Nature Books

Explore the beauty of the natural world with our Nature collection at Thryft. Immerse yourself in captivating narratives about the environment, wildlife, and the mysteries of our planet. From renowned environmentalists to insightful nature writers, there's something for every keen nature enthusiast.

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White Holes
Simon Carnell, Carlo Rovelli  | Riverhead Books

White Holes

$17.90

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Goodreads rating: 4.09

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If the cosmos and its enigmatic functions fascinate you, "White Holes" by Carlo Rovelli is a thrilling read. Imagine peering beyond the edges of our current understanding, grappling with the physics of both the infinitely large and incredibly small, led by a scientist who writes not only with expertise but with the narrative flair of a storyteller. It's a dive into the beauty of scientific pursuit, articulated for those who yearn to explore the edges of reality.
Universal Water: The Ancient Wisdom and Scientific Theory of Water

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If you've ever marveled at the mysteries of water and its ubiquitous presence both here and beyond our planet, "Universal Water" could open new doors of understanding for you. It's a blend of the reverence found in ancient mythology and cutting-edge scientific insight. Dive into this book and emerge with a fresh perspective on a substance you've known all your life, but perhaps never fully appreciated.
Science and the Akashic Field: An Integral Theory of Everything
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If you're intrigued by the intersection of science and spirituality, you might find Ervin Laszlo's "Science and the Akashic Field" a compelling read. It presents a theory that bridges the gap between the tangible and the mystical, aiming to satisfy both your rational mind and your sense of wonder. The book attempts to offer a holistic understanding of the universe, which could resonate with anyone seeking a deeper philosophical understanding of life and consciousness.
The Last Stargazers: The Enduring Story of Astronomy's Vanishing Explorers

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"The Last Stargazers" will resonate with you if you've ever gazed upward and felt a mix of wonder and curiosity. Emily Levesque brings the heavens closer through vivid storytelling and the personal experiences of astronomers, capturing the passion and challenges of those who seek to understand the cosmos. It's a humanizing tour of the stars that might just inspire your next stargazing adventure.
Welcome to the Universe: An Astrophysical Tour
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If the mysteries of the cosmos captivate you, "Welcome to the Universe" is your gateway to understanding celestial wonders. The collective wisdom of Tyson, Strauss, and Gott makes complex concepts digestible, transporting you to the edges of space and time. You'll come away with a deeper appreciation for the vast universe we're a part of and a thirst for knowledge about its workings.
The Zoomable Universe: A Step-By-Step Tour Through Cosmic Scale, From the Infinite to the Infinitesimal
If you’re fascinated by the immeasurable stretch of the cosmos, "The Zoomable Universe" will captivate your imagination and deepen your appreciation for the intricate vastness that surrounds us. It navigates the complexities of space and time with such precision, accompanied by breathtaking visuals, that it becomes not just an educational odyssey, but an enchanting visual experience that's hard to put down.
Earthcam: Watching the World from Orbit
Terry Hope | David & Charles

Earthcam: Watching the World from Orbit

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Goodreads rating: 3.5

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Earthcam offers a rare vantage point that shifts perspectives and broadens horizons. Gazing upon the planet from orbit, this book presents a visual narrative of Earth's beauty, complexity, and fragility. It could be a treasured pick for anyone drawn to stunning imagery, fascinated by technology's capabilities, or concerned about environmental issues.
Shadows Here, There, and Everywhere
GOOR, Ron Goor  | Harpercollins

Shadows Here, There, and Everywhere

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"Shadows, Here, There, and Everywhere" could be a fascinating pick for you if you're drawn to the ethereal and the enigmatic. The book's exploration into the realm of the unseen and its influence in daily life can provide a profoundly intriguing perspective that might alter how you perceive the world around you. It's a narrative that weaves the mystery of shadows into a broader tapestry of existence, which can be both haunting and thought-provoking.
How Weather Works - Thryft
Michael Allaby | Dorling Kindersley Plc P/b

How Weather Works

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This book is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about the science behind weather phenomena. With engaging hands-on activities, this guide makes learning about weather fun and accessible for the whole family. Michael Allaby's comprehensive coverage of the topic makes this an ideal resource for students, scientists, or anyone curious about how the weather works.
Introduction To Weather & Climate Change - Thryft
laura-howell | Usborne Publishing

