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Literary Fiction Books

Immerse yourself in our Literary Fiction collection at Thryft, featuring works by revered authors and fresh voices alike. Discover stories that explore the depths of human experience and provoke thoughtful reflection. Ideal for both established aficionados and newcomers eager to explore the literary world.
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The Film Explainer - Thryft
Gert Hofmann, Michael Hofmann  | Minerva

The Film Explainer

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

In stock: Very Good

If you're taken by the charm of old cinemas and the delightfully quirky jobs that came with them, "The Film Explainer" will be a special read for you. It's like peering through a mischievously cracked lens at history, embracing both the laughter and the pathos of a bygone era. Not to mention, it's a sweet ride through the quips and follies of a man wrestling with his time, all embedded in a narrative that's deceptively profound.
August - Thryft
Bernard Beckett | Quercus Publishing Plc

August

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Well Read

If you're looking for a thought-provoking romance that explores the limits of free will, "August" is the perfect choice. The book takes you on a captivating journey as Tristan, a philosopher, and Grace, a woman with a troubled past, find themselves connected in a life-or-death situation. With beautiful storytelling and deep introspection, this book will leave you questioning the forces that shape our lives and the power of love to overcome adversity.
The Night Alphabet
Joelle Taylor

The Night Alphabet

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to the lyrical and the layered, "The Night Alphabet" could be a treasure for you. Joelle Taylor’s work is a blend of poetry and mystery, perfect for those who love to delve into the depth of night's enigma. It's for the dreamers and the thinkers, looking to decipher the whispers of the dark.
Shoplifting from American Apparel
Tao Lin | Melville House

Shoplifting from American Apparel

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Goodreads rating: 3.14

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

In stock: Very Good

"Shoplifting from American Apparel" offers a raw slice of contemporary urban life through the eyes of an introspective young writer. It's a book that delves into the existential musings of the millennial generation, crafting a narrative that's both strikingly mundane and deeply reflective. If you're interested in a glimpse into the subcultures of modern America and the internal dialogues that shape our perceptions of success and morality, then this novella by Tao Lin might just resonate with you.
The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King - Thryft

The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

In stock: Well Read

If you've journeyed with Frodo from the Shire and stood with Aragorn as he musters his courage, "The Return of the King" is the final chapter you've been waiting for. Tolkien's mastery brings a poignant end to the fellowship's quest, weaving together the fates of Middle-earth's diverse inhabitants. The climax of this book, rich with battle scenes and heroic deeds, is both a satisfying resolution and a testament to the power of hope and friendship in the darkest of times.
The Crystal World - Thryft
J.G. Ballard | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Crystal World

$10.13 from $7.90 Save up to 30%

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$10.13 from $7.90 Save up to 30%

In stock: Very Good

Dive into "The Crystal World" when you're feeling introspective. Ballard's tale will lead you through a lush, yet uncanny, jungle that mirrors the strangeness of human desires and existential concerns. Its vivid imagery and contemplative prose invite you to ponder the interplay between nature, time, and the essence of life itself.
Dear Mr. President : Stories and a Novella - Thryft
Gabe Hudson | Vintage

Dear Mr. President : Stories and a Novella

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to the surreal juxtaposition of gritty war realism and fantastical elements, "Dear Mr. President" would intrigue you. Gabe Hudson stitches together the absurdity of war-induced transformations—physical and psychological—through humor that's as unsettling as it is sharp. It's a read that promises to challenge your perceptions of war's impact with an imaginative twist.
Man in the Dark - Thryft

Man in the Dark

$7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

$7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

In stock: Well Read

Recommendation: "Man in the Dark" is a thought-provoking book that delves into the depths of a troubled mind, weaving together a haunting parallel reality and the painful aftermath of personal tragedy. Through the eyes of August Brill, this novel forces you to question the boundaries between imagination and reality, while navigating the complexities of grief and the power of storytelling. Auster's masterful prose will keep you engrossed until the very last page, leaving you contemplating the nature of existence and the healing power of human connection.
Freedom: A Novel of Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War
William Safire | Avon Books

Freedom: A Novel of Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.12

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're a history buff with a penchant for immersive storytelling, "Freedom" should be on your must-read list. William Safire invites you into the intimate chambers of political strategy and onto the chaotic grounds of war with a cinematic touch. You'll appreciate how he breathes life into historical figures, making this pivotal period in American history resonate with the urgency and drama of its time.
The Garlic Ballads - A Novel - Thryft

