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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Changing Stages: A View of British Theatre in the Twentieth Century - Thryft
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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.
Other Tribes, Other Scribes: Symbolic Anthropology in the Comparative Study of Cultures, Histories, Religions and Texts
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If you're fascinated by how culture shapes our understanding of the world, "Other Tribes, Other Scribes" is a treasure trove. James A. Boon masterfully traces the lineage of thought behind interpreting symbolic behavior across societies. This book isn't just an academic read; it's an intellectual journey connecting anthropology, literature, and history, offering a fascinating collage of perspectives. Give it a read and see how the rich tapestry of human culture is pieced together by the minds that have studied it.
The Obstacle Race: The Fortune of Women Painters and Their Work
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If you're someone who's intrigued by art history and the challenges faced by female artists throughout centuries, then "The Obstacle Race" is a must-read. Germaine Greer uncovers the often-overlooked triumphs and trials of brilliant women painters, providing a perspective that challenges traditional art narratives. This book not only sheds light on hidden figures but also offers a richly illustrated journey, which might change the way you view art history and female contributions to it.
Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Power, and the Past
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Sidney W. Mintz | Beacon Press

Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Power, and the Past

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If you're curious about the intersection of culture, power, and the food on your plate, "Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom" is a tour de force that delves into the deep meanings behind eating practices. Sidney Mintz gives you a scholarly yet accessible perspective on how food choices are intricately linked with history and economy, enriching your understanding of American culinary identity.
An A to Z of Food and Drink
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John Ayto | Oxford Univ Pr

An A to Z of Food and Drink

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If you're a foodie with a love for words, "An A to Z of Food and Drink" is your literary buffet. This book isn't just a dictionary; it's a journey through the history and origins of gastronomical terms that will satiate your intellectual appetite. With its rich servings of literary quotations, you’ll find yourself savoring each page like a fine wine. Whether you're a chef, a linguist, or just someone who enjoys the occasional culinary crossword, this read will add flavor to your bookshelf.
Sweetness and Power: The Place of Sugar in Modern History
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Diving into "Sweetness and Power" will unravel the surprising ways sugar has shaped our world, intertwining with complex issues like slavery and economic power. It's a fascinating lens through which to view history, offering a nuanced perspective on how a simple craving influenced social structures and dietary patterns. If you're looking to sweeten your historical knowledge with an unconventional story, this book's for you.
Food, Society, and Environment
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If you're curious about the intersection of our eating habits with societal shifts and environmental sustainability, "Food, Society, and Environment" might just feed your curiosity. It's not just a narrative of food through the ages - it's an insightful dissection of how our plates reflect and affect the world we live in, from social justice to ecological impacts. For anyone with a hunger for understanding the broader implications of what's on our forks, this book is a hearty meal for thought.
The Potato: How the Humble Spud Rescued the Western World
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Larry Zuckerman | North Point Press

The Potato: How the Humble Spud Rescued the Western World

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If you're fascinated by how something as unassuming as the potato could revolutionize the world, this book is a treat. Larry Zuckerman peels back the layers of history to reveal the potato's surprising and multifaceted role in shaping our past. It's a narrative that's rich with detail yet digestible, perfect for anyone interested in food history or the underappreciated catalysts of societal change.
Cuisine and Culture: A History of Food and People
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If you're a food enthusiast with a thirst for history, "Cuisine and Culture" will be quite the feast for your intellect. Linda Civitello's intricate weaving of culinary evolution with societal changes provides a sumptuous narrative that's as flavorful as it is educational. As you explore the curious origins of global food traditions and their deep connections to past events, this book can satisfy your appetite for knowledge as much as it whets it.
Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health
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If you've ever felt duped by flashy food marketing or bewildered by dietary advice, "Food Politics" sheds light on the murky intersection of food industry interests and public health. Marion Nestle's expertise makes for an insightful read that might just change how you view your next supermarket trip or meal. It's a deep dive into the realities of what drives the food we consume, beyond our appetites.
If you're intrigued by the delicate interplay of culture, economy, and tradition, "The Malay Handloom Weavers" offers a deep dive into a lesser-known facet of Malay history. It's not just about the beautiful textiles but the very human stories behind them; how a craft tied to identity and economy struggled and evolved over time. It's a read that's as enriching as it is enlightening, perfect for those interested in Southeast Asian history or the anthropology of crafts.
Masks of Kalimantan
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Michael Heppell | Indonesian Arts Society

