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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 Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II: The Last Great Monarch? - Thryft
Andrew Marr | Picador

The Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II: The Last Great Monarch?

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

67% off est. retail
If the mystique of royalty intrigues you, "The Diamond Queen" is a perfect fit. Andrew Marr offers a rare glimpse into the life and influence of Queen Elizabeth II, augmented by diligent research and enthralling storytelling. As a Sunday Times bestseller, the book promises to deepen your understanding of the monarchy and its evolution over the decades under the stewardship of Britain's longest-reigning monarch.
Kidnapped by the Taliban
Dilip Joseph | Thomas Nelson

Kidnapped by the Taliban

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

82% off est. retail
If the resilience of the human spirit combined with a harrowing true-life adventure intrigues you, "Kidnapped by the Taliban" could captivate you. Dilip Joseph's story isn't just about fear and survival; it's a profound reflection on finding humanity in the midst of chaos. This book offers an unexpected perspective on the Afghan conflict, one that brings a deeply personal understanding to a situation often painted with broad strokes.
Margaret Thatcher Volume One: Not for Turning - The Authorized Biography
Charles Moore | Allen Lane

Margaret Thatcher Volume One: Not for Turning - The Authorized Biography

$18.90 $11.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$18.90 $11.90 37% off

83% off est. retail
This detailed biography brings Margaret Thatcher to life beyond the headlines. Moore's careful examination of letters and interviews allows you to glimpse the private sides of a public figure. You'll appreciate how it places her in the context of British politics, offers honest critiques, and leads up to her pinnacle moment with the Falklands. If you're keen to understand the Iron Lady's journey, this book is a meticulous and intimate guide.
The Paras: From the Falklands to Afghanistan in Their Own Words
Max Arthur | Hodder

The Paras: From the Falklands to Afghanistan in Their Own Words

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

76% off est. retail
If military history grips you, "The Paras" will drop you right into the heart of battle with personal accounts that bridge the gap between distant headlines and lived experiences. Max Arthur provides a rare platform for the soldiers themselves to share their relentless, often harrowing exploits. Their first-hand stories grant an authentic pulse to history, making this more than just a recount; it's a collective memoir where courage and camaraderie shine through the darkest moments.
The Rabbit House
Laura Alcoba | Granta Books

The Rabbit House

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

69% off est. retail
'The Rabbit House' would resonate with you if you are moved by stories of childhood overshadowed by historical events. Laura Alcoba narrates her experience growing up during Argentina's Dirty War with a contemplative innocence that offers a poignant contrast to darker political undercurrents. This book's stark truth and delicate prose might just transport you to a time of personal struggle and resilience, seen through a child's eyes.
The Last Man on the Moon: Astronaut Eugene Cernan and America's Race in Space
Eugene Cernan, Donald A. Davis  | St. Martin's Press

The Last Man on the Moon: Astronaut Eugene Cernan and America's Race in Space

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

You'd appreciate Eugene Cernan's raw account if you're fascinated by the human elements of space exploration—the personal sacrifices, the intense camaraderie among astronauts, and the sheer thrill of achieving the extraordinary. "The Last Man on the Moon" dives into not just the technicalities and adventures of spaceflight but also the profound emotions and behind-the-scenes struggles of those who aimed for the stars. It's a story of human ambition and the price one pays for glory, narrated by someone who's been to the very edge of human experience.
Soldier: The Life of Colin Powell
Karen DeYoung | Knopf

Soldier: The Life of Colin Powell

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the complexities of leadership and statesmanship, "Soldier" provides a multi-layered look at Colin Powell's life. It's a candid exploration of the personal and professional challenges he faced, offering a detailed portrait that goes beyond the public persona to reveal the man behind the medals. This book would be a compelling read for those interested in military history, politics, or the intricacies of a life devoted to public service.
Dolly : My Life and Other Unfinished Business - Thryft
Dolly Parton | Harpercollins

Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

80% off est. retail
If you've ever been intrigued by the sparkle and wit of Dolly Parton, her autobiography "My Life and Other Unfinished Business" is as genuine as it gets. You'll find yourself wrapped in her honesty and humor, as she unveils the journey from her humble beginnings to becoming a country music icon. It’s a read that promises to be as endearing and memorable as Dolly herself, offering a down-to-earth perspective that might resonate with your own life's unfinished business.
I Know You Got Soul: Machines With That Certain Something
Jeremy Clarkson | Penguin

I Know You Got Soul: Machines With That Certain Something

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

80% off est. retail
If you’re intrigued by the amalgamation of technology, soul, and storytelling, "I Know You Got Soul" by Jeremy Clarkson might just pique your interest. Clarkson, known for his distinctive voice and humor, takes you on a journey to explore machines that aren't just mechanical marvels but have a character of their own. It's for the inquisitive mind that delights in understanding the essence that makes a machine more than the sum of its parts. His narratives are engagingly human, bringing tech tales to life in a way that's both informative and highly entertaining.
Kublai Khan
John Man | Bantam

Kublai Khan

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

If you're intrigued by how great empires are forged by unconventional leaders, "Kublai Khan" is a must-read. John Man paints a vivid picture of a ruler who redefined power through shrewd governance and sheer determination, against the backdrop of the vast and varied landscapes of Asia. This isn't just history; it's an epic tale of ambition, legacy, and the shaping of the modern world that still echoes today.
Warriors of God: Richard the Lionheart and Saladin in the Third Crusade
James Reston Jr. | Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

Warriors of God: Richard the Lionheart and Saladin in the Third Crusade

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$13.90

"Warriors of God" isn't just a vivid recount of ancient battles; it's a window into how the past shapes our present. James Reston, Jr. meticulously paints the complex characters of Saladin and Richard the Lionheart, offering a narrative that humanizes history. If you're intrigued by the intersection of faith, violence, and the eternal human quest for power, this book turns history into an absorbing tale that resonates with contemporary relevance.
The Wikipedia Revolution How a Bunch of Nobodies Created the World's Greatest Encyclopedia - Thryft
Jimmy Wales, Andrew Lih  | Hyperion

The Wikipedia Revolution How a Bunch of Nobodies Created the World's Greatest Encyclopedia

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

90% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the power of collective intelligence and open-source platforms, "The Wikipedia Revolution" is a must-read. It dives into the origins and evolution of a site you likely use every day, offering an insider's perspective on how a group of volunteers built the world's most extensive encyclopedia. The stories behind the site's creation and growth will inspire you about the potential of collaboration and the Internet's democratizing power.
Mayada: Daughter of Iraq: One Woman's Survival in Saddam Hussein's Torture Jail
Jean Sasson | Transworld Publishers

Mayada: Daughter of Iraq: One Woman's Survival in Saddam Hussein's Torture Jail

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

65% off est. retail
Mayada: Daughter of Iraq is a powerful memoir that details the life of a privileged Iraqi woman who finds herself in a notorious prison, falsely accused of printing anti-government propaganda. The book offers a unique perspective on the terror and horror brought by Saddam Hussein's regime upon the lives and souls of ordinary citizens. This book would be a great read for those interested in memoirs, stories of survival, and the power of sisterhood in the face of adversity.
Chinese Lessons: Five Classmates and the Story of the New China
John Pomfret | Henry Holt And Co.

Chinese Lessons: Five Classmates and the Story of the New China

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

88% off est. retail
"Chinese Lessons" offers a deeply personal glimpse into the lives altered by China's seismic shifts from Maoism to a burgeoning capitalist economy. John Pomfret's reconnection with his former classmates provides a textured tapestry of experiences that represent a broader Chinese narrative. Through their stories, you'll journey through painful histories and witness the resilience needed to navigate such profound change. Reading this provides a nuanced understanding that statistics and headlines simply can't convey.
A Good Walk Spoiled: Days and Nights on the PGA Tour
John Feinstein | Warner