Introduction To Weather & Climate Change

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Goodreads rating: 3.71

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Why this could be a good read: - This book breaks down complex concepts of weather and climate change into simple and understandable terms. - It helps you understand the natural forces behind weather patterns and investigates the conditions that may be causing changes in the climate. - Whether you're a student curious about the weather or an environmentally-conscious individual interested in climate change, this book provides a solid foundation for comprehending these important topics.
All About Lightning
Martin A. Uman | Dover Publications

All About Lightning

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Goodreads rating: 3.97

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Ever been mesmerized by the crackling dance of lightning across the sky? "All About Lightning" takes that sense of wonder and delves deep into the science behind it. Martin A. Uman has laid out a clear, accessible path through the complexities of one of nature's most beautiful phenomena. Ideal for the weather enthusiast or the curious mind looking to grasp the mechanics of thunderstorms, this book doesn't just explain; it electrifies the intellect.
Red Rocket Readers: Early Level 3 Non-Fiction Set B: Wind

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If you've got a young reader at home, "Red Rocket Readers - Wind" could be a delightful addition to their bookshelf. It's a gentle nudge towards science, teaching them about the force of wind in an engaging way. Plus, it hints at outdoor play that harnesses the breeze, which could inspire some real-world adventures and an appreciation for nature's simple joys.
Mathematics and the Physical World
Morris Kline | Dover Publications

Mathematics and the Physical World

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Goodreads rating: 4.14

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If you've ever been curious about the bridge between the abstract world of mathematics and the concrete realities of the physical world around us, Kline's "Mathematics and the Physical World" could be a revelation. It's a book that eschews the dry presentation typical of textbooks, instead offering a rich historical context that breathes life into mathematical concepts. Whether you're a student looking to deepen your understanding or a lifelong learner chasing the thrill of connecting dots between calculations and natural laws, this book promises to enrich your appreciation of just how entwined math is with everything we observe.
The Hydrogen Age: Empowering a Clean-Energy Future

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If you're passionate about environmental conservation and looking for an insightful read, "The Hydrogen Age" could be just the book for you. It could offer a deep dive into hydrogen as a clean energy source and its potential impact on our planet. The authors, Holland and Provenzano, present how this element can contribute to solving global energy challenges, which can be enlightening for anyone interested in sustainable technologies and the future of energy.
Weather Facts
Philip Eden | Dorling Kindersley

Weather Facts

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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If you're curious about how the weather works or you find yourself frequently looking up at the sky with questions, "Weather Facts" would be a great addition to your collection. It's simple to digest, making it perfect for anyone without a background in meteorology, yet detailed enough to still be fascinating. Plus, its compact size means you can easily take it with you and consult it whenever you're pondering on cumulus clouds or mulling over the mysteries of monsoons.
Discovery
Various | Viking

Discovery

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

$8.90

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If you've been awed by tales of exploration and human ingenuity, "Discovery" is a treasury you can't ignore. It's like a time machine that lets you witness the raw thrill and sheer determination of explorers who first mapped the unknown. Each account is a tribute to the undying human spirit that pushes boundaries, and reading them might spark your own sense of adventure. Kerr's curation ensures that history leaps off the pages, sometimes with joy and other times with the solemn weight of sacrifice.
When the Earth Moves
Russell Ferrett | New Holland Publishers

When the Earth Moves

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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"When the Earth Moves" could be a fascinating read if you're mesmerized by the earth's raw power. Russell Ferrett guides you through the fiery world of volcanoes with vivid detail that's both educational and engaging. It's an exploration that pairs the impressive forces of nature with the human fascination for them. Whether you're a geology enthusiast or simply love to understand the epic processes that shape our planet, this book could ignite your curiosity.
Storms and Hurricanes
Gary Bines, Andy Dixon, Kathy Gemmell  | Edc Pub