Masks of Kalimantan

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If you're enthralled by cultural anthropology and the allure of Southeast Asian art, "Masks of Kalimantan" could provide a captivating journey for you. Michael Heppell's work is more than a study; it's an ode to the intricate craftsmanship and deep spiritual beliefs woven into each mask from the Indonesian portion of Borneo. The book’s strength lies in its detailed visuals and insightful commentary, a treasure for anyone interested in the symbiosis of art and tradition.
Signs and Symbols: Their Design and Meaning
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If you have a knack for design, history, or linguistics, "Signs and Symbols" might just scratch that very specific itch to understand the visuals that transcend language. Adrian Frutiger draws a line from ancient hieroglyphs to modern logos, making us ponder on the visual DNA of our shared global language. His expertise gives the subject a richness meant for curious minds who love unraveling the layers behind everyday symbols.
Time and the Calendars
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W.M. O'Neil | Sydney University Press

Time and the Calendars

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If you have an interest in how societies throughout history have measured time, "Time and the Calendars" is quite illuminating. It's not just about the mechanics of ancient calendars, but how the very concept of time influenced cultures, from Babylonian mathematics to the construction of our modern-day calendar. It can be particularly captivating if you're into history, astronomy, or the evolution of mathematical ideas.
Time and the Other: How Anthropology Makes Its Object
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Johannes Fabian's "Time and the Other" would resonate with you if you're intrigued by the intricate ways in which the concept of time influences our understanding of culture and society. It's a thought-provoking read that delves into how anthropologists engage with their subjects, urging a critical look at the relationship between the observer and the observed. The book challenges conventional methodologies and will appeal to your desire for a deeper understanding of the human condition through the lens of time.
The Study of Culture
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If you're intrigued by how societies develop and the frameworks through which we understand human behavior, "The Study of Culture" by L.L. Langness is quite the intellection expedition. It’s a profound dive into the evolution of cultural studies, dissecting various schools of thought. Langness's examination cuts across time, contrasting classical and modern perspectives, surely enriching your grasp on cultural anthropology’s textured landscape.
The Arts and Crafts Stencil Book
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Mary MacCarthy | Chrysalis Books

The Arts and Crafts Stencil Book

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If you're drawn to ornate patterns and historical designs, this book is a treasure trove that marries art with hands-on creation. It's inspired by William Morris, a titan of the Arts & Crafts Movement, whose work still influences contemporary design. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a lover of art history, these stencil designs offer a tangible connection to a bygone era of craftsmanship.
If you appreciate the intersection of culture, history, and art, this book is a treasure trove that celebrates Thailand's rich crafts heritage. The preservation efforts by Queen Sirikit are vividly documented here, making it a fascinating and visually rich journey through the cultural tapestry of Thailand. Through beautiful imagery and insightful text, it captures a nation's gratitude and the tangible outcomes of patronage in the arts.
Arts and Crafts of Thailand
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William Warren | Chronicle Books Llc