The Garlic Ballads - A Novel

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$7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

In stock: Well Read

The farmers of Paradise County have been leading a hardscrabble life
unchanged for generations. The Communist government has encouraged them to
plant garlic, but selling the crop is not as simple as they believed.
Warehouses fill up, taxes skyrocket, and government officials maltreat even
those who have traveled for days to sell their harvest. A surplus on the
garlic market ensues, and the farmers must watch in horror as their crops
wither and rot in the fields. Families are destroyed by the random
imprisonment of young and old for supposed crimes against the state. The
prisoners languish in horrifying conditions in their cells, with only their
strength of character and thoughts of their loved ones to save them from
madness. Meanwhile, a blind minstrel incites the masses to take the law
into their own hands, and a riot of apocalyptic proportions follows with
savage and unforgettable consequences. The Garlic Ballads is a powerful
vision of life under the heel of an inflexible and uncaring government. It
is also a delicate story of love between man and woman, father and child,
friend and friend—and the struggle to maintain that love despite
overwhelming obstacles.


Authors: Mo Yan, Howard Goldblatt
Publisher: Arcade
Publication Date: 2012
Eastern Standard Tribe - Thryft
Cory Doctorow | Harper Voyager

Eastern Standard Tribe

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Well Read

This book would be great for someone who loves science fiction and is interested in exploring the potential effects of technology on society. The book's most unique feature is the concept of time zone-based tribes and the idea that sleep is still a necessity even with the rise of instant communication. The author does a great job of imagining a future world and its potential consequences. The pace of the book is quick with plenty of action and twists.
Another Night, Another Day - Thryft
Sarah Rayner | Macmillan

Another Night, Another Day

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 37%

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 37%

In stock: Well Read

If the complex tapestry of human emotions intrigues you, 'Another Night, Another Day' is a journey you'd want to embark on. Sarah Rayner crafts a poignant narrative about overcoming personal struggles, through the supportive bond formed among individuals who were once just strangers. It showcases the power of connection and the beauty of finding solace in shared experiences, wrapped in a story that's both moving and relatable.
Solar: A Novel - Thryft
Ian McEwan | Random House

Solar: A Novel

$8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Goodreads rating: 3.28

$8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

In stock: Very Good

Ian McEwan's 'Solar' might surprise you with its blend of dark humor and scientific discourse. It's an unexpected ride through the life of a flawed genius facing the enormity of climate change. Michael Beard is a compelling character whose chaotic personal life paradoxically serves as a nuanced backdrop for the sobering environmental themes. If you're drawn to character-driven narratives with a poignant, yet satirical look at human fallibility, 'Solar' could be a bright spot on your reading list.
Adam Robots: Short Stories
Adam Roberts | Gollancz

Adam Robots: Short Stories

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.76

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

"Adam Robots" is a buffet of speculative wonder, ideal for those who enjoy their narratives short, sharp, and constantly surprising. Adam Roberts crafts each tale with intellectual rigor and a twinkle of humor, sketching futures that are as thought-provoking as they are entertaining. Diving into his stories is like exploring an intriguing mosaic of 'what-ifs', perfect if you value variety and innovation in your science fiction reading diet.
Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup
Roddy Doyle | Vintage Books Usa

Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.28

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you relish historical fiction teeming with wit, Roddy Doyle's "Oh, Play That Thing" will transport you to 1920s America alongside the clever, cheeky Henry Smart. Doyle weaves a captivating narrative blending adventure, crime, and music—jazz becomes Henry's baptism into a new world. A pilgrimage through a vividly drawn era, with a soundtrack by none other than Louis Armstrong, awaits you in these pages.
Music, In A Foreign Language - Thryft
Andrew Crumey | Picador

Music, In A Foreign Language

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Very Good

Recommendation: - This book is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of friendship, politics, and the power of secrets. Through the intertwined stories of Charles and Robert, Music, In A Foreign Language keeps readers hooked until the very end. The narrative unfolds like a melodic fugue, gradually revealing the connections between the characters and their complex lives. If you enjoy novels that delve into the dynamics of relationships and the hidden forces that shape them, this book is a must-read.
Mongrels - Thryft
Stephen Graham Jones | William Morrow/harpercollins, [

