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.

196 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!

196 Results

No results

In the Air - Thryft
Ann Kramer | Franklin Watts Ltd

In the Air

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.0

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

86% off est. retail
In the Air could be a good read for history enthusiasts who want to delve into first-hand accounts of the Second World War. This book focuses on personal accounts of soldiers, airmen, cooks, and drivers who were involved in the war, making it a unique and memorable read. The author, Ann Kramer, has skillfully woven together the threads of these accounts to paint a vivid picture of the events of the war and bring forth the emotions and experiences of those who served in it.
If World War II espionage intrigues you, "The Rice Paddy Navy" will immerse you in one of its best-kept secrets. Linda Kush offers a detailed account of this seldom-told story, where American servicemen and Chinese guerrillas work beneath the surface to alter the course of the war in Asia. It's a tale of secrecy, diplomacy, and unexpected alliances that showcases how intelligence operations can influence major wartime outcomes.
20th Century Media, 1940s & 50s - The Power of Propaganda - Thryft
Steve Parker | Heinemann Library

20th Century Media, 1940s & 50s - The Power of Propaganda

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 0.0

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

This book is a great read for anyone interested in understanding how media has shaped our society. It covers the entire gamut of media from newspapers to television to the internet and highlights important turning points in the history of entertainment. The most distinctive feature of the book is the author's focus on propaganda and its power in shaping public opinion. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in media studies and its impact on society.
The War the Infantry Knew 1914-1919 - Thryft
J.C. Dunn, Keith Simpson  | Little, Brown Book Group

The War the Infantry Knew 1914-1919

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.35

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

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.
Armies of Italy and the Axis

$10.90

Unit price
per

If you're fascinated by WWII history or enjoy strategic games like Bolt Action, this book provides a detailed look into the armies often overshadowed by the major powers. Imagine immersing yourself in the military intricacies of the Italian, Hungarian, Bulgarian, Romanian, and Finnish forces, enriching your gameplay or historical knowledge with this focused guide.
Armies of Germany - Bolt Action
Warwick Kinrade | Osprey Publishing

Armies of Germany - Bolt Action

$32.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$32.90

Unit price
per

If you're a fan of military history or miniature wargaming, "Armies of Germany" is a treasure trove. It doesn't just catalog units; it plunges you into the heart of tactical decision-making, allowing you to recreate pivotal WWII battles or construct "what if" scenarios with historical accuracy. Plus, it's not just about combats on the battlefield; it's also a deep dive into assembling and strategizing a diverse military force, right at your fingertips. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned gamer, this book adds depth to your Bolt Action experience.
The Commando Survival Manual
Hugh McManners | Dorling Kindersley Publishers

The Commando Survival Manual

Regular price $10.90 $8.78 19% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.18

Regular price $10.90 $8.78 19% off

Unit price
per

If you've ever wondered how to survive the toughest situations imaginable, "The Commando Survival Manual" is like a crash course in resilience. You'll feel empowered knowing you're getting tips and strategies from the best in the business, making it as practical as it is thrilling. It's for anyone who enjoys learning about survival tactics or who might want to be prepared for anything.
Spying on the Bomb: American Nuclear Intelligence from Nazi Germany to Iran and North Korea
If you're fascinated by the secret world of international espionage and the high stakes of nuclear proliferation, "Spying on the Bomb" serves as a compelling chronicle. Richelson masterfully paints a picture of the clandestine tug-of-war over nuclear secrets, where intelligence breakthroughs and blunders have shaped global security. It's a read that promises to deepen your understanding of geopolitical strategies behind the atomic curtain.
50 Tales of Valour, Victory and the Vanquished

$10.90

Unit price
per

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.
SAS Italian Job: The Secret Mission to Storm a Forbidden Nazi Fortress

$10.90

Unit price
per

54% off est. retail
If you're drawn to untold war stories brimming with valor, "SAS Italian Job" could offer just the thrill you seek. Imagine being swept back to 1944, reliving an audacious bid to outmaneuver Nazi forces at their stronghold. This isn’t just military strategy – it’s about the human spirit defying the odds, embroidered with the eccentricity of a piper in battle. If history, heroism, and heart-stopping action capture your imagination, this book is calling your name.
The Liberation Line: The Last Untold Story of the Normandy Landings

$15.90

Unit price
per

51% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by lesser-known aspects of WWII history, "The Liberation Line" is bound to captivate you. Christian Wolmar illuminates the vital yet often overlooked efforts of the US Military Rail Service and Royal Engineers after D-Day. The book offers a deep dive into the backstage heroics that ensured the success of the Allies—essential for those passionate about military logistics and untold wartime tales.
I Survived Rumbuli - Thryft
Wolf Goodman, Frida Michelson  | Unites States Holocaust

I Survived Rumbuli

Regular price $15.90 $3.90 75% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.97

Regular price $15.90 $3.90 75% off

Unit price
per

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.
Inside the Third Reich
Albert Speer | Ishi Press