Arts and Crafts of Thailand

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Goodreads rating: 3.33

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This book would be a treasure trove for anyone with a keen interest in cultural artistry and traditional craftsmanship. The vivid details and photography will transport you to the heart of Thailand, showcasing everything from textiles to jewelry. If you're looking for a rich cultural journey or inspiration for your own creative endeavors, the profound insights offered by the authors' extensive experience in Thailand make this book a captivating read.
Kinship, Gender, and the Cosmic World: Ethnographies of Birth Customs in Taiwan, the Philippines, and Indonesia
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If you're intrigued by anthropology and the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian cultures, this collection will fascinate you. It's a window into how the deeply personal act of birth is celebrated and ritualized, revealing much about gender roles and cosmic beliefs in these societies. It's not just about the event of birth but a broader understanding of three diverse cultures interwoven by tradition.
The German Ideology, Part 1 & Selections from Parts 2 & 3
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If you're looking to dive into the foundational texts of Marxist theory, "The German Ideology" is a pivotal read. It offers a deep look into how Marx and Engels interpret history through their materialist lens. Not only does it provide critical insight into their views on society and ideas, but it also serves as a crucial piece for anyone interested in the philosophical underpinnings of socialist and communist thought.
The Greatest Company In The World? The Story Of Tata - Thryft
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How did Tata transform itself from a family-owned business to one of the most professionally managed enterprises in the world? How did it become a world leader in an array of unrelated businesses—from steel and automobile manufacturing to hotels and IT consulting? What exactly is the ‘Tata Way’, which has earned it so much admiration and respect?This brief history of the Tatas charts the contribution of every Tata chairman—from Jamsetji Tata, who set up the company in 1868, to Ratan Tata and Cyrus Mistry—and explores the values at the heart of the Tata Group, as well as the role played in its development by the philanthropic trusts that own two-thirds of the company.For anyone curious about this Indian company that has become a leading global player, this book is the perfect introduction.
Gathering Medicines: Nation and Knowledge in China’s Mountain South - Thryft
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In the early 2000s, the central government of China encouraged all of the nation’s registered minorities to “salvage, sort, synthesize, and elevate” folk medical knowledges in an effort to create local health care systems comparable to the nationally supported institutions of traditional Chinese medicine. Gathering Medicines bears witness to this remarkable moment of knowledge development while sympathetically introducing the myriad therapeutic traditions of southern China.Over a period of six years, Judith Farquhar and Lili Lai worked with seven minority nationality groups in China’s southern mountains, observing how medicines were gathered and local healing systems codified. Gathering Medicines shares their intimate view of how people understand ethnicity, locality, the body, and nature. This ethnography of knowledge diversities in multiethnic China is a testament to the rural wisdom of mountain healers, one that theorizes, from the ground up, the dynamic encounters between formal statist knowledge and the popular authority of the wild.
Literature and Propaganda - Thryft
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A. Peter Foulkes | Routledge Kegan & Paul

Literature and Propaganda

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In exploring the methods and manifestations of propaganda, A.P. Foulkes draws upon a wide range of examples from children's literature, contemporary fiction, Soviet cultural politics and newspaper reviews.
A Daughter of Isis: The Autobiography of Nawal El Saadawi
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Nawal El Saadawi's fight for gender equality is as raw as it is powerful. Her story isn't just an autobiography; it's a moving testament to resilience in the face of stark oppression. As a woman growing up in a traditional society, her words don't just recount memories—they serve as a battle cry for freedom and justice. You'll find inspiration in her journey from a small village to becoming a voice that resonates globally.
The Means Of Naming - Thryft
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The Means Of Naming

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Names are never given accidentally; they are chosen and bestowed according to rules that reflect fundamental features of the society and culture concerned. This is a study of the nature and history of naming practices in Western Europe.


Author: Stephen Wilson
Publisher: Routledge
Publication Date: 1998
Drum Decade - Thryft
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Presents a selection of more than 30 of the stories that appeared in Drum during the 1950s. They depict the danger, the poverty and the glamour of Sophiatown, where the New African, the tsotsi, the jazz musician, the journalist and the writer, affirmed identity and style and refused to submit to the government's determination to 'retribalize'.
Restoration Plays - Thryft
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Robert G. Lawrence | Everyman

