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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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Tuscany - The Green Guide
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Michelin | Michelin

Tuscany - The Green Guide

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

83% off est. retail
Michelin rated guide for unforgettable explorations. Detailed attractions, driving and walking tours, comprehensive illustrated sections, and recommendations for every budget.
The Europeans - Thryft
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Luigi Barzini | Penguin Books

The Europeans

$3.94

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$3.94

74% off est. retail
"The Europeans" is an excellent read for those interested in diving deeper into Europe's background. Barzini provides a unique lens through which to explore the continent's tumultuous history. With a call for unification, this book highlights the importance of a functional and unified Europe that speaks with one voice.
Potatoes : 65 Delicious Ways with the Humble Potato from Fries to Pies - Thryft
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Jenny Linford | Ryland Peters & Small

Potatoes : 65 Delicious Ways with the Humble Potato from Fries to Pies

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 4.4

$5.07

84% off est. retail
"Potatoes: 65 Delicious Ways with the Humble Potato from Fries to Pies" is perfect for those who are looking for a cookbook with a wide variety of potato-related recipes. The book's unique feature is that it does not only offer classic dishes but also incorporates modern twists to recipes, making it unique and exciting. Additionally, the book's introduction provides a historical overview of the potato's journey, adding an extra dimension to it. This cookbook would be an excellent addition to any home cook's collection, especially for those who love potatoes or are looking for new ways to incorporate them into their diet.
Forty Autumns : A Family's Story of Courage and Survival on Both Sides of the Berlin Wall - Thryft
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Nina Willner | William Morrow

Forty Autumns : A Family's Story of Courage and Survival on Both Sides of the Berlin Wall

$15.83

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$15.83

63% off est. retail
"Forty Autumns" is a captivating memoir set in East Germany during the Cold War. It tells the story of five women separated by the Berlin Wall and their eventual reunion after years of longing. The book offers a personal and emotional account of life under Communist rule, as well as insights into the work of an intelligence officer. With vivid descriptions and a strong sense of familial love, "Forty Autumns" is a compelling read for anyone interested in history, espionage, and the human experience.
The Road to Little Dribbling : Adventures of an American in Britain - Thryft
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Bill Bryson | Anchor

The Road to Little Dribbling : Adventures of an American in Britain

$7.63

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$7.63

70% off est. retail
The Road to Little Dribbling is a must-read for anyone who loves Great Britain or has British roots. Bill Bryson guides us through his humorous adventure across Britain with deep knowledge and insightful opinions on the current state of the country. His vivid descriptions of the scenic wonder of the country and small towns are thoroughly enjoyable, as is his humor and perspective on the eccentric British characters he encounters.
Shocking Paris - Thryft
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Stanley Meisler | St. Martin's Press

Shocking Paris

$14.86

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$14.86

66% off est. retail
"Shocking Paris" could be a great read for art lovers who are interested in immigrant artists' contributions to the School of Paris. This book provides a vivid description of the art scene in Montparnasse and portrays the lives of immigrant artists, including Chaim Soutine, Amedeo Modigliani, Marc Chagall, and Jules Pascin. The book mainly focuses on Soutine's life, who was considered the most talented artist among all immigrant artists. The book describes the struggles and hardships that Soutine and other immigrant artists faced while living in Paris before and after World War II and how the fear of persecution affected their work.
Everybody Matters : A Memoir - Thryft
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Mary Robinson | Hodder & Stoughton

Everybody Matters : A Memoir

$16.74

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$16.74

58% off est. retail
Everybody Matters is an inspirational memoir of Mary Robinson's journey as an activist, lawyer, and politician who worked tirelessly for human rights and social justice. The book is a must-read for those seeking insights into the lives of pioneers and how they overcame obstacles to achieve their goals. Mary Robinson demonstrates her deep conviction and modest pride in guiding her life, and she inspires others to change the world for the better.
The Selected Writings of Sir Edward Coke Vol 2 - Thryft
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Edward Coke | Liberty Fund Inc.

