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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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Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Owl Books (henry Holt)

Nickel and Dimed: On Getting By in America

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

In stock: Very Good

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.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America
Barbara Ehrenreich | Metropolitan Books

Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

from $13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.65

from $13.90

In stock: Very Good

"Nickel and Dimed" isn't just an eye-opening journey, but a deeply personal experience. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just write about the struggle to make ends meet; she lives it, showing us the grueling reality behind the glossy American dream. If you've ever pondered about the true cost of low-wage jobs on human dignity, this book goes beyond mere statistics and news stories. It's a powerful narrative that could forever change how you view the service industry and those who labor within it.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Holt Paperbacks

Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

$12.90 from $8.90 Save up to 31%

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$12.90 from $8.90 Save up to 31%

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

If you're intrigued by real-life explorations of the challenges faced by low-wage workers, "Nickel and Dimed" could deeply resonate with you. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just narrate; she immerses herself in the struggle, offering a raw and compelling firsthand account that could change the way you see the service industry and the economy.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Picador

Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

Imagine walking miles in shoes that don't fit. That's what Barbara Ehrenreich does in "Nickel and Dimed," but with jobs that chafe just as much. When she dives into the world of low-wage labor, you're right there with her, feeling the pain and fatigue that come from trying to make ends meet. It's an authentic journey that might change how you see every service worker you meet.
Confessions of a Microfinance Heretic: How Microlending Lost Its Way and Betrayed the Poor - Thryft
Hugh Sinclair | Berrett-koehler Publishers

Confessions of a Microfinance Heretic: How Microlending Lost Its Way and Betrayed the Poor

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Well Read

If you've ever been curious about the true impact of microloans on poverty, Sinclair’s book will open your eyes to the industry's underbelly. His personal journey from believer to skeptic provides a unique perspective on the microfinance world, offering compelling insights into why this billion-dollar industry might actually be failing the very people it purports to help. It's not just an analysis; it's a personal narrative filled with real-world experiences that could change how you see financial aid to the poor.
The Working Poor: Invisible in America
New
David K. Shipler | Vintage

The Working Poor: Invisible in America

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

"The Working Poor: Invisible in America" shines a sobering light on the realities faced by those who, despite their labor, remain ensnared in poverty. If you've ever been moved by personal testimonies and are drawn to social issues, this book is a crucial lens through which to view the often unseen struggles of many Americans. Shipler isn't just pointing out problems; he's offering an empathetic, thorough perspective paired with a call to action that can deeply resonate with anyone concerned about economic justice.
Four Feet Under - Thryft

Four Feet Under

$18.90 from $8.90 Save up to 57%

Goodreads rating: 4.41

$18.90 from $8.90 Save up to 57%

In stock: Very Good

Four Feet Under would be a good read for anyone looking to gain a deeper insight into the lives of London's homeless population. It provides a unique perspective into the challenges they face, from childhood to current day. The book is raw, real and touching, giving voice to those who are often invisible. The personal stories are accompanied by intimate photographic portraits, capturing the essence of the unique individuals that Tamsen met during her two months of listening and observation.
Nobody Can Love You More
New
Mayank Singh | India Penguin

Nobody Can Love You More

from $9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.87

from $9.90

In stock: Very Good

Recommended for readers interested in social issues. Gives voice to marginalized communities.
The Bottom Billion: Why the Poorest Countries Are Failing and What Can Be Done About It
Paul Collier | Oxford University Press

The Bottom Billion: Why the Poorest Countries Are Failing and What Can Be Done About It

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're seeking a deeper understanding of why the world's most impoverished nations struggle and what can potentially be done to aid them, "The Bottom Billion" could enlighten you. The author, Paul Collier, uses his expertise to dissect complex issues in an accessible way, offering not only analysis but also pragmatic solutions. It's a blend of heartfelt advocacy and economic insight that could change your perspective on global poverty.
Deer Hunting with Jesus: Guns, Votes, Debt and Delusion in Redneck America
New
Joe Bageant | Portobello Books

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

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

from $11.90

In stock: Well Read

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.
Children of Las Vegas - True Stories of Growing Up in the World's Playground
Timothy O'Grady | Ethos Books

