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Science

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A History of the World in 6 Glasses - Thryft
Tom Standage | Bloomsbury

A History of the World in 6 Glasses

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

85% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

Imagine sipping on a drink while time-traveling through humanity's milestones—this is what Tom Standage's "A History of the World in 6 Glasses" offers. It's a creative take that will quench your thirst for knowledge about how agriculture, politics, and global trade are tightly interwoven with the evolution of our favorite drinks. It's for everyone who enjoys a blend of history with the everyday pleasures of eating and drinking.
Prisoners of Geography
New
Tim Marshall | Elliott & Thompson

Prisoners of Geography

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$8.90

50% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever wondered why countries act the way they do, "Prisoners of Geography" can illuminate many of the mysteries behind global politics. Tim Marshall explains with clarity how physical geography shapes the decisions of world leaders and affects international relationships. Through surprising insights and compelling maps, this book will enrich your understanding of current events and historical conflicts, making you see the news with a whole new perspective.
How the World Thinks: A Global History of Philosophy
Julian Baggini | Granta Books

How the World Thinks: A Global History of Philosophy

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

54% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"How the World Thinks" isn't just a book; it's a cultural odyssey. If you're intrigued by how different societies tackle life's big questions, then this could be the eye-opener you're looking for. Julian Baggini doesn't just rehash Western concepts; he delves into the philosophies of Japan, the Muslim world, and more, challenging your perspective and perhaps changing the way you see the world's intellectual landscape.
Voices From Chernobyl: The Oral History of a Nuclear Disaster
Svetlana Alexievich, Alma Lapinskienė, Keith Gessen  | Picador

Voices From Chernobyl: The Oral History of a Nuclear Disaster

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.41

$9.90

In stock: Very Good

A recommended read for those seeking insights into one of the most catastrophic nuclear disasters in history, in the form of first-hand accounts from residents who survived. The book provides a deeply emotional and harrowing portrayal of the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster, leaving readers with a greater appreciation for the bravery and resilience of the people who lived through it.
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind
Jeffrey Keeten, Yuval Noah Harari, John Purcell, Haim Watzman  | Harper Perennial

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$15.90

55% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"Sapiens" isn't just another history book; it's a thought-provoking exploration of human kind, our achievements, and our trajectory. It compels us to question our role in the world and the future we're crafting. The way Yuval Noah Harari intertwines science and history offers a fresh perspective on our species' past, making you ponder deeply about what it means to be human, and what lies ahead for us.
The Disappearing Spoon and Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements
New
Sam Kean | Black Swan Books, Limited

The Disappearing Spoon and Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$9.90

53% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're fascinated by how the minutiae of the scientific world can ripple out into grand, human stories, "The Disappearing Spoon" is tailor-made for you. It isn't just about the elements; it's about their roles in history's most intriguing narratives—from Gandhi's political movements to the dark corners of espionage. This book brings the periodic table to life, merging chemistry with the arts and political history in stories that are as educational as they are entertaining.
At Home: A Short History of Private Life
Bill Bryson | Doubleday

At Home: A Short History of Private Life

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$8.90

In stock: Well Read

"At Home" is an entertaining and illuminating journey into the history of everyday life, from the comfort of one's own home. Through the lens of his old rectory in Norfolk, author Bill Bryson explores the origins of architecture, electricity, food preservation, epidemics, and more. His research is extensive and his storytelling is witty, ensuring that readers will not only learn something new, but also be thoroughly entertained.
The Disappearing Spoon and Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements
New
Sam Kean | Back Bay Books

The Disappearing Spoon and Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$9.90

69% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're intrigued by science but love a good story, "The Disappearing Spoon" is a treasure trove you shouldn't miss. Sam Kean has a knack for transforming the seemingly arcane details of the periodic table into a tapestry of captivating tales. Each element comes alive with its own narrative, full of human drama and breakthroughs that shaped our world. This is the kind of book that makes you see the building blocks of the universe in a wholly new, and entirely fascinating, light.
The Potato: How the Humble Spud Rescued the Western World
Larry Zuckerman | North Point Press

The Potato: How the Humble Spud Rescued the Western World

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

69% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're fascinated by how something as unassuming as the potato could revolutionize the world, this book is a treat. Larry Zuckerman peels back the layers of history to reveal the potato's surprising and multifaceted role in shaping our past. It's a narrative that's rich with detail yet digestible, perfect for anyone interested in food history or the underappreciated catalysts of societal change.
Ship of Gold in the Deep Blue Sea - Thryft
Gary Kinder | Atlantic Monthly Pr