Storms and Hurricanes

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

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If you're intrigued by the raw power of nature and eager to understand the mechanics behind stormy skies, "Storms And Hurricanes" will sweep you into a whirlwind of knowledge. With engaging text and vivid illustrations, this book offers a clear and compelling exploration of meteorological phenomena, perfect for anyone looking to dive into the science of tempestuous weather.
The Coldest Places
Heather Hammonds | Nelson Cengage Learning

The Coldest Places

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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If you're someone intrigued by nature's extremes, "The Coldest Places" will satisfy your curiosity. Heather Hammonds takes you on a chilling journey to the planet's iciest regions, revealing the science and the awe-inspiring beauty found there. It's a compact yet enlightening read, perfect for any budding geographer or armchair explorer.
Rubber - Thryft
Heather Hammonds | Cengage Learning Australia

Rubber

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Goodreads rating: 0.0

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"Rubber" is a scientific exploration of rubber's history, production, and uses. It's a fascinating read revealing why rubber is one of the most important materials on earth, ideal for chemists, engineers, environmentalists, and anyone interested in science and innovation.
Fuel & Energy - World of Knowledge

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If you're curious about how the world powers itself, "Fuel & Energy" can offer you a fascinating deep dive. This book sorts through the complex web of our global energy systems, unraveling how they intersect with politics, economics, and the environment. It's an eye-opener for anyone interested in sustainability or the forces that drive our modern society.
National Audubon Society Field Guide to the Night Sky

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If the night sky beckons you with its allure, this guide is an indispensable tool for all your stargazing adventures. Yours to savor, it encompasses a universe of knowledge—planets, stars, galaxies—wrapped in vivid photographs, charts that guide your eyes, and a depth of detail that makes the heavens almost touchable. Bring it along as your astronomical compass, and you'll have the sky's majesty unfurled in your hands.
Understanding Weather and Climate - Thryft
James E. Burt, Edward Aguado  | Prentice Hall College Div

Understanding Weather and Climate

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Goodreads rating: 3.68

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"Understanding Weather and Climate" could be a great read for those interested in learning about atmospheric principles that govern weather and climate. The book features eight tutorial software modules on CD-ROM that explain difficult concepts in a user-friendly manner. Reviewers praise the clarity and lucidity of the writing style, making it an ideal pick for beginners and as a reference for students of meteorology.
Magnetism and Its Effects on the Living System
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If you're drawn to the unconventional intersection of science and wellness, this book might align with your curiosity. Davis and Rawls dive into how magnetism impacts living organisms, offering an intriguing perspective that isn't commonly discussed in standard scientific texts. It's a thought-provoking read that could expand your understanding of environmental factors affecting health.
The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe
Theodore Gray | Black Dog & Leventhal

The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe

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Goodreads rating: 4.43

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If you've ever been curious about the building blocks of our universe, "The Elements" offers a captivating exploration. It presents a unique blend of scientific fact and visual artistry that could change the way you look at the world around you. Imagine holding a photo album of the universe's atoms—this is an experience that marries the wonder of nature with the thrill of discovery.
The Rough Guide to Energy and Our Planet
Rough Guide | Rough Guides

The Rough Guide to Energy and Our Planet

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If you're seeking an enlightening yet concise primer on energy's intertwining with our planet, this Rough Guide could be a gem for you. Despite its brevity, it manages to cover a lot of ground, presenting complex information in an easily digestible way. Perfect for earth-conscious minds wanting to broaden their understanding without being overwhelmed.
Restless Skies - The Ultimate Weather Book
Paul Douglas | Union Square & Co.

Restless Skies - The Ultimate Weather Book

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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Whether you're a casual cloud watcher or a storm chaser at heart, "Restless Skies" by Paul Douglas offers a captivating exploration into the world of meteorology. Douglas serves as your knowledgeable guide, transforming complex weather phenomena into digestible insights. The book is replete with stunning illustrations and photographs that not only educate but also visually engage readers. Prepare to understand the weather's whims like never before – you'll never look at the skies the same way again.
Understanding Weather and Climate
James E. Burt, Edward Aguado  | Pearson College Div

Understanding Weather and Climate

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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If you're curious about the skies above us, "Understanding Weather and Climate" can be your gateway to the dynamics of the atmosphere. Whether you want to grasp the science without getting bogged down in equations or just want to know more about the forces shaping our weather, this book could be like having a knowledgeable friend who makes complex concepts accessible and engaging.
Weather - Reader's Digest Explores