A Good Walk Spoiled: Days and Nights on the PGA Tour

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

If you're fascinated by what makes elite athletes tick, "A Good Walk Spoiled" could offer that deep dive into the professional golf world you're looking for. John Feinstein strips away the TV glamour to reveal the real struggles, personal battles, and the mental fortitude required in high-stakes golf. Imagine feeling the tension of a match-point putt and the heartbreak of a career-threatening slump across the seasons—this book takes you there.
Pictures From My Memory: My Story as a Ngaatjatjarra Woman
Lizzie Marrkilyi Ellis, Laurent Dousset  | Aboriginal Studies Press

Pictures From My Memory: My Story as a Ngaatjatjarra Woman

$26.90 $16.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$26.90 $16.90 37% off

"Pictures from My Memory" offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the life of a Ngaatjatjarra woman who has witnessed profound cultural shifts. Elizabeth Marrkilyi Ellis's personal account bridges two worlds, inviting you to understand the impact of these transitions not just historically, but emotionally. Her narrative will enrich your perspective on Indigenous experiences and the complexities of cultural interweaving.
Parting Shots - Thryft
Matthew Parris, Andrew Bryson  | Penguin Books, Ltd (uk)

Parting Shots

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

81% off est. retail
Parting Shots could be a good read for those who love a blend of humor and insight into the world of diplomacy. With its collection of valedictory despatches, the book offers a fascinating glimpse into the British Ambassador's candid opinions on the host country and the Foreign Office itself. Matthew Parris's witty and unbuttoned writing style makes this book both enlightening and highly entertaining. Get ready to laugh and be amazed at the same time.
The Man Who Knew Infinity
Robert Kanigel | Abacus

The Man Who Knew Infinity

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

74% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of genius, culture, and history, "The Man Who Knew Infinity" is a must-read. It's not just the extraordinary life story of the Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan; it's a chronicle of an inspiring, if unlikely, partnership and a testament to the power of perseverance. Kanigel paints a vivid picture that's bound to captivate you whether you're a lover of mathematics or simply a fan of human triumphs.
The Big Ideas of Lee Kuan Yew
Peter Ho, Rahul Sagar, Shashi Jayakumar  | Straits Times Press

The Big Ideas of Lee Kuan Yew

$69.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$69.90

The Big Ideas of Lee Kuan Yew would be a good read for anyone interested in learning more about the political and social transformation of Singapore under the leadership of Lee Kuan Yew. The collection of essays offers unique insights on governance, foreign affairs, economics, and law that have shaped the country's history. This book is recommended for history buffs, political and social science students, and those looking to learn from the experiences of one of the most successful nation-builders of the modern era.
Genghis Khan: Life, Death and Resurrection
John Man | Bantam

Genghis Khan: Life, Death and Resurrection

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

77% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by history's enigmas and the fabled tales of great leaders, this excavation into Genghis Khan's life and the enduring mystery of his final resting place is riveting. It's an exploration that combines historical gravitas with the allure of treasure-hunt suspense, potentially appealing to the Indiana Jones in you.
Among You: The Extraordinary True Story of a Soldier Broken by War
Jake Wood | Mainstream Publishing

Among You: The Extraordinary True Story of a Soldier Broken by War

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.05

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

78% off est. retail
If you've ever been curious about the true grit of military life and the deep aftermath of warfare, "Among You" might just hold your attention captive. Jake Wood doesn't just paint a picture of the battlefield; he takes you into the very psyche of a soldier coping with PTSD. It's a raw, uncut journey that manages not only to depict heroism but to also humanize the often-unseen battles fought long after the guns fall silent.
Heaven and Earth: When Heaven and Earth Changed Places - Thryft
with Jay Wurts Le Ly Hayslip, Jay Wurts  | Pan Books Ltd

Heaven and Earth: When Heaven and Earth Changed Places

$4.44 $3.90 12% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$4.44 $3.90 12% off

