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A Short History of Nearly Everything
Bill Bryson | Doubleday

A Short History of Nearly Everything

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$12.90

Imagine having the complex tapestry of science laid out before you in a way that's not just digestible, but actually delightful. Bill Bryson has a gift for weaving facts with wit, making the daunting history of science feel like an adventure story you're being told by a friend. Whether you're a curious newbie or a seasoned science enthusiast, this book promises to reignite your wonder at the world.
The History of the World in Bite-Sized Chunks
Emma Marriott | Michael O'mara

The History of the World in Bite-Sized Chunks

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.55

$14.90

If you're often daunted by thick history tomes, this book could be the perfect antidote. Emma Marriott's "The History of the World in Bite-Sized Chunks" distills vast historical periods into manageable portions. It's an engaging way to fill gaps in your knowledge or refresh what you may have forgotten since school days, and it's well-suited for anyone with an interest in world history but with limited time to dedicate to more voluminous works.
Histories of Nations: How Their Identities Were Forged
Peter Furtado | Thames & Hudson

Histories of Nations: How Their Identities Were Forged

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 3.31

$16.90

If you're intrigued by the multifaceted tapestry of global history, "Histories of Nations" could prove to be a fascinating read for you. Each chapter delivers a personal, yet scholarly, view of a nation's past, crafting a richer, more nuanced global narrative than you're likely to find in conventional history books. Imagine stepping into the shoes of someone from each of these 28 countries, providing you with a tapestry of perspectives that challenge and broaden your understanding of national identities.
The River of Lost Footsteps
Thant Myint-U | Faber & Faber

The River of Lost Footsteps

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$12.90

41% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the interplay of personal narratives and grand historical landscapes, then "The River of Lost Footsteps" could captivate you. Thant Myint-U skillfully combines his family's intimate stories with the broader, tumultuous history of Burma. His unique perspective, both deeply personal due to his family's significant involvement in Burmese history and professional because of his UN experience, offers an insightful look into a country at the crossroads of change. This book will take you beyond headlines, giving you a profound understanding of a nation's heartache and beauty.
The New Penguin History of the World - Thryft
J.M. Roberts, Odd Arne Westad  | Penguin Books

The New Penguin History of the World

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$13.90

If history fascinates you, "The New Penguin History of the World" is a tome worth delving into. It's like a time machine on paper, taking you from the very roots of human civilization right up to contemporary times. Roberts' narrative is accessible, so even if you're not a history buff, you'll find the journey enlightening and surprisingly graspable. It's a broad view, perfect for understanding how the past shapes our present.
Yugoslavia: Death of a Nation
Allan Little, Laura Silber  | Penguin Books

Yugoslavia: Death of a Nation

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$8.90

67% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of national conflicts and their far-reaching consequences, "Yugoslavia: Death of a Nation" offers a riveting and detailed exploration. Laura Silber's authoritative account captures the tumultuous events that led to the dissolution of Yugoslavia, making it indispensable for those seeking a deeper understanding of the region's turbulent history.
History of the World
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J.M. Roberts | Oxford University Press

History of the World

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$14.90

If you're someone who appreciates the grand tapestry of human history, then John Morris Roberts' "History of the World" could be your next treasure trove. It brings history alive, from the dawn of mankind to the cosmic ambitions of modernity, all presented in a way that's authoritative and accessible. The illustrations and maps only enhance the experience, making the past both vivid and relatable. Just imagine having the entire flow of human events at your fingertips, ready to be explored.
The Company: A Short History of a Revolutionary Idea
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Adrian Wooldridge | Phoenix

The Company: A Short History of a Revolutionary Idea

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90

52% off est. retail
If you've ever wondered how companies became such influential powerhouses in our daily lives, "The Company" is a treasure trove of insights. It spans from early trade organizations to modern multinational giants, unraveling shocking stories and pivotal moments that set the stage for today's economic structures. This book isn't just about past events; it challenges you to ponder the future role of companies in our society. Despite being a historical account, it reads like a gripping narrative that might forever change your perception of the corporate world.
Dark Continent: Europe's Twentieth Century
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Mark Mazower | Vintage

Dark Continent: Europe's Twentieth Century

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90

71% off est. retail
If you've ever thought history was a linear path to progress, "Dark Continent" will challenge you with its gritty portrayal of Europe's 20th-century struggles. Mazower's compelling narrative might change the way you see the past; by acknowledging the continent's violent and ideologically fraught journey, it calls for a nuanced understanding and appreciation of the precarious path to modern European unity. Consider this if you're ready for history that reads like a cautionary tale, yet is grounded in profound scholarship.
The Rest Is Noise: Listening to the Twentieth Century
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Alex Ross | Harper Perennial

The Rest Is Noise: Listening to the Twentieth Century

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the evolution of classical music and how it intertwined with cultural and social shifts, "The Rest Is Noise" is a treasure trove. Alex Ross's expertise and narrative skill illuminate a fascinating period of musical history that goes beyond notes and scores, delving into its profound impact on and reflection of the society it serenaded. This isn't just a book; it's a journey through an era's soundtrack.
The Fate of Africa: A History of Fifty Years of Independence
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Martin Meredith | Publicaffairs