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If you're fascinated by the skies and the various tapestries it weaves, "Weather" by Reader's Digest could be a delight for you. It offers an all-encompassing look into the atmospheric phenomena that shape our world—perfect for anyone who loves to watch the clouds roll by or is curious about the forces behind nature's most dramatic showcases.
The Complete Guide to Climate Change

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If you're struggling to untangle the complexities of climate change, this book is like a compass in a storm. It'll guide you through the maze of environmental science, socio-political debates, and mitigation strategies. With its comprehensive coverage from the science behind the carbon cycle to international policies like the Kyoto Protocol, it empowers you to understand and perhaps even join the conversation on one of humanity's most pressing challenges.
The Weather - Thryft
Robin Kerrod, Ted Evans  | Benchmark Books

The Weather

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The Weather is an informative read that explains the science behind all types of weather conditions. With detailed descriptions of atmospheric processes and clear explanations, readers will gain a deeper understanding of weather science. This book is perfect for those who are fascinated by weather patterns and want to learn more about how and why they occur.
Weather
Martyn Bramwell | F. Watts

Weather

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Goodreads rating: 3.0

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"Weather" might just resonate with you if you're feeling the constant barrage of life's uncertainties. It wraps relatable anxiety with wit, helping to digest modern existential dread. The protagonist's navigation through her inner and outer turmoil feels comfortingly familiar yet offers fresh, introspective humor. It's a reading experience that feels like a conversation with a friend who gets the chaos of today.
Rogue Waves - Anatomy of a Monster
Michael Olagnon | Adlard Coles

Rogue Waves - Anatomy of a Monster

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

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If you're captivated by the sheer power and mystery of the sea, "Rogue Waves - Anatomy Of A Monster" could be a thrilling read for you. Michel Olagnon marries science and storytelling, diving into what transforms a wave into a seafaring giant. Anyone interested in maritime phenomena or natural disasters will find this investigative journey both educational and gripping, a real deep-dive into the heart of one of nature’s most formidable creations.
Explore the World of Weather
Robin Kerrod | Salamander Books Ltd.

Explore the World of Weather

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Goodreads rating: 3.0

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49% off est. retail
If you're curious about the skies above, "Explore The World Of Weather" would be a delightful addition to your collection. It's a deep dive into the forces that shape our daily forecasts, perfect for beginners who wish to understand the whims of nature. Robin Kerrod's approachable narrative breaks down complex meteorological concepts, making it not just informative, but also a highly engaging read.
The Weather And Climate Of Singapore - Thryft
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If you've ever been fascinated by the unique weather patterns of Singapore, "The Weather and Climate of Singapore" is the perfect book for you. Written by Ms Micheline Fong, a senior meteorologist from the Meteorological Service Singapore, this book delves into the characteristics of the monsoon seasons, explains different types of clouds, and explores local weather phenomena like thunderstorms and lightning. Packed with fascinating details and insights, this book will help you appreciate and understand the weather systems that influence our lives in Singapore. Get ready to be captivated by the diversity of Singapore's weather!
Forces of Nature - Thryft
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Brian Cox, Andrew Cohen  | William Collins

Forces of Nature

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Goodreads rating: 4.1

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Forces of Nature is ideal for those curious about the fundamental laws of our world. Professor Brian Cox takes readers on a fascinating journey to explore the everyday world around us, from the manatees off the coast of Florida to the northern lights of the Arctic. This book delves into the beauty of our planet and the nature of space and time, making it a perfect read for those who enjoy delving into the mysteries of the universe.
Painless Earth Science - Thryft
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This book is perfect for middle and high school students who find Earth science boring or confusing. It presents the subject matter in an engaging and humorous way, using fun-learning exercises like puzzles, games, and challenging Brain Tickler problems to solve. The book takes a light-hearted approach to earth sciences and focuses on the exciting revolution of our understanding of Earth's processes.
Introduction to the Worlds Oceans - Thryft
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Introduction to the World's Oceans could be a good read for someone interested in learning the basic scientific concepts used to study the world's oceans. The book blends contemporary research with basic principles, making it easy to understand. It's a great book for students who want to learn about the oceans, but it can also be enjoyed by anyone who wants to expand their general knowledge about the world's oceans.
A Dictionary Of Science - Thryft
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Elizabeth A. Martin | Oxford University Press

