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Sociology Books

Explore the depths of human society and social behaviour in our extensive Sociology section. From theories and structures, to issues of globalisation and inequality, our selection offers insightful reads for both casual learners and seasoned sociologists. Delve into pivotal works that examine the narratives shaping our societies today.

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Land of Desire: Merchants, Power, and the Rise of a New American Culture
William R. Leach | Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

Land of Desire: Merchants, Power, and the Rise of a New American Culture

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

If you're intrigued by how American consumer culture evolved, "Land of Desire" is a must-read. It's not just an academic exploration; it's an engaging narrative that digs deep into the historical transformation of the United States from the 1880s onward. You'll find yourself captivated by the way William Leach intertwines cultural insights with the rise of new consumer attitudes, making sense of the 'cult of comfort' that has shaped modern America.
Mastering Modern World History - Thryft
Just Arrived

Mastering Modern World History

$9.90

$9.90

86% off est. retail
If modern history often feels like scattered events, this pulls everything into one readable story. Readers usually love how it connects wars, ideologies, empires, crises, and global change without feeling dry or overwhelming. It’s especially good for students or curious general readers who want a solid, big-picture understanding of how today’s world took shape.
Multi America : Essays On Cultural Wars And Cultural Peace - Thryft
Ishmael Reed | Penguin (non-classics)

Multi America : Essays On Cultural Wars And Cultural Peace

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

89% off est. retail
Multi America could be a good read for those interested in exploring the complex issues surrounding America's multiculturalism. The essays address a broad range of topics related to race, assimilation, stereotyping and victimization from the perspectives of African-Americans, Native Americans, Asian-Americans, Italian-Americans, and Irish-Americans. The essays are unpredictable, stimulating, and provocative, and provide readers with authentic and diverse voices that celebrate the cultural richness of America.
Americans of 1776: Daily Life in Revolutionary America - Thryft
James Schouler | Heritage Books, Inc

Americans of 1776: Daily Life in Revolutionary America

$20.90 $4.90 77% off

Goodreads rating: 2.6

$20.90 $4.90 77% off

89% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the vivid tapestry of history, "Americans of 1776" is a must-read. James Schouler’s detailed account brings the era to life, far beyond the battlefields—right into the homes and daily rituals of early Americans. It's like a time machine that gives you a front-row seat to the birth of a nation, outfitting you not just with facts, but with the feel of the period.
The Historical Atlas of the American Revolution - Thryft
Charles Royster, Ian Barnes  | Routledge

The Historical Atlas of the American Revolution

$80.90 $31.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$80.90 $31.90 61% off

90% off est. retail
This atlas isn't just a collection of maps. It's a rich visual narrative of the American Revolution, weaving geography with history to bring the story to life. You'll find the journey of a nation unfurling through pages that chart battles, political turmoil, and the cultural shifts that have shaped modern America. If you relish the idea of exploring the past in a way that is both enlightful and engaging, this book can serve as your time machine.
The American Dream: Stories from the Heart of Our Nation
Dan Rather | William Morrow

The American Dream: Stories from the Heart of Our Nation

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

85% off est. retail
This book is a collection of inspiring stories of ordinary Americans who persevered with determination and hard work to achieve their American Dream. It shows that the American Dream is still alive and well, and accessible to anyone who is willing to work for it. The book emphasizes the inclusive nature of the American Dream, highlighting the wide range of aspirations and ambitions that it encompasses. It is a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration to follow their dreams and realizing their fullest potential.
A Proper Sense of Honor: Service and Sacrifice in George Washington's Army - Thryft
Caroline Cox | The University Of North Carolina Press

A Proper Sense of Honor: Service and Sacrifice in George Washington's Army

$27.90 $6.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$27.90 $6.90 75% off

90% off est. retail
If you're a history buff intrigued by the ethos of the American Revolution, this dive into the lives of George Washington's army could offer you a fresh perspective. Caroline Cox not only recounts historical events but delves deep into the personal stories of those who served, uncovering the essence of honor and sacrifice that defined a nation's early struggles. This book brings an intimate, human touch to a pivotal time in American history.
The Rough Guide to Los Angeles 3
Jeff D. Dickey | Rough Guides

