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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 Great Tax Wars: Lincoln to Wilson, The Fierce Battles Over Money and Power That Transformed the Nation
Steven R. Weisman | Simon & Schuster

The Great Tax Wars: Lincoln to Wilson, The Fierce Battles Over Money and Power That Transformed the Nation

$12.00

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$12.00

If you're fascinated by the gritty details of historical power dynamics and economic policies, "The Great Tax Wars" will satisfy your curiosity. Steven R. Weisman takes you through a pivotal time in American history, giving context to today's political debates. It's a richly detailed narrative that could change your understanding of how the United States became a global juggernaut through the lens of its financial policies.
Partition Voices: Untold British Stories - Updated for the 75th Anniversary of Partition
Kavita Puri | Bloomsbury Publishing

Partition Voices: Untold British Stories - Updated for the 75th Anniversary of Partition

$13.00

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$13.00

Imagine sitting down with your grandparents and unexpectedly finding out that they've lived through one of history's most heart-wrenching chapters. That's the visceral connection you get with "Partition Voices." It's not just a history lesson; it's a deep, personal voyage that bridges generations and geographies. Reading this book, you'll understand how the fabric of modern Britain is interwoven with the enduring threads of Partition's legacy.
SAS Brothers in Arms: Churchill's Desperadoes - Blood-and-Guts Defiance at Britain's Darkest Hour
Damien Lewis | Quercus Publishing

SAS Brothers in Arms: Churchill's Desperadoes - Blood-and-Guts Defiance at Britain's Darkest Hour

$14.00

Goodreads rating: 4.56

$14.00

If you're a history buff with a fascination for daring military operations, "SAS Brothers in Arms" should be right up your alley. Imagine immersing yourself in the unheard stories of audacious bravery. Damien Lewis has a way of putting you right alongside these extraordinary soldiers as they undertake covert operations that helped turn the tide during World War II. You'll be gripping the edge of your seat with each page, celebrating the decorated heroes whose stories are as inspiring as they are thrilling.
Tribe on Homecoming and Belonging
Sebastian Junger | Fourth Estate

Tribe on Homecoming and Belonging

$9.00

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$9.00

"Tribe" delves deep into our need for community, offering a profound look at why veterans and civilians alike yearn for the close-knit connections often found in military platoons. It makes a compelling case for the psychological benefits of strong social ties and suggests ways to overcome the isolation of modern society, resonating with anyone searching for a sense of belonging in our often fragmented world.
The Fall of Boris Johnson: The Full Story - Thryft
Sebastian Payne | Macmillan Uk

The Fall of Boris Johnson: The Full Story

$15.00 $7.00 53% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$15.00 $7.00 53% off

71% off est. retail
Whether you're a politico or just curious about the machinations within British politics, "The Fall of Boris Johnson: The Full Story" could quench that thirst. Sebastian Payne offers an intimate, fly-on-the-wall perspective on the cascade of missteps leading to a leader's undoing. Imagine having a backstage pass to one of the most pivotal political dramas in recent UK history—this book is that pass.
Walk in My Combat Boots: True Stories from America's Bravest Warriors
Matt Eversmann, James Patterson, Chris Mooney  | Little, Brown And Company

Walk in My Combat Boots: True Stories from America's Bravest Warriors

$9.00

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$9.00

63% off est. retail
If you've ever wanted to truly understand the grit and reality of military service, this book is a rare gem. It doesn't just recount war stories; it brings you into the hearts and minds of those who've served. The collaboration between the renowned storyteller James Patterson and military hero Matt Eversmann ensures an unforgettable journey that's as deeply personal as it is eye-opening.
What Terrorists Want: Understanding the Terrorist Threat
Louise Richardson | John Murray

What Terrorists Want: Understanding the Terrorist Threat

$9.00

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$9.00

If you're intrigued by the psychological and strategic layers behind terrorism, "What Terrorists Want" is a powerful read. Richardson doesn't just offer anecdotes from her experiences; she digs into historical patterns and the calculated reasoning of terrorists. Fusing academic rigor with accessible insights, this book could transform your understanding of current events and the tactics necessary for responding to terrorism effectively.
Lonely Planet Western Balkans
Marika Mcadam; Jayne D'Arcy; Chris Deliso; Peter Dragicevich; Mark Elliott; Vesna Maric; Anja Mutic | Geoplaneta

