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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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Adventures in the Screen Trade: A Personal View of Hollywood and Screenwriting
William Goldman | Grand Central Publishing

Adventures in the Screen Trade: A Personal View of Hollywood and Screenwriting

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

82% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the allure of Hollywood and its behind-the-scenes stories, "Adventures in the Screen Trade" is a treasure trove waiting for you. William Goldman offers an unparalleled look into the industry, sharing personal experiences and professional insights that are both enlightening and entertaining. His candid narrative doesn't just demystify the glamour; it teaches the bones of great screenwriting by example.
Riverdance: The Story
Sam Smyth | Trafalgar Square

Riverdance: The Story

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

"Riverdance" captures the exuberance of Irish culture. The dynamic intertwining of dance with life's rhythms will resonate if you're moved by the arts deeply rooted in tradition. Smyth's account of a contemporary phenomenon grounded in age-old customs offers a spirited, immersive cultural journey.
The World's Most Infamous Murders
Nigel Blundell, Roger Boar  | Bounty Books

The World's Most Infamous Murders

$33.90

Goodreads rating: 3.55

$33.90

If true crime stories intrigue you, "The World's Most Infamous Murders" is a compelling anthology that offers a glimpse into the behaviors and psyche of history's most notorious criminals. You'll journey through the chilling escapades of figures like Ted Bundy and Jack the Ripper. Readers find it a macabre but fascinating exploration of the darker side of human nature.
The Book of Lists
David Wallechinsky | Canongate Books Ltd

The Book of Lists

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$14.90

If you've got a curious mind and enjoy diving into the quirky corners of history, "The Book of Lists" is like a treasure trove. It's a compilation of the odd, the bizarre, and the whimsical, offering a delightful escape into lesser-known stories that serve as great conversation starters or fodder for your next trivia night.
Mr Nice - Thryft
Howard Marks | Minerva

Mr Nice

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

85% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the blurred lines between an anti-hero’s charm and the clandestine underworld, "Mr Nice" might just be the book for you. Howard Marks's autobiographical escapades blend wit and audacity, taking you deep into the psyche of a man who lived dangerously but with charisma. It’s an insight into a life lived at full throttle you wouldn’t get anywhere else.
Steven Spielberg: The Unauthorised Biography - Thryft
John Baxter | Harpercollins Pub Ltd

Steven Spielberg: The Unauthorised Biography

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$14.90 $3.90 74% off

84% off est. retail
If you're a Spielberg aficionado or a film enthusiast looking to peek behind the curtain of one of cinema's most influential directors, this biography could be a treasure. It's packed with details and insights that chart Spielberg's ascent in Hollywood and the making of his iconic films. Reading it feels like having backstage access to movie history in the making.
Prick Up Your Ears: Biography of Joe Orton
John Lahr | Penguin

Prick Up Your Ears: Biography of Joe Orton

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

This isn't just a biography; it's a ticket behind the curtain of Joe Orton's life—a story as provocative and dramatic as his plays. John Lahr brings you so close to Orton’s genius, charm, and ultimately his tragedy, that you might feel like you're a part of the London theater scene that witnessed his brilliant but short-lived career. If you’re intrigued by the interplay of fame, creativity, and personal turmoil, this book's for you.
Breakout: Profiles in African Rhythm
Gary Stewart | University Of Chicago Press

Breakout: Profiles in African Rhythm

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

79% off est. retail
If you're interested in the crossroads of culture, history, and music, "Breakout" is an insightful pick. It offers a window into the lives of African musicians navigating the complexities of international success while preserving their artistic authenticity. Their personal stories interweave with the socio-political landscape of Africa, shedding light on broader themes of cultural identity and the global music scene.
The World's Greatest Blunders - Thryft
Sue Blackhall | Hamlyn

The World's Greatest Blunders

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.34

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

This book could be a good read for you if you enjoy delving into the intriguing and often unbelievable stories of notable mistakes and failures throughout history. The World's Greatest Blunders offers a fascinating insight into the mishaps that have captivated newspaper headlines globally. From colossal errors in judgment to catastrophic blunders, this book presents a collection of cautionary tales that will leave you both entertained and astounded. Prepare to be amazed at the amazing capacity for human error in our world.
A True Compendium Of Curious Facts, Bizarre Habits And Fascinating Anecdotes About The Private Lives Of The Famous And Infamous Throughout History - Thryft
Mark Bryant | Unkno