The Rough Guide to Los Angeles 3

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

Los Angeles is a city of paradoxes—glittering yet gritty, superficial yet substantial—and "The Rough Guide to Los Angeles 3" is like a key that helps unlock its intricate puzzles. If you're looking for a guide that sidesteps the clichés and shows the City of Angels in all its chaotic splendor, this book captures that perfect blend of practical information and evocative storytelling. You'll come to appreciate LA's sprawling diversity and find hidden gems beyond the well-trodden Hollywood Walk of Fame.
What Truth Sounds Like: Robert F. Kennedy, James Baldwin, and Our Unfinished Conversation About Race in America
Michael Eric Dyson | St. Martin's Press

What Truth Sounds Like: Robert F. Kennedy, James Baldwin, and Our Unfinished Conversation About Race in America

$15.90 $12.90 19% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$15.90 $12.90 19% off

"What Truth Sounds Like" is a compelling read that delves deep into the heart of America's ongoing conversation about race and justice. It weaves historical events with current societal challenges, examining the roles of various key figures and the importance of understanding and empathy in policy-making. If the dynamics of race, politics, and social change intrigue you, then Michael Eric Dyson's insights could offer you a profound and stirring experience.
100 Essays From Time
Don Knefel | Allyn & Bacon

100 Essays From Time

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

Goodreads rating: 2.5

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

89% off est. retail
If you're keen on diving into the shifts in culture and politics that shaped the world from the 1960s through the early 90s, "100 Essays from Time" is like a time machine on paper. With perspectives and discussions captured during those transformative years, you'll find wisdom, nostalgia, and perhaps even a new understanding of the present through the lens of the past. It's for someone who appreciates the craft of essay writing and values historical insight.
CliffsNotes on Paton's Cry, the Beloved Country
Alan Paton, Eva Fitzwater, CliffsNotes  | Cliffs Notes

CliffsNotes on Paton's Cry, the Beloved Country

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

57% off est. retail
If you're tackling Alan Paton's 'Cry, The Beloved Country' and feeling a bit lost, this CliffsNotes companion could be a lifesaver. It provides context and simplifies complex characters and themes, making your reading experience richer and more accessible. Ideal for students seeking a deeper understanding or readers interested in the historical and literary significance of the novel.
How Teachers Taught Constancy and Change in American Classrooms, 1890-1990
Larry Cuban | Teachers College Press

How Teachers Taught Constancy and Change in American Classrooms, 1890-1990

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

89% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the ebbs and flows of educational methods and passionate about the complexities of classroom reform, "How Teachers Taught" offers a deep dive into the resilience of traditional teaching against waves of change. Larry Cuban doesn't just narrate a century's worth of pedagogical trends; he critically evaluates their progression and provides a thoughtful perspective on where education might head next. It's a read for those who appreciate a blend of historical context with a sharp analysis of classroom dynamics.
Captors and Captives: The 1704 French and Indian Raid on Deerfield - Thryft
Kevin Sweeney, Evan Haefeli  | University Of Massachusetts Press

Captors and Captives: The 1704 French and Indian Raid on Deerfield

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

90% off est. retail
If you're interested in the complexities of early American history, "Captors and Captives" is a book that could greatly enhance your understanding. It's not just a recount of events; it goes deeper, offering insights into the personal experiences and cultural backgrounds of all parties involved, which is rare in historical accounts. The book's strength lies in its ability to humanize history and provide a balanced view, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the nuanced interactions between different communities during this tumultuous period.
Community and Social Change in America
Thomas Bender | Johns Hopkins University Press

Community and Social Change in America

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.42

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

88% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the ever-evolving concept of community, especially through the lens of history and urban studies, "Community and Social Change in America" by Thomas Bender could provide a fascinating perspective. Bender challenges the notion that urbanization smothers the spirit of community, presenting an argument that's as relevant today as it was when the book was first published. It's a read that could deepen your understanding of the social fabric that binds us, despite the rapid industrial and urban transformations.
Paradox of Plenty: A Social History of Eating in Modern America
Harvey Levenstein | Oxford University Press