Lonely Planet Western Balkans

$15.00 $4.00 73% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$15.00 $4.00 73% off

87% off est. retail
Considering a trip to the Western Balkans? This Lonely Planet guide could be your perfect travel companion. It threads together historical context with modern-day insights, offering a rich tapestry of the region's cultural and natural beauty. With this book in hand, you'll feel like you're wandering through the Balkans with a knowledgeable friend, ready to dive into hidden gems and local secrets that could make your journey unforgettable.
The Long Walk: The True Story of a Trek to Freedom
Slavomir Rawicz | Robinson

The Long Walk: The True Story of a Trek to Freedom

$9.00

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$9.00

53% off est. retail
If you're moved by extraordinary stories of human resilience, "The Long Walk" is for you. It's not just an account of a harrowing journey across some of the world's most unforgiving landscapes; it's also a testament to the spirit of freedom and the incredible strength of will. Imagine immersing yourself in a narrative that's as much an adventure as it is an homage to the indomitable human spirit. Slavomir Rawicz's story could give you a renewed appreciation for the lengths to which people will go for liberty.
SAS Great Escapes
Damien Lewis | Quercus

SAS Great Escapes

$11.00

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$11.00

If you're drawn to stories of resilience against all odds, "SAS Great Escapes" will captivate you. Damien Lewis masterfully chronicles harrowing tales of SAS soldiers who turned the tide of their fates through audacious escapes. The book's gripping firsthand accounts plunge you into the tension and exigency of wartime, promising a read that's as educational as it is thrilling. It's a real treat for enthusiasts of military history and tales of heroism.
Russia Without Putin: Money, Power, and the Myths of the New Cold War
Tony Wood | Verso

Russia Without Putin: Money, Power, and the Myths of the New Cold War

$12.00

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$12.00

50% off est. retail
If you find yourself intrigued by global politics and the complexities beneath the surface-level media portrayal, "Russia Without Putin" is a book that will deepen your understanding. Tony Wood successfully peels back the layers of Western perception to reveal a Russia far more intricate than just the image of its leader. It's a significant read for anyone looking to broaden their geopolitical knowledge and challenge the mainstream narrative.
The ISIS Hostage: One Man's True Story of 13 Months in Captivity
Puk Damsgård | Atlantic Books

The ISIS Hostage: One Man's True Story of 13 Months in Captivity

$8.00

Goodreads rating: 4.43

$8.00

60% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the grit of real-life struggles against the darkest parts of humanity, "The ISIS Hostage" would resonate with you. Daniel Rye's experience offers an intense, personal view into the world of international terrorism. This book is not just about survival but about the complexity of hope, endurance, and the human spirit under unimaginable duress.
Imperial Ambitions: Conversations With Noam Chomsky On The Post-9/11 World
Noam Chomsky, David Barsamian  | Hamish Hamilton

Imperial Ambitions: Conversations With Noam Chomsky On The Post-9/11 World

$10.00 $7.00 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.00 $7.00 30% off

65% off est. retail
If you're interested in understanding complex global issues and the post-9/11 geopolitical landscape through the sharp lens of Noam Chomsky, "Imperial Ambitions" is a compelling read. These interviews delve into topics with an immediacy and critical perspective that could change or reinforce your views on U.S. foreign policy and global threats. The book's conversational format makes Chomsky's formidable intellect accessible, offering a thought-provoking analysis that's as educational as it is engaging.
The Forgotten 500: The Untold Story of the Men Who Risked All for the Greatest Rescue Mission of World War II
Gregory A. Freeman | Dutton Caliber

The Forgotten 500: The Untold Story of the Men Who Risked All for the Greatest Rescue Mission of World War II

$11.00 $9.00 18% off

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$11.00 $9.00 18% off

If you find tales of courage in the face of danger inspiring, 'The Forgotten 500' is a riveting read. It takes you deep into a lesser-known episode of World War II, highlighting the raw bravery of both soldiers and civilians. This book opens a window to the human spirit's capacity for self-sacrifice and the remarkable feats achieved when ordinary people are thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
The Dark Charisma of Adolf Hitler: Leading Millions Into the Abyss
Laurence Rees | Ebury Press