A True Compendium Of Curious Facts, Bizarre Habits And Fascinating Anecdotes About The Private Lives Of The Famous And Infamous Throughout History

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 3.09

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

89% off est. retail
You may not win a spot on Who Wants to be a Millionaire? but knowing these true though obscure facts about 200 of the world's most famous figures certainly can stimulate dinner conversation. Picture the reaction when you mention that Walt Disney couldn't draw Mickey Mouse. Or, when you explain how Casanova, who seduced 10,000 women, suffered from smallpox marks all over his face; that a superstitious Hitler timed major battles for the seventh day of the month, Lincoln held séances in the White House, and Mark Twain invented and patented the first self-adhesive photo album. Illustrations are by great caricaturists such as Max Beerbohm, Ralph Steadman, and Saul Steinberg, and add just the right touch to this most unusual biographical dictionary.
Power Couples
Mary Abbott | Pearson

Power Couples

$16.90 $9.90 41% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$16.90 $9.90 41% off

If you're intrigued by the dynamics of influential relationships, "Power Couples" offers a compelling dive into the lives of famous pairs who've shaped history. It's not just a recount of accomplishments but an intimate exploration of what drove them together—ambition, passion, strategy. This book might change the way you view power and partnership.
Jazz Classics - Drums : Big Band Play-Along Volume 4 - Thryft
Anonymous | Hal Leonard Corporation

Jazz Classics - Drums : Big Band Play-Along Volume 4

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

87% off est. retail
Jazz Classics on Drums offers drummers a chance to practice their skills and feel like they're part of a real big band with the play-along CD. The book provides a selection of classic jazz songs, including Blue Train and Doxy, which are excellent choices for drummers looking to improve their improvisation and rhythm skills.
Adventure Heroes - Legendary Characters from Odysseus to James Bond
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Jeff Rovin | Facts On File

Adventure Heroes - Legendary Characters from Odysseus to James Bond

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

78% off est. retail
This journey through iconic heroes is tailor-made for admirers of adventure and the quintessential elements that craft a timeless protagonist. From ancient epochs to suave spies like James Bond, it's a thrilling exploration that connects the dots of heroism through ages, analyzing how legendary characters have shaped our idea of a hero. Whether you're a diehard fan of classical epics or just love a good, thrilling narrative, this book provides a compelling synopsis of the essence of what makes these characters so memorable and inspirational.
The Saint - A Complete History in Print, Radio, Film and Television of Leslie Charteris' Robin Hood of Modern Crime, Simon Templar, 1928-1992
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Burl Barer | Mcfarland

The Saint - A Complete History in Print, Radio, Film and Television of Leslie Charteris' Robin Hood of Modern Crime, Simon Templar, 1928-1992

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

85% off est. retail
If you've ever imagined a suave anti-hero with a penchant for vigilante justice, "The Saint" is right up your alley. This book isn't just about the thrilling adventures; it’s a deep dive into a cultural icon's evolution across media. You'd enjoy the richness of its historical context, especially if you appreciate both the nostalgia of classic crime stories and the intricate development of a character that has stood the test of time.
Elizabeth Revealed: 500 Facts About the Queen and Her World
Sold out
Lucinda Hawksley | Scala

Elizabeth Revealed: 500 Facts About the Queen and Her World

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

72% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by royalty and the person behind the crown, "Elizabeth Revealed" offers a treasure trove of snippets that paint a multifaceted picture of Queen Elizabeth II. It's a delightful read for anyone who enjoys historical tidbits and personal insights, serving as a mosaic of the Queen's public and private persona.
Lucy A to Z: The Lucille Ball Encyclopedia
Sold out
Michael Karol | Iuniverse

Lucy A to Z: The Lucille Ball Encyclopedia

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

72% off est. retail
If you adore the queen of comedy, Lucille Ball, "Lucy A to Z" is a treasure trove of her world. Unpack this encyclopedia of everything Lucy, from her humble beginnings to becoming an icon. This could be the key you're looking for to unlock a deeper admiration for her work and legacy.
The World of Mr Selfridge: The Glamour and Romance
Sold out
Alison Maloney | Simon & Schuster Uk