Ship of Gold in the Deep Blue Sea

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

88% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If the fusion of history and deep-sea adventure tickles your fancy, "Ship of Gold in the Deep Blue Sea" might just be the treasure you're looking to unearth on your reading shelf. It's a compelling narrative that binds the tragic past with the thrill of modern discovery, telling a human tale through the lens of technological triumph. The juxtaposition of 19th-century gold rush fervor with 20th-century ingenuity creates a riveting account that transcends time—you're sure to be anchored to each page.
Millikan's School: A History of the California Institute of Technology - Thryft
Judith R. Goodstein | W W Norton & Co Inc

Millikan's School: A History of the California Institute of Technology

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

90% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of science education and the development of one of the world's most renowned universities. Through detailed accounts of the contributions of its faculty and graduate students to various fields, readers gain insight into the growth of Caltech, and its crucial role in shifting the boundaries of scientific knowledge.
Where the Sea Breaks Its Back: The Epic Story of the Early Naturalist Georg Steller and the Russian Exploration of Alaska
Corey Ford | Alaska Northwest Books

Where the Sea Breaks Its Back: The Epic Story of the Early Naturalist Georg Steller and the Russian Exploration of Alaska

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

67% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're fascinated by tales of the unknown and the drive of human curiosity, this book offers an intimate glimpse into the adventurous life of Georg Steller amidst the harsh yet awe-inspiring Alaskan wilderness. It's not just a biography; it's an adventure that brings history alive with the thrill of discovery and the bitter fight against the elements. This book might just stir in you the spirit of exploration.
1434 : The Year a Chinese Fleet Sailed to Italy and Ignited the Renaissance - Thryft
Gavin Menzies | Harper

1434 : The Year a Chinese Fleet Sailed to Italy and Ignited the Renaissance

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

80% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you are interested in history, specifically the Renaissance and its origins, this book might be a great read for you. Through significant research, Menzies provides compelling evidence that challenges the traditional, Western-centric view on the Renaissance. His argument is centered on the idea that it was, in fact, a sophisticated delegation from China that arrived in Tuscany in 1434 wielding knowledge of math, printing, genetics, and much more that sparked the revolution. If you want to learn about the origins of Western civilization and how the meeting of two great cultures shaped the modern world as we know it, this book could be an excellent pick.
E=Mc²: A Biography of the World's Most Famous Equation
New
Ralph L. Fowler, David Bodanis  | Walker And Company

E=Mc²: A Biography of the World's Most Famous Equation

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$8.90

In stock: Well Read

If the sheer ubiquity of E=mc² baffles you, and its deep impact on our world intrigues you, "E=mc²: A Biography of the World's Most Famous Equation" is your must-read. David Bodanis makes the profound accessible, transforming a symbol of complexity into a compelling narrative of human endeavor and intellectual triumph. This isn't just for science buffs; it's a book that anyone curious about the forces shaping our universe would thoroughly enjoy.
A History of the Modern World From 1917 to the 1980s
Paul Johnson | Orion Publishing Co

A History of the Modern World From 1917 to the 1980s

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

78% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by the seismic shifts that forged the contemporary world, "A History of the Modern World" offers a compelling narrative from a widely respected historian, Paul Johnson. It's thorough yet accessible, providing a panoramic view of how events from 1917 to the 1980s have shaped our current geopolitical landscape. This book is a significant read for anyone fascinated by history's impact on today's society.
The Clock
Wil Mara | Franklin Watts

The Clock

$19.90 $11.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$19.90 $11.90 40% off

75% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

If you're curious about how a simple invention has drastically redefined our relationship with time, "The Clock" takes you on that journey. It offers a clear understanding of how our daily lives revolve around this pivotal device. A read that merges history with the profound shift in cultural practices, perfect for anyone who loves to ponder the subtle ways technology shapes our world.
12 Books That Changed the World
Melvyn Bragg | Sceptre

12 Books That Changed the World

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.53

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

In stock: Well Read

Recommendation: - This book is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to explore the hidden influence of literature on society. Melvyn Bragg artfully reveals the lesser-known stories behind famous works, showcasing the transformative power of books. From revolutionary feminist texts to ground-breaking scientific treatises, 12 Books That Changed the World will transport you through time and leave you in awe of the written word's immense impact on human progress.
The Voynich Manuscript: The Unsolved Riddle of an Extraordinary Book Which Has Defied Interpretation for Centuries
Rob Churchill, Gerry Kennedy  | Orion Publishing

The Voynich Manuscript: The Unsolved Riddle of an Extraordinary Book Which Has Defied Interpretation for Centuries

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

In stock: Well Read

If you're fascinated by codes, languages, and historical mysteries, "The Voynich Manuscript" is a book that speaks directly to your curiosity. Imagine a text that has baffled the best minds for over a century, nestled within illustrations that offer more questions than answers. Diving into this book is like getting an exclusive glimpse into one of history's most tantalizing puzzles.
Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time
Dava Sobel | Fourth Estate

Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time

$21.90 $13.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$21.90 $13.90 37% off

In stock: Well Read

"Longitude" is a gripping tale that showcases the intersection of ingenuity, persistence, and science. By following John Harrison's quest to track longitude at sea, it stitches together an unlikely victory that changed navigation forever. If the combination of historical narrative with scientific breakthrough fascinates you, this book unwraps that blend in a storytelling style that's as captivating as it is enlightening.
The Victorian Internet: The Remarkable Story of the Telegraph and the Nineteenth Century's On-line Pioneers
Tom Standage | Berkley Trade

The Victorian Internet: The Remarkable Story of the Telegraph and the Nineteenth Century's On-line Pioneers

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

77% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're fascinated by how today's hyper-connected world came to be, "The Victorian Internet" is an engaging tale that will deepen your appreciation for modern technology. Tom Standage offers a surprisingly relatable historical account that makes you reconsider your own use of technology by revealing the telegraph's transformative role in society – very much the social media of its day.
Pox : Genius, Madness, And The Mysteries Of Syphilis - Thryft
Deborah Hayden | Basic Books

Pox : Genius, Madness, And The Mysteries Of Syphilis

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

88% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

Imagine looking at history's luminaries through a new lens – that's "Pox" for you. Hayden intricately weaves the untold impacts of syphilis on brilliant minds. Not only does it offer fresh biographical insights, but it also challenges how we interpret their legacies. The mix of scandal, health, and genius might just redefine your view of the past.
Salt: A World History
Sold out
Mark Kurlansky | Penguin Books

Salt: A World History

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$8.90

66% off est. retail

Out of stock

Salt is a unique history book that explores how this one ingredient has shaped civilization from the beginning. It's a fascinating read that's full of intriguing details, colorful characters, and surprising facts. Whether you're interested in history, food, or just looking for a great read, Salt is sure to captivate you and leave you with a new appreciation for this essential ingredient.
About Time : A History of Civilization in Twelve Clocks - Thryft
Sold out
David Rooney | Penguin

About Time : A History of Civilization in Twelve Clocks

$4.70

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$4.70

76% off est. retail

Out of stock

The measurement of time has always been essential to human civilization, from early Roman sundials to the advent of GPS. But while we have one eye on the time every day, are we aware of the power clocks have given governments, military leaders and business owners, and how they have shaped our lives and our world?In this spectacularly far-reaching book, David Rooney narrates a history of timekeeping and civilization in twelve concise chapters. Over their course, we meet the most epochal inventions in horological history, from medieval water clocks to Renaissance hourglasses, and from stock-exchange timestamps to satellites in Earth's orbit. We discover how clocks have helped people navigate the globe and build empires, but also, on occasion, taken us to the brink of destruction.This is the story of time, and the story of time is the story of us.
The Plague Cycle: The Unending War Between Humanity and Infectious Disease
Sold out
Charles Kenny | Simon & Schuster

The Plague Cycle: The Unending War Between Humanity and Infectious Disease

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$13.90

Out of stock

Imagine understanding the undercurrent that has shaped civilizations: infectious diseases. "The Plague Cycle" by Charles Kenny isn't just a history book; it's a mirror that reflects the enduring struggle between humanity and the microscopic forces that have influenced our societies, economies, and the very growth of civilizations themselves. Drawing connections across time, Kenny offers a resonant perspective on the past, while shedding light on our present challenges, especially in the context of recent global events. If you're curious about the intersection of health, history, and human progress, this book adds a compelling layer to your understanding.
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind
Sold out
Yuval Noah Harari, Jeffrey Keeten  | Vintage

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

$8.31

Goodreads rating: 4.37

$8.31

66% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're intrigued by the story of humanity and want to understand how we became the dominant species on Earth, "Sapiens" is the perfect book for you. Through a captivating narrative, Harari takes you on a journey spanning thousands of years, examining what makes us unique as a species. From our ability to create powerful myths and cooperate in large numbers, to the impact we've had on the planet, "Sapiens" offers a thought-provoking perspective that will challenge and inspire you in equal measure.
The Tulip
Sold out
Anna Pavord | Bloomsbury

The Tulip

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 3.41

$18.90

Out of stock

If you've ever found yourself captivated by how a simple thing can shape history, "The Tulip" might just be for you. This isn't just gardening—it's an exploration of wealth, beauty, and fleeting passions. Delve into the tulip's influence from the Ottoman Empire to Dutch Tulipmania; it's a narrative that's as richly layered as the petals of the flower it describes. Perfect for those who appreciate history, economics, and the power of nature's influence on human society.
Early Indians: The Story of Our Ancestors and Where We Came From
Sold out
Tony Joseph | Juggernaut