The Dark Charisma of Adolf Hitler: Leading Millions Into the Abyss

$9.00

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.00

If the psychology behind influential figures intrigues you, Laurence Rees' "The Dark Charisma of Adolf Hitler" is a compelling choice. As someone who appreciates deep dives into historical characters, you'll find Rees' exploration of Hitler's terrifying magnetism both enlightening and thought-provoking. This isn't just a recount of historical events—it's a study of how charisma can be wielded for dark purposes, offering insights relevant to understanding power dynamics even today.
Checkmate in Berlin: The First Battle of the Cold War
Giles Milton | John Murray

Checkmate in Berlin: The First Battle of the Cold War

$12.00 $9.00 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.43

$12.00 $9.00 25% off

If history fascinates you, particularly the gritty, spy-novel-like drama of the Cold War's beginnings, "Checkmate in Berlin" is a compelling read. Giles Milton paints an almost cinematic picture of the clash between opposing forces in a divided Berlin, giving life to the personalities and high-stakes political games that set the stage for decades of East-West tension. This is not just a recount; it's a gripping narrative that personalizes one of the 20th century's pivotal moments.
Don't Forget Us Here: Lost and Found at Guantánamo
Mansoor Adayfi | Grand Central Publishing

Don't Forget Us Here: Lost and Found at Guantánamo

$18.00 $14.00 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.66

$18.00 $14.00 22% off

Imagine enduring something unfathomable and emerging with your humanity intact—that's what Mansoor Adayfi's memoir offers. This isn't just a tale of survival; it's a profound look into resilience and camaraderie in the face of injustice. If you're drawn to stories that humanize and document the spirit amidst hardship, "Don't Forget Us Here" will stay with you long after the last page.
From Beirut to Jerusalem
Thomas L. Friedman | Harpercollins

From Beirut to Jerusalem

$9.00 $7.00 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$9.00 $7.00 22% off

If you're deeply interested in gaining a nuanced understanding of the Middle East, "From Beirut to Jerusalem" could be an enlightening read for you. Thomas Friedman takes you on a thought-provoking journey that deciphers the region's history and ongoing conflicts with wit and wisdom. It's a book that manages to be both informative and engaging, offering personal anecdotes that bring the realities of these complicated lands closer to home.
Horrible Histories: Woeful Second World War
Terry Deary | Scholastic Ltd

Horrible Histories: Woeful Second World War

$7.00 $6.00 14% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$7.00 $6.00 14% off

60% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the untold, grittier side of history, "Horrible Histories: Woeful Second World War" is an eye-opening read. It dives into the lesser-known, often shocking aspects of the conflict in a way that's as educational as it is entertaining. It's perfect if you're after a fresh perspective on history that doesn't shy away from the truth, no matter how unpleasant.
None of Us Were Like This Before: American Soldiers and Torture
Joshua E. S. Phillips | Verso Books

None of Us Were Like This Before: American Soldiers and Torture

$12.00

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$12.00

If you're seeking a gritty, unvarnished look into the impacts of war beyond the battlefield, "None of Us Were Like This Before" could be your next gripping read. It provides a harrowing exploration of how the stress and confusion of guerilla warfare can precipitate a moral decline, affecting both captors and captives. It's a sobering reflection on the human cost of war that might resonate with you if you're interested in military ethics, psychological trauma, or contemporary history.
The Crossing: My Journey to the Shattered Heart of Syria
Christina Lamb, Nashwa Gowanlock, Samar Yazbek  | Ebury Press

The Crossing: My Journey to the Shattered Heart of Syria

$10.00

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$10.00

50% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories of raw humanity and resilience in the most dire circumstances, The Crossing could be a profoundly moving experience for you. Samar Yazbek takes you on a personal and harrowing journey into Syria, giving you a front-row seat to the hopes, struggles, and tragedies of a country at war with itself. Her courage and dedication to sharing these stories make this book a testament to the human spirit.
The Generals Have No Clothes: The Untold Story of Our Endless Wars
William M. Arkin, E.D. Cauchi  | Simon & Schuster