Mongrels

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Well Read

This spellbinding coming-of-age story follows a young boy who must navigate a world that shuns his family because they're werewolves. With a mix of humor and darkness, "Mongrels" takes readers on a fascinating journey as the boy grapples with his identity and struggles to understand his place in a complex world. Perfect for those who appreciate unique and surreal storytelling, this book offers a compelling exploration of resilience and belonging.
In Another Country: Selected Stories - Thryft
David Constantine | Comma Press

In Another Country: Selected Stories

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

In stock: Very Good

If you're drawn to the kind of storytelling that weaves through the complexities of human emotions against the backdrop of time's inexorable march, "In Another Country" by David Constantine will speak to you. The vivid prose and poignant narratives in stories like "The Cave" delve into the depths of relationships and personal transformation. It’s a good read for introspective evenings where you want literature that both challenges and satisfies.
Walking to Hollywood: Memories of Before the Fall
Will Self | Bloomsbury Uk

Walking to Hollywood: Memories of Before the Fall

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.03

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're into novels that stretch the bounds of reality and venture into the absurd, Will Self's "Walking to Hollywood" could be a thrilling read for you. Self takes you on a bizarre trip through a heightened version of our world, where the boundaries between personal narrative and fantastical elements blur, challenging your perceptions of celebrity, success, and madness. This book isn't just a read; it's a mind-bending experience.
How the Dead Live - Thryft
Will Self | Penguin Books

How the Dead Live

$8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Goodreads rating: 3.58

$8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

In stock: Well Read

"How the Dead Live" isn't your typical ghost story; it's for those who like their supernatural laced with acid satire. Will Self takes you on a bizarre journey through an afterlife full of as much, if not more, vibrancy and vulgarity as life itself. If you appreciate a narrative that challenges the norms with sharp humor, Lily Bloom's post-mortem adventures are sure to entertain and provoke thought.
The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe
Andrew O'Hagan | Faber & Faber

The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 2.73

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If the glitz and glam of 20th-century Hollywood, combined with a unique narrative twist sounds intriguing to you, then diving into "The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe" will be a treat. Witnessing events and changes from the perspective of Marilyn Monroe's canine companion offers you a fresh lens on history and celebrity culture, making this book a distinctive read that cleverly blurs the lines between fiction and reality.
Up in the Air
Walter Kirn | Hodder & Stoughton

Up in the Air

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 2.88

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

"Up in the Air" resonates with the modern professional who's always on the go, where airports and hotels feel like second homes. If you've ever felt both liberated and trapped by your career, Ryan Bingham's journey – physically and emotionally aloft – could echo your own search for meaning amidst the miles. It's a smart, humorous look at the oddities of corporate culture and the pursuit of a life less ordinary.
Exterminator! - Thryft
William S. Burroughs | Calder Publications Ltd

Exterminator!

$16.69 from $9.90 Save up to 41%

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$16.69 from $9.90 Save up to 41%

In stock: Well Read

If you're into experimental literature, "Exterminator!" by William S. Burroughs will have you diving headfirst into a world that's as bizarre as it is thought-provoking. Each piece blurs the line between reality and science fiction, making you question the structures of control around us. It's a wild ride for the mind that relishes unconventional narratives.
Hystopia - Thryft
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MEANS DAVID | Faber Et Faber

Hystopia

from $6.09

Goodreads rating: 2.93

from $6.09

Out of stock

Hystopia would be an intriguing read for those interested in alternate history and dark satirical fiction. David Means weaves a fictional universe that merges history and war fiction, depicting the traumatic aftermath of the Vietnam War on veterans, and the nation as a whole. Means's unparalleled writing skills deliver a unique and visionary novel that effuses with outrageous humor, sensuous registers, and shocking violence. The experience is meant to linger with you long after flipping the final pages, leaving you with vivid recollections of war, memory, and mental hygiene.
How High We Go in the Dark
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Sequoia Nagamatsu | William Morrow

How High We Go in the Dark

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

from $8.90

Out of stock

This novel is a must-read if you're looking for a story that interweaves human emotion with a grand narrative of societal change. Nagamatsu's debut is a rich tapestry of characters and timelines that offers a deeply moving exploration of resilience and connection amidst catastrophe. The book's imaginative world-building and profound empathy for its characters will stay with you long after the last page.
The Accusation
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Bandi, Deborah Smith  | Profile Books