Children of Las Vegas - True Stories of Growing Up in the World's Playground

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

"Children Of Las Vegas" offers an eye-opening perspective that's as gripping as it is sobering. Imagine the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, then peel back the veneer to reveal the stark realities of those who call this dazzling city "home." O'Grady gives a voice to the unheard stories of struggle and resilience that exist in the shadows of Sin City's neon lights. It's a poignant read for anyone fascinated by the contrast between the city's surface allure and the deeper, more complex lives of its residents.
Ana's Story : A Journey of Hope - Thryft
Jenna Bush Hager, Mia Baxter  | Harpercollins

Ana's Story : A Journey of Hope

from $5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.73

from $5.07

In stock: Very Good

"Ana's Story" is a poignant account of a girl born with HIV, who struggles with abuse and exclusion throughout her childhood. Through her journey, Ana finds love, becomes a mother, and discovers new sources of hope. The book sheds light on the challenges faced by millions of children worldwide, and provides resources for readers to take action. This book is recommended for anyone looking for a touching and inspiring story of resilience and hope.
Social Welfare Policy and Analysis
Andrew W. Dobelstein | Cengage Learning

Social Welfare Policy and Analysis

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.0

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you're diving into the world of social welfare and policy, this book's methodical breakdown can serve as your compass. Dobelstein's clear-cut approach makes the complex web of welfare programs more accessible, illuminating their evolutions for both newcomers and more advanced students in the field. It's like having a scholarly guide to navigate the often-intimidating realm of policy analysis.
Home-School Relations - Working Successfully With Parents And Families - Thryft
Mary Lou Fuller, Glenn W. Olsen  | Allyn & Bacon

Home-School Relations - Working Successfully With Parents And Families

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Very Good

Home-School Relations would be a great read for educators looking for practical advice on how to develop strong working relationships with their students' families. The book covers a wide range of topics, including advocacy, diversity, and the effects of poverty. One unique feature of this book is its emphasis on the need for educators to understand the families from which their students come. The authors offer practical techniques for building good home-school partnerships and fostering parent involvement, making this a valuable resource for educators at all levels.
International Migration and Development in East Asia and the Pacific - Thryft

International Migration and Development in East Asia and the Pacific

$22.90 from $9.90 Save up to 57%

$22.90 from $9.90 Save up to 57%

In stock: Like New

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of international migration on the region's development and the policies and institutions needed for managing it. It covers the economic impact of migration and remittances, demographic trends, and the role of the migration industry. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between migration and development in East Asia.
Brazil : The Once and Future Country - Thryft
Marshall C. Eakin | Palgrave Macmillan

Brazil : The Once and Future Country

$31.90 from $12.90 Save up to 60%

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$31.90 from $12.90 Save up to 60%

In stock: Well Read

This book is a must-read for those seeking a deep understanding of Brazil's captivating essence. From its origins as a product of European imperialism to its present-day complexities, Eakin vividly portrays the enigmatic paradoxes that define the country. Through his storytelling, he takes readers on a journey from the poverty-stricken hovels of Sao Paolo to the opulent pleasure palaces of Rio de Janeiro. With its comprehensive exploration of Brazil's marvellous and mystical aspects, this book is perfect for both curious armchair travelers and those planning to explore this endlessly fascinating country.
Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found - Thryft
Suketu Mehta | Headline Review

Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found

$7.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$7.90 from $4.90 Save up to 45%

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever been curious about the beating heart of Bombay beyond its iconic landmarks, "Maximum City" is your must-read. Suketu Mehta masters the art of storytelling by weaving his personal return to the city with gripping tales of its inhabitants. It's a tapestry rich with the complexities of urban life, offering unfiltered insights into a city teeming with contradictions and vibrancy. Whether or not you've visited Bombay, this book will transplant you there, making you feel its pulse as if you were wandering its streets.
No Longer a Slumdog
Francis Chan, K.P. Yohannan  | Gfa Books

No Longer a Slumdog

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

"No Longer a Slumdog" speaks to the heart with real stories of transformation and redemption. It's not just a book; it's an eye-opening journey that invites you to witness the resilience and hope of children in South Asia's slums and villages. Let it stir your empathy and perhaps inspire action, as it reveals the power of God’s love through the work of K.P. Yohannan and Gospel for Asia.
Spoilt - Thryft
Terry Denby | Hodder Paperbacks

