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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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How We Compete: What Companies Around the World Are Doing to Make It in Today's Global Economy
Just Arrived
Suzanne Berger | Crown Business

How We Compete: What Companies Around the World Are Doing to Make It in Today's Global Economy

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 3.49

$18.90

If you're grappling with the complexities of global business, "How We Compete" might just offer the clarity you're looking for. Suzanne Berger presents an in-depth analysis of various companies around the world and their strategies to thrive in the global market. You'll find it a compelling read if understanding the shifting sands of international trade and economic policies is up your alley.
Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City
Just Arrived
Matthew Desmond | Crown Publishers

Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$18.90

37% off est. retail
"Evicted" isn't just a stark portrayal of the housing crisis; it's an intimate journey alongside families at their most vulnerable. Matthew Desmond invites you to walk the tightrope of poverty in America, offering a perspective that's as enlightening as it is heartbreaking. By intertwining personal struggles with broader societal issues, Desmond provides a narrative that's not only deeply human but also a critical examination of systemic injustice. This book could change the way you see the world around you, and potentially inspire a newfound empathy for the often invisible challenges that too many face.
Anna Rosling Rönnlund, Ola Rosling, Hans Rosling  | Flatiron Books

Factfulness: Ten Reasons We're Wrong About the World - And Why Things Are Better Than You Think

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$15.90

"Factfulness" feels like a refreshing dose of clarity in a world where pessimism often takes the front seat. Hans Rosling's expertise in public health shines through as he dismantles misconceptions with hard data, making you question the lenses through which you view global progress. It's a book that doesn't just lay out the facts but teaches you how to think differently about them. If you ever feel overwhelmed by the doom and gloom of the news, this book could be the optimistic yet realistic perspective you need.
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis
J.D. Vance | William Collins

Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$13.90

"Hillbilly Elegy" might resonate with you if you're intrigued by personal stories that also shed light on larger societal issues. J.D. Vance's journey from a struggling Rust Belt town to the halls of Yale Law School offers a raw, often poignant look into the lives of the white working class. It's both an intimate memoir and a reflection on American society that could offer a new perspective on the challenges faced by a significant part of the population.
Nurturing the Nations: Reclaiming the Dignity of Women in Building Healthy Cultures
Just Arrived
Darrow L. Miller, Stan Guthrie  | Stl Distribution North Amer

Nurturing the Nations: Reclaiming the Dignity of Women in Building Healthy Cultures

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.42

$12.90

If you're passionate about understanding the global struggle with gender inequality and its link to cultural and economic well-being, "Nurturing the Nations" could be an insightful read for you. The book doesn't just highlight the problems; it digs into worldviews and belief systems that perpetuate the disenfranchisement of women and connects these issues to larger patterns of poverty. It's educational and potentially transformative for anyone interested in social justice, women's rights, and cultural studies.
The Companion to Development Studies
Just Arrived
Vandana Desai, Robert Potter  | Oxford University Press

The Companion to Development Studies

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$14.90

Whether you're a seasoned scholar or a newcomer to the field, "The Companion to Development Studies" is an invaluable treasury of knowledge. Its breadth covers the gamut of development debates, while each chapter serves as a springboard for further exploration. The updated edition's fresh perspectives on urgent topics like global terrorism and corruption ensure it's a contemporary and critical resource for understanding the complexities of development in today's world.
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

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

"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.
Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies: Migrant Farmworkers in the United States
Just Arrived
Seth Holmes | University Of California Press

Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies: Migrant Farmworkers in the United States

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.28

$9.90

75% off est. retail
"Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies" offers more than a glimpse into the sacrifices behind our food sources. If you've ever been moved by tales of resilience in the face of systemic injustices, this book's raw and personal storytelling will leave you with a profound understanding of what it truly means to labor at the very beginning of our food chain. Seth Holmes's commitment extends beyond words, directing all proceeds to support the very communities you'll meet within these pages – a testament that this isn't just a book; it's a call to awareness and action.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America - Thryft
Barbara Ehrenreich | Holt Paperbacks

