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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Bob Rae
|
Simon
&
Schuster
What’s Happened to Politics?
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Goodreads rating: 3.64
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If politics feels hollow or stage-managed, this book will likely resonate. Bob Rae writes with the clarity of someone who has actually lived inside the system, so the critique feels grounded rather than cynical. It gives shape to the frustration many Canadians feel, while still holding onto the idea that public life can be thoughtful, decent, and worth participating in again.
James B. Stewart
|
Penguin
Press
Tangled Webs: How False Statements Are Undermining America From Martha Stewart to Bernie Madoff
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Goodreads rating: 3.68
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If you're intrigued by the intersection of law and ethics, "Tangled Webs" could offer you an incisive look into how perjury is not just a legal transgression but a mirror reflecting deeper societal issues. James B. Stewart weaves a compelling narrative that may change how you view truth and justice in high-profile cases.
Just Arrived
Syed Hussein Alatas, Mohamed Imran Mohamed Taib, Azhar Ibrahim |
The
Print
Lodge
Pte.
Ltd.
Moral Vision and Social Critique: Selected Essays of Syed Hussein Alatas
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Goodreads rating: 4.14
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This is a rewarding read if you like ideas with backbone. Alatas writes with unusual moral clarity, cutting through colonialism, politics, religion, education, and the role of intellectuals in society without feeling abstract or detached. It feels like spending time with a rigorous public thinker who still speaks directly to today’s social and political anxieties.
Joel Bakan
|
Penguin
Books
Canada,
Limited
The Corporation: The Pathological Pursuit of Profit and Power
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Goodreads rating: 4.07
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This is a gripping read if you’ve ever felt uneasy about how much influence corporations have over everyday life. Bakan makes a bold idea feel startlingly clear, showing how the system itself rewards harmful behavior, not just bad actors. Readers often come away feeling both alarmed and energized, because the book doesn’t only diagnose the problem, it makes change feel possible.
ko ko thett, Brian Haman |
Ethos
Books
Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring: Witness poems and essays from Burma/Myanmar
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Goodreads rating: 4.61
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If the courage of a people amid turmoil speaks to you, "Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring" offers a rare glimpse into that raw spirit. The compilation of poems and essays is not just literature; it's the heartbeat and the battle cry from the very core of Myanmar's struggle for democracy. It's an evocative and visceral anthology that binds the personal to the political, creating a poignant narrative that resonates with the universal quest for freedom and expression.
Various
|
Folio
Declaration Universelle Des Droits De L'Homme Dans 6 Langues ONU
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Goodreads rating: 4.5
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If you're intrigued by global perspectives and value human rights, this collection might just enrich your worldview. Through the translation of pivotal human rights concepts into six different languages, you'll gain insight into the universal principles that bind us together, while appreciating the nuance and beauty of each language's interpretation. It's a unique journey through cultural and linguistic landscapes, all focused on a shared vision for humanity.
Bryan Caplan, Zach Weinersmith |
First
Second
Open Borders: The Science and Ethics of Immigration
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Goodreads rating: 4.11
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If global socio-economics and moral quandaries pique your interest, "Open Borders" by Bryan Caplan could prove enlightening. Caplan's graphic nonfiction format turns a complex subject into an accessible and thought-provoking read. It challenges conventional thoughts on immigration policy with a blend of ethical perspectives and economic theory—all while being visually engaging. Whether or not you agree with his stance, Caplan's argument for the potential global economic boom is a captivating proposition that could broaden your understanding of immigration's impacts.
Matt Ridley, Alain de Botton, Steven Pinker |
Oneworld
Publications
Do Humankind's Best Days Lie Ahead?
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Goodreads rating: 3.34
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If you're fascinated by the trajectory of human progress, "Do Humankind's Best Days Lie Ahead?" will challenge your perspectives. Steven Pinker and other notable thinkers engage in a profound debate that’s bound to get your mental gears turning. It’s a thought-provoking read about whether we're heading toward a brighter future or if we're too optimistic about our progress. Perfect for anyone who loves intellectual discourse on society’s direction.
Usain Bolt, Michael Holding, Ed Hawkins |
Simon
&
Schuster
Uk
Why We Kneel, How We Rise
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Goodreads rating: 4.47
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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.