The Fate of Africa: A History of Fifty Years of Independence

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

77% off est. retail
"The Fate of Africa" brings to life the complex tapestry of African political, social, and economic landscapes since the countries within this vast continent gained independence. It's a deep dive into the successes, struggles, and stories that have shaped modern Africa. This book is for you if you're looking to understand the continent's past and present beyond headlines and stereotypes.
The Hinge Factor: How Chance and Stupidity Have Changed History
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Erik Durschmied | Coronet

The Hinge Factor: How Chance and Stupidity Have Changed History

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.38

$8.90

Ever wondered how the smallest events can lead to monumental historical shifts? Erik Durschmied's "The Hinge Factor" spins a compelling narrative on how chance occurrences and human folly have swayed the course of history. Packed with striking anecdotes, this book might just change your perspective on how history unfolds, proving that sometimes, the most significant outcomes hinge on the unforeseen and the overlooked.
India After Gandhi: The History of the World's Largest Democracy - Thryft
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Ramachandra Guha | Ecco

India After Gandhi: The History of the World's Largest Democracy

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 4.39

$7.90

If you're intrigued by how a diverse nation like India has sustained its democratic framework amidst numerous challenges, "India After Gandhi" is unmissable. Guha masterfully navigates India's complex past, presenting a panoramic view that isn't just informative but incredibly engaging, offering insights into both the triumphs and travails that shape the subcontinent. This isn't a dry historical account; it's a vivid narrative that brings the evolution of Indian democracy to life.
A Little History of the World : Illustrated Edition - Thryft
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E. H. Gombrich | Yale University Press

A Little History of the World : Illustrated Edition

$12.02

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$12.02

Now available in paperback, a glorious illustrated edition of the international bestseller
A Short History of Nearly Everything
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Bill Bryson | Broadway Books

A Short History of Nearly Everything

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$14.90

67% off est. retail
A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson is a fantastic read for anyone interested in exploring the origins of the universe and humankind. Bryson takes a complex subject and makes it accessible to all readers, using his trademark humor to keep things light and entertaining. The book is perfect for anyone looking to expand their understanding of science and the world around us.
A Short History of Chinese Philosophy - Thryft
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Feng Youlan | Free Press

A Short History of Chinese Philosophy

$7.21

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$7.21

This is a chronicle of Chinese thought from the third millennium sage-kings to the 1911 overthrow of the oldest monarchical system in the world. The book illuminates the most commonly known schools of Confuciansim and Taoism, and it acquaints readers with Mohism, Yin-Yang, Legalism, Neo-Taosim, Neo-Confucianism, and the introduction of Western philosophy.
Ataturk : The Biography of the Founder of Modern Turkey - Thryft
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Andrew Mango | Abrams Press

Ataturk : The Biography of the Founder of Modern Turkey

$10.41

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$10.41

This book would be a good read for anyone interested in the formation of modern Turkey and the life of its founder, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. The book provides a detailed account of his life and times, and how his vision and tactics transformed Turkey into a regional power. The author, Andrew Mango, writes in a clear and engaging manner, and offers a nuanced perspective on Ataturk, highlighting both his admirable qualities and controversial decisions. Overall, this biography offers a rich and informative insight into the life and legacy of a transformative leader.
The Penguin History of New Zealand - Thryft
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Michael King | Penguin Books

The Penguin History of New Zealand

$12.14

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$12.14

The Penguin History of New Zealand provides an inclusive narrative of New Zealand's colorful and dramatic history. It uncovers the humane motives behind British colonization and showcases the heroism of Maori adapting to Western culture and technology while coping with colonization. This book is recommended for those interested in New Zealand's unique history and culture.
Age Of Extremes - The Short Twentieth Century, 1914-1991 - Thryft
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Eric J. Hobsbawm | Michael Joseph Ltd

Age Of Extremes - The Short Twentieth Century, 1914-1991

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.28

$3.88

"Age Of Extremes could be especially interesting for readers who want to understand the causes and consequences behind the most transformative events of the 20th century. Hobsbawm explains the major political, economic and social developments that have shaped the present world in a very engaging and insightful way. His analysis is thought-provoking and encourages readers to think about the past and future of our world. Although there are some complex historical phenomena described in the book, Hobsbawm contextualizes them in an understandable and compelling manner."
The Penguin History Of The World - Thryft
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Odd Arne Westad, J.M. Roberts  | Penguin Books