A Dictionary Of Science

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Goodreads rating: 4.17

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This book is an ideal reference for science students and non-scientists. It provides comprehensive coverage of various aspects of science including physics, biology, and astronomy. The dictionary features recommended web links for many entries, accessed and updated via the Dictionary of Science companion website. It includes short biographies of leading scientists, full-page illustrated features on subjects such as the Solar System and Genetically Modified Organisms, and chronologies of specific scientific subjects including plastics, electronics, and cell biology. The expanded coverage of global warming, forensic science, astrophysics, quantam theory, and the solar system makes it a must-read for those interested in science.
Wonders of Life - Thryft
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Andrew Cohen, Brian Cox  | Collins

Wonders of Life

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Goodreads rating: 4.42

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Wonders of Life could be a great read for those interested in the origins of life and the fundamental laws that govern it. The book takes readers on a journey to explore the diversity and adaptability of life through the eyes of Professor Brian Cox. The book is captivating with its experimental approach and cutting-edge graphics. Users have described the book as fascinating and informative, with the ability to make complex biological concepts approachable and engaging. The book is perfect for anyone looking to understand the secrets of life in the most unexpected places, and in stunning detail.
IStorm - Thryft
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Anita Ganeri | Carlton Kids

IStorm

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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iStorm is perfect for children and adults alike who are interested in the causes and effects of extreme weather events. The interactive app brings these events to life through augmented reality while also providing educational information about them. It's a unique and exciting experience that combines technology with science education.
Almanac Of Geography National Geographic - Thryft
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The Almanac of Geography National Geographic would be an excellent read for anyone who wishes to explore the world in detail. It provides insights into various aspects of geography such as physical geography and human geography. The book contains impressive illustrations, photographs, and charts that make it engaging to read. It is an excellent resource for individuals who are curious about environmental hazards, the global economy, and cultural identities. Furthermore, the book features a comprehensive flags-and-facts section with the flag of every nation, its capital, language, and economy.
The Secret Of Water - Thryft
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Masaru Emoto | Simon & Schuster Ltd

The Secret Of Water

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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"The Secret of Water" could be a good read for those who are interested in the power and hidden messages within nature. Masaru Emoto's unique approach of using photography and spiritual thinking to understand the impact of our actions on environment can be intriguing for readers. The book's easy-to-understand guide and attractive packaging also make it a great choice for children curious about nature and the environment.
Sync : The Emerging Science of Spontaneous Order - Thryft
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Steven H. Strogatz | Penguin Books, Limited (uk)

Sync : The Emerging Science of Spontaneous Order

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Goodreads rating: 4.07

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'Sync' is a perfect read for those interested in understanding complex mathematical themes such as self-organisation and spontaneous emergence of order out of chaos. The author seamlessly connects various applications to exemplify this theme, including human sleep and circadian rhythms, heart arrhythmias, and secret codes. The book has the potential to blow your mind and is highly recommended for those looking for some intellectual challenge.
Minerals - Thryft
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Roberto Appiani, Alessandro Guastoni  | Firefly Books