David McWilliams
|
Gill
Books
Renaissance Nation: How the Pope's Children Rewrote the Rules for Ireland
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Goodreads rating: 3.77
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"Renaissance Nation" isn't just a chronicle; it's an immersion into Ireland's incredible transformation. As someone curious about how societies evolve, you'll find McWilliams' narrative both gripping and enlightening. The book captures the essence of Ireland's journey, making it a compelling read if you're fascinated by national rebirths and the power of change stemming from the collective rather than the corridors of power.
Anna Neima
|
Picador
The Utopians: Six Attempts to Build the Perfect Society
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Goodreads rating: 3.77
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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.
John L. Esposito, Dalia Mogahed |
Gallup
Press
Who Speaks for Islam? What a Billion Muslims Really Think: Based on Gallup's World Poll - The Largest Study of Its Kind
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Goodreads rating: 4.05
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If you've ever wondered what everyday Muslims really think, this book serves as a crucial window into their lives and beliefs. With meticulous research led by Gallup, it breaks down stereotypes by presenting rich, interview-driven insights from millions of Muslims. It's a rare opportunity to understand a diverse global population that is too often misrepresented, making it a valuable read for anyone looking to bridge cultural divides and challenge their own perspectives.
Michael Lewis
|
W.
W.
Norton
&
Company
The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds
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Goodreads rating: 3.99
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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.
Robin DiAngelo
|
Penguin
White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism
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Goodreads rating: 4.16
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"White Fragility" is like a mirror, reflecting the often subconscious defensive moves made by white individuals when confronted with racial inequality. It's a deep dive into societal mechanics that maintain white supremacy, nudging you towards greater self-awareness and proactive change. If you're striving to play a part in social justice and want to ensure your actions and words align with true inclusivity, DiAngelo's insights could prove invaluable in navigating these complex and necessary conversations.
Anna Rosling Rönnlund, Ola Rosling, Hans Rosling |
Flatiron
Books
Factfulness: Ten Reasons We're Wrong About the World and Why Things Are Better Than You Think
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Goodreads rating: 4.35
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"Factfulness" feels like a refreshing dose of clarity in a world where pessimism often takes the front seat. Hans Rosling's expertise in public health shines through as he dismantles misconceptions with hard data, making you question the lenses through which you view global progress. It's a book that doesn't just lay out the facts but teaches you how to think differently about them. If you ever feel overwhelmed by the doom and gloom of the news, this book could be the optimistic yet realistic perspective you need.
Jason Reynolds, Ibram X. Kendi |
Thorndike
Striving
Reader
Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You
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Goodreads rating: 4.47
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If you're seeking to understand the roots and effects of racism without getting lost in dense historical texts, "Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You" offers a refreshing take. Authors Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi have created a remix of a scholarly work that reads like a conversation, making the heavy subject matter accessible and relatable, especially for younger audiences or those new to the subject. It's thought-provoking and educational, yet approachable.
Michael Lewis
|
Allen
Lane
The Premonition: A Pandemic Story
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Goodreads rating: 4.33
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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.
Niall Ferguson
|
Lane
Allen
Civilization: The West and the Rest
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Goodreads rating: 3.86
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"Civilization: The West and the Rest" offers a panoramic perspective on how Western Europe gained an unexpected upper hand in global affairs. Niall Ferguson presents a thought-provoking analysis on the cultural and technological 'apps' that fueled Western ascendancy. If you're fascinated by the interplay of history and power dynamics, this book will provide a compelling narrative and a fresh lens through which to view the past and anticipate possible futures.
Just Arrived
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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.
Steven Pinker
|
Viking
Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress
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Goodreads rating: 4.2
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If you're feeling overwhelmed by negative headlines, "Enlightenment Now" might be just what you need. Steven Pinker presents a compelling case that life is getting better across the globe, thanks to Enlightenment principles. It's a refreshing perspective backed by hard data and historical analysis that challenges doom and gloom narratives. This read could be a much-needed reminder of human progress and the potential for reason and science to improve our future.
Just Arrived
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If you’re tired of politics that feels small and cynical, this book is energising in the best way. Bregman makes big ideas like universal basic income feel grounded, historical, and surprisingly achievable rather than naive. It’s the kind of read that leaves people feeling challenged, hopeful, and a little more convinced that society can be redesigned for the better.
