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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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I Am a Filipino Maid
Loo Bee Geok | Yong Huat Press

I Am a Filipino Maid

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

If you're curious about the real, often unseen lives of people who sustain our households, this book will give you a raw and personal perspective. Loo Bee Geok articulates the experience with a level of intimacy that might change how you view domestic help. It's an eye-opener and a heart-toucher, perfect for those who appreciate stories of resilience and strength.
Healing Cambodia One Child at a Time: The Story of Krousar Thmey, a New Family
Bénito Duchâteau-Arminjon | Didier Millet

Healing Cambodia One Child at a Time: The Story of Krousar Thmey, a New Family

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$10.90

47% off est. retail
If you're drawn to tales of humanity and altruism in the face of adversity, then "Healing Cambodia One Child at a Time" will deeply resonate with you. It's an authentic account of individual sacrifice, illuminating how one person's vision and dedication can catalyze monumental change, even amidst the ruins left by war and political turmoil. Benoît Duchâteau-Arminjon's story isn't just inspiring; it's a testament to the power of hope and the tangible impact of humanitarian work.
Deer Hunting with Jesus: Guns, Votes, Debt and Delusion in Redneck America
Joe Bageant | Portobello Books

Deer Hunting with Jesus: Guns, Votes, Debt and Delusion in Redneck America

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

73% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the socio-political landscape of rural America, "Deer Hunting With Jesus" offers a raw and eye-opening perspective. It's a deep dive into the heart of working-class struggles, deftly combining humor with stark reality, giving voice to those often unheard in mainstream narratives. An essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities beneath the surface of 'redneck' America.
Father Courage - What Happens When Men Put Family First - Thryft
Suzanne Braun Levine | Harcourt

Father Courage - What Happens When Men Put Family First

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.44

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

89% off est. retail
This book offers a unique perspective on the difficulties men face in balancing career and fatherhood, and provides practical solutions to cope with the pressures. Readers will appreciate the author's thorough research and empathetic approach towards this important topic.
Living With Chernobyl: Ira's Story
Linda Walker | Ticktock Publishing Ltd

Living With Chernobyl: Ira's Story

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$18.90

This book will touch you deeply with Ira's personal account amidst the backdrop of the Chernobyl disaster. As you learn about the event's harrowing effects on health and environment, you'll also encounter the commendable efforts of charities, giving a rounded perspective that's both intimate and informative. It’s a meaningful read that may inspire you to make a difference.
The Delhi Walla - Portrait
Mayank Austen Soofi | Harper Collins

The Delhi Walla - Portrait

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$11.90

If you're fascinated by the rich tapestry of urban life, this book is like a walk through Delhi, unveiling its soul piece by piece. It’s for those yearning to understand the city beyond tourist spots, through stories of its people, food, culture, and streets. A delightful mosaic awaits your curiosity.
1,003 Great Things about America - Thryft
Ann Hodgman, Lisa Birnbach, Patricia Marx  | Andrews Mcmeel Publishing

1,003 Great Things about America

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

75% off est. retail
This book is a perfect read for anyone who wants to feel proud and affirmed about their American identity. The book lists 1,003 unique things that make America great, ranging from cultural icons like Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra, to the beauty of Mount Rushmore, the excitement of the Super Bowl, and the simplicity of apple pie. The book strikes a perfect balance between humor and serious appreciation, reminding readers of the strength, resilience and spirit of America.
Water Cooler Diaries: Women across America Share Their Day at Work - Thryft
B.K. Rakhra, Joni B. Cole  | Da Capo Lifelong Books

Water Cooler Diaries: Women across America Share Their Day at Work

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

84% off est. retail
Recommendation: This book is a collection of captivating real-life stories from women across America, giving you an intimate glimpse into their diverse work lives. Through their daily diaries, you'll immerse yourself in the challenges, triumphs, and hilarious moments of owning a business, working from home, or navigating cubicle-laden offices. From fashion designers to life coaches and everything in between, these stories will inspire and resonate with anyone looking for a behind-the-scenes view of different careers and the women who conquer them.
Best of Friends : True Stories of Friendships That Blossomed or Bombed - Thryft
Sophie Parkin | Piccadilly Press Ltd

