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History Books

Unearth the past with our wide selection of history books at Thryft. Explore ancient civilisations, world wars, and pivotal moments that shaped humanity. Whether you're a history buff or a curious learner, our collection offers both insight and intrigue.
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The War the Infantry Knew 1914-1919 - Thryft
J.C. Dunn, Keith Simpson  | Little, Brown Book Group

The War the Infantry Knew 1914-1919

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

86% off est. retail
This raw and genuine diary could resonate with you if history, especially World War I, interests you. You'll find yourself immersed in the day-to-day life of infantrymen and experience a soldier's perspective of the war that is often missing from textbooks. It's a moving tribute to the resilience and reality of those who fought, making history deeply personal.
The World's Greatest Aircraft Carriers: An Illustrated History
David Ross | Sterling Publishing

The World's Greatest Aircraft Carriers: An Illustrated History

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$8.90

If you have a keen interest in naval history and engineering marvels, "The World's Greatest Aircraft Carriers" is a treasure trove for you. David Ross takes you on a visual journey, exploring the evolution of these behemoths of the seas. This book isn't just a collection of photos; it's a gateway to understanding a century's worth of maritime military prowess.
The Great American Bathroom Book: Single Sitting Summaries of All Time
Stevens W. Anderson | Scarab Book Limited

The Great American Bathroom Book: Single Sitting Summaries of All Time

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$8.90

Imagine being well-versed in literature's finest without having to turn hundreds of pages for each. The Great American Bathroom Book offers that shortcut. Breezing through this treasure trove can make you the most enlightened conversationalist in any room. Whether you're genuinely curious or need a quick literary reference, it's a delightful companion for both your mind and your moments of respite.
Unexplained Mysteries of World War II
Terry Jeavons, Robert Jackson, Chris Dymond  | Quantum Publishing

Unexplained Mysteries of World War II

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$8.90

Recommendation: This book is perfect for history buffs and fans of unsolved mysteries. Robert Jackson's Mysteries of World War Two offers a thought-provoking and comprehensive analysis of ten unique and fascinating wartime enigmas that remained unsolved for decades. Each page is packed with historical and forensic evidence, theories and analysis—perfect for those looking to unravel the mysteries of one of the most significant events in human history.
World History
Brown Reference Group | Brown Reference Group

World History

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$18.90

If you're intrigued by the expanse of human history, this book is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Its timelines give you a structured overview while feature spreads dive deeper into pivotal moments. The illustrations will enhance your journey through time, making the past come alive in a way that's both educational and visually engaging.
True Survival Stories - Thryft

True Survival Stories

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$8.90

This book is a collection of real survival stories that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Each story is written in a gripping, engaging manner that captures the bravery and resourcefulness of the survivors. The book showcases the human spirit of resilience and survival against all odds, inspiring readers to never give up hope in the face of adversity.
The Oxford Companion to World War II
M.R.D. Foot, Ian Dear  | Oxford University Press

The Oxford Companion to World War II

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 4.48

$16.90

If you're a history buff or just curious about the vast tapestry of World War II, this companion is an indispensable resource. It's more than dates and battles; it dives into the nuanced social dynamics and global reverberations of the conflict. The visuals complement the rich, detailed narratives, giving you a multi-dimensional perspective that's as educational as it is fascinating.
A Limited Bounty: The U.S. Since WWII - Thryft
Otis L. Graham | Mcgraw-hill College

A Limited Bounty: The U.S. Since WWII

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

94% off est. retail
This book is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to gain a comprehensive understanding of America's post-World War II era. Unlike most textbooks, it goes beyond superficial explanations and delves deep into the development of crucial themes like population, resources, and the environment. By tracing the roots of our current dilemmas, it enables readers to connect the dots and comprehend the present through the lens of the past. Otis L. Graham's narrative approach makes learning about this period engaging and accessible.
Reckoning: A Memoir
Magda Szubanski | Text Publishing Company

Reckoning: A Memoir

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

65% off est. retail
"Reckoning" isn't just a memoir; it's Magda Szubanski's soul on paper. If you're moved by raw, truthful stories that traverse the complexity of a life shadowed by historical events and personal struggles, then this book will speak to you. It's a deep dive into the human experience, with a narrative so engaging it could make you reflect on your own family history and personal identity.
Subterranean London: Cracking the Capital
Bradley L. Garrett, Will Self  | Prestel Publishing