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

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

79% off est. retail
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.
Building Social Business: The New Kind of Capitalism That Serves Humanity's Most Pressing Needs
Muhammad Yunus | Publicaffairs

Building Social Business: The New Kind of Capitalism That Serves Humanity's Most Pressing Needs

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$8.90

61% off est. retail
If you’re intrigued by the intersection of altruism and economics, "Building Social Business" could resonate with you. Muhammad Yunus, a trailblazer in microcredit, introduces an inspiring economic model that marries profit with purpose. Imagine a world where businesses thrive while addressing social issues; this book could be your guide to understanding and maybe even participating in such innovative ventures.
Tomlinson Hill
Chris Tomlinson | St. Martin's Griffin

Tomlinson Hill

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.58

$14.90

63% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that weave personal journeys with historical contexts, "Tomlinson Hill" is worth your time. It's a profound tale that delves into the complexities of family lineages and the enduring impact of race in American history. The author's personal connection to the narrative heightens its authenticity and provides a lens to view broader societal issues. This isn't just a book; it's a conversation starter on identity and heritage.
Bantering With Bandits and Other True Tales of India
Annie Zaidi | Rupa Publications India

Bantering With Bandits and Other True Tales of India

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$9.90

Imagine sitting around a campfire, listening to a seasoned traveler recount adventures through India's heartlands. This book brings you close to that experience, with Annie Zaidi's sharp wit and keen observation giving life to the diverse and complex human stories that form India's rich social mosaic. If you're curious about the real India, beyond the stereotypes and headlines, these true tales will satiate that curiosity with warmth and authenticity.
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America
Barbara Ehrenreich | Picador

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

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$3.90

"Nickel and Dimed" offers more than just an eye-opening look into the struggle of low-wage workers; it's a deep dive into the reality of economic survival. Barbara Ehrenreich doesn't just observe, she gets her hands dirty, and her firsthand experiences bring an authenticity that's both enlightening and deeply humanizing. If you want to understand the flip side of American prosperity and the lives of the people who serve your meals, clean your offices, and ring up your purchases, this book is a profoundly compelling start.
The End of Poverty : How We Can Make it Happen in Our Lifetime - Thryft
Jeffrey D. Sachs | Penguin Books

The End of Poverty : How We Can Make it Happen in Our Lifetime

$8.20

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$8.20

Jeffrey Sachs draws on his remarkable 25 years' experience to offer a thrilling and inspiring vision of the keys to economic success in the world today. Marrying vivid storytelling with acute analysis, he sets the stage by drawing a conceptual map of the world economy and explains why, over the past 200 years, wealth and poverty have diverged and evolved across the planet, and why the poorest nations have been so markedly unable to escape the trap of poverty. Sachs tells the remarkable stories of his own work in Bolivia, Poland, Russia, India, China and Africa to bring readers with him to an understanding of the different problems countries face. In the end, readers will be left not with an understanding of how daunting the world's problems are, but how solvable they are and why making the effort is both our moral duty and in our own interests.
Nobody Can Love You More
Mayank Singh | India Penguin

Nobody Can Love You More

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$12.90

46% off est. retail
Recommended for readers interested in social issues. Gives voice to marginalized communities.
Disrupting Poverty - Five Powerful Classroom Practices
Kathleen M. Budge | Ascd

Disrupting Poverty - Five Powerful Classroom Practices

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

If you're an educator who's passionate about making a real difference in the lives of students from impoverished backgrounds, "Disrupting Poverty" is a heartfelt guide brimming with practical wisdom. It addresses the deep-rooted issues of poverty with concrete examples and actions that can transform your classroom. It’s a book that fuses passionate advocacy with a practical approach to empower educators to create equitable, supportive learning environments.
Ana's Story : A Journey of Hope - Thryft
Jenna Bush Hager, Mia Baxter  | Harpercollins

Ana's Story : A Journey of Hope

$7.92

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$7.92

59% off est. retail
"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.
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.
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.
Sustainable Impact: How Women Are Key to Ending Poverty
Lizzy Hawkins, Laina Greene, Audrey Tan  | Partridgesingapore