The World of Mr Selfridge: The Glamour and Romance

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

88% off est. retail
If you've ever been fascinated by the origins of successful department stores and how they shaped consumer culture, "The World of Mr Selfridge" is for you. It captures the life of Harry Gordon Selfridge and the pioneering methods he used to revolutionize shopping, imbued with a sense of glamour and romance that will transport you to another era. This book reflects not just a biography but an inspirational tale of innovation and persistence.
Dead Famous: An Unexpected History of Celebrity from Bronze Age to Silver Screen
Sold out
Greg Jenner | Weidenfeld & Nicolson

Dead Famous: An Unexpected History of Celebrity from Bronze Age to Silver Screen

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

64% off est. retail
"Dead Famous" offers an unexpected journey, taking you well beyond the present-day glitz of social media influencers back to the intriguing origins of celebrity culture. Greg Jenner masterfully uncovers the earliest stars and their stories, providing an absorbing narrative that's not only about how people became icons but also how their fame shaped society. It's a must-read if you enjoy peeling back the layers of history to understand how past celebrity culture informs our current obsession with fame.
Greta Garbo: A Cinematic Legacy
Sold out
Mark A. Vieira | Harry N. Abrams

Greta Garbo: A Cinematic Legacy

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.42

$8.90

88% off est. retail
If you've been captivated by the mysterious allure of Greta Garbo on the silver screen, this book will deepen that fascination. Delve into the enigmatic world of a Hollywood legend, where never-before-seen photos and insights from personal letters and studio files reveal the woman behind the cinematic icon. For film buffs and Garbo enthusiasts, it's a treasure trove of discovery.
The 101 Most Influential People Who Never Lived - How Characters of Fiction, Myth, Legends, Television, and Movies Have Shaped Our Society, Changed Our Behavior, and Set the Course of History
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Dan Karlan, Jeremy Salter, Allan Lazar  | William Morrow Paperbacks

The 101 Most Influential People Who Never Lived - How Characters of Fiction, Myth, Legends, Television, and Movies Have Shaped Our Society, Changed Our Behavior, and Set the Course of History

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.23

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

73% off est. retail
Think characters don’t shape history? Think again. This book dives into how fictional legends, from the omnipresent Santa Claus to Buffy, have influenced societal norms and personal ideals. If you’re curious about the intersection of mythology, pop culture, and real-world impact, this unique read is up your alley. It's storytelling and sociology, wrapped up in one compelling narrative – perfect for trivia lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Glossy: The Inside Story of Vogue - Thryft
Sold out
Nina-Sophia Miralles | March 30, 2021

Glossy: The Inside Story of Vogue

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$8.90

72% off est. retail
Glossy is a story of more than a magazine. It is a story of passion and power, dizzying fortune and out-of-this-world fashion, of ingenuity and opportunism, frivolity and malice. This is the definitive story of Vogue. Vogue magazine started, like so many great things do, in the spare room of someone's house. But unlike other such makeshift projects that flare up then fizzle away, Vogue burnt itself into our cultural consciousness. Today, 125 years later, Vogue spans 22 countries, has an international print readership upwards of 12 million and nets over 67 million monthly online users. Uncontested market leader for a century, it is one of the most recognisable brands in the world and a multi-million dollar money-making machine. It is not just a fashion magazine, it is the establishment. But what - and more importantly who - made Vogue such an enduring success? Glossy will answer this question and more by tracing the previously untold history of the magazine, from its inception as a New York gossip rag, to the sleek, corporate behemoth we know now. This will be a biography of Vogue in every sense of the word, taking the reader through three centuries, two world wars, plunging failures and blinding successes, as it charts the story of the magazine and those who ran it.
The Penguin Guide to Compact Discs and DVDs 2003/4: The Guide to Excellence in Recorded Classical Music - Thryft
Sold out
Ivan March, Robert Layton, Edward Greenfield  | Penguin Books

The Penguin Guide to Compact Discs and DVDs 2003/4: The Guide to Excellence in Recorded Classical Music