Minerals

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Goodreads rating: 3.2

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Excerpted from the Mineralogy is the science of minerals. To the uninitiated, mineralogy can appear to be a very complicated subject. Many of the disciplines that form its core, such as chemistry, crystallography, physics and mathematics, can constitute forbidding barriers to understanding this fascinating natural science. This book endeavors to eliminate such barriers and to accompany the reader seeking to enter the world of minerals. The primary goals of this introduction are to illustrate some of the principal properties of minerals, present the modern tools used in their study, describe the natural environments in which minerals are formed, and explain the criteria by which minerals are classified. The main section of this book is an illustrated guide to 288 mineral species, all of them illustrated with unique photographs taken by nature photographer Roberto Appiani. Special thanks go to Dr. Federico Pezzotta, Curator of Mineralogy and Petrography at the Museum of Natural History in Milan, Italy, who wrote the section of this introduction that deals with the environments in which minerals are formed. Minerals are crystalline substances that are found in their natural state. Minerals are familiar to everyone, as they compose the rocks and mountains around us, as well as the sand on our beaches and the soil in our gardens. Many of the products we use every day are composed of toothpaste, for example, contains microcrystals of mica, calcite and fluorite, while detergents contain such mineral additives as calcite, dolomite, clays and zeolites. Minerals are components of meteorites and planets, while gemstones are nothing more than rough fragments of crystals, unusually transparent or colorful, that have been cut to emphasize their brilliance and transparency. Minerals have always had great importance in our world; from the dawn of history, each step in mankind's development can be measured by the use of metals. Today, minerals are the principal elements of steel and special alloys, and are integral to electronic and communication devices; they ace also used in the space industry and in the manufacture of a great many everyday items. The science of mineralogy came into being in relatively recent times. In order to understand the scientific criteria that governs its principles, one needs to trace the most important steps along its path over the centuries. The oldest use of minerals is related to primitive humans used natural pigments, hematite reds and manganese oxide blacks, to paint the walls of the caves in which they lived. About 5,000 years ago, the Egyptians were making objects from precious metals, using such colored minerals as malachite, lazurite and the emerald variety of beryl. The first texts to deal with mineralogical subjects were those of the Greek Theophrastus, around 370 B.C., and Pliny the Elder 400 years later. With Historio Naturalis , Pliny describes the perfect geometric shapes of crystals, laying the basis for the science of mineralogy. However, it is the German physician and scientist Georgius Agricola who is considered the father of mineralogy. In De Re Metallica ("On Metals"), first printed in 1556, Agricola describes the mining practices of his day in great detail, especially the techniques for exploiting and refining minerals and the procedures involved in the use of fusion to extract metals. Modern crystallography, the study of the forms that compose crystals, was born between the second half of the 1600s and the end of the 1700s, thanks to the contributions of Nicholas Steno, Carangeot and Romé de l'Isle. In 1801, Abbé René-Just Haüy discovered that minerals are composed of countless "molecules" that exactly reproduce the shape of their crystals, anticipating important discoveries that would only be confirmed a century later. During the 19th century, numerous scientists investigated the chemistry of minerals, among them Swedish chemist Jöns Jakob Berzelius, who established the princip1es of modern mineral classification. The beginning of the 20th century marks a fundamental step in the history of mineralogy, with the dlscovecy of the structure of minerals by German physicist Max von Laue in 1912. Experiments performed using X-rays proved for the first time that minerals are composed of atoms precisely arranged according to exact rules. In the early 1960s, electronic microprobe analysis made possible the study of the chemical composition of minerals, and in comparatively short periods of time, enabled accurate chemical analysis of mineral fragments of even the smallest size (down to 4/100,000 of an inch or 0.001 mm). In the early 1970s, another highly advanced instrument, the transmission electron microscope, went into common use in laboratories and universities (at least those able to afford its high cost). Capable of magnifying millions of times, this tool opened a new frontier in mineralogy, allowing the direct observation of the atoms and the structures that compose minerals.
1001 Science Questions Answered - Thryft
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Reader's Digest Association | Reader's Digest Association

