$3.90

If you've ever cheered for the unexpected hero, "Moment of Glory" is your kind of story. It delves into the personal and professional journeys of four golfers who seized their chance to shine when the sport's goliath, Tiger Woods, stumbled. The book isn't just about sports; it's a human tale of seizing opportunity and the unpredictable ripples of success. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or just love an inspiring underdog saga, this narrative will grip you with its behind-the-scenes look at glory and its aftermath.
Reporter: A Memoir
Just Arrived
Seymour M. Hersh | Penguin

Reporter: A Memoir

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$10.90

61% off est. retail
"Reporter is just wonderful. Truly a great life, and what shines out of the book, amid the low cunning and tireless legwork, is Hersh's warmth and humanity. Essential reading for every journalist and aspiring journalist the world over." — John le Carré In the early 1950s, teenage Seymour Hersh was finishing high school and university — while running the family's struggling dry cleaning store in a South Side Chicago ghetto. Today, he is one of America's premier investigative journalists, whose fearless reporting has earned him fame, front-page bylines in virtually every newspaper in the world, a staggering collection of awards, and no small amount of controversy. Reporter is the story of how he did it. It is a story of slog, ingenuity and defiance, following Hersh from his first job as a crime reporter for the Chicago City News Bureau, through his Pulitzer Prize-winning freelance investigative exposes, to the heights of his reporting for The New York Times and The New Yorker. It is a tale of night-time encounters with great Civil Rights leaders, unauthorised meetings with Pentagon officials, raucous dinners with Canadian soldiers in Hanoi, tense phone calls with Secretaries of State, desperate to save face; of exposing myriad military and political wrongdoing, from My Lai to Watergate to Abu Ghraib, and the cynical cover-ups that followed in Washington and New York. Here too are unforgettable encounters with some of the most formidable figures from recent decades, from Saul Bellow to Martin Luther King Jr., from Henry Kissinger to Bashar al-Assad. Ultimately, in unfurling Seymour Hersh's life and career, Reporter tells a story of twentieth-century America, in all its excitement and darkness.
The Dark Charisma of Adolf Hitler
Just Arrived
Laurence Rees | Ebury Press

The Dark Charisma of Adolf Hitler

$9.64

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.64

If the psychology behind influential figures intrigues you, Laurence Rees' "The Dark Charisma of Adolf Hitler" is a compelling choice. As someone who appreciates deep dives into historical characters, you'll find Rees' exploration of Hitler's terrifying magnetism both enlightening and thought-provoking. This isn't just a recount of historical events—it's a study of how charisma can be wielded for dark purposes, offering insights relevant to understanding power dynamics even today.
Civil War America 1850-1870
Just Arrived
Paul Johnson | Harper Perennial

Civil War America 1850-1870

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$10.90

If you want Civil War history that feels both authoritative and alive, this is a rewarding pick. Paul Johnson gives you the political fracture, the battlefield stakes, and the uneasy aftermath in a way that feels brisk but never shallow. It’s the kind of history readers often praise for making a huge, familiar subject feel sharply focused and deeply human.
Bowerman and the Men of Oregon: The Story of Oregon's Legendary Coach and Nike's Cofounder
Just Arrived
Kenny Moore | Rodale Books

Bowerman and the Men of Oregon: The Story of Oregon's Legendary Coach and Nike's Cofounder

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$12.90

No man has affected more runners in more ways than Bill Bowerman. During his 24-year tenure as track coach at the University of Oregon, he won four national team titles and his athletes set 13 world and 22 American records. He also ignited the jogging boom, invented the waffle-sole running shoe that helped establish Nike, and coached the US track and field team at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games. With the full cooperation of the Bowerman family and Nike, plus years of taped interviews with friends, relatives, students, and competitors, two-time Olympic marathoner Kenny Moore — himself one of Bowerman's champion athletes — brilliantly recreates the legendary track coach's life.
Help Me: A Vulnerable Girl, A Dungeon Hell, A Staggering True Story of Survival
Carolyn Gusoff | Virgin Books