The Accusation

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

from $8.90

Out of stock

"The Accusation" isn't just any book—it's a rare glimpse into the ostensibly opaque North Korea, penned by an author risking it all to shine light on their experiences. The narratives here aren't just stories; they're acts of bravery, signals of defiance, and whispers of hope that crossed borders to reach you. It's a read that challenges, educates, and grips you with the raw truth of human endurance under the most watchful eye imaginable.
Animal Farm - Thryft
Sold out
George Orwell | Pearson Education

Animal Farm

from $6.34

Goodreads rating: 3.98

from $6.34

Out of stock

Animal Farm is a must-read for those interested in political commentary and allegory. It's a relatively short read that packs a powerful punch, with memorable characters and an unforgettable story that comments on the rise of authoritarianism. Orwell's writing is straightforward yet engaging, making it accessible to readers of all levels.
The Plot Against America
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Philip Roth | Random House

The Plot Against America

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

from $8.90

Out of stock

If alt-history fascinates you, Roth's book will be an engrossing experience. It's not just a "what if" scenario; it's an uneasy journey through an America that could have been, shadowed by anti-Semitism and extremism. Reading this, you might find yourself appreciative of the trajectory history actually took, while being unsettled by the knowledge that the seeds of a darker path were always present.
The Bone Clocks - Thryft
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David Mitchell | Sceptre

The Bone Clocks

from $14.12

Goodreads rating: 3.84

from $14.12

Out of stock

Recommended for fans of surrealist fiction and engaging narrative. Immerse yourself in a world of murderous feuds and precognition phenomena through the eyes of Holly Sykes, as David Mitchell delivers a spellbinding masterpiece that meditates on mortality and chronicles our self-devouring times.
Klara and the Sun : The Times and Sunday Times Book of the Year - Thryft
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Kazuo Ishiguro | Faber & Faber

Klara and the Sun : The Times and Sunday Times Book of the Year

from $13.07

Goodreads rating: 3.75

from $13.07

Out of stock

Klara and the Sun could be a good read for someone who wants to explore the complexities of love and AI in a rapidly-changing world. Through the eyes of Klara, an Artificial Friend with exceptional observation skills, the book delves into the concept of love and the challenges it poses in a society influenced by technology. Kazuo Ishiguro brings a unique perspective to this thought-provoking narrative, posing the question of what it truly means to love in a world where human emotions and artificial intelligence intersect.
Nineteen Eighty-four - Thryft
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George Orwell | Penguin Books Limited

Nineteen Eighty-four

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.19

from $8.26

Out of stock

Recommendation: If you're looking for a dark and thought-provoking exploration of the dangers of authoritarianism, look no further than Nineteen Eighty-Four. This classic novel offers a chilling glimpse into a world ruled by Big Brother and the all-powerful Party, where even thought crimes can lead to punishment. Orwell's vivid descriptions and haunting imagery make this a book that will stick with you long after you turn the final page.
Re: Colonised Planet 5, Shikasta
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Doris Lessing | Vintage

Re: Colonised Planet 5, Shikasta

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.65

from $8.90

Out of stock

Imagine looking at Earth through a cosmic lens, with millennia-spanning observations. Lessing's imaginative 'Re: Colonised Planet 5, Shikasta' will take you on a journey through time, mirroring our own history and predicaments with an interstellar twist. It's a deep dive into human flaws and potentials seen from the eyes of an alien culture. If you're drawn to science fiction that comments on humanity, this novel's profound narrative could offer you a fresh and compelling perspective.
Animal Farm : A Fairy Story - Thryft
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Peter Davison, George Orwell  | Penguin Uk

Animal Farm : A Fairy Story

from $8.33

Goodreads rating: 3.98

from $8.33

Out of stock

Animal Farm by George Orwell is a timeless classic that uses animals to discuss politics and satirize communism. It's an insightful look at totalitarian regimes and the dangers of unyielding power. If you're interested in satire and political commentary, this book is for you.
In the Country of Last Things - Thryft
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Paul Auster | Faber And Faber