1001 Science Questions Answered

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Goodreads rating: 4.46

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Find out everything you want to know about the world around us: our mysterious universe; the human body; the secrets of nature; our changing planet; the everyday world, and the marvels of science and technology. This book will help you keep up with new phenomena and new technology and learn to understand the world around you in a fun and engaging way. Lavishly illustrated, this book is a fund of accessible information for all the family.
The Edge Of The Sky - All You Need To Know About The All-There-Is - Thryft
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From the big bang to black holes, from dark matter to dark energy, from the origins of the universe to its ultimate destiny, The Edge of the Sky tells the story of the most important discoveries and mysteries in modern cosmology -- with a twist. The book's lexicon is limited to the thousand most common words in the English language, excluding physics , energy , galaxy , or even universe . Through the eyes of a fictional scientist (Student-People) hunting for dark matter with one of the biggest telescopes (Big-Seers) on Earth (Home-World), cosmologist Roberto Trotta explores the most important ideas about our universe (All-there-is) in language simple enough for anyone to understand.A unique blend of literary experimentation and science popularization, this delightful book is a perfect gift for any aspiring astronomer. The Edge of the Sky tells the story of the universe on a human scale, and the result is out of this world.
Aluminum Dreams : The Making of Light Modernity - Thryft
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How aluminum enabled a high-speed, gravity-defying American modernity even as other parts of the world paid the price in environmental damage and political turmoil. Aluminum shaped the twentieth century. It enabled high-speed travel and gravity-defying flight. It was the material of a streamlined aesthetic that came to represent modernity. And it became an essential ingredient in industrial and domestic products that ranged from airplanes and cars to designer chairs and artificial Christmas trees. It entered modern homes as packaging, foil, pots and pans and even infiltrated our bodies through food, medicine, and cosmetics. In Aluminum Dreams , Mimi Sheller describes how the materiality and meaning of aluminum transformed modern life and continues to shape the world today. Aluminum, Sheller tells us, changed mobility and mobilized modern life. It enabled air power, the space age and moon landings. Yet, as Sheller makes clear, aluminum was important not only in twentieth-century technology, innovation, architecture, and design but also in underpinning global military power, uneven development, and crucial environmental and health concerns. Sheller describes aluminum's shiny utopia but also its dark side. The unintended consequences of aluminum's widespread use include struggles for sovereignty and resource control in Africa, India, and the Caribbean; the unleashing of multinational corporations; and the pollution of the earth through mining and smelting (and the battle to save it). Using a single material as an entry point to understanding a global history of modernization and its implications for the future, Aluminum Dreams forces us to How do we assemble the material culture of modernity and what are its environmental consequences? Aluminum Dreams includes a generous selection of striking images of iconic aluminum designs, many in color, drawn from advertisements by Alcoa, Bohn, Kaiser, and other major corporations, pamphlets, films, and exhibitions.
Introduction to the Physics of Cohesive Sediment Dynamics in the Marine Environment: Volume 56 - Thryft
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This book is an introduction to the physical processes of cohesive sediment in the marine environment. It focuses on highly dynamic systems, such as estuaries and coastal seas. Processes on the continental shelf are also discussed and attention is given to the effects of chemistry, biology and gas.The process descriptions are based on hydrodynamic and soil mechanic principles, which integrate at the soil-water interface. This approach is substantiated through a classification scheme of sediment occurrences in which distinction is made between cohesive and granular material. Emphasis is also placed on the important interactions between turbulent flow and cohesive sediment suspensions, and on the impact of flow-induced forces on the stability of the seabed. An overview of literature on cohesive sediment dynamics is presented and a number of new developments are highlighted, in particular in relation to floc formation, settling and sedimentation, consolidation, bed failure and liquefaction and erosion of the bed. Moreover, it presents a summary on methods and techniques to measure the various sediment properties necessary to quantify the various parameters in the physical-mathematical model descriptions. A number of examples and case studies have been included.
Storm in a Teacup : The Physics of Everyday Life - Thryft
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Just as Freakonomics brought economics to life, so Storm in a Teacup brings physics into our daily lives and makes it fascinating.What is it that helps both scorpions and cyclists to survive? What do raw eggs and gyroscopes have in common? And why does it matter?In an age of string theory, fluid dynamics and biophysics, it can seem as if the science of our world is only for specialists and academics. Not so, insists Helen Czerski – and in this sparkling new book she explores the patterns and connections that illustrate the grandest theories in the smallest everyday objects and experiences.Linking what makes popcorn pop to Antarctic winds, coffee stains to blood tests or ketchup bottles to aliens in space, every thread you pull in the fabric of everyday life shows you something new about the intricate patterns of our world.Read Storm in a Teacup and you will see and understand the world as you never did before.

Step Into the Wonders of Nature

Discover the enthralling narratives of the natural world with Thryft's Nature collection. Here, you can find works by celebrated authors and environmentalists who bring the splendour of the earth to life. Whether you're passionate about conservation or enchanted by wilderness tales, our selection offers a variety of perspectives and stories. Explore titles that challenge, inspire, and awaken your ecological curiosity.