The Generals Have No Clothes: The Untold Story of Our Endless Wars

$17.00

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$17.00

If the cycle of America's military interventions puzzles or troubles you, "The Generals Have No Clothes" offers a profound exploration that is bound to resonate. Authors William M. Arkin and E.D. Cauchi leverage their expertise to dissect why the United States remains entangled in endless wars and, importantly, propose actionable solutions for a future of more accountable and judicious use of military force. If you're keen on understanding the intricacies of defense policy and civilian-military relations, this book could provide eye-opening perspectives.
Young Stalin
Simon Sebag Montefiore | Phoenix

Young Stalin

$8.00

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$8.00

If you've ever been curious about the forces that shape a dictator, "Young Stalin" will be a revelation. It's like peering into the crucible of early 20th-century Georgia, where a boy, both poet and priest-in-training, morphs into a revolutionary. Montefiore's vivid storytelling humanizes the young Stalin without diminishing the impact of his future deeds, providing a page-turning history that feels as intimate as a novel. You'll close this book understanding not just Stalin, but the allure and danger of ideology itself.
The Viking Blitzkrieg AD 789-1098
Martyn Whittock, Hannah Whittock  | The History Press

The Viking Blitzkrieg AD 789-1098

$10.00

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$10.00

50% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how violent incursions can forge a nation's identity, "The Viking Blitzkrieg" might be your next favorite read. It’s not just about battles; it’s an exploration of cultural integration and the unforeseen consequences of Scandinavian invasions on English history. The Whittocks’ account connects the dots between Viking aggression and the building blocks of a unified England, making you rethink the impact of warfare on societal evolution.
Parachute Infantry: An American Paratrooper's Memoir of D-Day and the Fall of the Third Reich
David Kenyon Webster, Stephen E. Ambrose  | Random House Publishing Group

Parachute Infantry: An American Paratrooper's Memoir of D-Day and the Fall of the Third Reich

$13.00 $9.00 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$13.00 $9.00 31% off

63% off est. retail
If you’re into raw, personal war narratives, "Parachute Infantry" could be an intense tour through history for you. David Webster doesn't just recite events; he transports you into the boots of a paratrooper. You’ll feel a connection with the soldiers of E Company and experience the camaraderie and terror of WWII's pivotal moments as though you're there, all wrapped in a narrative that's as compelling as fiction.
Ontvoerd - 607 Dagen Tussen Leven en Dood
Arjan Erkel | Balans

Ontvoerd - 607 Dagen Tussen Leven en Dood

$11.00 $9.00 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$11.00 $9.00 18% off

If real-life stories of courage under duress intrigue you, Arjan Erkel's ordeal delivers a raw and captivating read. His personal account of being kidnapped in Dagestan dives deep into the human spirit's ability to endure. It's a testament to hope and perseverance against harrowing odds.
Enemies Within: Inside the NYPD's Secret Spying Unit and Bin Laden's Final Plot Against America
Matt Apuzzo, Adam Goldman  | Atria Books

Enemies Within: Inside the NYPD's Secret Spying Unit and Bin Laden's Final Plot Against America

$18.00 $14.00 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$18.00 $14.00 22% off

If the interplay of espionage and real-world events draws you in, "Enemies Within" could be a compelling read for you. Apuzzo and Goldman, with their expert journalistic chops, shed light on post-9/11 internal security tactics. It's the kind of book that not only informs but also immerses you in the high-stakes tension of thwarting terrorism.
Wehrmacht Retreats: Fighting a Lost War, 1943
Robert M. Citino | University Press Of Kansas

Wehrmacht Retreats: Fighting a Lost War, 1943

$36.00

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$36.00

If World War II piques your interest, particularly the strategic decisions that shaped its outcome, "Wehrmacht Retreats" is a profound exploration of the German military's maneuvers in a pivotal year. Citino's expertise in military history offers a detailed look at why and how the once formidable Wehrmacht began losing ground. Understand the critical turning points through a lens that is both scholarly and remarkably readable.
Global Disorder
Robert Harvey | Robinson Publishing

Global Disorder

$8.00 $7.00 13% off

Goodreads rating: 3.13

$8.00 $7.00 13% off

If you're intrigued by global politics and how past events shape our present world, "Global Disorder" by Robert Harvey could add a new perspective to your understanding. Harvey's book goes beyond the initial optimism of a post-Cold War world to examine the complexities and challenges that came with it. His critical analysis on ethnic nationalism, the uncontrolled globalization of capitalism, and the need for security reform makes this a timely read, even years after its publication.
Altered Pasts: Counterfactuals in History
Richard J. Evans | Abacus