Louise Richardson
|
John
Murray
What Terrorists Want: Understanding the Terrorist Threat
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Goodreads rating: 4.06
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If you're intrigued by the psychological and strategic layers behind terrorism, "What Terrorists Want" is a powerful read. Richardson doesn't just offer anecdotes from her experiences; she digs into historical patterns and the calculated reasoning of terrorists. Fusing academic rigor with accessible insights, this book could transform your understanding of current events and the tactics necessary for responding to terrorism effectively.
Steven Johnson
|
Macmillan
Wonderland: How Play Made the Modern World
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Goodreads rating: 3.84
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If you're fascinated by how seemingly trivial pursuits can revolutionize societies, "Wonderland" is a treasure chest for you. Steven Johnson masterfully bridges the gap between pastime pleasures and pivotal innovations, illustrating how our leisure activities catalyze profound technological advancements. Prepare for an entertaining journey through history, where joy is the unexpected hero of progress.
Nicole Aschoff
|
Verso
Books
The New Prophets of Capital
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Goodreads rating: 3.89
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If you've ever wondered how high-profile figures can influence our perception of capitalism's flaws, "The New Prophets of Capital" is an eye-opener. Nicole Aschoff takes us behind the curtain, showing us how the narratives spun by cultural icons may perpetuate the very issues they claim to solve. It's a thought-provoking read if you're interested in understanding the complex relationship between wealth, power, and social change.
Paul Mason
|
Penguin
Books
Ltd
Postcapitalism: A Guide to Our Future
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Goodreads rating: 3.75
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If you're intrigued by the ever-evolving landscape of our economic systems and wonder what comes next after capitalism, "Postcapitalism" might be the compass you need. Paul Mason delves into how information technology is catalyzing profound changes in how we understand work and value, suggesting an upcoming seismic shift. It's a thought-provoking read if you're into economics, societal structures, and envisioning a sustainable, equitable future.
Seth Holmes
|
University
Of
California
Press
Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies: Migrant Farmworkers in the United States
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Goodreads rating: 4.28
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"Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies" offers more than a glimpse into the sacrifices behind our food sources. If you've ever been moved by tales of resilience in the face of systemic injustices, this book's raw and personal storytelling will leave you with a profound understanding of what it truly means to labor at the very beginning of our food chain. Seth Holmes's commitment extends beyond words, directing all proceeds to support the very communities you'll meet within these pages – a testament that this isn't just a book; it's a call to awareness and action.
Terence Lee, Kevin YL Tan |
Ethos
Books
Voting in Change
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Goodreads rating: 4.0
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If you're intrigued by the complexities of Singapore's political scene, "Voting In Change" offers a deep dive into its electoral changes and implications. Kevin Y.L. Tan provides a clear analysis that's both accessible and thought-proving, perfect for anyone interested in the nuances of governance and citizen participation in Singapore. It's a read that's bound to leave you with a richer understanding of democracy in a rapidly evolving city-state.
Just Arrived
Donald Low, Cherian George |
Academia
Sg
PAP Versus PAP
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Goodreads rating: 3.76
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If you're intrigued by the complexities of political systems and the tension between tradition and progress, "PAP v. PAP" might just resonate with you. As Singapore wrestles with its democratic future, this book delves into the pivotal role of internal party dynamics. It's an enlightening read for anyone interested in the confluence of governance, policy, and the socio-political landscape in a rapidly changing world.
Florence de Changy
|
Mudlark
The Disappearing Act: The Impossible Case of MH370
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Goodreads rating: 3.93
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If you're intrigued by mysteries that seem straight out of a thriller, "The Disappearing Act" is definitely for you. Florence de Changy digs deep into the perplexing case of MH370 with a journalist's precision, offering an articulate and compelling narrative. This book isn't just a recount of events; it's a thought-provoking examination that challenges official accounts and leaves readers questioning.
Vandana Desai, Robert Potter |
Oxford
University
Press
The Companion to Development Studies
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Goodreads rating: 3.92
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Whether you're a seasoned scholar or a newcomer to the field, "The Companion to Development Studies" is an invaluable treasury of knowledge. Its breadth covers the gamut of development debates, while each chapter serves as a springboard for further exploration. The updated edition's fresh perspectives on urgent topics like global terrorism and corruption ensure it's a contemporary and critical resource for understanding the complexities of development in today's world.