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

If you're passionate about classical music, this compendium is a treasure trove that you shouldn't overlook. Imagine having a knowledgeable friend who could guide you through the vast landscape of digital audio and video discs, offering insightful reviews and directing you to the finest performances. This guide embodies that friend, providing you with the expertise to curate your collection with the crème de la crème of classical music.
Charlie Chaplin: A Brief Life - Thryft
Sold out
Peter Ackroyd | Nan A. Talese

Charlie Chaplin: A Brief Life

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

85% off est. retail
If the magic of old Hollywood fascinates you and you're drawn to the enigmatic figures who shaped it, then Ackroyd’s concise biography of Charlie Chaplin is something you should consider. In the sea of extensive biographies, this one is a gem for delivering a potent narrative without overwhelming you with details, perfect for an authentic glimpse into the Little Tramp's world and beyond the silver screen.
Changing Stages: A View of British Theatre in the Twentieth Century - Thryft
Sold out
Nicholas Wright, Richard Eyre  | Bloomsbury Pub Ltd

Changing Stages: A View of British Theatre in the Twentieth Century

$19.90 $9.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$19.90 $9.90 50% off

82% off est. retail
For anyone who cherishes the rich tapestry of British theatre, "Changing Stages" is a treasure trove. Imagine sitting down for a cozy, insightful chat with Sir Richard Eyre, as he takes you on a tour through the evolving landscape of British plays, personalities, and performances of the last century. It's storytelling that not only educates but also captivates through a passionate lens that only insiders like Eyre and Wright could provide.
Console Wars : Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle That Defined a Generation - Thryft
Sold out
Blake J. Harris | Dey Street Books

Console Wars : Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle That Defined a Generation

$10.17

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$10.17

70% off est. retail
"A mesmerizing, behind-the-scenes business thriller that chronicles how Sega, a small, scrappy gaming company led by an unlikely visionary and a team of rebels, took on the juggernaut Nintendo and revolutionized the videogame industry--in development as a feature film from Sony PicturesIn 1990, Nintendo had a virtual monopoly on the videogame industry. Sega, on the other hand, was just a faltering arcade company with big aspirations and even bigger personalities. But all that would change with the arrival of Tom Kalinske, a former Mattel executive who knew nothing about videogames and everything about fighting uphill battles. His unconventional tactics, combined with the blood, sweat, and bold ideas of his renegade employees, completely transformed Sega and led to a ruthless, David-and-Goliath showdown with Nintendo. Little did he realize that Sega's success would create many new enemies and, most important, make Nintendo stronger than ever.The battle was vicious, relentless, and highly profitable, eventually sparking a global corporate war that would be fought on several fronts: from living rooms and school yards to boardrooms and Congress. It was a once-in-a-lifetime, no-holds-barred conflict that pitted brother against brother, kid against adult, Sonic against Mario, and the United States against Japan.Based on more than two hundred interviews with former Sega and Nintendo employees, Console Wars is the tale of how Tom Kalinske miraculously turned an industry punch line into a market leader. Blake J. Harris brings into focus the warriors, the strategies, and the battles and explores how they transformed popular culture forever. Ultimately, Console Wars is the story of how a humble family man, with an extraordinary imagination and a gift for turning problems into competitive advantages, inspired a team of underdogs to slay a giant and, as a result, give birth to a sixty-billion-dollar industry"--
Jeannie Out of the Bottle - Thryft
Sold out
Barbara Eden, Wendy Leigh  | Crown Archetype

Jeannie Out of the Bottle

$11.26

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$11.26

71% off est. retail
"Jeannie Out of the Bottle" is a must-read for anyone interested in Hollywood's golden era. In her candid and heartwarming memoir, Barbara Eden takes us on a journey through her five decades in the industry, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from her hit TV show "I Dream of Jeannie," and her personal life, including the loss of her son and difficult relationships. The book is also illustrated with rare photographs, making it a must-have for any fan of Eden's work.
Opera: The Basics - Thryft
Sold out
Denise Gallo | Routledge

Opera: The Basics

$24.65

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$24.65

83% off est. retail
This book is an excellent resource for those looking to gain an understanding of opera. It provides a comprehensive overview of the genre's history and terminology, making it accessible even to those with little prior knowledge. The key notes, discography, and videography also make it a great tool for further exploration of the genre. Overall, Opera: The Basics is highly recommended for students and anyone interested in learning more about this important musical art form.

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.