Spoilt

$8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

In stock: Well Read

"Spoilt" isn't just a raw recount of a rough childhood; it's a testament to resilience. As you step into Terry's shoes, you not only navigate the dark corridors of a grim care system but also witness the strength of the human spirit. This book could change your perspective on survival and healing, making it a powerful read for anyone interested in overcoming life's toughest challenges.
Confronting Inequality: How Societies Can Choose Inclusive Growth - Thryft
Prakash Loungami, Jonathan D. Ostry, Andrew Berg  | Penguin Books

Confronting Inequality: How Societies Can Choose Inclusive Growth

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Very Good

This book could be a good read for those who want to understand the reasons behind increasing inequality and learn about alternative policies to achieve a more inclusive economy. Through rigorous research and empirical evidence, Jonathan D. Ostry, Prakash Loungani, and Andrew Berg explain how inequality is not an unexpected outcome, but a political choice made by governments. They also debunk the notion that redistribution hurts growth and propose measures that can lead to more equitable economic performance. Whether you're a scholar, student, or policy maker, this book provides crucial insights for addressing the pressing issue of inequality in today's world.
Planet of Slums - Thryft
Mike Davis | Verso

Planet of Slums

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

In stock: Like New, Well Read

"Planet of Slums" unpacks a reality that few of us are truly familiar with, but all of us need to understand. Davis takes you through the nooks and crannies of sprawling slums around the world, exposing the stark realities of life for over a billion people. If you've ever wondered about the challenges and the resilience found in the shaded areas of rapid urban growth, this book offers an unflinching examination that is as enlightening as it is distressing.
My Eco-World, Made in China
New
Michael Loong | Partridgesingapore

My Eco-World, Made in China

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

from $11.90

In stock: Very Good

Imagine a future where innovation meets sustainability—that’s the journey Michael Loong takes you on in "My Eco-World, Made in China." It's a thought-provoking exploration of China's ambitious plan to tackle its environmental and social challenges. Taking cues from history and projecting into a future of eco-cities, this book is sure to fascinate not only those interested in environmentalism and urban planning but also those curious about China's global role and its strategies for a greener tomorrow.
Portfolios Of The Poor - How The World's Poor Live On $2 A Day - Thryft

Portfolios Of The Poor - How The World's Poor Live On $2 A Day

$7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

$7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

In stock: Very Good

This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the world's poor. Through the personal stories shared in the financial diaries, it offers a raw and unfiltered perspective on how families survive on just $2 a day. Prepare to be both moved and inspired by the resilience and resourcefulness of these individuals, and gain a new appreciation for the importance of small financial decisions in their lives.
The Great Divergence: America's Growing Inequality Crisis and What We Can Do About It
Timothy Noah | Bloomsbury Press

The Great Divergence: America's Growing Inequality Crisis and What We Can Do About It

from $13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

from $13.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're puzzled by the widening economic chasm in America, "The Great Divergence" by Timothy Noah is a title you shouldn't miss. It's more than just numbers and statistics; it's a revelation of the sharp turn in American societal fabric over recent decades. Noah's methodical examination eschews partisan finger-pointing, offering a foundational understanding and prompting a crucial dialogue about our collective future.
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

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 0.0

from $8.26

In stock: Like New, Very Good

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.
Enslaved The New Slavery - Thryft
Janet Wise Rahila Gupta | Harpercollins India

Enslaved The New Slavery

$9.90 from $5.90 Save up to 42%

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$9.90 from $5.90 Save up to 42%

In stock: Well Read

Imagine stepping into the hidden world of those marginalized by an issue that often evades the public eye. "Enslaved The New Slavery" offers a valuable and eye-opening perspective on the pervasive, yet covert, modern crisis of human trafficking and slavery. Through gripping, personal accounts, the book not only educates but also elicits empathy for those whose voices are routinely silenced. It's a significant read for anyone who cares about human rights and social justice, and wants to understand the complexity and human cost behind current immigration policies.
The Price of Inequality - Thryft
Sold out
Joseph E. Stiglitz | Penguin Book Ltd,uk