Paul Gilroy
|
Routledge
There Ain't No Black in the Union Jack
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Goodreads rating: 4.1
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"There Ain't No Black in the Union Jack" could resonate with you if you're intrigued by the dynamics of race and identity in Britain. It's not merely informative; it's a wake-up call—a provocative piece that delves into the racial complexities within intellectual and political spheres. Its historical context is as relevant now as it was at the time of its original publication, making it a compelling read if you're keen on understanding the social undercurrents that continue to shape discussions around race today.
Derek Bok
|
Princeton
University
Press
Our Underachieving Colleges: A Candid Look at How Much Students Learn and Why They Should Be Learning More
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Goodreads rating: 3.81
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This is a thoughtful, evidence-driven critique that will really click if you care about higher education beyond the glossy brochure version. Derek Bok doesn’t just complain that colleges fall short; he shows where students actually aren’t growing enough and why teaching methods matter more than course catalogs. It feels like the kind of book that leaves you rethinking what a degree is supposed to do.
Linsey McGoey
|
Verso
No Such Thing as a Free Gift: The Gates Foundation and the Price of Philanthropy
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Goodreads rating: 3.78
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This book is likely to resonate with you if you're keen on understanding the complex interplay between big money and social good. Linsey McGoey critically examines how the surge in philanthropy, led by giants like the Gates Foundation, shapes policies and influences the areas it aims to help. It's an insightful read that prompts reflection on modern-day charity and the sometimes uncomfortable relationship between wealth, power, and social justice.
Just Arrived
Li Chunling, John L. Thornton, Cheng Li |
Brookings
Institution
Press
China's Youth: Increasing Diversity Amid Persistent Inequality
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Goodreads rating: 3.4
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Understanding the young adults who came of age during the rise of China's economic and global power, this book by a prominent Chinese sociologist explores how China's youth will influence the country's future. Focusing on millennials — those born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s — the book examines the status, lifestyles, attitudes, values, and behaviors of this key segment of the country's population. Li Chunling's study presents a native Chinese perspective on the increasingly diverse generation that will, at some point, assume leadership of the country. Among the key questions addressed: How do Chinese millennials differ from preceding generations in China and from their counterparts around the world? How can current and future relations between Chinese millennials and the Chinese government be assessed? And, what are the factors or fault lines that have shaped intra-generational differences among China's young people? Members of this age cohort are extraordinary, and in some respects unique, in contemporary China. Their ascent has accompanied five historic developments: China's rapid economic rise, the one-child policy, the largest domestic rural-to-urban migration in Chinese history, the opening of extensive educational opportunities abroad, and the arrival of the digital era. Young Chinese citizens have developed a comprehensive understanding of the world much faster than previous generations; millennials see themselves not as extensions of the past, but as the innovators of the country's future. Through expansive and in-depth empirical research on Chinese millennials and younger age cohorts (people in their late teens and early 20s), Dr. Li's book illustrates how China's younger adults reflect the growing diversity and persistent inequality in society. The book also explores how their distinct characteristics and views will shape the country's trajectory. For the outside world, developing a better understanding of this unique generation is an urgent task, given that China now has more influence on the global economy and regional security than at any other point in modern history.
H. Stuart Hughes, Charles Francis Atkinson, Oswald Spengler |
Oxford
University
Press,
Usa
The Decline of the West
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Goodreads rating: 4.06
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If you're intrigued by the grand narratives of history and the patterns that seem to repeat over eras, Spengler's "The Decline of the West" will captivate you. It's a dense, thought-provoking read that may alter how you view the rise and fall of civilizations, including our own. Its sweeping analysis could offer a new lens through which to interpret current global events.
Mauvaise Troupe Collective, Kristin Ross |
Verso
Books
The ZAD and NoTAV: Territorial Struggles and the Making of a New Political Intelligence
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Goodreads rating: 4.1
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If you're intrigued by the power of collective action and grassroots movements, "The Zad and NoTAV" could be the enlightening read you're looking for. It dives into how local communities stand firm against large-scale infrastructure projects shaping their future. More than just recounting events, this book invites you to consider the broader implications of activism and resistance in our modern world. It's a narrative that's both inspiring and thought-provoking, one that connects local struggles to global issues.