Inside the Third Reich

$15.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$15.90

Unit price
per

If you're intrigued by history and the mechanisms behind power, "Inside the Third Reich" by Albert Speer is a profound dive into the heart of Nazi Germany from an insider's perspective. Speer's position as Hitler's chief architect and later as Minister of Armaments gives unique insights into the workings of the Third Reich, making this memoir an invaluable piece for anyone interested in the complexities of history, war, and political machinations.
Beyond Glory - Joe Louis Vs. Max Schmeling, And A World On The Brink - Thryft
David Margolick | Vintage

Beyond Glory - Joe Louis Vs. Max Schmeling, And A World On The Brink

Regular price $11.90 $3.90 67% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

Regular price $11.90 $3.90 67% off

Unit price
per

87% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for fans of boxing and history alike. Through the gripping narrative of the heavyweight fights between Joe Louis and Max Schmeling, David Margolick expertly delves into the cultural and social divisions of the time. Beyond Glory masterfully captures the intensity and significance of these iconic bouts, making it a captivating read that will transport you back to a world on the brink of war.
German Invasion Plans for the British Isles, 1940

$3.90

Unit price
per

If you're intrigued by what-ifs of history, especially World War II, this collection of actual German documents presents a chilling yet fascinating perspective. It's not every day that one gets to peer into the meticulous preparations of an invasion that never occurred. These invasion plans, presented with clear context, offer a tangible piece of the past that invites reflection on the knife-edge of historical events.
World War Two

World War Two

Regular price $10.90 $5.90 46% off

Unit price
per

Regular price $10.90 $5.90 46% off

Unit price
per

If you're drawn to pivotal moments in history, this book serves as a comprehensive primer on the second global war. It doesn't merely list out facts; it offers a narrative that will help you understand the complexities and profound human experiences during that era. Its detailed account might just make you feel like a witness to the historical events that shaped our modern world.
The World's Greatest Aircraft Carriers: An Illustrated History

$8.90

Unit price
per

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 Usborne Book of War Stories
Paul Dowswell | Usborne

The Usborne Book of War Stories

Regular price $11.90 $9.90 17% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.3

Regular price $11.90 $9.90 17% off

Unit price
per

If tales of courage amidst chaos intrigue you, "The Usborne Book of War Stories" could be a poignant addition to your shelf. It's a deep dive into the harrowing experiences of those who lived through the world wars, offering a tapestry of human resilience and the stark reality of warfare. This book doesn't just recount facts; it immerses you in the stories that shaped our past.
Driving Force: The Natural Magic of Magnets
New

$20.90

Unit price
per

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.
If stealth missions and wartime espionage intrigue you, then "The British Spy Manual" will feel like a treasure trove. The Imperial War Museum has provided an actual glimpse into the training of WWII secret agents, complete with compelling illustrations and authentic tradecraft. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just love a good spy story, this manual lets you step into the shoes of a WWII operative in a way that few other books can.
Cyanide in My Shoe
Josephine Butler | This England Books

Cyanide in My Shoe

$14.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$14.90

Unit price
per

If tales of daring, wit, and audacity capture your imagination, "Cyanide in My Shoe" is right up your alley. Josephine Butler offers a rare glimpse into the life of a female spy during World War II, imbuing history with a personal touch that's both enlightening and thrilling. This memoir transcends the genre, giving you a front-row seat to the clandestine operations against the backdrop of one of the most tumultuous times in recent history.
Battle in the Air
Michael Tagg | Bdd Promotional Book Co

Battle in the Air

$8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

Unit price
per

If you're drawn to stories of bravery and strategic aerial battles, "Battle In The Air" offers an immersive look into the experiences of Allied crews during WWII. The personal anecdotes and detailed accounts of dogfights can provide a palpable sense of the era's tension and valor. It's a tribute to the courage and determination that defined the air war.
Shadows of World War II
Karen Farrington | Blitz Editions

Shadows of World War II

$8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

Unit price
per

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.
Flu Pandemic - Thryft

Flu Pandemic

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

Flu Pandemic is a comprehensive account of the 1918 flu pandemic, exploring the shocking details of this catastrophic event. It offers a historical look into how the 1918 outbreak unfolded, tracing its spread across the globe, and detailing the impact that it had on society. This book is perfect for those who are interested in the history of pandemics and health crises, and it offers a sobering reminder of the importance of preparation and international cooperation in these types of situations.
The Nazis
Robert Edwin Herzstein | Time-life Books, Inc.

The Nazis

Regular price $11.90 $9.90 17% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.88

Regular price $11.90 $9.90 17% off

Unit price
per

If you're drawn to unravel the complexities of history, "The Nazis" offers a sobering dive into one of the most sinister epochs. It’s a chilling reminder of how ideology can shape society, and how power, when anchored in cruelty and spectacle, can devastate humanity. Understanding this past is crucial, and this book provides a window into that dark chapter, helping ensure such horrors are never repeated.
Subterranean London: Cracking the Capital

$9.90

Unit price
per

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.
Nanjing Massacre
Honda Katsuichi | Penguin Books Ltd