Restoration Plays

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All for Love - John DrydenThe Country Wife - William WycherleyThe Way of the World - William CongreveVenice Preserv'd - Thomas OtwayThe Beaux Stratagem - George FarquharThe Provok'd Wife - Sir John VanbrughThe Man of Mode - Sir George EtheregeThe five comedies and two tragedies in this volume are a representative sampling of the most interesting and enduring plays of the Restoration period, and show a variety of moods current during the five exciting, sometimes frenetic, decades after 1660. A memorable cross-section of humanity appears in these plays: some characters are devoted to a worthy cause, whilst others are less than altruistic. All reveal unchanging characteristics of human nature.For this edition Robert G. Lawrence has provided a general introduction as well as individual introductions and end notes to the plays. Some revisions have also been made to the texts, and The Provok'd WIfe has been re-edited.
John Calvin - Thryft
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John Calvin

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John Calvin (1509 to 1564) is considered by many church historians to be the greatest theologian after Augustine. Superbly educated, creative, and devoted, his teachings have influenced every aspect of modern Christian faith and life. Born in France, Calvin is best defined by his work in Switzerland, where he shaped his enduring ideals for Christian faith, government, and lifestyle. Setting forth his beliefs in The Institutes of the Christian Religion , he built a far-reaching doctrinal system that highlights God's glory and sovereignty. In this short biography, listeners can meet a man with a passion for finding and living the truth without compromise.


Author: William Lindner
Publication Date: 1998
On Murder Considered as One of the Fine Arts (Little Black Classics) (Paperback) - Thryft
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'People begin to see that something more goes to the composition of a fine murder than two blockheads to kill and be killed - a knife - a purse - and a dark lane...' In this provocative and blackly funny essay, Thomas de Quincey considers murder in a purely aesthetic light and explains how practically every philosopher over the past two hundred years has been murdered - 'insomuch, that if a man calls himself a philosopher, and never had his life attempted, rest assured there is nothing in him'.Introducing Little Black Classics: 80 books for Penguin's 80th birthday. Little Black Classics celebrate the huge range and diversity of Penguin Classics, with books from around the world and across many centuries. They take us from a balloon ride over Victorian London to a garden of blossom in Japan, from Tierra del Fuego to 16th-century California and the Russian steppe. Here are stories lyrical and savage; poems epic and intimate; essays satirical and inspirational; and ideas that have shaped the lives of millions. Thomas de Quincey (1785-1859). Thomas de Quincey's Confessions and an English Opium-Eater and Other Writings is available in Penguin Classics.
100 dates of French history - Thryft
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Jean-Charles Volkmann | Gisserot

100 dates of French history

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Vengeance - The True Story of an Israeli Counter-Terrorist Team - Thryft
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Vengeance is a true story that reads like a novel. It is the account of five ordinary Israelis, selected to vanish into "the cold" of espionage secrecy -- their mission to hunt down and kill the PLO terrorists responsible for the massacre of eleven Israeli athletes at the Munich Olympics in 1972.This is the account of that secret mission, as related by the leader of the group -- the first Mossad agent to come out of "deep cover" and tell the story of a heroic endeavor that was shrouded in silence and speculation for years. He reveals the long and dangerous operation whose success was bought at a terrible cost to the idealistic volunteer agents themselves."Avner" was the leader of that team, handpicked by Golda Meir to avenge the monstrous crime of Munich. He and his young companions, cut off from any direct contact with Israel, set out systematically to find and kill the central figures of the PLO's Munich operation, tracking them down wherever they lived.The mechanics, the horror, the day-by-day suspense of what they did surpass by far anything John le Carré or Robert Ludlum could imagine, as they themselves were tracked in turn (and some killed) by PLO assassins, changing identities constantly, moving from country to country, devoting their young lives to the brutal task of vengeance.Vengeance is a profoundly human document, a real-life espionage classic that plunges the reader into the shadow world of terrorism and political murder. But it goes far beyond that, to explore firsthand the feelings of disgust and doubt that gradually came to torment each member of the Israeli team, and that in the end inexorably changed their view of the mission -- and themselves.Vengeance opens a window onto a secret world, a book that at the same time inspires and horrifies. For its subject is an act of revenge that goes to the very heart of the ancient biblical questions of good and evil.
100 Facts: Extinct - Thryft
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Steve Parker | Miles Kelly Publishing