The Penguin History Of The World

$14.79

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$14.79

This is a completely new and updated edition of J. M. Roberts and Odd Arne Westad's widely acclaimed, landmark bestseller The Penguin History of the World.For generations of readers The Penguin History of the World has been one of the great cultural experiences - the entire story of human endeavour laid out in all its grandeur and folly, drama and pain in a single authoritative book. Now, for the first time, it has been completely overhauled for its 6th edition - not just bringing it up to date, but revising it throughout in the light of new research and discoveries, such as the revolution in our understanding of many civilizations in the Ancient World. The closing sections of the book reflect what now seems to be the inexorable rise of Asia and the increasingly troubled situation in the West.
The River of Lost Footsteps : Histories of Burma - Thryft
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Thant Myint-U | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The River of Lost Footsteps : Histories of Burma

$10.03

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$10.03

For nearly two decades Western governments and a growing activist community have been frustrated in their attempts to bring about a freer and more democratic Burma--through sanctions and tourist boycotts--only to see an apparent slide toward even harsher dictatorship. But what do we really know about Burma and its history? And what can Burma's past tell us about the present and even its future?In "The River of Lost Footsteps," Thant Myint-U tells the story of modern Burma, in part through a telling of his own family's history, in an interwoven narrative that is by turns lyrical, dramatic, and appalling. His maternal grandfather, U Thant, rose from being the schoolmaster of a small town in the Irrawaddy Delta to become the UN secretary-general in the 1960s. And on his father's side, the author is descended from a long line of courtiers who served at Burma's Court of Ava for nearly two centuries. Through their stories and others, he portrays Burma's rise and decline in the modern world, from the time of Portuguese pirates and renegade Mughal princes through the decades of British colonialism, the devastation of World War II, and a sixty-year civil war that continues today and is the longest-running war anywhere in the world."The River of Lost Footsteps" is a work both personal and global, a distinctive contribution that makes Burma accessible and enthralling. Thant Myint-U, educated at Harvard and Cambridge, has served on three United Nations peacekeeping operations, in Cambodia and in the former Yugoslavia, and was more recently the head of policy planning in the UN's Department of Political Affairs. He lives in New York City.
Histories of Nations: How Their Identities Were Forged
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Peter Furtado | Thames & Hudson

Histories of Nations: How Their Identities Were Forged

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.32

$8.90

61% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the multitude of narratives that shape a nation's self-image, "Histories of Nations" is a tapestry of insights you shouldn't miss. It's like having a conversation with 28 scholars, each offering a glimpse into the collective memory of their homeland. This book isn't just an accumulation of dates and events; it's about understanding the heartbeats of nations through the stories they tell themselves.
The History of the World in Bite-Sized Chunks - Thryft
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Emma Marriott | Michael O'mara

The History of the World in Bite-Sized Chunks

$5.79

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$5.79

History is a rich, varied, and fascinating subject, so it's rare to find the whole lot in one book . . . until now. The History of the World in Bite-Sized Chunks pulls it all together, from the world's earliest civilizations in 3500 BC to the founding of the United Nations in 1945, passing by the likes of Charlemagne, the Ottoman Empire, and the Crimean War, to name a few. Here's your chance to introduce yourself to the full spectrum of world history, and discover just how the modern world came to be.
The Story of Mankind - Thryft
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Hendrik Willem van Loon, John Merriman  | Liveright

The Story of Mankind

$7.14

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$7.14

Winner of the first John Newbery Medal, here is Hendrik van Loon's renowned classic, updated for the twenty-first century. First published in 1921, The Story of Mankind has charmed generations of readers of all ages with its warmth, simplicity, and wisdom. Beginning with the origins of human life and sweeping forward to illuminate all of history, Hendrik van Loon's incomparable prose enlivens the characters and events of every age. His unique ability to convey history as a fascinating tale of adventure has endeared the book to countless readers and has accorded it a unique place in publishing history. This new version, which retains van Loon's original illustrations, has been brought up to date by John Merriman, professor of history at Yale University. It incorporates the most important developments of the last two decades-including space exploration, the emergence of the developing countries, the Cold War, the Internet, and the astounding advances we have witnessed in medicine and science - and looks forward into the prospect of the twenty-first century.
A Little History of the World - Thryft
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E. H. Gombrich | Yale University Press

A Little History of the World

$10.30

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$10.30

In 1935, with a doctorate in art history and no prospect of a job, the 26-year-old Ernst Gombrich was invited by a publishing acquaintance to attempt a history of the world for younger readers. Amazingly, he completed the task in an intense six weeks, and Eine kurze Weltgeschichte für junge Leser was published in Vienna to immediate success, and is now available in seventeen languages across the world. Toward the end of his long life, Gombrich embarked upon a revision and, at last, an English translation. A Little History of the World presents his lively and involving history to English-language readers for the first time. Superbly designed and freshly illustrated, this is a book to be savored and collected. In forty concise chapters, Gombrich tells the story of man from the stone age to the atomic bomb. In between emerges a colorful picture of wars and conquests, grand works of art, and the spread and limitations of science. This is a text dominated not by dates and facts, but by the sweep of mankind's experience across the centuries, a guide to humanity's achievements and an acute witness to its frailties. The product of a generous and humane sensibility, this timeless account makes intelligible the full span of human history.