Altered Pasts: Counterfactuals in History

$10.00

Goodreads rating: 3.28

$10.00

69% off est. retail
If you've ever found yourself lost in musings about how different the world might be if just one historical event had a different outcome, "Altered Pasts: Counterfactuals in History" is likely to captivate you. Richard J. Evans provides a rigorous study of history’s could-have-beens, blending a scholarly approach with accessible writing. It can change the way you think about history and its study, challenging you to consider the past — and thus the present — with more nuance and imagination.
1968: The Year That Rocked the World
Mark Kurlansky | Ballantine Books (ny)

1968: The Year That Rocked the World

$12.00 $9.00 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$12.00 $9.00 25% off

55% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by history with a pulse, "1968: The Year That Rocked the World" might just be your next favorite read. Mark Kurlansky has a knack for bringing the vibrancy of historical events to life, and this book is no exception. It's a vivid time capsule that puts you right in the heart of a year where every corner of the globe seemed to be on the edge of monumental change.
Curfewed Night
Basharat Peer | Harper Press

Curfewed Night

$19.00 $14.00 26% off

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$19.00 $14.00 26% off

If you're drawn to understand the personal impact of geopolitical conflicts, "Curfewed Night" might resonate with you deeply. Basharat Peer's first-hand account of growing up in Kashmir offers a poignant, intimate view into the lives shaped by the ongoing conflict. The book's strength lies in transforming the news headlines into human experiences, making the events in Kashmir achingly real.
A Brilliant Little Operation: The Cockleshell Heroes and the Most Courageous Raid of World War II
Paddy Ashdown | Aurum Press Ltd

A Brilliant Little Operation: The Cockleshell Heroes and the Most Courageous Raid of World War II

$10.00 $8.00 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$10.00 $8.00 20% off

If the blend of stealth and courage in war stories captures your interest, "A Brilliant Little Operation" would be worth your time. The author, Paddy Ashdown, shares an insiders' view of one of WWII's most audacious missions. You'd dive into a narrative of valor that's not just about military tactics, but the extraordinary guts displayed by the 'Cockleshell' heroes.
Batman's Arsenal: An Unauthorized Encyclopedic Chronicle
Matt MacNabb | Opus

Batman's Arsenal: An Unauthorized Encyclopedic Chronicle

$11.00 $9.00 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$11.00 $9.00 18% off

If you've always been fascinated by the Dark Knight's tools and toys, you'll find "Batman's Arsenal" an absolute treasure trove. MacNabb meticulously details the Caped Crusader's various gadgets, vehicles, and suits, providing an intimate look at what makes Batman such a formidable force. It's perfect for fans who love the intricacies and evolutions of superhero tech.
The Unwanted: America, Auschwitz, and a Village Caught in Between
Michael Dobbs | Vintage

The Unwanted: America, Auschwitz, and a Village Caught in Between

$14.00

Goodreads rating: 4.23

$14.00

33% off est. retail
If you're seeking an intimate look into the human side of historical events, "The Unwanted" will move you. Michael Dobbs delves deeply into personal stories set against the grim backdrop of the Nazi regime. The book offers a unique perspective on the refugee crisis and America's response, making it not just a historical read, but a timely reflection on the bureaucratic barriers to asylum that continue to affect lives around the world.
Baghdad Diaries: A Woman's Chronicle of War and Exile
Nuha Al-Radi | Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

Baghdad Diaries: A Woman's Chronicle of War and Exile

$8.00 $4.00 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$8.00 $4.00 50% off

83% off est. retail
"Baghdad Diaries" could resonate with you for its authentic personal narrative amid historical turmoil. Nuha al-Radi's blend of poignancy and wit provides a deeply human perspective on war's daily impact. It's a vivid slice of life that extends beyond news reports, humanizing the faceless statistics associated with wartime suffering and celebrating the indomitable spirit of community and resilience amidst chaos.
Double Cross: The True Story of the D-Day Spies
Ben Macintyre | Bloomsbury Uk

Double Cross: The True Story of the D-Day Spies

$8.00 $6.00 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$8.00 $6.00 25% off