Paradox of Plenty: A Social History of Eating in Modern America

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're curious about how America's culinary landscape evolved into what it is today, "Paradox of Plenty" offers a fascinating journey. Levenstein delves into the effects of economic upheavals, political shifts, and cultural changes on what and how Americans eat. This book would serve as a captivating read for food enthusiasts and history buffs interested in the social dynamics that shape our dining tables.
Disabling Amer - Thryft
Richard E. Morgan | Basic Books

Disabling Amer

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

"Disabling America" dives deep into how society constructs disability, offering an eye-opening perspective that challenges us to reconsider our preconceived notions. It's not just academic; it's a book that could change the way you see the world around you, enriching your understanding of inclusivity and diversity.
From the Ashes: A Spiritual Response to the Attack on America: Experience, Strength, and Hope from Spiritual Leaders and Extraordinary Citizens
Desmond Mpilo Tutu, Neale Donald Walsch, Beliefnet  | Rodale Books

From the Ashes: A Spiritual Response to the Attack on America: Experience, Strength, and Hope from Spiritual Leaders and Extraordinary Citizens

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

In the wake of a shared national tragedy, this book acts as a balm for the wounded collective spirit. Esteemed spiritual leaders such as Desmond Tutu and Deepak Chopra, along with heartfelt contributions from others, provide insight and guidance. It's a tapestry of hope and healing meant to console and inspire those searching for meaning amid chaos.
Political Repression in Modern America from 1870 to 1976 - Thryft
Robert Justin Goldstein | University Of Illinois Press

Political Repression in Modern America from 1870 to 1976

$23.98 $6.90 71% off

Goodreads rating: 4.64

$23.98 $6.90 71% off

90% off est. retail
If you're captivated by the interplay of politics and civil liberties, Robert Justin Goldstein's "Political Repression in Modern America" will likely resonate with you. This meticulous account pulls back the curtain on America's less-celebrated narrative, challenging the view of the U.S. as a bastion of unabridged freedoms. It's an eye-opening journey through history that's as informative as it is sobering, spotlighting the resilience of dissent in the face of authoritative suppression.
Matawan and Aberdeen: Of Town and Field - Thryft
Helen B. Henderson, Matawan Historical Society  | Arcadia Publishing

Matawan and Aberdeen: Of Town and Field

$13.90 $3.90 72% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$13.90 $3.90 72% off

89% off est. retail
If you're drawn to local histories that offer a window into America's evolving small towns, you'll enjoy "Matawan and Aberdeen – Of Town and Field." The book delivers a rich narrative of how a modest agricultural and shipping hub grew into a dynamic suburban locality. Plus, its emphasis on preservation efforts underscores a community's love for its heritage, making it a heartwarming read for those interested in the cultural tapestry of America.
The Fifties - Thryft
David Halberstam | Ballantine Books

The Fifties

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

78% off est. retail
If you're curious about the undercurrents that shaped modern America, "The Fifties" is a treasure trove just for you. David Halberstam masterfully connects the dots between the decade's tranquil facade and its profound societal shifts. You'll emerge from this book with a profound understanding of the events and personalities that laid the groundwork for the country you know today.
Understanding Race and Ethnic Relations - Thryft
Vincent N. Parrillo | Pearson

Understanding Race and Ethnic Relations

$20.90 $5.90 72% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$20.90 $5.90 72% off

96% off est. retail
This book would be an insightful read for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of race and ethnicity in the United States. It offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the interpersonal and larger contextual dynamics at play, and explores the various factors that contribute to intergroup conflict and prejudice, including differences in culture, class, and power. The book also delves into various middle-range conflict and interactionist theories, and presents a holistic sociological perspective on ethnic consciousness and diversity in contemporary America. Overall, a must-read for those seeking to broaden their understanding of race relations.
Dream: The Words and Inspiration of Martin Luther King, Jr. - Me We
Desmond Tutu, Martin Luther King Jr.  | Blue Mountain Arts