Catherine Gomes
|
Ethos
Books
Multiculturalism Through the Lens: A Guide to Ethnic and Migrant Anxieties in Singapore
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Goodreads rating: 3.67
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If you're intrigued by the complexities of multicultural societies, this book offers a valuable perspective using Singapore as a microcosm for larger global issues. Its unique blend of personal narrative and film analysis provides a multi-dimensional view of ethnicity and migration anxieties. For anyone interested in the real-life impacts of globalization, this book adds depth to the conversation beyond textbook definitions of cultural harmony.
Chris Hedges
|
Vintage
Canada
Death of the Liberal Class
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Goodreads rating: 4.06
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If you’re drawn to politically charged books that challenge comforting narratives, this one hits hard. Chris Hedges writes with urgency and moral force, making the decline of liberal institutions feel both intellectual and alarmingly immediate. Readers who appreciate uncompromising social criticism will likely find it provocative, unsettling, and difficult to shrug off.
Arlie Russell Hochschild
|
The
New
Press
Strangers in Their Own Land: Anger and Mourning on the American Right
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Goodreads rating: 4.12
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"Strangers in Their Own Land" might just shift the way you see political discourse in the U.S. Arlie Hochschild's journey is one of genuine curiosity and empathy, providing a nuanced window into the lives and feelings of the conservative right. This is not just a book about politics; it's an invitation to understand the emotional undercurrents that shape our views and relationships in society. It could be a comforting read if you're looking to find humanity in places where you least expect it.
John Ralston Saul
|
Penguin
Canada
Reflections of a Siamese Twin: Canada at the End of the Twentieth Century
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Goodreads rating: 3.73
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This is a thoughtful, provocative read for anyone curious about what really holds Canada together. Saul challenges the usual English-French, east-west, Native-settler binaries and makes the country feel more complex, more uneasy, and more interesting. If you like big-picture political writing that questions national myths and gives you fresh language for debates you thought you knew, this one can feel surprisingly clarifying.
George Fallis
|
University
Of
Toronto
Press
Multiversities, Ideas, and Democracy
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Goodreads rating: 3.25
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This is a strong read if you like big ideas about how institutions quietly shape public life. Fallis makes the modern university feel less like a campus and more like a powerful democratic actor under pressure from globalization, markets, and technology. It’s especially rewarding for readers who enjoy thoughtful, wide-angle nonfiction that connects education to the future of society.
Dana Thomas
|
Penguin
Books
Fashionopolis: Why What We Wear Matters
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Goodreads rating: 3.88
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If you care deeply about the intersection of fashion, ethics, and sustainability, "Fashionopolis" is a must-read. Dana Thomas doesn't just critique the harmful practices of the industry; she takes you on a journey of hope, showcasing innovations and pioneers who are reshaping the way we think about our clothes. Dive in to be part of the clothing revolution and to choose your wardrobe with intention and awareness.
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This is a smart, unsettling read for anyone interested in work, class, and modern feminism beyond the usual slogans. Alison Wolf makes a compelling case that women’s progress hasn’t been shared evenly, and that tension gives the book its real bite. It feels like the kind of book readers finish with a lot underlined, because it challenges easy ideas about sisterhood in a way that feels both timely and deeply observed.
Andrew McAfee, Erik Brynjolfsson |
W.
W.
Norton
&
Company
The Second Machine Age: Work, Progress, and Prosperity in a Time of Brilliant Technologies
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Goodreads rating: 3.91
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If you're intrigued by innovation and the future of work, "The Second Machine Age" can fuel your curiosity by examining the intersection of technology and economics. The authors, leading scholars in the field, bring a wealth of research to the table, offering perspectives that might redefine your understanding of progress. It's a book that doesn't just lay out the changes our world is facing but also arms you with strategies to navigate and succeed in this new era. It's as much about the promise of technology as it is about the profound shifts in our social and professional landscapes.
Ronald Inglehart
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Cambridge
University
Press
Cultural Evolution
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Goodreads rating: 3.88
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This is a smart, big-picture read for anyone curious why societies swing between openness and authoritarianism. Inglehart connects survival, prosperity, and cultural change in a way that feels both sweeping and grounded in real-world evidence. You come away seeing debates over identity, democracy, and equality not as random chaos, but as part of a deeper pattern.