The Price of Inequality

from $3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.02

from $3.88

Out of stock

The Price of Inequality is an eye-opening book that delves deeply into the issues of inequality and offers realistic solutions to level the playing field. Stiglitz provides detailed evidence to support his argument that our economic and political systems are fundamentally unfair. He shows how investment, rather than austerity, is necessary for productivity and social mobility. This well-researched and insightful book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the causes and effects of inequality and is recommended for those who care deeply about creating a fairer and more just society.
Tightrope - Americans Reaching For Hope - Thryft
Sold out
Nicholas D. Kristof, Sheryl WuDunn  | Knopf

Tightrope - Americans Reaching For Hope

from $5.12

Goodreads rating: 4.28

from $5.12

Out of stock

Recommendation: Tightrope is a poignant portrayal of the struggles faced by working-class Americans. The book provides a unique insight into the lives of those impacted by decades of policy mistakes. The vivid storytelling and searing images make for a compelling read, as the authors explore solutions that can help mend the half century of governmental failure. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the challenges faced by marginalized communities in America.
Charity Detox : What Charity Would Look Like If We Cared About Results - Thryft
Sold out
Robert D. Lupton | Harperone

Charity Detox : What Charity Would Look Like If We Cared About Results

$15.02 from $10.51 Save up to 30%

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$15.02 from $10.51 Save up to 30%

Out of stock

If you're tired of ineffective charity programs and want to make a real difference, Charity Detox is for you. Lupton shows how we can measure the effectiveness of charity programs by their results, rather than just feeling good about donating. He offers many practical strategies and examples of successful organizations that have implemented them. If you're committed to making a meaningful impact, this book will help you do it.
Good Intentions Are Not Enough: Why We Fail At Helping Others - Thryft
Sold out
Robin Boon Peng Low | Ws Professional

Good Intentions Are Not Enough: Why We Fail At Helping Others

$16.69 from $9.90 Save up to 41%

Goodreads rating: 2.67

$16.69 from $9.90 Save up to 41%

Out of stock

If you're someone who deeply cares about making a difference and not just the act of giving, this book is an eye-opener. It challenges the conventional approaches to aid and underscores the importance of engaging local communities to achieve sustainability in helping others. It's a compelling read that may reshape your understanding of true impact and community involvement.
A White Teacher Talks about Race - Thryft
Sold out
Julie Landsman | R&l Education

A White Teacher Talks about Race

$13.97 from $9.78 Save up to 30%

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$13.97 from $9.78 Save up to 30%

Out of stock

Recommended for those interested in multicultural education. Provides an honest reflection of the realities of teaching in diverse communities, highlighting the complex issues surrounding race, poverty, and institutional responsibility through the lens of one teacher's experiences.
Tales Of Two Cities : Stories of Inequality in a Divided New York - Thryft
Sold out
John Freeman | Penguin Books

Tales Of Two Cities : Stories of Inequality in a Divided New York

from $11.28

Goodreads rating: 3.81

from $11.28

Out of stock

"Tales of Two Cities" is a powerful anthology of stories and reportage that sheds light on the unequal living conditions of ordinary New Yorkers. The book features renowned writers, including Zadie Smith and Junot Díaz. Their stories expose the indignities and struggles faced by people living in a city divided by wealth. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding the harsh realities of everyday life for those living in a deeply divided city.
Healing Cambodia One Child at a Time : The Story of Krousar Thmey, a New Family - Thryft
Sold out
Bénito Duchâteau-Arminjon | Didier Millet

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

from $6.71

Goodreads rating: 4.25

from $6.71

Out of stock

This book is recommended for those who are interested in reading inspiring stories of human resilience and the power of individual action in helping a community overcome adversity. In this book, the author, Benoit Duchateau-Arminjon, takes the readers on a journey of his experiences setting up a welfare center for abandoned children in Cambodia, and how he created the foundation Krousar Thmey, or new family, to support these children. The book offers a unique insight into the humanitarian world and the challenges faced by communities dealing with the aftermath of wars and conflict. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for inspiring stories of people making a positive impact in the world.

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.