Free delivery on all orders above $30
Get 10% off all year round! Join Thryft Club
Get 10% off all year round and $10 off your next order! Join Thryft Club
Buy 3 Get Another Free On All Under S$10

Your cart

Your cart is empty

Check out these collections!

Bestselling Fiction
Bestselling Nonfiction
Bestselling Books for Children
Vintage and Rare Books
Vinyl Records
Women's Clothing
Men's Clothing

Stay in touch and win free books

Keep up with our latest sales and events, and receive
recommendations direct to your inbox. We'll only send the good stuff, promise!

By completing this form, you are signing up to receive our emails and can unsubscribe at any time

Books From University Presses

32 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!
Race
Clear all

32 Results

No results

Race
Clear all
Scenes of Subjection: Terror, Slavery, and Self-Making in Nineteenth-Century America
New
Saidiya Hartman | Oxford University Press

Scenes of Subjection: Terror, Slavery, and Self-Making in Nineteenth-Century America

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.61

$11.90

In stock: Like New

If you're invested in understanding the deep and enduring impact of slavery on African American identity, "Scenes of Subjection" by Saidiya Hartman is a gripping choice. Hartman offers a scholarly yet accessible work that delves into the subtle and overt ways in which power was exerted over enslaved individuals and their self-perception. As you explore various historical documents and cultural artifacts, you'll find yourself immersed in a poignant discussion on the complexities of freedom, humanity, and resistance. This book is a thoughtful read for anyone keen on dissecting the nuanced interplay between terror, enjoyment, and the shaping of black consciousness in American history.
Steep: The Precipitous Rise of the Tea Party
Lawrence Rosenthal, Christine Trost  | University Of California Press

Steep: The Precipitous Rise of the Tea Party

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

Goodreads rating: 3.42

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

83% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're fascinated by the shifts in American political landscapes, "Steep" offers an in-depth exploration of the Tea Party movement. Lawrence Rosenthal and Christine Trost provide a comprehensive look at how this faction rose to prominence and its significant influence on conservative politics. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone keen on dissecting modern political strategies or movements.
The Wrong Carlos: Anatomy of a Wrongful Execution - Thryft
James S. Liebman | Columbia University Press

The Wrong Carlos: Anatomy of a Wrongful Execution

$17.01 $5.90 65% off

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$17.01 $5.90 65% off

84% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever pondered the grim reality of wrongful convictions, "The Wrong Carlos" is a startling deep-dive into such a nightmare. The meticulous research by the Columbia Law team unravels the chilling story of Carlos DeLuna, creating a compelling narrative that’s as much about the failings of the criminal justice system as it is about DeLuna himself. Engrossing and unsettling, it’s a poignant reminder of the human cost of judicial errors and a call to reform.
The Dyirbal Language of North Queensland
R.M.W. Dixon | Cambridge University Press

The Dyirbal Language of North Queensland

$23.90 $15.90 33% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$23.90 $15.90 33% off

78% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

Learning about the Dyirbal language is like unearthing a hidden cultural treasure, providing an intimate glimpse into the ancient wisdom and beauty of the indigenous tribes of North Queensland. It's not just a linguistic journey, but a sobering look at the effects of colonization, viewed through the lens of language and cultural survival. You'll find yourself moved by the resilience and dignity of the people who speak it.
Sex, Death, and God in L.A - Thryft
David Reid | University Of California Press

Sex, Death, and God in L.A

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

89% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're enamored with the multifaceted nature of Los Angeles, "Sex, Death, and God in L.A." offers a tapestry of perspectives that feel both intimate and comprehensive. They dive beyond the glamorous veil showcasing how various communities, from Latino to Asian to Hollywood elite, shape the pulsing heart of the city. It's like eavesdropping on an enlightened conversation about a place both mythical and decidedly real.
Abolitions as a Global Experience
Hideaki Suzuki, Kumie Inose, Sue Peabody  | National University Of Singapore Press

Abolitions as a Global Experience

$24.90 $15.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$24.90 $15.90 36% off

60% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're fascinated by how significant societal changes unfold on a global scale, "Abolitions as a Global Experience" offers a riveting exploration. What makes this book particularly compelling is its refusal to oversimplify the global abolition of slavery to a single moral victory. Instead, it recognizes diverse international pressures and local dynamics. Beyond the act of abolition, it dives into its consequences and the subsequent collective memory, giving you a more complex, interconnected understanding of history. This could leave you with a newfound appreciation for the intricate tapestry of global history.
African American Views of the Japanese: Solidarity or Sedition?
Reginald Kearney | State University Of New York Press

African American Views of the Japanese: Solidarity or Sedition?