Early Indians: The Story of Our Ancestors and Where We Came From

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$15.90

61% off est. retail

Out of stock

Imagine reaching deep into the past, uncovering the origins of the very land you tread. "Early Indians" offers that time-traveling experience with scientific precision and engaging storytelling. Tony Joseph diligently stitches together genetic findings, archaeological evidence, and linguistic studies to piece together a story of ancient migrations that shaped the Indian subcontinent. It's a captivating read not just for history buffs but for anyone curious about the diverse tapestry of human ancestry.
Perfect Red
Sold out
Amy Butler Greenfield | Harper Perennial

Perfect Red

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

70% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're enthralled by the interplay of history, commerce, and science, 'Perfect Red' will captivate your imagination. It's not just a dive into the vibrant hue that revolutionized fashion and status; it's also a sweeping adventure across continents, teeming with espionage and ambition. The dye's story is an unexpected lens through which to view the past, and Greenfield's narrative, richly detailed and paced like a well-crafted novel, brings to life a treaty-tangled chase that's as colorful as the pigment it chases.
The Bone Chests: Unlocking the Secrets of the Anglo-Saxons
Sold out
Cat Jarman | William Collins

The Bone Chests: Unlocking the Secrets of the Anglo-Saxons

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$13.90

62% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you have a fascination with the birth of nations and a curiosity about the distant past, "The Bone Chests" is an intriguing journey for you. This book combines bioarchaeology with gripping storytelling to unravel the origins of England. Cat Jarman's expertise shines as she threads together tales of royals, vikings, and conquest, all originating from a startling discovery in a historic cathedral. It's a unique lens on history that's as much about the people of the past as it is about the methods used to uncover their stories.
At Home : A Short History of Private Life - Thryft
Sold out
Bryson Bill | Black Swan

At Home : A Short History of Private Life

$7.73

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$7.73

76% off est. retail

Out of stock

"At Home" provides a delightful and insightful journey through the history of human civilization via the rooms of a single house, revealing the hidden connections between ordinary objects and world-changing events. It is perfect for anyone who is curious about how the things we take for granted today came to be.
DK Eyewitness Books: Spy : Discover the World of Espionage from the Early Spymasters to the Electronic Surveillance of Today - Thryft
Sold out
Richard Platt | Dk Children

DK Eyewitness Books: Spy : Discover the World of Espionage from the Early Spymasters to the Electronic Surveillance of Today

$7.74

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$7.74

71% off est. retail

Out of stock

The book offers an intriguing blend of visually-rich information and in-depth coverage of espionage history that makes it a unique guide to spy culture. Readers will gain valuable insights into spying techniques, spy gadgets, and secrets that have defined spying over the years.
The Potato: From the Andes in the Sixteenth Century to Fish and Chips, the Story of How a Vegetable Changed History
Sold out
Larry Zuckerman | London : Macmillan

The Potato: From the Andes in the Sixteenth Century to Fish and Chips, the Story of How a Vegetable Changed History

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$8.90

Out of stock

If you're fascinated by how a single crop can influence the world, "The Potato" will take you on an intriguing journey through time and cuisine. This book combines history with cultural studies, exploring how the humble potato left its mark from the Andes to modern-day fish and chips. It's great for anyone interested in the unexpected impacts of agriculture on global history.
The Story of Philosophy
Sold out
Bryan Magee | Dk

The Story of Philosophy

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$8.90

Out of stock

If you've ever been curious about how the great minds like Plato, Aristotle, and Nietzsche viewed the world, 'The Story of Philosophy' is like a time machine for thought. It not only presents the history of philosophy but does so through an engaging narrative that weaves in the lives of the philosophers themselves. You'll get more than just theories; you'll understand the people behind them, making the philosophical concepts more relatable and memorable.
Over the Edge of the World : Magellan's Terrifying Circumnavigation of the Globe - Thryft
Sold out
Laurence Bergreen | Mariner Books

Over the Edge of the World : Magellan's Terrifying Circumnavigation of the Globe

$11.81

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$11.81

73% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommended for history buffs and adventure-seekers, this book provides an in-depth account of Magellan's iconic journey, including his ambitions, conflicts, and discovery of the Spice Islands. The author's use of first-person accounts and vivid descriptions gives readers a personal insight into the dangers faced by Magellan and his crew.
The Oracle: The Lost Secrets and Hidden Message of Ancient Delphi - Thryft
Sold out
William J. Broad | Penguin Press (london)

The Oracle: The Lost Secrets and Hidden Message of Ancient Delphi

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

85% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're intrigued by the interplay between ancient wisdom and modern science, "The Oracle" is a compelling read. William J. Broad masterfully bridges the gap by revealing how scientists used historical texts and geological advancements to demystify the Oracle of Delphi. It's a true detective story that combines mythology, history, and science to solve one of the ancient world's lingering puzzles.