In the Country of Last Things

from $21.82

Goodreads rating: 3.91

from $21.82

Out of stock

This book is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction. With its spare and ritualistic prose, it creates a chilling reflection of our own world. The author's masterful storytelling keeps you hooked until the very end, leaving an indelible impact on your mind. Prepare to be haunted by the vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes that this book presents.
Island - Thryft
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Aldous Huxley | Vintage Books

Island

from $3.88

Goodreads rating: 3.86

from $3.88

Out of stock

This book could be a good read for someone seeking a thought-provoking exploration of an alternative society where Eastern philosophy and Western science combine to create a utopia. The unique aspect of this book lies in its portrayal of Pala, an island where the inhabitants live by a different set of principles. As the journalist Will Farnaby immerses himself in this society, readers are taken on a journey that challenges conventional notions of progress, ultimately forcing them to question their own values and choices. Aldous Huxley's "Island" offers a compelling vision of a harmonious world and presents readers with an opportunity to reflect on their own lives and the possibilities of a different way of living.
Frog Music
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Emma Donoghue | Back Bay Books

Frog Music

from $12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.2

from $12.90

Out of stock

If you're drawn to the vivid detail of historical settings and enjoy a mystery that's as deep in character as it is in plot, "Frog Music" could be a treat for you. Emma Donoghue masterfully recreates 1876 San Francisco, with its heady mix of danger and survival, while weaving a captivating story of a woman determined to unravel a murder. It's a journey through a city's underbelly, guided by a character both complex and resilient.
Stone Mattress: Nine Tales
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Margaret Atwood | Nan A. Talese

Stone Mattress: Nine Tales

from $12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

from $12.90

Out of stock

For fans of Margaret Atwood's sharp wit and deep exploration of human psychology, "Stone Mattress: Nine Tales" offers a sumptuous platter. Each story is a testament to her ability to weave dark humor with insightful critiques of society, crafting narratives that are both engaging and provocative. The interconnected stories tug at the complexities of human relationships, and the collection stands as a fascinating glimpse into the eclectic range of Atwood's storytelling prowess.
Uncanny Valley - A Collection Of Short Stories - Thryft
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S.Mickey Lin | Marshall Cavendish

Uncanny Valley - A Collection Of Short Stories

$3.88 from $2.72 Save up to 30%

Goodreads rating: 3.31

$3.88 from $2.72 Save up to 30%

Out of stock

Uncanny Valley is a thought-provoking and multi-layered collection of short stories that offer a vivid portrayal of life in future Singapore. Each story provides a different perspective, exploring issues about identity, society, and what it means to be human. The most unique and distinctive feature of the book is its ability to transport the reader to a not-too-distant future that is both fascinating and disturbing. If you are interested in speculative fiction that challenges your worldview, then Uncanny Valley is the perfect read for you.
The Porcupine
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Julian Barnes | Vintage Books

The Porcupine

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.44

from $8.90

Out of stock

If politics and courtroom dramas intrigue you, "The Porcupine" by Julian Barnes might just be the book you're looking for. Julian Barnes deftly explores the fall of totalitarianism in a gripping narrative that pits old regime against new in a battle of wits and wills. With its concise prose and insightful look at human nature, you're likely to find yourself engrossed in the strategic game between a fallen leader and the embodiment of a new era.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas : A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream - Thryft
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Ralph Steadman, Hunter S. Thompson  | Vintage Books

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas : A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.07

from $8.26

Out of stock

This wild and crazy ride is not for the faint of heart. With its vivid and hallucinatory prose, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas takes you on a drug-soaked journey through the underbelly of American society. Hunter S. Thompson's fearless and unconventional style of journalism, known as gonzo, immerses you in the chaotic and darkly humorous world of excess and disillusionment. Strap in and get ready for a rollicking adventure that will leave you questioning the very foundations of the American Dream. It's a mind-bending experience you won't soon forget.

Dive Deeper into the Literary Realm

At Thryft, our Literary Fiction collection brings you an array of gripping narratives and powerful prose. We curate books that challenge, provoke, and inspire readers to think beyond the ordinary. From time-tested classics to modern masterpieces, each piece offers a new journey into the complexities of life and humanity. Whether you're seeking a profound story or a gentle reminder of life's beauty, our selection is here to enrich your reading experience.