52% off est. retail
"When Heaven and Earth Changed Places" is a powerful memoir that takes the reader through the trauma and horror of war seen through the eyes of a young girl. Le Ly Hayslip's story of survival and struggle is both haunting and inspiring. The unique perspective of a child gives the book a distinctive and memorable quality. It is a good read for those interested in history and war as well as those who appreciate a strong, resilient protagonist.
Redemption Song: The Definitive Biography of Joe Strummer
Chris Salewicz | Harpercollins Entertainment

Redemption Song: The Definitive Biography of Joe Strummer

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

82% off est. retail
For fans of music history and punk culture, "Redemption Song" offers an insider's view into the life of Joe Strummer, the heart of The Clash. Imagine delving deep into the ethos of punk, guided by a friend who knew Strummer for over 25 years—this is the kind of authenticity and depth that makes the book stand out as a definitive biography. It's a tribute that goes beyond his music, highlighting the man who inspired a legion of rebels and dreamers.
Frost: That Was the Life That Was - The Authorised Biography
Neil Hegarty | Ebury Press

Frost: That Was the Life That Was - The Authorised Biography

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$13.90 $4.90 65% off

89% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the crossroads of media, power, and history, "Frost: That Was The Life That Was" can be an eye-opening read. It offers a backstage pass to the riveting world where journalism meets the high stakes of global politics, all through the lens of Sir David Frost—a man who didn't just observe history, he shaped it with his poignant questions. His story, anchored in a transformative era, provides insight into the personalities who've shaped modern history, making this biography a must-read for enthusiasts of politics, culture, and the art of the interview.
Master Disguise
Antonio J. Mendez | William Morrow Paperbacks

Master Disguise

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

71% off est. retail
If you have a taste for true spy stories, "Master of Disguise" brings you into a world where split-second decisions could mean life or death. Antonio Mendez pulls back the curtain on the art of espionage, delivering authentic insights into the life of a CIA operative. His experiences, particularly the famous hostage rescue in Tehran, offer a thrilling perspective that even inspired Hollywood. This book is a must-read if you want to dive into the daring and cerebral world of spycraft from someone who's actually lived it.
Bound Feet & Western Dress - Thryft
Pang-Mei Natasha Chang | Bantam

Bound Feet & Western Dress

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

This book could be a good read for someone interested in exploring the intersection of cultural traditions and personal identity. Through the captivating dual memoir of Pang-Mei and her great-aunt Yu-i, "Bound Feet & Western Dress" offers a deep and textured portrait of a woman's life in China during a time of immense societal change. With its blending of Eastern and Western experiences, this book invites readers to witness the struggles and triumphs of individuals challenging the expectations of their class and culture, ultimately unbinding traditional norms and forging their own paths.
The Railway Man
Eric Lomax | Vintage Books

The Railway Man

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$8.90

51% off est. retail
"The Railway Man" isn't just a memoir; it's an odyssey through a man's haunted past. If you're moved by the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of forgiveness, this book is an emotional journey that also serves as a stark reminder of war's lasting impact on individual lives. Eric Lomax's candid honesty and his path to healing may inspire you, especially if you're interested in the personal side of history.
DNA: The Secret of Life
James D. Watson, Andrew Berry  | Knopf

DNA: The Secret of Life

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

You seem intrigued by the building blocks of life itself. "DNA: The Secret of Life" traces the thrilling journey of genetic discovery from its foundational double helix to the modern marvels of genetic engineering. If you're seeking a deeper understanding of how we're made and what the future may hold, this book will offer you a front-row seat to science's most groundbreaking narrative.
The Blair Years - Extracts from the Alastair Campbell Diaries
Alastair Campbell | Century Hutchinson*

The Blair Years - Extracts from the Alastair Campbell Diaries

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

If you're intrigued by the high-stakes world of political power plays and strategic communication, "The Blair Years" serves as an unfiltered window into the inner workings of British leadership during Tony Blair's time. Alastair Campbell provides not just a political chronology but a flesh-and-blood portrayal of the individuals shaping a decade of UK history. The book is a riveting blend of the personal and the political—a true front-row account of New Labour's rise and challenges.
Eight Lives Down: The Story of a Counterterrorist Bomb-Disposal Operator's Tour in Iraq
Chris Hunter | Delacorte Press