Subterranean London: Cracking the Capital

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$9.90

If you've ever felt drawn to the mysteries that lie beneath bustling city streets, "Subterranean London: Cracking the Capital" is for you. It's not just a glance at what's underground; it's a compelling descent into London's veins. The book uncovers layers of history and offers a unique blend of adrenaline and heritage, with evocative imagery that's as close as one gets to being there without donning a hard hat.
Churchill and the Lion City: Shaping Modern Singapore
Brian Farrell | National University Of Singapore Press

Churchill and the Lion City: Shaping Modern Singapore

$21.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$21.90

48% off est. retail
If modern Singapore's transformation fascinates you, "Churchill and the Lion City" is a must-read. It intriguingly explores the interwoven legacies of Churchill, British imperialism, and Singapore, offering a critical lens on historical narratives. Through Farrell's analysis, you'll uncover how Churchill's perceptions and policies shaped an era and how these forces continue to echo in Singapore's evolution. It's a compelling dive into the complexities of empire and identity.
I Survived Rumbuli - Thryft
Wolf Goodman, Frida Michelson  | Unites States Holocaust

I Survived Rumbuli

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

If you're keen on World War II history, Frida Michelson's firsthand account will immerse you in the stark realities of the Nazi occupation in Latvia. It's a sobering read, offering a voice to the silenced and a reminder of the atrocities of the past. This book is more than history; it's an intimate narrative of endurance and memory.
The Penguin Atlas of World History
Hermann Kinder, Werner Hilgemann  | Penguin Books

The Penguin Atlas of World History

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$8.90

64% off est. retail
If you're a visual learner with a passion for history, this book will guide you through modern history with ease. Its maps bring complex events to life, making the interconnectedness of global events apparent and accessible. Plus, its up-to-date content, which includes pivotal moments up to recent times, ensures that your knowledge won't just halt at the Berlin Wall but will reach into the complexities of the contemporary world.
Guns in Combat
Chris Bishop | Book Sales

Guns in Combat

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 4.6

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

74% off est. retail
Guns in Combat is an excellent read for military enthusiasts who are interested in understanding the working parts of firearms used during combat. The book's detailed descriptions of each weapon's operation and effectiveness are highlighted by stunning illustrations that showcase the weapons' anatomy. Users who enjoy learning about the ins and outs of firearms should definitely give this book a try.
Driving Force: The Natural Magic of Magnets
Livingston | Harvard University Press

Driving Force: The Natural Magic of Magnets

$20.90

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$20.90

If you're fascinated by the invisible powers that shape our technological world, "Driving Force" is a compelling journey through the realm of magnets. It's like grabbin a backstage pass to the history and future of one of nature's most enigmatic forces. Dive in to demystify the scientific magic that invisibly influences our everyday lives.
Bletchley Park: Home of the Code Breakers
Bletchley Park Trust | Pitkin Publishing, The History Press

Bletchley Park: Home of the Code Breakers

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$12.90

If you're fascinated by puzzles and wartime espionage, "Bletchley Park Home of the Code Breakers" might just be the book you're looking for. It's an insightful delve into the history and efforts of the codebreakers who played a pivotal role in World War II. Their intelligence feats are as captivating as they are historically significant.
The Dachau Concentration Camp, 1933 to 1945 - Text and Photo Documents from the Exhibition, with CD
Ludwig Eiber, Thomas Felsenstein, haus-der-bayerischen-geschichte-international-dachau-committee-kz-gedenkstatte-dachau  | Edition Lipp

The Dachau Concentration Camp, 1933 to 1945 - Text and Photo Documents from the Exhibition, with CD

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$8.90

If the stark realities of human history intrigue you, this book could offer a sobering perspective. It’s not just a reading experience but a visual journey through one of the darkest periods of modern civilization. The inclusion of the CD-ROM allows for a comprehensive exploration of the Dachau Concentration Camp, making the historical narrative even more poignant and educational.
50 Tales of Valour, Victory and the Vanquished
James Cutler | Rupa Publications

50 Tales of Valour, Victory and the Vanquished

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$10.90

If you're someone who finds the interplay of heroism and tragedy in history captivating, then "50 Tales of Valour, Victory, and the Vanquished" might just be your next favorite read. This collection will take you through a rollercoaster of emotions as you explore different facets of human courage and the somber realities of defeat, all stitched together in bite-sized historical narratives.
D-Day: 24 Hours That Saved the World
Time Inc. | Time