Sustainable Impact: How Women Are Key to Ending Poverty

$13.90 $11.88 15% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$13.90 $11.88 15% off

58% off est. retail
This book is an empowering guide that highlights the transformative role of women in ending poverty. Through thought-provoking insights and practical advice, the authors challenge the traditional views on women's potential and showcase their ability to be change agents. The book not only explores the challenges women face but also presents innovative solutions, inspired by human-centric approaches and purpose-driven businesses. It invites readers to be part of a journey towards a more inclusive and compassionate world, where everyone can contribute to eliminating global poverty.
My Eco-World, Made in China
Michael Loong | Partridgesingapore

My Eco-World, Made in China

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

77% off est. retail
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.
International Migration and Development in East Asia and the Pacific - Thryft

International Migration and Development in East Asia and the Pacific

$30.90 $11.90 61% off

$30.90 $11.90 61% off

79% off est. retail
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.
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.
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.
Jack the Ripper and the East End
Alex Werner, Peter Ackroyd  | Chatto & Windus

Jack the Ripper and the East End

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$12.90

If you're fascinated by the myths and mysteries of Victorian London, "Jack the Ripper and the East End" offers a rich tapestry of historical detail and gritty reality. It peels back layers of sensationalism to reveal the life and times of an area notorious for poverty and crime. Through expert commentary, rare photographs, and meticulous historical documentation, the book invites you on a compelling journey into the past, one that may change your understanding of the Ripper legend and London's East End.
The Working Poor: Invisible in America
David K. Shipler | Vintage

The Working Poor: Invisible in America

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

78% off est. retail
"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.
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.
Good News to the Poor: Sharing the Gospel Through Social Involvement
Tim Chester | Inter-varsity Press

Good News to the Poor: Sharing the Gospel Through Social Involvement

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$10.90

If you're looking to bridge your spiritual beliefs with practical outreach, "Good News to the Poor" might resonate with you. Tim Chester offers a thoughtful marriage of faith and social justice, challenging readers to embody the gospel in everyday acts of service. The book's approach to tackling social issues through a Christian lens could deeply inspire your own journey towards impactful community involvement.
Brazil : The Once and Future Country - Thryft
Marshall C. Eakin | Palgrave Macmillan

Brazil : The Once and Future Country

$31.90 $4.90 85% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$31.90 $4.90 85% off

97% off est. retail
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.
Home-School Relations: Working Successfully with Parents and Families
Mary Lou Fuller | Allyn & Bacon

Home-School Relations: Working Successfully with Parents and Families

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$14.90

If you're an educator seeking ways to better connect with your students by understanding the diverse familial backgrounds they come from, "Home-School Relations" could be an invaluable resource for you. It doesn't just offer theoretical insights but also provides practical strategies and activities to help you build strong partnerships with families, which is essential for creating a supportive and effective learning environment.
What Really Matters: Living a Moral Life Amidst Uncertainty and Danger
Arthur Kleinman | Oxford University Press

What Really Matters: Living a Moral Life Amidst Uncertainty and Danger

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$12.90

56% off est. retail
"What Really Matters" will resonate with you if you've ever pondered the depths of human morality under duress. Arthur Kleinman doesn't just philosophize about ethics; he grounds it in visceral, human stories. It's a book for those who appreciate exploring real-world implications of our choices and actions in extreme situations, providing an intimate look at what it means to be moral when everything else seems to fall apart.
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

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

97% off est. retail
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.
Local Childhoods, Global Issues
Heather Montgomery | Policy Press

Local Childhoods, Global Issues

$22.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$22.90

50% off est. retail
If you're interested in understanding the lives of children from a global perspective, "Local Childhoods, Global Issues" could be an eye-opener for you. This book doesn't just list issues; it offers a deep dive into the varied experiences of children around the world, showcasing their resilience and agency. It balances the grim realities with a sense of hope, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone passionate about child welfare and global social issues.

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.