Eight Lives Down: The Story of a Counterterrorist Bomb-Disposal Operator's Tour in Iraq

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

83% off est. retail
This book is a gripping firsthand account of a bomb disposal expert's experience in Iraq. With vivid detail, Chris Hunter takes readers through the grueling and dangerous process of dismantling terrorist-planted explosives. His bravery and skill make him a prime target for both Sunni and Shia terrorists, making this book a must-read for those interested in military history and personal accounts of wartime bravery.
Ac/Dc: Maximum Rock & Roll - The Ultimate Story of the World's Greatest Rock-and-Roll Band
Arnaud Durieux, Murray Engleheart  | It Books

Ac/Dc: Maximum Rock & Roll - The Ultimate Story of the World's Greatest Rock-and-Roll Band

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

81% off est. retail
If you've ever been head-banging to "Back in Black" or felt the visceral pull of "Thunderstruck," this AC/DC biography is your backstage pass to the raucous world of a legendary band. It's a vivid tale that doesn't shy away from the grit and sweat that fueled their rise to rock immortality. This book will make you feel like you're part of the AC/DC family, giving you an all-access, unfiltered dive into their tumultuous and electrifying journey.
The Age of Deception: Nuclear Diplomacy in Treacherous Times
Mohamed ElBaradei | Picador

The Age of Deception: Nuclear Diplomacy in Treacherous Times

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$12.90

If you're keen on international relations and the intricacies of nuclear diplomacy, "The Age of Deception" is a riveting read by Mohamed ElBaradei, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. The author's unique position at the crossroads of global politics and his arguments for diplomacy over conflict provide insightful perspectives on the nuclear issues that continue to shape our world. This is the kind of book that doesn't just recount events but offers a deeply personal view from someone who was at the heart of these potentially world-altering situations.
Napoleon's Privates: 2,500 Years of History Unzipped
Tony Perrottet | It Books

Napoleon's Privates: 2,500 Years of History Unzipped

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

66% off est. retail
If you're the kind of reader that relishes the eccentric side of history, "Napoleon's Privates" might just become your guilty pleasure. Tony Perrottet delves into the lesser-known and salacious tidbits that your history teacher skipped over. It's a perfect read for someone who enjoys a blend of humor, oddities, and historical trivia.
Lancaster and York: The Wars of the Roses
Alison Weir | Vintage Books

Lancaster and York: The Wars of the Roses

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

If you're drawn to the tumultuous history of royal intrigue and warfare, Alison Weir's "Lancaster and York" offers a vivid exploration of the Wars of the Roses that's both enlightening and absorbing. Weir has a talent for humanizing historical figures, and in this account, you'll find yourself transported to the heart of the conflict, gaining an intimate understanding of the personalities that shaped this era. It's a perfect blend for anyone fascinated by history's blend of personal drama and national upheaval.
Mafia State: How One Reporter Became an Enemy of the Brutal New Russia
Luke Harding | Guardian Books

Mafia State: How One Reporter Became an Enemy of the Brutal New Russia

$17.90 $12.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$17.90 $12.90 28% off

If you're interested in current affairs and the complexities of press freedom, "Mafia State" is a compelling read. Luke Harding's personal account of being targeted by the Russian government offers an authentic and harrowing insight into what it means to seek the truth in a country where transparency is often met with hostility. It's a story that's sure to resonate with anyone concerned about civil liberties and the role of an unfettered press in society.
Mayada, Daughter of Iraq: One Woman's Survival Under Saddam Hussein
Jean Sasson | Dutton Adult

Mayada, Daughter of Iraq: One Woman's Survival Under Saddam Hussein

$16.90 $7.90 53% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$16.90 $7.90 53% off

