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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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Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine
Nicola Twilley, Geoff Manaugh  | Picador

Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

63% off est. retail
"Until Proven Safe" could really resonate with you if you're interested in public health and its evolution. The book is a timely exploration, especially given recent global events, and it thoughtfully examines the impact of quarantine throughout history. This isn't just a retrospective account; it also prompts consideration of our future preparedness in the face of new diseases, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the intersections of history, science, and policy.
The Premonition: A Pandemic Story
Michael Lewis | Allen Lane

The Premonition: A Pandemic Story

$23.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$23.90

Imagine diving into the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic through the eyes of those who saw it coming. "The Premonition" is a thrilling account by Michael Lewis, who masterfully narrates the efforts of unconventional experts racing against time. Their foresight and relentless pursuit to understand and contain the virus are both educational and chillingly engaging. This isn't just about a virus; it's about human tenacity in the face of bureaucracy and the unknown. If you're drawn to real-world heroism amidst crisis, this book will resonate deeply with you.
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

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$11.90

"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 Indian Spa: Ayurveda Yoga Wellness Beauty
New
Luca Invernizzi Tettoni, Kim Inglis  | Talisman Press

The Indian Spa: Ayurveda Yoga Wellness Beauty

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the idea of holistic wellness and have an affinity for the immersive, rich traditions of India, "The Indian Spa" could be the perfect getaway wrapped in the pages of a book. Kim Inglis leads you on a serene journey through India's healing systems, enveloping you in the country's culture of natural medicine and self-care. It's not just text on a page but an invitation to explore elegant spas and spiritual retreats, beckoning you to experience tranquility and rejuvenation that have withstood the test of time.
The Violinist's Thumb and Other Lost Tales of Love, War, and Genius, as Written by Our Genetic Code
Sam Kean | Little, Brown And Company

The Violinist's Thumb and Other Lost Tales of Love, War, and Genius, as Written by Our Genetic Code

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$9.90

If you have ever been captivated by the quirks and idiosyncrasies that make us uniquely human, "The Violinist's Thumb" is a treasure trove that's both enlightening and wildly entertaining. Sam Kean takes you on a journey through our genetic code, revealing quirks and stories that are as fascinating as they are informative. It's like uncovering the secret stories of human history encoded in our DNA, all told with a narrative flair that makes complex science feel like an adventure.
Elephants on Acid and Other Bizarre Experiments
Alex Boese | Boxtree

Elephants on Acid and Other Bizarre Experiments

$16.90 $6.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$16.90 $6.90 59% off

If you're looking to be simultaneously amused and astonished, "Elephants on Acid" is your go-to. The book dives into some of the most outlandish experiments ever conducted in the name of science. Perfect for satiating curious minds and those with an appetite for the oddities in scientific pursuits.
DNA: The Secret of Life
James D. Watson, Andrew Berry  | Knopf

DNA: The Secret of Life

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$8.90

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.
Good Germs, Bad Germs
Jessica Snyder Sachs | Hill And Wang

Good Germs, Bad Germs

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the delicate dance between our bodies and their microscopic companions, "Good Germs, Bad Germs" will illuminate the nuanced relationship that modern medicine has with nature. It's a revelation that we're surrounded by beneficial bacteria, and Jessica Snyder Sachs guides us through our past mistakes and future potential in harnessing the power of these tiny organisms for health. This book is particularly timely given growing concerns about antibiotic resistance, offering not only a critique but a vision for a smarter, symbiotic approach to using science for better health outcomes.
Pain Killer: An Empire of Deceit and the Origins of America's Opioid Epidemic
Barry Meier | Sceptre

Pain Killer: An Empire of Deceit and the Origins of America's Opioid Epidemic

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$10.90

"Pain Killer" is a deep dive into one of the most devastating health crises of our time. Barry Meier's investigative prowess brings to light the intricate web of deceit spun by Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, making this book an essential read. It offers a gripping narrative that connects with anyone concerned about corporate greed and public health, unveiling the grim truth behind a so-called miracle drug's journey from pharmacy shelves to the streets.
Immaculate Contraception: The Extraordinary Story of Birth Control from the First Fumblings to the Present Day
Emma Dickens | Robson Book Ltd

Immaculate Contraception: The Extraordinary Story of Birth Control from the First Fumblings to the Present Day

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$9.90

If you're fascinated by how humans have evolved not just socially but in their most intimate choices, "Immaculate Contraception" offers a deep dive into the history of birth control. It's eye-opening to see how our ancestors tackled family planning. Emma Dickens' thorough research could give you a new perspective on the liberties and innovations we often take for granted today.
Germ Warfare - Thryft
Discovery Education | Australian Geographic

Germ Warfare

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Germ Warfare can be a good read for those interested in understanding the history and science behind pandemics. The book provides insightful facts and interesting topics related to pandemics and global events. The material is written to appeal to young readers at varying reading levels, and stimulates critical thinking.
Germs: America's Secret War against Biological Weapons - Thryft
Stephen Engelberg, Judith Miller, William J. Broad  | Simon & Schuster

Germs: America's Secret War against Biological Weapons

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

91% off est. retail
This book is a gripping and eye-opening account of the shocking reality of biological weapons. It takes you behind the scenes of covert operations and reveals the terrifying potential of these weapons of mass destruction. Through detailed research and firsthand interviews, the authors expose the deadly capabilities that lie within a simple lab, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in national security and the threats we face in the 21st century. Be prepared to be both fascinated and horrified by what you learn.
Understanding the Human Machine: A Primer for Bioengineering
New
Max E. Valentinuzzi | World Scientific Publishing Company