Best of Friends : True Stories of Friendships That Blossomed or Bombed

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 2.67

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

71% off est. retail
Best of Friends is a great read for anyone who wants to reminisce about their teenage friendships or learn about the dynamics of those relationships. The book features real-life stories, including those of famous people, that explore what makes or breaks a teenage friendship. With insights on the ups and downs of these relationships, readers may find themselves relating to the accounts shared in this book.
Passages: Stories of Unspoken Journeys
Yong Shu Hoong | Ethos Books

Passages: Stories of Unspoken Journeys

$11.43

Goodreads rating: 2.82

$11.43

If you appreciate profound narratives that illuminate the often overlooked aspects of society, "Passages: Stories of Unspoken Journeys" could resonate with you deeply. The book offers a rare vista into the lives of those on the margins in Singapore, conveyed through a prism of empathy and understanding by local writers. It's not just a collection of stories; it's a bridge to the resilience and beauty found in the human spirit, even amidst struggle.
White Teacher : With a New Preface, Third Edition - Thryft
Vivian Gussin Paley | Harvard University Press

White Teacher : With a New Preface, Third Edition

$19.90 $8.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$19.90 $8.90 55% off

75% off est. retail
This book could be a valuable read for educators, particularly those who teach in diverse settings. Vivian Paley honestly reflects on her experiences and shares the lessons she has learned. Her insights on unintentional language and recognizing blind spots are important not only in the classroom but also in daily interactions. Paley's first-hand account of her teaching experience provides readers with a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of teaching in an integrated school.
Four Continents - C1/C2-Niveau ERK - Thryft
Nadine Gordimer, Salman Rushdie, Ralph A. Henderson  | Cideb Editrice

Four Continents - C1/C2-Niveau ERK

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 2.84

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

90% off est. retail
This book offers an excellent collection of short stories from four different continents, showcasing the diversity of English literature written by post-colonial authors. It is a must-read for those interested in exploring literature outside traditional Western canon. The stories delve deeply into themes of identity, colonialism, and cultural displacement, making for a thought-provoking and enlightening read.
Misconceptions: Truth, Lies and the Unexpected on the Journey to Motherhood
Naomi Wolf | Vintage

Misconceptions: Truth, Lies and the Unexpected on the Journey to Motherhood

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$8.90

"Misconceptions" might resonate with you if you’ve felt the tug-of-war between your personal experience of pregnancy and society's pervasive narratives. Naomi Wolf doesn't just recount tales; she digs deep into the cultural paradigms that shape and sometimes distort motherhood. It's a thought-provoking read that validates the unique experiences women face and could be a compelling companion on your own journey or as a way to understand others'.
Shame
Jasvinder Sanghera | Hodder Paperbacks

Shame

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$3.90

73% off est. retail
This book is a heart-wrenching account of Jasvinder's struggle against the oppressive patriarchal system that dictated her life. A must-read for anyone seeking insights into the practice of arranged marriages and the impact it has on a person's life. Jasvinder's courage and determination to break free from the shackles of shame and embrace her true self is truly inspiring.
Broken Mirror: True Stories About Drug Abuse
Dawn Tan | Angsana Books

Broken Mirror: True Stories About Drug Abuse

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$3.90

If you're looking for a read that offers raw, unfiltered perspectives on drug abuse, "Broken Mirror" could resonate deeply with you. It's not just about the addicts but the whole ecosystem around them, showing the ripple effects of addiction. The fact that the stories blend despair with hope makes it a compelling read for anyone interested in the human side of this societal issue. Dawn Tan's journalistic expertise ensures these stories are told with both compassion and clarity.
Criminal Intent: True Stories from Changi Prison
Kim Hoh Wong | Marshall Cavendish Editions

Criminal Intent: True Stories from Changi Prison

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.3

$8.26

If you're drawn to the grittier side of human experience, "Criminal Intent" offers a rare glimpse behind the walls of Changi Prison, where the reality is as compelling as it is sobering. Wong's storytelling might resonate with you if you appreciate unvarnished truth and are curious about the complexities of crime and punishment from an Asian perspective.
Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found
Suketu Mehta | Headline Review

Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.90

57% off est. retail
Recommended for those who want a deep dive into the complex cultural tapestry of Bombay. Mehta's storytelling offers readers a glimpse into the city's underbelly of crime, glamour, and politics. Readers will appreciate the rich cast of characters and Mehta's personal perspective on his hometown.
Criminal Intent 2 - True Stories from Changi Prison
Wong Kim Hoh | 1impress Fungchoi Group (pte) Limited

Criminal Intent 2 - True Stories from Changi Prison

$97.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$97.90

If you're drawn to the grittier aspects of human experience, "Criminal Intent 2" offers a raw, unfiltered look into the lives and stories of those within Changi Prison. It's a book that doesn't shy away from the complexities of crime and punishment, bringing to light narratives that are as much about redemption as they are about despair. This could be a profound read for anyone interested in the criminal justice system or in the resilience of the human spirit.
Odd Girl Speaks Out

Odd Girl Speaks Out

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

65% off est. retail
If you've ever felt the sharp sting of schoolyard politics or the silent strains of unspoken rivalries, "Odd Girl Speaks Out" could resonate deeply with you. This book isn't just a reading experience; it's a companion that speaks to the pain and pressures of growing up female. Through the authenticity of essays, poems, and personal stories, you might find a sense of camaraderie and understanding that’s both healing and empowering.
Hear Me, See Me: Incarcerated Women Write
Sarah W. Bartlett, Marybeth Christie Redmond  | Orbis Books

Hear Me, See Me: Incarcerated Women Write

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$11.90

This anthology offers a deeply personal insight into the lives of women behind bars. If you've ever wondered about the human stories in the stark world of incarceration, "Hear Me, See Me" will immerse you in their experiences, crafted with honesty and raw emotion that can be both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Perfect for readers seeking to understand and empathize with different walks of life.
The Hollow Heart
Martina Devlin | Penguin Ireland

The Hollow Heart

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$5.90

If you're navigating personal trials or fertility challenges, Martina Devlin's "The Hollow Heart" could resonate deeply with you. It's a starkly honest memoir that explores the emotional landscape of IVF and its toll on relationships and self. Martina's poignant storytelling charts a course through despair and lends voice to the silent struggles many face, ultimately offering hope and transformation.
It Takes a Village and Other Lessons Children Teach Us
Hillary Rodham Clinton | Simon & Schuster

It Takes a Village and Other Lessons Children Teach Us

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$8.90

If you've ever felt the weight of raising a child in today's hectic society, "It Takes a Village" could lend you perspective and solace. Hillary Clinton weaves personal anecdotes with her vision for a society that supports families. You may find it compelling in its hopeful outlook on how communities can come together for the betterment of our children's future.
Pioneers, Provocateurs, Possibilists: Humans of Singapore
Lim, Dave | Ideas Worth Doing

Pioneers, Provocateurs, Possibilists: Humans of Singapore

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.90

If you've ever been curious about the melting pot that is Singapore or just want to dive into some truly inspiring personal stories, "Pioneers, Provocateurs, Possibilists: Humans of Singapore" could be just the ticket. It offers a tapestry of narratives that not only celebrate individuality but also showcase the collective spirit of a nation. This book isn't just about Singapore; it's about the human condition and the potential within every one of us to forge our paths.
Saigon Undercover
Paik Leong Ewe | Monsoon Books Pte. Ltd.

Saigon Undercover

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$10.90

If you're intrigued by the less-visible, edgier facets of urban Asia, "Saigon Undercover" could be quite the eye-opener. Ewe Paik Leong doesn't just tell a story; he plunges you into the neon-lit nighttime economy, revealing a side of economic growth often whispered about but rarely confronted head-on. It's a raw journey that could change the way you see these bustling cities.
Chelsea Chicks - Thryft
Maria Perry | André Deutsch