D-Day: 24 Hours That Saved the World

$17.90

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$17.90

If you're drawn to pivotal moments in history, "D-Day: 24 Hours That Saved the World" is more than just a history lesson; it's a profound tribute to the sheer bravery and strategic genius that marked one of the most significant days of the 20th century. You'll gain intimate portraits of the prominent figures and unsung heroes. This book could be your time portal to the beaches of Normandy, feeling the weight of sacrifice and the intensity of hope that shaped our modern world.
Bill Mauldin's Army - Bill Mauldin's Greatest World War II Cartoons
Bill Mauldin | Paperback Library

Bill Mauldin's Army - Bill Mauldin's Greatest World War II Cartoons

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

87% off est. retail
Bill Mauldin's Army offers a candid and humorous perspective on the life of soldiers during World War II. His cartoons, crafted in the trenches, resonate with authenticity and wit, making history approachable and relatable. Mauldin's empathetic illustrations are not just for history buffs but for anyone who appreciates the intersection of art, humor, and historical events.
Shadows of World War II
Karen Farrington | Blitz Editions

Shadows of World War II

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

If you're drawn to the untold stories of history, "Shadows of World War II" might be just what you're looking for. It delves into the corners of the Second World War that aren't usually explored in mainstream narratives, giving you a fresh perspective on a period you thought you knew. Karen Farrington's meticulous research could illuminate your understanding of the global conflict with new colors.
Mafia II Signature Series Strategy Guide - Thryft
Brady Games | Brady

Mafia II Signature Series Strategy Guide

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.43

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

87% off est. retail
The Mafia II Signature Series Strategy Guide is an essential resource for any gamer who wants to fully explore the dark world of the Mafia. With detailed maps, walkthroughs of every mission, and a guide to all the weapons and vehicles available to you, this guide will help you to dominate the game. As one user review says, "This guide made Mafia II so much more enjoyable - highly recommended!"
True Stories Of The Second World War - Thryft
Paul Dowswell, Glen Bird  | Usborne Pub Ltd

True Stories Of The Second World War

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$3.90

This book is a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the gripping accounts of World War II. With epic naval encounters, monumental battles, and suspenseful duels, it brings to life the intense and vivid experiences of those who were there. Transporting you to that era, it captures the resilience, bravery, and sacrifices made during one of the most significant conflicts in history.
Reaching Out: Operation Flying Eagle
David Boey | Snp International Ltd

Reaching Out: Operation Flying Eagle

$72.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$72.90

Reaching Out. Operation Flying Eagle could be a good read for anyone who appreciates stories of triumph over hardship. The book beautifully captures the power of the human spirit as it follows the author's journey of reaching out and making a difference in the face of challenges. Its unique appeal lies in its ability to inspire readers with its tale of resilience and hope.
Armies of the Soviet Union
Andy Chambers | Osprey Publishing

Armies of the Soviet Union

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$10.90

If you're a Bolt Action enthusiast eager to recreate the iconic battles that defined the Eastern Front, this book is your atlas. It offers detailed lists and context that can transform your gameplay, providing historical depth alongside practical tips. Dive in, and let the meticulously researched content guide your Soviet army to victory—or a memorable stand—on your tabletop battlefield.
Great-Uncle Harry: A Tale of War and Empire
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Michael Palin | Penguin Books

Great-Uncle Harry: A Tale of War and Empire

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$8.90

58% off est. retail
If you're drawn to narratives that blend personal discovery with historical intrigue, "Great-Uncle Harry" might resonate with you. Michael Palin leads us on a quest that is as much about family and memory as it is about the echoes of war. The book connects the past with the present through painstaking research that reveals not just a family member's life, but also a slice of world history. His storytelling could offer you both an emotional connection and a richer understanding of the Great War's personal impact.
Grand Slam Baseball: The Lore & Legends of America's Game - Thryft
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Paul Adomites | Publications International, Ltd.