Help Me: A Vulnerable Girl, A Dungeon Hell, A Staggering True Story of Survival

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$5.90

76% off est. retail
"Help Me" is an incredibly powerful account, not just for survivors of trauma, but for anyone looking to understand the depths of human endurance. Katie Beers' story, co-authored with Carolyn Gusoff, offers a raw and unflinching look into her horrific experience. Yet, amid the darkness, it's a testament to the strength of the human spirit. If you can handle the intense subject matter, her journey from victim to survivor is one that can inspire and remind us of the resilience we all possess.
Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela | Hatchette Book Group

Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

If you've ever admired the resilience of the human spirit, "Long Walk to Freedom" is a must-read. It's not just about the political history; it’s a deeply personal narrative that gives you insight into the man behind the icon—Nelson Mandela. It shows the sacrifices one makes for freedom, and Mandela's unwavering dedication to equality will leave you both educated and inspired.
Kochland
Christopher Leonard | Simon & Schuster

Kochland

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$9.90

This is the kind of nonfiction that makes huge systems feel gripping and personal. If you like investigative books that show how business decisions quietly shape politics, labor, and climate, this one really lands. Readers often come away feeling stunned by how invisible Koch’s influence was—and how clearly Leonard connects it to modern America.
The Bush
Don Watson | Penguin

The Bush

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.90

66% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by Australia's heartland—the bush—this book offers a fascinating blend of memoir, history, and travelogue that might just redefine your understanding of what it means to be Australian. Don Watson's storytelling weaves personal and national narratives that bring the bush to life, offering profound insights into the land's impact on Australia's character and culture. Whether you're an Aussie native or a curious outsider, this journey is as entertaining as it is enlightening.
Adnan's Story - The Search For Truth And Justice After Serial - Thryft
Rabia Chaudry | St. Martin's Press

Adnan's Story - The Search For Truth And Justice After Serial

$5.90 $4.90 17% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$5.90 $4.90 17% off

88% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for true crime enthusiasts who were captivated by the Serial podcast. Adnan's Story goes beyond what was covered in the podcast, providing intimate details and newly-uncovered evidence that unveils a gripping search for truth and justice. Delving into the complexities of Adnan Syed's case, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat, questioning and unraveling the mystery surrounding a highly-publicized murder trial.
Mulroney: The Politics of Ambition
John; Cashore Sawatsky | Macfarlane, Walter & Ross

Mulroney: The Politics of Ambition

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$13.90

If you like political books that feel revealing rather than dry, this could be a strong pick. It digs into Brian Mulroney’s rise with a sense of calculation, personality, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering that makes politics feel intensely human. Readers who enjoy biography mixed with power dynamics may find it especially absorbing.
Preventable: The Inside Story of How Leadership Failures, Politics, and Selfishness Doomed the U.S. Coronavirus Response
Andy Slavitt | St. Martin's Press

Preventable: The Inside Story of How Leadership Failures, Politics, and Selfishness Doomed the U.S. Coronavirus Response

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

"Preventable" gives a gripping, insider's perspective on a national tragedy that many of us have lived through. If you’re looking to understand not only the specific missteps of the recent pandemic response but also the underlying flaws in America's health and political systems that allowed for such a catastrophe, Andy Slavitt’s account is a crucial read. It resonates with a call for accountability and the urgency to learn from these painful lessons.
The Facebook Effect: The Inside Story of the Company That Is Connecting the World
David Kirkpatrick | Simon & Schuster

The Facebook Effect: The Inside Story of the Company That Is Connecting the World

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$12.90

If you're intrigued by how a dorm-room idea evolved into a global phenomenon, "The Facebook Effect" is your must-read. It's not just any corporate story; it's a deep dive into how social media redefined our connections and culture. With unprecedented access to Zuckerberg and his team, this book might just be the most comprehensive account of the intense drive and pivotal moments that shaped the internet as we know it today. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, business, and society.

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.