Chelsea Chicks

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

89% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by personal histories woven with the rich cultural tapestry of London, "Chelsea Chicks" might just be your next favorite read. Maria Perry offers an intimate exploration of female experiences in this historic city, blending past and present in a narrative that's as informative as it is engaging. You'll feel connected to the stories of these women and come away with a deeper appreciation of London's social fabric.
Sb4d Santana - Thryft

Sb4d Santana

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

"Sb4d Santana could be a great read for anyone interested in learning about the challenges faced by deaf individuals, as well as how they can overcome them and form strong friendships. The book provides a factual recount of Santana and his friend's daily lives and experiences, offering a unique perspective on the deaf community. It's a heartwarming and informative book that is sure to inspire and educate its readers."
Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Owl Books (henry Holt)

Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

81% off est. retail
If you've ever wondered about the reality behind the low-wage struggle in the U.S., "Nickel and Dimed" will open your eyes. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just tell a story; she lives it, revealing the daunting challenges faced by many Americans in witty, yet poignant prose. Her journey is a powerful testimony to tenacity and resilience in the face of a system that often overlooks the most hardworking among us. This book serves as a stark reminder of the hidden human cost behind those everyday low prices.
Maybe I Don't Belong Here: A Memoir of Race, Identity, Breakdown and Recovery
David Harewood | Bluebird

Maybe I Don't Belong Here: A Memoir of Race, Identity, Breakdown and Recovery

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.37

$12.90

39% off est. retail
If you’ve ever felt like an outsider in your own country, or have been intrigued by the interplay of race and identity, David Harewood's memoir will draw you in. His journey through mental health challenges, under the weight of racial identity, is not only deeply personal but also a lens into a larger societal issue. Harewood's raw honesty offers a compelling narrative that could change perspectives and offer solace to those with similar experiences.
The Longest Shortcut: My Road from Crime and Imprisonment to Self-Worth
Anil David | Landmark Books Pte Ltd

The Longest Shortcut: My Road from Crime and Imprisonment to Self-Worth

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

74% off est. retail
The Longest Shortcut could be a good read for individuals looking for inspiring stories about redemption, resilience, and self-worth. Anil's journey is not only a story of redemption but also a testament to the power of hope and the human spirit. This book highlights important lessons on leadership, self-worth, and parenting. Readers would find Anil's experience as a social entrepreneur and his work in the men and women's prisons an added inspiration to work towards a better tomorrow. This book is a worthy reminder that we can always choose to be better and do better regardless of our situation or background.
Paradise Is Closing Down and Other Plays
Pieter-Dirk Uys | Penguin Books Ltd

Paradise Is Closing Down and Other Plays

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're someone who appreciates theater that isn't just for entertainment but also for its poignant commentary, "Paradise Is Closing Down and Other Plays" might be your cup of tea. These plays by Pieter-Dirk Uys use satire to dissect and expose the absurdities of Apartheid, offering both sharp wit and sobering insights that remain relevant today. It's a powerful read that combines humor with a critical examination of social injustice.
Culture Shock! Singapore: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette
Marion Bravo-Bhasin | Unkno

Culture Shock! Singapore: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette

$4.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$4.90

Thinking of moving to or visiting Singapore? CultureShock! Singapore is a key resource that unveils the intricacies of this unique cultural hub. It's like having a local friend guide you through the dos and don'ts, ensuring you blend in smoothly with the multifaceted society. From unraveling local slang to etiquette that'll help you resonate with the locals, this book is an essential companion for making your Singapore experience authentic and enjoyable.
EVE MEMOIRS OF AN INTERNATIONAL SEX WORK - Thryft
Annika Cleeve | Monsoon Books

Eve: Memoirs of an International Sex Worker

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 3.2

$6.90

If you're fascinated by raw, unfiltered experiences, Annika's memoir, "EVE," could be a compelling read. It offers a rare and candid peek into the complexities of sex work, challenging common stereotypes. Beyond merely recounting salacious details, it's an inspiring story of resilience and empowerment, which might resonate deeply if you appreciate narratives of personal transformation against the odds.
Goodbye My Kampong!
Sold out
Josephine Chia | Ethos Books

Goodbye My Kampong!