This book is an engaging portrayal of the secret lives of the D-Day spies, with a focus on their major contribution towards the success of D-Day. The author's vivid account of the spy's secret strategies, betrayals and close encounters with danger make it a thrilling read.
Black Hawk Down
Mark Bowden | Signet

Black Hawk Down

$8.00 $4.00 50% off

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$8.00 $4.00 50% off

73% off est. retail
"Black Hawk Down" isn't just a recount of a military operation gone awry—it envelopes you in the dust and sweat of Mogadishu, inviting you to stand shoulder to shoulder with the soldiers. As you navigate the chaotic streets and feel the tension in the air through Bowden's meticulous detail, it becomes more than just a story; it's an immersive experience that's unforgettable and educative, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of modern conflict. It's the kind of book that gives you a sense of being in the midst of an intense historical moment, profoundly capturing the harrowing reality of war.
The Terror Years: From Al-Qaeda to the Islamic State
Lawrence Wright | Vintage

The Terror Years: From Al-Qaeda to the Islamic State

$12.00

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$12.00

If you're keen on understanding the intricacies of global terrorism and its impact on personal lives, "The Terror Years" could be the profound read you're looking for. Lawrence Wright offers you investigative journalism that doesn't just relay facts but dives into the humanity and emotions behind them – a blend of empathy and expertise that brings clarity to a subject often shrouded in darkness.
Zinky Boys: Soviet Voices from the Afghanistan War
Larry Heinemann, Sergio Rapetti, Svetlana Alexievich  | Norton

Zinky Boys: Soviet Voices from the Afghanistan War

$10.00

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$10.00

57% off est. retail
Zinky Boys could be a great read for anyone interested in learning about the Soviet-Afghan War from a unique perspective. It offers an insight into the realities of war from the firsthand accounts of the officers, grunts, nurses, and prostitutes. The candid and affecting testimony of the people affected by the war presents a shocking and brutal picture of the war and its lasting effects. The book is an unforgettably powerful account of the war that sheds light on the similarities between the Soviet-Afghan War and the American experience in Vietnam.
The Assassination Complex
Jeremy Scahill, The Staff of The Intercept  | Simon & Schuster

The Assassination Complex

$12.00

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$12.00

If you're someone who seeks to understand the shadows where modern warfare and politics merge, "The Assassination Complex" will take you on a deep dive. Jeremy Scahill's investigative prowess unveils the chilling reality of drone strikes and the moral complexities they introduce. It's a read that promises to leave you better informed and possibly more critical of the mechanisms behind global conflict.
Worthy Fights: A Memoir of Leadership in War and Peace
Leon Panetta, Jim Newton  | Penguin Press

Worthy Fights: A Memoir of Leadership in War and Peace

$19.00 $14.00 26% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$19.00 $14.00 26% off

69% off est. retail
If you're curious about the inner workings of US intelligence and defense, "Worthy Fights" is a compelling read. Leon Panetta provides a firsthand account of significant moments in recent history, delivering a blend of personal anecdotes and serious discussions on policy. It's an insightful dive into the complexities of leading during times of crisis and change.
Pillar of Fire America in the King Years 1963-65 - Thryft
Taylor Branch | Simon & Schuster

Pillar of Fire America in the King Years 1963-65

$8.00 $5.00 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$8.00 $5.00 38% off

86% off est. retail
Immerse yourself in a defining period of American history with "Pillar of Fire," as it takes you through the intricate and impassioned struggle for civil rights between 1963 and 1965. The vivid storytelling and meticulous research by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Taylor Branch make this not just a book but a visceral journey alongside icons like Dr. King. It's the perfect read for someone looking to understand the roots of contemporary social justice movements and the sacrifices that forged them.
Mao: The Unknown Story - Thryft
Jung Chang, Jon Halliday  | Vintage

Mao: The Unknown Story

$10.00 $7.00 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$10.00 $7.00 30% off