The Selected Writings of Sir Edward Coke Vol 2

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$5.90

73% off est. retail
Recommended for law students and legal scholars. Provides insight into the formation of English common law, its expansion and the evolution of individual freedom. Covers key topics like Magna Carta, habeas corpus, judicial review, criminal law, property law, and legal education. The book is edited by Steve Sheppard, a renowned law professor, and includes selected works of Sir Edward Coke, a prominent figure in the establishment of English law.
Patriots - Thryft
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Richard Weight | Pan Books

Patriots

$5.79

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$5.79

Patriots is a great read for anyone interested in the politics and culture of modern Britain. Weight's extensive research and insightful analysis offers a compelling perspective on how the nation's identity has evolved over the years. The book's unique feature lies in its focus on the sub-national identities of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, lending to a well-rounded understanding of the topic. A must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking to understand the complexities of national identity.
Faber & Faber : The Untold Story of a Great Publishing House - Thryft
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Toby Faber | Faber & Faber

Faber & Faber : The Untold Story of a Great Publishing House

$19.13

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$19.13

59% off est. retail
This book is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of a major publishing house. The unique feature of this book is the way it is told entirely through the words of those who worked for Faber & Faber, including famous authors like T.S. Eliot and Samuel Beckett. The archive material included adds to the charm and quirkiness of this book, making it a must-read for lovers of twentieth-century literature and the book industry.
I Know Nothing! - Thryft
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Andrew Sachs | Robson Press

I Know Nothing!

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

81% off est. retail
"I Know Nothing! is a powerful memoir that follows Andrew Sachs' journey from a young child witnessing the brutality of the Nazis to his rise to fame as an actor. Sachs shares his personal experiences with honesty, humor, and humility, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the human experience during one of the darkest times in history. His story of resilience and perseverance will inspire readers of all ages."
Prince Philip's Century 1921-2021 : The Extraordinary Life of the Duke of Edinburgh - Thryft
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Robert Jobson | Ad Lib Publishers

Prince Philip's Century 1921-2021 : The Extraordinary Life of the Duke of Edinburgh

$7.62 $5.33 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$7.62 $5.33 30% off

80% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for those wanting to understand the extraordinary life of Prince Philip. Robert Jobson provides a detailed account of his life and achievements while respecting the delicate balance of his supporting role to the Queen. The book showcases his determination to modernize and promote environmental campaigns while encouraging young people to achieve their objectives through the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. In summary, this biography tells the story of a remarkable man who is known the world over but whose greatest achievement was to be a loyal husband, companion, father, and grandfather.
Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac - Thryft
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David Carter | Hesperus Press

Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

58% off est. retail
Brief Lives: Honore De Balzac provides a fascinating insight into the life of Honore de Balzac and how it influenced his impressive body of work. This book would be a great read for anyone interested in literature, particularly French realism. David Carter not only provides a comprehensive biography of the author but also sets his works in context, giving readers a deeper understanding of his contribution to literature. Many who read this book would appreciate the discoveries of Balzac's literary works and his significance in French literature.
Charles Dickens at Home - Thryft
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Graham Salter, Hilary Macaskill, Florian Schweizer  | Frances Lincoln

Charles Dickens at Home

$15.59 $10.91 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$15.59 $10.91 30% off

84% off est. retail
This book delves into the life of Charles Dickens and the impact his homes had on his writing. It offers a unique perspective on the author and his works, making it a great read for fans of Dickens' literature. The book provides an in-depth look at the places where the author lived, and how they influenced the setting and characters of his novels. Dickens' attention to detail and acute observation are highlighted, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the author's life and work. The book is illustrated with archive material and original photography, making it a beautiful addition to any book lover's collection.
A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra - Thryft
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Andrei Maylunas, Sergei Mironenko  | Doubleday