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

59% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the transformation of societies and cherish personal narratives that evoke a sense of place, you'll find "Goodbye My Kampong!" deeply engaging. Josephine Chia offers a poignant window into the transitional period of Singapore from 1966 to 1975, blending the nation's growth pains with the evocative end of kampong living. Her stories will transport you to a time of collective spirit, cultural richness, and change, making it a captivating read for those interested in the resilience of communities amidst progress.
How To Become A Scandal - Adventures In Bad Behavior - Thryft
Sold out

How To Become A Scandal - Adventures In Bad Behavior

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

89% off est. retail
Recommendation: - This book is a captivating exploration of why scandalous behavior and downfall sagas fascinate us. With sharp and insightful analysis, Laura Kipnis delves into the American psyche and examines four notorious cases. Through revenge, betrayal, ambition, and madness, she sheds light on our collective plight of failed self-knowledge and self-deception. If you're intrigued by the complexities of scandal and enjoy a cultural romp, this book is a must-read. Get ready to question societal norms and cheer for the transgressions of others.
Chuck Klosterman IV : A Decade of Curious People and Dangerous Ideas - Thryft
Sold out
Chuck Klosterman | Scribner

Chuck Klosterman IV : A Decade of Curious People and Dangerous Ideas

$9.59

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$9.59

76% off est. retail
Chuck Klosterman IV is a must-read for anyone who lives, breathes, and loves pop culture. Klosterman's ability to write about topics as diverse as Britney Spears, Metallica, and Super People with wit, introspection, and a dose of humor is what makes this book a unique and fun read. The footnotes may seem like distractions, but they end up adding another layer to Klosterman's already fascinating stories. If you are a fan of pop culture and are looking for a book that will make you think, laugh, and maybe even challenge your beliefs, Chuck Klosterman IV is the book for you.
Childhood : An Anthology - Thryft
Sold out
Kate Figes | J.m. Dent

Childhood : An Anthology

$1.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$1.90

79% off est. retail
This book is perfect for readers who want to revisit the stories and memories of their own childhood. Through a selection of unique literary works, Kate Figes explores and highlights various aspects of childhood, making the reader nostalgic. The book's most distinctive feature is its ability to transport you back to your own childhood and make you reminisce about it.
The Game : Undercover in the Secret Society of Pickup Artists - Thryft
Sold out
Neil Strauss | Reganbooks

The Game : Undercover in the Secret Society of Pickup Artists

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$5.07

Hidden somewhere, in nearly every major city in the world, is an underground seduction lair. And in these lairs, men trade the most devastatingly effective techniques ever invented to charm women. This is not fiction. These men really exist. They live together in houses known as Projects. And Neil Strauss, the bestselling author, spent two years living among them, using the pseudonym Style to protect his real-life identity. The result is one of the most explosive and controversial books of the year -- guaranteed to change the lives of men and transform the way women understand the opposite sex forever. On his journey from AFC (average frustrated chump) to PUA (pick-up artist) to PUG (pick-up guru), Strauss not only shares scores of original seduction techniques but also has unforgettable encounters with the likes of Tom Cruise, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, Heidi Fleiss, and Courtney Love. And then things really start to get strange -- and passions lead to betrayals lead to violence. The Game is the story of one man's transformation from frog to prince -- to prisoner in the most unforgettable book of the year.
Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother
Sold out
Amy Chua | Penguin Press

Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$8.26

If you're intrigued by parenting styles or cultural differences, "Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother" will fascinate you. Amy Chua's candid storytelling takes you through her strict approach to parenting, which may either leave you nodding in agreement or shaking your head in disbelief. It's a remarkable narrative that doesn't just reveal the hardships and successes of a family but also ignites conversations about what we value in raising children.
Modern Romance
Sold out
Aziz Ansari | Allen Lane, Imprint Of Penguin, Random House, Uk

Modern Romance

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$9.90

If navigating love in the digital age feels like a mix of excitement and exasperation, "Modern Romance" might just be your compass. Aziz Ansari's sharp wit meets sociological research, offering both laughs and insights. Imagine commiserating with a friend who’s done their homework on global dating trends—it's relatable, enlightening, and might just make your own romantic mishaps feel a bit more universal.

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.