Grand Slam Baseball: The Lore & Legends of America's Game

$17.42 $5.90 66% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$17.42 $5.90 66% off

If baseball is your game, this read is a home run. It's not just facts and figures; it's the untold stories and quirky trivia that will give you a new appreciation for every pitch and home run. You'll find yourself amazed and sharing these anecdotes with fellow fans.
Bad Faith: A Forgotten History of Family, Fatherland and Vichy France - Thryft
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Carmen Callil | Vintage

Bad Faith: A Forgotten History of Family, Fatherland and Vichy France

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

85% off est. retail
If history fascinates you, particularly the harrowing times of World War II and the Vichy regime, "Bad Faith" offers a stark look at one of its most notorious figures. Carmen Callil doesn't only recount the chilling actions of Louis Darquier de Pellepoix but also delves into the profound personal impact of his legacy. It's a compelling read that masterfully blends thorough research with a narrative that's as insightful as it is haunting. It’s history, but it reads with the emotional force of a personal story.
Life : Our Call to Arms - The Attack on Pearl Harbour - Thryft
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Time-Life Books | Life

Life : Our Call to Arms - The Attack on Pearl Harbour

$11.80

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$11.80

75% off est. retail
Recommendation: Life: Our Call to Arms would be a great read for history enthusiasts who are looking for a comprehensive visual documentation of the events surrounding the Pearl Harbor attack. The book features rarely seen photographs and survivor's stories that allow readers to get an inside look into the terror, heroism, and aftermath of one of the worst battle defeats ever suffered by the United States. The unique and distinctive feature of this book is its powerful visual narrative, which captures the immediacy and poignancy of what happened on that awful day.
The Investigation: Oratorio in Eleven Cantos - Thryft
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Alexander Gross, Peter Weiss  | Marion Boyars Publishers Ltd

The Investigation: Oratorio in Eleven Cantos

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$5.07

74% off est. retail
The Investigation could be a good read for those interested in a factual and emotional recounting of the war crimes that occurred in Auschwitz. The author, Peter Weiss, offers no artistic license, providing readers with an unfiltered and realistic perspective. Readers will be drawn into the powerful testimonies of those who survived and are searching for truth and justice.
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.
Bonzo's War : Animals Under Fire 1939 -1945 - Thryft
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Clare Campbell | Constable

Bonzo's War : Animals Under Fire 1939 -1945

$5.51

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$5.51

84% off est. retail
Bonzo's War explores the untold stories of the animals during World War II, including the devastating impact of war on pets and the army's use of loaned family dogs. This heartwarming and heartbreaking book gives voice to the forgotten creatures in a time of human conflict.
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."
Unbroken : A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption - Thryft
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Laura Hillenbrand | Random House

Unbroken : A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption

$16.32 $11.42 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$16.32 $11.42 30% off

74% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the true story of human resilience. Hillenbrand’s meticulous and dramatic retelling of Zamperini’s tale will keep readers gripped from start to finish. The book’s unflinching portrayal of a man’s triumph over inhuman treatment will inspire readers for years to come.
The Killer They Called a God - Thryft
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Ian Ward | Media Masters

The Killer They Called a God

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$5.90

70% off est. retail
This book is a gripping account of Colonel Masanobu Tsuji, a notorious war criminal who managed to escape justice. The author takes the reader on a thrilling journey from the blood-soaked beaches of Singapore to the baffling conclusion, unraveling the shocking secrets and the role of American and British authorities in his escape. If you're a history enthusiast seeking to understand the tangled web of politics and war, this book offers a captivating exploration into the hidden chapters of World War II.
Anne Frank's Story - Thryft
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Carol Ann Lee | Puffin

Anne Frank's Story

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

71% off est. retail
The life story of Anne Frank, from her early happy childhood in Frankfurt, growing up in Amsterdam, her two years in hiding and the last few months of her life in the concentration camps. Narrated in six clearly written chapters, this biography for children answers the many detailed questions about Anne that readers of the Diary often have, and includes interesting anecdotes from friends who survived her. There is an Historical Note at the beginning of the book and a map of Europe, so that children will be able to understand the situation at the time, and an Introduction by Anne Frank's cousin, Buddy Elias.
Singapore at War: Secrets from the Fall, Liberation and the Aftermath of WWII
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Romen Bose | Marshall Cavendish Editions

Singapore at War: Secrets from the Fall, Liberation and the Aftermath of WWII

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$10.90

70% off est. retail
If World War II history piques your interest, particularly the lesser-explored Asian theatre, "Singapore at War" will be a treasure trove for you. Romen Bose weaves together a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at pivotal events, from the fall of Singapore to its post-war legacy and remembrance. The research delves into newly uncovered secrets that could shift your understanding of how the war unfolded in Southeast Asia.

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.