100 Facts: Extinct

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Since life on Earth began, animals and plants have died out, never to exist again. Discover the reasons for extinction and how new life evolves. Learn why the dinosaurs disappeared and how humans became so successful, then read case stories of individual creatures that have died out. Most importantly, find out which animals living today could be gone tomorrow.
Busting Vegas: The MIT Whiz Kid Who Brought the Casinos to Their Knees - Thryft
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He played in casinos around the world with a plan to make himself richer than anyone could possibly imagine -- but it would nearly cost him his life. Semyon Dukach was known as the Darling of Las Vegas. A legend at age twenty-one, this cocky hotshot was the biggest high roller to appear in Sin City in decades, a mathematical genius with a system the casinos had never seen before and couldn't stop — a system that has never been revealed until now; that has nothing to do with card counting, wasn't illegal, and was more powerful than anything that had been tried before. Las Vegas. Atlantic City. Aruba. Barcelona. London. And the jewel of the gambling crown — Monte Carlo. Dukach and his fellow MIT students hit them all and made millions. They came in hard, with stacks of cash; big, seemingly insane bets; women hanging on their arms; and fake identities. Although they were taking classes and studying for exams during the week, over the weekends they stormed the blackjack tables only to be harassed, banned from casinos, threatened at gunpoint, and beaten in Vegas's notorious back rooms. The stakes were high, the dangers very real, but the players were up to the challenges, consequences be damned. There was Semyon Dukach himself, bored with school and broke; Victor Cassius, the slick, brilliant MIT grad student who galvanized the team; Owen Keller, with stunning ability but a dark past that would catch up to him; and Allie Simpson, bright, clever, and a feast for the eyes. In the classroom, they were geeks. On the casino floor, they were unstoppable. Busting Vega$  is Dukach's unbelievably true story; a riveting account of monumental greed, excess, hubris, sex, love, violence, fear, and statistics that is high-stakes entertainment at its best.
Spectacular Canada
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Elaine Jones | Whitecap Books

Spectacular Canada

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

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If you've been bitten by the travel or photography bug, 'Spectacular Canada' by Elaine Jones will satisfy your cravings. This book takes you on a breathtaking visual expedition across Canada's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. It's the kind of book where every flip of the page deepens your appreciation for Canada's natural grandeur and its rich cultural mosaic. Whether you're a dreamer planning your next adventure or someone who enjoys armchair traveling, 'Spectacular Canada' will enchant you with its stunning imagery and insights.
12 Years a Slave (Movie Tie-In) - Thryft
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Henry Louis Gates Jr., Ira Berlin, Solomon Northup  | Penguin Books

12 Years a Slave (Movie Tie-In)

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Goodreads rating: 4.21

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"12 Years a Slave" isn't just a recount of a free man's forced descent into the abyss of slavery; it’s a masterful and poignant narrative that offers a rare and educated perspective, bridging the gap between freed people and slaves. Imagine feeling Solomon Northup's piercing struggle against dehumanization while grasping the quintessence of courage in adversity. This book doesn’t just paint a picture of history; it immerses you in the raw truth of human strength and resilience.
Paris - Thryft
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Alan Tillier | Dorling Kindersley Publishers

Paris

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Goodreads rating: 4.18

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If you're planning a trip to Paris, this book could be your portable best friend. With insider tips on the must-see sights and hidden gems, it includes everything from cultural attractions to dining and shopping recommendations. It's like having a well-informed local guiding you through the streets of Paris, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Notes From a Small Island
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Bill Bryson | Black Swan

Notes From a Small Island

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

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If you've ever wondered what makes Britain tick, Bryson's keen observations wrapped in his signature wit might be just the ticket. He unpacks the quirks and foibles of British life with affectionate humor, making 'Notes from a Small Island' a candid and entertaining read that's like a leisurely stroll through the UK from the comfort of your favorite chair.
Insight Guides Explore Iceland (Travel Guide with Free eBook) - Thryft
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Insight Guides | Insight Guides