Dream: The Words and Inspiration of Martin Luther King, Jr. - Me We

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

If you’re moved by the power of words that have shaped history, "Dream - The Words and Inspiration of Martin Luther King, Jr. - Me We," will resonate with you. This collection captures the essence of King's wisdom and his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. It’s a stirring reminder of the impact one voice can have on the world.
Coming Of Age - America In The Twentieth Century - Thryft
Virginia Scharff, Michael Schaller, Robert D. Schulzinger  | Cengage Learning

Coming Of Age - America In The Twentieth Century

$29.90

Goodreads rating: 2.25

$29.90

90% off est. retail
Recommended for history enthusiasts seeking comprehensive insight.
Steep: The Precipitous Rise of the Tea Party
Lawrence Rosenthal, Christine Trost  | University Of California Press

Steep: The Precipitous Rise of the Tea Party

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

Goodreads rating: 3.42

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

83% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the shifts in American political landscapes, "Steep" offers an in-depth exploration of the Tea Party movement. Lawrence Rosenthal and Christine Trost provide a comprehensive look at how this faction rose to prominence and its significant influence on conservative politics. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone keen on dissecting modern political strategies or movements.
The Tea Party and the Remaking of Republican Conservatism
Vanessa Williamson, Theda Skocpol  | Oxford University Press

The Tea Party and the Remaking of Republican Conservatism

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

84% off est. retail
If the shifting dynamics within US politics intrigue you, "The Tea Party and the Remaking of Republican Conservatism" offers a profound dive into the ideological evolution of the Republican Party. Skocpol and Williamson deliver a scholarly yet accessible analysis, pulling away the media's dramatized veneer to give you an educative perspective on the Tea Party's impact.
Crime Movies
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Carlos Clarens, Foster Hirsch  | Da Capo Press

Crime Movies

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

76% off est. retail
This book could captivate you if you're fascinated by the gritty transformation of crime in American film over the years. It's not just a study of films; it's a dive into the changing societal views and the impact that cinema has had on public perception. If you're passionate about film history or intrigued by the infamous glamorization of crime figures, Carlos Clarens' journey through celluloid's most notorious tales will leave you both informed and engrossed.
That Used to Be Us - What Went Wrong with America - and How It Can Come Back
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Thomas L. Friedman, Michael Mandelbaum  | Little Brown And Company

That Used to Be Us - What Went Wrong with America - and How It Can Come Back

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

88% off est. retail
If you're wondering about the shifts in American society, this book might be your cup of tea. Friedman and Mandelbaum offer a compelling narrative that slices through the fog of political and economic discourse. They do not just present problems but offer a lens of optimism to view America's potential for revitalization, a read that balances critique with hope.
The Culture of Contentment - Thryft
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John Kenneth Galbraith | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

The Culture of Contentment

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

71% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intricate relationship between politics, economics, and social stagnation, "The Culture of Contentment" could be an insightful read for you. Galbraith masterfully uses the climate of the late 20th century to probe into the sense of satisfaction that can often precede serious societal challenges. Whether you're a history buff or just keen on understanding the cyclic nature of contentment and crisis, this book will offer a thought-provoking analysis.
Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Power, and the Past
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Sidney W. Mintz | Beacon Press

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

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

70% off est. retail
If you're curious about the intersection of culture, power, and the food on your plate, "Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom" is a tour de force that delves into the deep meanings behind eating practices. Sidney Mintz gives you a scholarly yet accessible perspective on how food choices are intricately linked with history and economy, enriching your understanding of American culinary identity.
Food, Society, and Environment
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Charles L. Harper, Bryan F. Lebeau  | Prentice Hall

Food, Society, and Environment

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90

If you're curious about the intersection of our eating habits with societal shifts and environmental sustainability, "Food, Society, and Environment" might just feed your curiosity. It's not just a narrative of food through the ages - it's an insightful dissection of how our plates reflect and affect the world we live in, from social justice to ecological impacts. For anyone with a hunger for understanding the broader implications of what's on our forks, this book is a hearty meal for thought.
The Birth of the Modern: World Society 1815-30
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Paul Johnson | Weidenfeld & Nicholson