Understanding the Human Machine: A Primer for Bioengineering

$36.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$36.90

If you're delving into the realm of biomedical engineering, especially at the undergrad level, this book strikes a balance between educational and engaging. Max E. Valentinuzzi presents complex concepts with a touch of humor, ensuring the material is digestible and memorable. The interactive approach with exercises and historical context isn't just about rote learning; it's about truly understanding the "human machine" you'll be working with. For someone who appreciates learning by doing, this book is like a knowledgeable friend who doesn't mind cracking jokes while helping you study.
Pox : Genius, Madness, And The Mysteries Of Syphilis - Thryft
Deborah Hayden | Basic Books

Pox : Genius, Madness, And The Mysteries Of Syphilis

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

88% off est. retail
Imagine looking at history's luminaries through a new lens – that's "Pox" for you. Hayden intricately weaves the untold impacts of syphilis on brilliant minds. Not only does it offer fresh biographical insights, but it also challenges how we interpret their legacies. The mix of scandal, health, and genius might just redefine your view of the past.
Quinine: Malaria and the Quest for a Cure That Changed the World
Fiammetta Rocco | Perenial

Quinine: Malaria and the Quest for a Cure That Changed the World

$13.90 $6.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$13.90 $6.90 50% off

75% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the intersection of history, medicine, and global politics, "Quinine" by Fiammetta Rocco is a compelling read. The story of quinine is not just about a drug, but about the geopolitical and scientific journeys that were shaped by the quest for a malaria cure. It entwines adventure, greed, colonialism, and the profound impact on warfare and exploration. This book takes you beyond medicine into the broader effects on human endeavors and the world stage.
One in Three: A Son's Journey Into the History and Science of Cancer
Adam Wishart | Grove Press

One in Three: A Son's Journey Into the History and Science of Cancer

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$12.90

52% off est. retail
If cancer has touched your life, Wishart's blend of personal storytelling and medical history in "One in Three" may resonate with you deeply. The book offers an intimate look at the progress science has made in understanding and treating this complex disease. It's a hopeful read that could change your perspective on cancer, presenting it as something that, while daunting, can be lived with rather than an automatic death sentence.
Bad Medicine: Doctors Doing Harm Since Hippocrates
David Wootton | Oxford University Press

Bad Medicine: Doctors Doing Harm Since Hippocrates

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$8.90

If you're intrigued by healthcare's complex history, David Wootton's "Bad Medicine" could change the way you view medical practices. Wootton doesn't just chronicle the progression of medical knowledge; he delves into the resistance and dogma that hindered it. Reading this could spark a fresh appreciation for modern medicine, alongside a critical understanding of its fallible journey.
Awakenings
Oliver Sacks | Picador

Awakenings

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$8.90

"Awakenings" by Oliver Sacks might just redefine your understanding of the human mind and medical science. It blends the almost miraculous stories of patients emerging from decades-long catatonia with deeply philosophical insights, offering both a heartfelt journey and a profound cerebral experience. If you're fascinated by the resilience of the human spirit and the wonders of neurological medicine, this book could leave you with a lasting impression of awe and a greater appreciation for the delicate balance of life.
The Visible Human Project - Informatic Bodies and Posthuman Medicine
Catherine Waldby | Routledge

The Visible Human Project - Informatic Bodies and Posthuman Medicine

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

For those intrigued by the intersection of technology and the human body, this book delves deep into the Visible Human Project, providing a thought-provoking reflection on how we might understand and interact with the human form in new ways. It's a fascinating read for anyone interested in medical innovation and its implications for the future of healthcare and our perception of life itself.
Doctors: The Biography of Medicine
Sherwin B. Nuland | Vintage

Doctors: The Biography of Medicine

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

77% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of medicine, as it beautifully captures the key moments, theories and significant advancements in the field, through the lives of those who dedicated their lives to healing and research. Sherwin B. Nuland's style and expertise shines through in this compelling biographical masterpiece.
Webster's New World Encyclopedia
Unknown | John Wiley & Sons Inc

Webster's New World Encyclopedia

$27.90 $23.21 17% off

Goodreads rating: 2.5

$27.90 $23.21 17% off

80% off est. retail
If you're ever curious or in need of a trustworthy source, the Webster's New World Encyclopedia could be your go-to companion. Its depth of information, covering a vast array of topics, and user-friendly organization make it an invaluable asset for students, professionals, or any knowledge-seeker wanting to delve into various subjects with reliable content and visual aids.
Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science
Sold out
Kent Heckenlively, Judy A. Mikovits, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  | Skyhorse

Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$8.90

76% off est. retail
If you're the kind of reader who's drawn to stories about underdogs challenging the establishment, "Plague of Corruption" could be the next book you can't put down. Dr. Judy Mikovits's journey combines the intrigue of scientific discovery with the passion of someone fighting to reveal hard truths. It'll appeal to your sense of justice and may change the way you view science's role in society.
The Sleeping Beauties: And Other Stories of Mystery Illness - Thryft
Sold out
Suzanne O'Sullivan | Picador

The Sleeping Beauties: And Other Stories of Mystery Illness

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

64% off est. retail
"The Sleeping Beauties" isn't just a medical book; it's a deep dive into the human psyche and its responses to cultural and environmental stressors. Dr. O'Sullivan's compassionate exploration of these bewildering illnesses will not only satisfy your curiosity but also challenge how you think about the intersection of health, culture, and the power of the mind. Perfect for anyone fascinated by the enigmas of the human body and the ways our environments shape us.
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down - Thryft
Sold out
Anne Fadiman | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

75% off est. retail
"The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" is a profound exploration into the clash between two worlds - the Hmong culture's deeply rooted traditions and the stark rationality of Western medicine. Understanding this book could open your eyes to the complexities of cultural assimilation and the often overlooked nuances in healthcare. It's a must-read if you're interested in the ways in which cultural differences impact lives in very real, tangible ways.

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.