Insight Guides Explore Iceland (Travel Guide with Free eBook)

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If you're someone who imagines exploring Iceland's vast landscapes and cozying into its hidden corners, this guide is the key to unlocking those dreams. The Insight Guides Explore offers not just maps and routes but also layers its pages with the cultural tapestry and gastronomic delights of Iceland. It's crafted to be your trusty companion, compact enough to slip into your bag during your adventures, ensuring you won't miss the wonders that await in the land of fire and ice.
In Search of India and Her Neighbours
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Reader's Digest | Reader's Digest Association Limited

In Search of India and Her Neighbours

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If you're curious about the complexities and diversity of India, this book is like a time capsule that offers a rich tapestry of stories, bringing to life the country's heritage and its intricate connections with neighboring nations. It's also a treasure for anyone interested in how India's past shapes its present relationships.
China Renaissance, The: The Rise Of Xi Jinping And The 18Th Communist Party Congress - Thryft
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Rising superpower China duly anointed a new generation of leaders led by Xi Jinping at the Communist Party's 18th National Congress held in November 2012. While the conclave itself passed off with smoothly choreographed efficiency, the months leading up to this once-a-decade transition were anything but orderly. Intense factional wrangling behind the scenes was accompanied by scandals very much in public view. In the most spectacular furore the political aspirations of Communist aristocrat Bo Xilai were dashed, at one time threatening to derail the meticulous stage managing of the congress itself.At the start of what turned out to be a tumultuous year, the South China Morning Post set out on an ambitious project to chronicle the transfer of power to the so-called fifth generation of Chinese leaders, delving behind the cloak of secrecy that routinely masks Beijing's corridors of power. The result was unparalleled coverage and a series of exclusives that kept the newspaper well ahead of its peers on this remarkable story.While the past decade saw China's supercharged economy accelerate past Japan to become the world's second-largest, the coming decade is expected to see China led by Xi and his team move towards catching up the United States as the world's top economic force. Who are the people that will guide China through its challenges at home and on the global stage? By profiling dozens of rising stars as well as current movers and shakers, the SCMP has provided the most complete portrait to date of the leaders who will control the world's most populous country over the next decade. This book aims to provide the reader with a comprehensive insight into the men, and the tiny handful of women, who are going to be charting that course.
The Political Economy of the Asian Financial Crisis - Thryft
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The Asian crisis has sparked a thoroughgoing reappraisal of current international financial norms, the policy prescriptions of the International Monetary Fund, and the adequacy of the existing financial architecture. To draw proper policy conclusions from the crisis, it is necessary to understand exactly what happened and why from both a political and an economic perspective.In this study, renowned political scientist Stephan Haggard examines the political aspects of the crisis in the countries most affected―Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Haggard focuses on the political economy of the crisis, emphasizing the longer-run problems of moral hazard and corruption, as well as the politics of crisis management and the political fallout that ensued. He looks at the degree to which each government has rewoven the social safety net and discusses corporate and financial restructuring and greater transparency in business-government relations. Professor Haggard provides a counterpoint to the analysis by examining why Singapore, Taiwan, and the Philippines escaped financial calamity.The volume... provides an excellent overview of both the theories and facts of the crisis. Strongly recommended for academic collections, lower-division undergraduate through research.
Mahathir Vs. Abdullah - Covert Wars And Challenged Legacies - Thryft
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"The 2018 Malaysian General Election will stand as a major defining event in Malaysian history, when the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition unexpectedly lost power in the country they had ruled for over half a century. This volume brings together scholars who assess one fundamental factor that brought about this game-changing event in Malaysian politics: intra-elite feuding in the leading Malay-based political parties. This study provides an analysis of individual state politics as well as national trends shaped by the actions of leaders in government and the opposition. An indispensable guide for scholars studying the politics of Malaysia and of Southeast Asia more broadly, it will be of great interest for all readers with an interest in Malaysian politics"--
The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon
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If you're intrigued by the ingenuity behind Amazon's transformation from a humble bookshop to a colossal marketplace, "The Everything Store" unravels that mystery. It's an eye-opener into the aggressive strategies and bold vision of Jeff Bezos that will likely change how you perceive the digital giant and its impact on global commerce. Plus, if understanding the psyche of high-impact entrepreneurs fascinates you, this book is your window into Bezos's tenacious mind.
Console Wars : Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle That Defined a Generation - Thryft
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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"--
Restless Empire: China and the World Since 1750 - Thryft
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As the twenty-first century dawns, China stands at a crossroads. The largest and most populous country on earth and currently the world’s second biggest economy, China has recently reclaimed its historic place at the center of global affairs after decades of internal chaos and disastrous foreign relations. But even as China tentatively reengages with the outside world, the contradictions of its development risks pushing it back into an era of insularity and instability—a regression that, as China’s recent history shows, would have serious implications for all other nations.In Restless Empire, award-winning historian Odd Arne Westad traces China’s complex foreign affairs over the past 250 years, identifying the forces that will determine the country’s path in the decades to come. Since the height of the Qing Empire in the eighteenth century, China’s interactions—and confrontations—with foreign powers have caused its worldview to fluctuate wildly between extremes of dominance and subjugation, emulation and defiance. From the invasion of Burma in the 1760s to the Boxer Rebellion in the early 20th century to the 2001 standoff over a downed U.S. spy plane, many of these encounters have left Chinese with a lingering sense of humiliation and resentment, and inflamed their notions of justice, hierarchy, and Chinese centrality in world affairs. Recently, China’s rising influence on the world stage has shown what the country stands to gain from international cooperation and openness. But as Westad shows, the nation’s success will ultimately hinge on its ability to engage with potential international partners while simultaneously safeguarding its own strength and stability.An in-depth study by one of our most respected authorities on international relations and contemporary East Asian history, Restless Empire is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand the recent past and probable future of this dynamic and complex nation.
Goodbye My Kampong!
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Josephine Chia | Ethos Books