The Birth of the Modern: World Society 1815-30

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're intrigued by how today's world came to be, "The Birth of the Modern: World Society 1815-1830" is a compelling read. Paul Johnson dives deep into pivotal historical moments, making clear connections between the events of the past and the standards of the modern era. His narrative is not just a list of dates and facts; it's a story about the birth of modern society that continues to shape our world.
American Conspiracies: Lies, Lies, and More Dirty Lies that the Government Tells Us - Thryft
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Dick Russell, Jesse Ventura  | Skyhorse

American Conspiracies: Lies, Lies, and More Dirty Lies that the Government Tells Us

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$6.34

83% off est. retail
This book is a thought-provoking and eye-opening exploration of government conspiracy theories. Jesse Ventura, with his bold and no-holds-barred approach, delves into the wide gap between what the American government knows and what it reveals to the people. He questions the official narratives surrounding major historical events like the assassinations of Lincoln, the Kennedys, and Martin Luther King, as well as the 9/11 attacks. Ventura's book is a must-read for those who are curious about the truth behind political cover-ups and the role of the media in perpetuating deception. Be prepared to have your beliefs challenged and your perspective forever altered.
Powerful Social Studies for Elementary Students - Thryft
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Jere Brophy, Janet Alleman  | Wadsworth Publishing

Powerful Social Studies for Elementary Students

$17.56 $12.29 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$17.56 $12.29 30% off

81% off est. retail
"Powerful Social Studies for Elementary Students" is a great resource for both pre-service and in-service teachers who want to improve their skills in teaching history, geography, and social sciences. The authors provide practical guidance on how to select content, plan instruction and incorporate developmentally appropriate content and methods to help students become active civic members. What sets this book apart is the authors' approach to organizing the curriculum, which retains the most important topics and teaches them in more coherent and powerful ways. Readers may find this book helpful for gaining practical strategies on how to teach social studies content that promotes positive student outcomes.
Stayin' Alive : The 1970s and the Last Days of the Working Class - Thryft
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Jefferson R. Cowie | The New Press

Stayin' Alive : The 1970s and the Last Days of the Working Class

$11.83 $8.28 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$11.83 $8.28 30% off

81% off est. retail
This book provides an in-depth understanding of the 1970s cultural and political history, highlighting how it shaped modern times. It explores the working class experience and how it affected political and economic upheavals. The book is a great read for history buffs as well as those interested in social justice issues. The author's ability to connect politics to culture through music, film, and TV lore makes the book engaging and edgy. Overall, a thought-provoking and insightful read.
Places Where Teachers Are Taught - Thryft
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John I. Goodlad, Roger Soder, Kenneth A. Sirotnik  | Jossey-bass

Places Where Teachers Are Taught

$17.96 $12.57 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$17.96 $12.57 30% off

85% off est. retail
This book provides a comprehensive historical perspective on teacher education in the United States, using case histories of diverse education programs to reveal the origins of attitudes and practices that shape teacher education today. It's ideal for those interested in the history and evolution of American education.
The Uprooted - Thryft
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Oscar Handlin | Little, Brown And Company

The Uprooted

$10.30 $7.21 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.58

$10.30 $7.21 30% off

79% off est. retail
The Uprooted could be a good read for those interested in understanding not only the historical facts of immigration but also the human experiences of those who lived it. Oscar Handlin effectively portrays the hopes, yearnings, and profound influence of immigrants on the New World. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to explore and appreciate the rich cultural history of America.
Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America - Thryft
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David Hackett Fischer | Oxford University Press

Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America

$13.10 $7.86 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$13.10 $7.86 40% off

97% off est. retail
Albion's Seed is a great read for a history enthusiast, particularly those interested in the formation of America's regional cultures. Fischer's work effectively outlines the folkways and cultural differences between early British settlers in America, and how they have persisted to varying degrees in different areas of the country. This book is a valuable resource for understanding American cultural history, and would be a particularly good fit for those studying the social sciences or anyone with a keen interest in American regionalism.

Understanding Social Dynamics

At Thryft, our Sociology section serves as a gateway to understanding complex social structures and behaviours. We offer a wide range of titles covering key sociological theories, modern societal challenges, by influential thinkers. Sociology engages with real world issues, functioning as a lens to view personal and collective social identities. Whether you’re pursuing personal growth or specific academic interests, our collection has something for everyone. Connect with these enlightening works today.