Jung Chang's "Wild Swans" was an extraordinary bestseller throughout the world, selling more than 10 million copies and reaching a wider readership than any other book about China. Now she and her husband Jon Halliday have written a groundbreaking biography of Mao Tse-tung. Based on a decade of research, and on interviews with many of Mao's close circle in China who have never talked before - and with virtually everyone outside China who had significant dealings with him - this is the most authoritative life of Mao ever written. It is full of startling revelations, exploding the myth of the Long March, and showing a completely unknown he was not driven by idealism or ideology; his intimate and intricate relationship with Stalin went back to the 1920s, ultimately bringing him to power; he welcomed Japanese occupation of much of China; and he schemed, poisoned and blackmailed to get his way. After Mao conquered China in 1949, his secret goal was to dominate the world. In chasing this dream he caused the deaths of 38 million people in the greatest famine in history. Combining meticulous history with the story-telling style of "Wild Swans", this biography makes immediate Mao's roller-coaster life, as he intrigued and fought every step of the way to force through his unpopular decisions. The reader enters the shadowy chambers of Mao's court, and eavesdrops on the drama in its hidden recesses. Mao's character and the enormity of his behaviour towards his wives, mistresses and children are unveiled for the first time. This is an entirely fresh look at Mao in both content and approach. It will astonish historians and the general reader alike.
Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War
Mark Bowden | Grove Press

Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War

$11.00 $8.00 27% off

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$11.00 $8.00 27% off

If military history fascinates you, "Black Hawk Down" will immerse you in the harrowing details of a critical modern battle. Mark Bowden's meticulous research and compelling storytelling put you right in the midst of the chaos in Mogadishu. It's a tribute to the soldiers' heroism and a stark examination of the brutality of warfare, a read that will leave you pondering long after the last page.
Area 51: An Uncensored History of America's Top Secret Military Base
Annie Jacobsen | Back Bay Books

Area 51: An Uncensored History of America's Top Secret Military Base

$16.00 $12.00 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$16.00 $12.00 25% off

If you're drawn to the enigma of Area 51, this book offers a rare glimpse behind the curtain. Annie Jacobsen's work stands out as it's grounded in the accounts of those who've actually been there, spilling the beans on what's really been happening in those dusty Nevada sands. Their stories transform whispers of conspiracy into a narrative so enthralling, it blurs the line between the clandestine and the incredible—making it a must-read for anyone enamored with America's most mysterious military base.
Guantánamo Diary
Mohamedou Ould Slahi | Canongate Books Ltd

Guantánamo Diary

$12.00 $7.00 42% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$12.00 $7.00 42% off

"Guantánamo Diary" serves as a poignant testament to the human spirit in the face of adversity. Slahi’s narrative takes you into the depths of his experiences, revealing personal resilience and offering a rare perspective on a world that many know only through headlines. It is a book that both enlightens and challenges, leaving the reader with lingering thoughts on justice and the strength of character.
Agincourt: My Family, the Battle and the Fight for France - Thryft
Ranulph Fiennes | Hodder & Stoughton Ltd

Agincourt: My Family, the Battle and the Fight for France

$8.00 $4.00 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.38

$8.00 $4.00 50% off

78% off est. retail
Imagine linking your family tree to a pivotal moment in history—that’s what makes Ranulph Fiennes's "Agincourt" stand out. It's not just a historical account; it’s a personal journey that connects the past with the present. If you're intrigued by battle strategies, heroic tales, and family legacies intertwined with national identity, this book will offer you a rich, immersive experience. Ranulph doesn’t just recount facts; he breathes life into them through his ancestral stories.
The Mauritanian
Mohamedou Ould Slahi | Canongate Books

The Mauritanian

$9.00

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$9.00

"The Mauritanian" offers a raw, first-hand account of resilience in the face of injustice. If you're drawn to real-life stories that challenge your perspectives and shed light on darker aspects of recent history, you'll find Slahi's experience both harrowing and enlightening. It's the kind of book that stays with you, provoking thought and discussion long after the last page.
Dunkirk: The History Behind the Major Motion Picture
Joshua Levine | William Morrow Paperbacks

Dunkirk: The History Behind the Major Motion Picture

$8.00 $6.00 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$8.00 $6.00 25% off

If you're drawn to the intertwining of personal heroism and grand-scale military history, "Dunkirk" by Joshua Levine will likely resonate with you. Levine takes you beyond the silver screen, offering a deeper dive into the personal sacrifices and strategic decisions of this pivotal moment in World War II. It's a compelling read, especially if you enjoyed Christopher Nolan's film and now yearn for a more thorough historical understanding.

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.