If you're drawn to stories that unveil a personal struggle against a backdrop of political oppression, "Mayada, Daughter of Iraq" will undoubtedly resonate with you. Jean Sasson offers a gripping account of Mayada's life and her survival in a harrowing environment, giving readers a deep emotional and educational journey that stays with you long after the last page.
Survivor on the River Kwai: The Incredible Story of Life on the Burma Railway
Reg Twigg | Penguin

Survivor on the River Kwai: The Incredible Story of Life on the Burma Railway

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$8.90

This memoir by Reg Twigg immerses you in the harrowing reality of a POW during WWII. His struggle on the Burma Railway is a poignant testimony to the human spirit's resilience. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in wartime history, tales of survival, and personal fortitude in the face of insurmountable suffering.
In the Footsteps of Mr. Kurtz
Michela Wrong | Harper Perennial

In the Footsteps of Mr. Kurtz

$17.90 $12.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$17.90 $12.90 28% off

If tales of power, corruption, and a nation's heartache intrigue you, then Wrong's "In the Footsteps of Mr. Kurtz" deserves a spot on your bookshelf. It's a deeply human portrait juxtaposed against the political drama of Mobutu's Zaire. Dive in, and you'll not only walk alongside history but also grapple with the complexities of a country both rich and robbed.
Jawbreaker: The Attack on Bin Laden and Al Qaeda: A Personal Account by the CIA's Key Field Commander
Ralph Pezzullo, Gary Berntsen  | Crown

Jawbreaker: The Attack on Bin Laden and Al Qaeda: A Personal Account by the CIA's Key Field Commander

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

If you're fascinated by real-life espionage and military strategy, "Jawbreaker" is a compelling read. Gary Berntsen, a former CIA officer, gives an authentic account of pursuing Al Qaeda after 9/11. Its raw detail and firsthand perspective bring history to life, making it a gripping tale for those interested in modern warfare and intelligence work.
Black Friday: The True Story of the Bombay Bomb Blasts
S. Hussain Zaidi | India Penguin

Black Friday: The True Story of the Bombay Bomb Blasts

$18.90 $10.90 42% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$18.90 $10.90 42% off

If you're drawn to real-life investigations and crime narratives, "Black Friday" by S. Hussain Zaidi could captivate you. Picture yourself delving into the minds of those who orchestrated one of Bombay's most devastating events through Zaidi's rigorous research and interviews. As much a tribute to the city's enduring spirit as it is an exposé on terror, it's a read that blends true crime with human resilience.
Young Men & Fire - Thryft
Norman Maclean | University Of Chicago Press

Young Men & Fire

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

89% off est. retail
"Young Men & Fire" is a poignant exploration of the Mann Gulch tragedy that goes beyond the mere recounting of events. Norman Maclean masterfully weaves a narrative that is as much about the psychology of the men involved as it is about the terrifying force of nature they faced. His quest for understanding lends a raw authenticity to the story, making it a gripping read for anyone drawn to true-life adventures, tales of heroism, or the complex dance between humankind and the natural world.
Vietnam War Heroes (10 True Tales) - Thryft
Allan Zullo | Scholastic Inc.

Vietnam War Heroes (10 True Tales)

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 4.28

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

69% off est. retail
The raw courage detailed in "Vietnam War Heroes" will resonate with anyone interested in military history or heroic narratives. Allan Zullo's compilation of ten real-life accounts captures the harrowing experiences of soldiers and airmen in the Vietnam War, offering a deeply personal look into their valorous acts under dire circumstances. It could serve as an emotional and eye-opening read for you, as the stories highlight the human spirit's capacity for bravery in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The River of Lost Footsteps
Thant Myint-U | Faber & Faber