Goodbye My Kampong!

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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If you're intrigued by the transformation of societies and cherish personal narratives that evoke a sense of place, you'll find "Goodbye My Kampong!" deeply engaging. Josephine Chia offers a poignant window into the transitional period of Singapore from 1966 to 1975, blending the nation's growth pains with the evocative end of kampong living. Her stories will transport you to a time of collective spirit, cultural richness, and change, making it a captivating read for those interested in the resilience of communities amidst progress.
Can Asians Think?
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kishore-mahbubani | Times Books International

Can Asians Think?

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Goodreads rating: 3.77

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If you're looking to step outside the familiar Western viewpoint and understand a bit more about Asian perspectives, "Can Asians Think?" will offer you that chance. Kishore Mahbubani delivers a stirring critique of Western triumphalism and invites readers, whether from the East or West, to engage with provocative questions and alternative ideas concerning geopolitics, culture, and intellectual diversity. It's a powerful read for anyone interested in global thinking and cultural introspection.
Creating Freedom: Power, Control and the Fight for Our Future - Thryft
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The idea of freedom is at the heart of our political and economic systems. It is foundational to our democracy, our way of life - our very conception of what it is to be human. But are we free in the way that we think we are?In Creating Freedom, Raoul Martinez compellingly dismantles the sacred myth of freedom, showing that our belief that our institutions are free, even our sense of ourselves as agents of free will, is all based on false understanding. From the lottery of our birth, to the coercive influence of our media, to the self-reinforcing, consent-manufacturing realities of power and money, this far-reaching manifesto fiercely demonstrates just how differently we would act if we accepted how the world really is.It shows that freedom is not something we are given; it is not even something we can easily take. But with empathy, imagination, and determination - it is something we can create.

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.