A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra

$13.59

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$13.59

75% off est. retail
"A Lifelong Passion: the Letters of Nicholas and Alexandra" is a must-read for those fascinated by the lives of the royal family. The book offers a rare glimpse into the private world of Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra, revealing their undying love for each other. The letters showcase the couple's unwavering devotion, which is both unique and touching. It is a great pick for those interested in Russian history, or anyone curious about the personal relationships of historical figures.
The Lost Painting : The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece - Thryft
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Jonathan Harr | Random House Publishing Group

The Lost Painting : The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece

$8.50

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$8.50

68% off est. retail
The Lost Painting tells the story of an Italian graduate student Francesca Cappelletti, who discovers a clue that leads to the search for a lost painting. This book is perfect for art enthusiasts who love a good mystery and want to learn about Caravaggio's life and paintings. Harr's narrative style creates suspense and adventure that keep readers hooked until the very end.
Late Imperial Culture - Thryft
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Román de la Campa, E. Ann Kaplan, Michael Sprinker  | Verso Books

Late Imperial Culture

$8.81

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.81

77% off est. retail
Late Imperial Culture provides a nuanced exploration of imperial cultural practices and their effects on colonial subjects. The diverse range of contributors offer a sophisticated and historically informed analysis that critiques and exposes the contradictions inherent in imperialism. This book would be an excellent read for those interested in understanding the long and complex history of imperialism and its ongoing impact on our contemporary world.
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Irish History and Culture - Thryft
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Sonja Massie | Alpha Books

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Irish History and Culture

$5.28

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$5.28

81% off est. retail
This book is a great read for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the vibrant history and culture of Ireland. With exhaustive coverage of all aspects of Irish history, it is perfect for those who want to understand the crucial role of Christianity and conflicts with England, as well as Irish assimilation into American culture. The concise biographies of Irish leaders and profiles of famous poets, novelists, and playwrights also make it an excellent reference guide.
The Complete Poems of Sappho
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Sappho, Willis Barnstone  | Shambhala

The Complete Poems of Sappho

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$8.90

69% off est. retail
Sappho's work is essential for anyone intrigued by the power of lyrical poetry to express the depths of human emotion. Though only fragments remain, each piece she's left behind is a testament to the enduring nature of love and desire. Willis Barnstone's careful curation and translation work bridges ancient Greek lyricism with modern readability, making it accessible yet preserving its haunting beauty. This collection will not only expand your literary horizons but also connect you to a voice that has resonated through millennia.
The Restoration: A Political and Religious History of England and Wales, 1658-67 - Thryft
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Ronald Hutton | Oxford University Press

The Restoration: A Political and Religious History of England and Wales, 1658-67

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$7.90

In less than a decade, the commonwealth of Oliver Cromwell was dramatically transformed into the very different realm of the Restoration monarchy. This is the first detailed account of this vital and eventful period, which witnessed the end of a republic, the reestablishment of royal government, naval wars, plague, religious persecution, and the destruction of the capital in the Great Fire. Drawing on a wealth of public and private manuscript sources to rework each issue anew, Hutton explores the way government policy was set and put into practice during these nine years and how national concerns, local issues, and various social, political, and religious groups all interacted to influence the shifting currents of the nation's affairs.
Nietzsche : A Philosophical Biography - Thryft
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Shelley Frisch, Rüdiger Safranski  | W. W. Norton & Company

Nietzsche : A Philosophical Biography

$12.67

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$12.67

71% off est. retail
A seminal biography, essential reading for anyone studying the philosophy of history's most enigmatic and fascinating thinker. No other modern philosopher has proved as influential as Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) and none is as poorly understood. In the first new biography in decades, Rüdiger Safranski, one of the foremost living Nietzsche scholars, re-creates the anguished life of Nietzsche while simultaneously assessing the philosophical implications of his morality, religion, and art. Struggling to break away from the oppressive burdens of the past, Nietzsche invented a unique philosophy based on compulsive self-consciousness and constant self-revision. As groundbreaking as it will be long-lasting, this biography offers a brilliant, multifaceted portrait of a towering figure.

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.