The River of Lost Footsteps

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$12.90

41% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the interplay of personal narratives and grand historical landscapes, then "The River of Lost Footsteps" could captivate you. Thant Myint-U skillfully combines his family's intimate stories with the broader, tumultuous history of Burma. His unique perspective, both deeply personal due to his family's significant involvement in Burmese history and professional because of his UN experience, offers an insightful look into a country at the crossroads of change. This book will take you beyond headlines, giving you a profound understanding of a nation's heartache and beauty.
Fight for Survival: The Story of the Holocaust
Jessica Freeburg | Capstone Press

Fight for Survival: The Story of the Holocaust

$17.90 $11.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$17.90 $11.90 34% off

If history, especially that of the Holocaust, holds any interest for you, "Fight for Survival" by Jessica Freeburg delivers a poignant narrative that puts a human face on this tragic piece of history. It approaches the enormity of the Holocaust through personal stories, making it relatable and ensuring that the weight of the past is not lost on the reader. It's an immersion into the human spirit's resilience during one of the darkest times, which might not only educate but also deeply move you.
The Man Who Knew Infinity: A Life of the Genius, Ramanujan
Robert Kanigel | Washington Square Press

The Man Who Knew Infinity: A Life of the Genius, Ramanujan

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Imagine diving into a world where raw intuitive genius meets academic rigor. "The Man Who Knew Infinity" is more than a biography; it's a tale that juxtaposes the beauty of numbers with the profound human story of Srinivasa Ramanujan. His collaboration with G H Hardy is not only a narrative of intellectual pursuit but also a compelling account of cultural and personal contrasts. If you're enchanted by mathematics or just love an extraordinary life story, this book could reveal to you how the purest form of intellect can emerge from the most unexpected places.
Once in a House on Fire
Andrea Ashworth | Picador

Once in a House on Fire

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

If you're drawn to stories of triumph amid adversity, Andrea Ashworth's "Once in a House on Fire" could resonate deeply with you. It's a testament to the power of reading as a means of escape, an inspiring story of a woman overcoming a brutal childhood. This memoir will likely speak to you if you appreciate candid narratives that showcase the human spirit's strength and the transformative impact of books.
We All Wore Stars: Memories of Anne Frank from Her Classmates
Marjolijn de Jager, Theo Coster  | St. Martin's Press

We All Wore Stars: Memories of Anne Frank from Her Classmates

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$12.90

If Anne Frank's story touched your heart, "We All Wore Stars" offers a poignant expansion of her world. Theo Coster's collaborative memoir provides a mosaic of experiences from those who knew Anne beyond the page. It's an intimate connection to history, and a testament to resilience and memory, that might just change your perspective on the human stories behind historical events.
Lincoln at Gettysburg: The Words That Remade America
Garry Wills | Simon & Schuster

Lincoln at Gettysburg: The Words That Remade America

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

If American history piques your interest, particularly the Civil War era, Garry Wills' "Lincoln at Gettysburg" is a compelling read that goes beyond just recounting events. It dissects the power of Lincoln's words, how they transformed a nation's ideals, and reveals much about the man himself. It's a fascinating deep dive into a pivotal speech that continues to echo through time.
A Jury of Her Peers: American Women Writers from Anne Bradstreet to Annie Proulx
Elaine Showalter | Knopf

A Jury of Her Peers: American Women Writers from Anne Bradstreet to Annie Proulx

$19.90 $11.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$19.90 $11.90 40% off

Dive into this sweeping account if you're intrigued by the evolution of women's voices in literature. Elaine Showalter meticulously charts the course of American female writers from the early puritanical works through to modern expressions, capturing the rich tapestry of women's experiences that has shaped literature. This isn't just a book; it's a tribute to the literary heroines who penned their way into history.
Captain Bligh's Portable Nightmare
John Toohey | Fourth Estate Paperbacks

Captain Bligh's Portable Nightmare

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

If you're fascinated by tales of human endurance and adventure on the high seas, "Captain Bligh's Portable Nightmare" is a riveting pick. It delves into the historical event of the Bounty mutiny, but with a focus on Bligh's incredible 4,000-mile voyage to safety. It's the kind of true story that's so intense and dramatic, it reads like epic fiction.

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.