Nanjing Massacre

$15.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$15.90

Unit price
per

If you're drawn to historical accounts that don't shy away from the harsh truths of humanity's past, Katsuichi Honda's "Nanjing Massacre" could be a compelling read for you. This book takes an unflinching dive into the events that transpired in Nanjing, and while it's not for the faint of heart, it's an important work that offers a stark reminder of the horrors of war and the significance of remembrance.
The Battle for the Rhine 1944: Arnhem and the Ardennes - The Campaign in Europe

$34.90

Unit price
per

Dive into a detailed and strategic exploration of the significant military campaigns in Europe during World War II. If you're passionate about military history or want to understand the complex strategic decisions that shaped the outcome of the war, Neillands' meticulous research and narrative will captivate you. The book offers more than just facts; it provides context and expert analysis that brings these historic battles to life.
World War II
Robin Cross, H.P. Willmott, Charles Messenger  | Dorling Kindersley Limited

World War II

Regular price $17.90 $11.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.32

Regular price $17.90 $11.90 34% off

Unit price
per

If you're curious about the global implications of World War II and crave a book that doesn't just recount battles but explores their significance, this is perfect for you. Its unique blend of digital maps, timelines, and personal eyewitness accounts provides a multidimensional view of the war, not only on the front lines but also the impact on daily life. The added travel guide aspect could transform your reading experience into a journey, offering a tangible connection to history.
Nothing Less Than Victory: Oral History of D-Day
Russell Miller | Penguin Books

Nothing Less Than Victory: Oral History of D-Day

Regular price $11.90 $8.90 25% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.13

Regular price $11.90 $8.90 25% off

Unit price
per

This book feels like a time machine to 1944. You hear the stories straight from those who lived them, unfiltered and visceral. It’s not a dry history; it's a collection of personal, harrowing journeys. Whether you're a history buff or simply appreciate the power of human stories in the face of adversity, 'Nothing Less Than Victory' will leave you with a deeper understanding of D-Day's impact.
Great-Uncle Harry: A Tale of War and Empire
Sold out

$8.90

Unit price
per

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
Sold out
Paul Adomites | Publications International, Ltd.

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

Regular price $17.42 $5.90 66% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

Regular price $17.42 $5.90 66% off

Unit price
per

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
Sold out
Carmen Callil | Vintage

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

Regular price $10.90 $3.90 64% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.9

Regular price $10.90 $3.90 64% off

Unit price
per

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.
We All Wore Stars - Memories Of Anne Frank From Her Classmates - Thryft
Sold out

$6.34

Unit price
per

85% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for you if you are fascinated by personal stories that shed light on a historically significant figure. Through the accounts of Theo Coster and his classmates, this book not only allows us to rediscover Anne Frank but also offers remarkable stories of resilience and survival during the Holocaust. You'll be captivated by the intertwined journeys of these individuals and their unique connections to Anne, which provide a deeper understanding of her life and legacy.
Going Solo - Thryft
Sold out
Quentin Blake, Roald Dahl  | Puffin

Going Solo

$6.34

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.05

$6.34

Unit price
per

This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates captivating memoirs that are filled with adventure and excitement. Roald Dahl's "Going Solo" takes you on a journey through his experiences in Africa and his daring wartime exploits. Dahl's vivid storytelling brings his extraordinary life to life, making this book a page-turner from start to finish. Get ready to be enthralled by his tales of courage and adventure!
Life : Our Call to Arms - The Attack on Pearl Harbour - Thryft
Sold out

$11.80

Unit price
per

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 Monuments Men is an engrossing account of the brave efforts of a special force, including museum directors and historians, to prevent the destruction of Europe's heritage during World War II. A must-read for history enthusiasts and art lovers, this book offers a unique perspective on the war and highlights the courage of those who risked their lives to preserve thousands of years of culture."
The Investigation: Oratorio in Eleven Cantos - Thryft
Sold out

$5.07

Unit price
per

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.
Unbroken - Thryft
Sold out
Laura Hillenbrand | Fourth Estate

Unbroken

Regular price $10.90 $3.90 64% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.38

Regular price $10.90 $3.90 64% off

Unit price
per

83% off est. retail
"Unbroken" will resonate with you if you're captivated by true tales of human endurance. Laura Hillenbrand has woven a narrative that’s as inspiring as it is intense, delving deep into the resilience and fortitude of Louis Zamperini. It’s not just a story of survival; it's an exploration of the indomitable human spirit facing unimaginable odds. If you're moved by personal transformation and tales of grit against the backdrop of history, this book will be one you hold onto long after turning the final page.
Shocking Paris - Thryft
Sold out
Stanley Meisler | St. Martin's Press

Shocking Paris

$14.86

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$14.86

Unit price
per

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
Sold out

$5.51

Unit price
per

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
Sold out
Andrew Sachs | Robson Press

I Know Nothing!

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.97

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

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
Sold out
Laura Hillenbrand | Random House

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

Regular price $16.32 $11.42 30% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.38

Regular price $16.32 $11.42 30% off

Unit price
per

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
Sold out
Ian Ward | Media Masters

The Killer They Called a God

$5.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$5.90

Unit price
per

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
Sold out
Carol Ann Lee | Puffin

Anne Frank's Story

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.19

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

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
Sold out

$10.90

Unit price
per

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.