Monika Arora, Sonali Chitalkar, Prerna Malhotra |
Garuda
Delhi Riots 2020 - The Untold Story
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Goodreads rating: 4.3
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This book would truly resonate with those who appreciate in-depth investigative journalism and are keen to understand complex socio-political events. The authors have meticulously gathered ground-level data to offer a perspective that delves beyond mainstream narratives, laying bare the intricacies of communal violence and the alleged premeditation behind it. It's an enlightening read if you're interested in contemporary Indian politics or the dynamics of urban unrest.
J. Patrick Boyer
|
Dundurn
Press
Our Scandalous Senate
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Goodreads rating: 3.78
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If you’re drawn to political books with a clear argument and a sense of urgency, this will feel like a fired-up insider critique. It takes the Senate scandals and turns them into a bigger question about whether the institution should exist at all. Readers who enjoy provocative, debate-starting nonfiction will likely find it punchy, timely, and hard to ignore.
Kehinde Andrews
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Allen
Lane
The New Age of Empire: How Racism and Colonialism Still Rule the World
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Goodreads rating: 4.28
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If you're ready to confront uncomfortable truths about the world's power structures, "The New Age of Empire" is a must-read. Kehinde Andrews doesn't just scratch the surface; he digs deep into the origins of racism and colonialism that underpin our society. The book doesn't offer simple solutions but it does bring a critical perspective that may change how you see the West's legacy and current role in global inequality. The stark analysis will resonate deeply if you're interested in historical truths and systemic change.
Jonathan Cohn
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St.
Martin's
Press
The Ten-Year War: Obamacare and the Unfinished Crusade for Universal Coverage
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Goodreads rating: 4.17
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If healthcare reform conversations stir your intellect, "The Ten Year War" will provide a deep dive into the political trenches of the Obamacare era. Jonathan Cohn's boots-on-the-ground reporting paints the legislative battle in vivid detail, making it an enlightening read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of healthcare, politics, and the tug-of-war for universal coverage. It's a narrative that's as informative as it is gripping.
Just Arrived
Annie Jacobsen
|
Dutton
First Platoon: A Story of Modern War in the Age of Identity Dominance
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Goodreads rating: 4.16
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A powerful story of war in our time, of love of country, the experience of tragedy, and a platoon at the center of it all. This is a story that starts off close and goes very big. The initial part of the story might sound familiar as it is about a platoon of mostly nineteen-year-old boys sent to Afghanistan, and an experience that ends abruptly in catastrophe. Their part of the story is inexorably linked to those soldiers and never comprehensively reported before: the U.S. Department of Defense’s quest to build the world’s most powerful biometrics database, with the ability to identify, monitor, catalog, and police people all over the world. First Platoon is an American saga that illuminates a transformation of society made possible by this new technology. Part war story, part legal drama, it is about identity in the age of identification. About humanity—physical bravery, trauma, PTSD, a yearning to do right and good—in the age of biometrics, which reduce people to iris scans, fingerprint scans, voice patterning, detection by odor, gait, and more. And about the power of point of view in a burgeoning surveillance state. Based on hundreds of formerly classified documents, FOIA requests, and exclusive interviews, First Platoon is an investigative exposé by a master chronicler of government secrets. First Platoon reveals a post–9/11 Pentagon whose identification machines have grown more capable than the humans who must make sense of them. A Pentagon so powerful it can cover up its own internal mistakes in pursuit of endless wars. And a people at its mercy, in its last moments before a fundamental change so complete it might be impossible to take back.
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.
We have a wide range, from historical fiction to well-researched non-fiction covering ancient, medieval, and modern history. You’ll find insights into various cultures and pivotal world events.
Yes, indeed! Our history collection boasts books on Singapore’s unique colonial and post-colonial developments, detailing key historical figures and events. Head over to our Asian History collection for more!
We recommend choosing based on any timeline or geographical region that piques your interests! As history is something not only applicable to the past but also a process that is extends to our everyday, you could also pick a book based on where you currently live in or are planning to visit!
Absolutely! Many of our history books overlap with topics like philosophy and politics, offering diverse perspectives and in-depth analyses of historical events.
Yes, you can discover rare editions within our Vintage and Rare Books section, allowing you to own a piece of historical literature that holds both academic and collectible value.