$16.90 $6.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$16.90 $6.90 59% off

85% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're deeply interested in the nuances of cross-cultural relationships and historical perspectives, "African American Views of the Japanese – Solidarity or Sedition?" will provide a unique lens through which to explore the complexities of international solidarity. It dives into an often-overlooked narrative, shining a light on African American attitudes towards Japan and Japanese people, and how these evolved over time, offering insights that are as educational as they are thought-provoking.
Acts of Identity: Creole-Based Approaches to Language and Ethnicity
R.B. Le Page, Andrée Tabouret-Keller  | Cambridge University Press

Acts of Identity: Creole-Based Approaches to Language and Ethnicity

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

Goodreads rating: 4.6

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

In stock: Well Read

If you're fascinated by the intersection of language and culture, "Acts of Identity" might be the book for you. It's a thought-provoking exploration of how our words can both connect us to and separate us from our communities. The authors' compelling research, drawn from the vibrant Creole-speaking Caribbean and immigrant communities in London, makes for enlightening reading, especially if you're interested in linguistics, sociology, or anthropology.
Why America's Top Pundits Are Wrong: Anthropologists Talk Back (California Series in Public Anthropology) - Thryft
Catherine Besteman, Hugh Gusterson  | University Of California Press

Why America's Top Pundits Are Wrong: Anthropologists Talk Back (California Series in Public Anthropology)

$18.90 $5.90 69% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$18.90 $5.90 69% off

85% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

Picture this: You've seen these commentators on the news or read their columns, making bold statements about world affairs and social issues, often leaving you with more questions than answers. Reading this book is like having a group of distinguished anthropologists at your dinner party, expertly debunking those oversimplified takes with nuanced understanding and evidence from their own field research. If you're craving depth over soundbites and genuine expertise over punditry, this anthology delivers a fresh perspective that challenges mainstream narratives.
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

In stock: Like New

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.
Animacies: Biopolitics, Racial Mattering, and Queer Affect - Perverse Modernities
Sold out
Mel Y. Chen | Duke University Press Books

Animacies: Biopolitics, Racial Mattering, and Queer Affect - Perverse Modernities

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$16.90

64% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're drawn to the intersections of queer theory, race studies, and environmental philosophy, "Animacies" is an enlightening dive into these complex relations. Mel Y. Chen offers thought-provoking insights on how various forms of life, language, and matter intersect with issues of social justice. It's a challenging read, but it might entirely reshape your understanding of agency and matter in the biopolitical sphere.
Sociology - Thryft
Sold out
James Fulcher, John P. Scott  | Oxford University Press

Sociology

$20.44

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$20.44

Out of stock

Sociology could be a good read for students interested in exploring different forms of social inequality, cultural diversity, and the processes contributing to social change. The book offers a thorough and in-depth exploration of these topics, backed by sociological research, and the concept of sociological imagination is addressed to help students approach sociological problems critically. The book also includes case studies and multiple-choice quiz questions that make it an effective tool for students to diagnose and explain sociological concepts.
Meanings of Multiethnicity : Case-study of Ethnicity and Ethnic Relations in Singapore - Thryft
Sold out
Lai Ah Eng | Oxford University Press

Meanings of Multiethnicity : Case-study of Ethnicity and Ethnic Relations in Singapore

$13.66

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$13.66

Out of stock

If you're intrigued by the complex tapestry of cultures in modern societies, this book provides a deep dive into Singapore's multiethnic landscape. Ah Eng Lai's meticulous study offers insights not just into how a diverse nation builds its collective identity, but also into the personal significance of ethnicity for individuals. Taking you from intimate, detailed ethnography to broader socio-political discussions, it carves out an understanding of ethnic relations that's both nuanced and highly relevant in today's world.
The Ethics of Identity - Thryft
Sold out
Kwame Anthony Appiah | Princeton University Press

The Ethics of Identity

$16.01

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$16.01

73% off est. retail

Out of stock

The Ethics of Identity is a thought-provoking work that challenges readers to consider the relationship between our individuality and our collective identities. Appiah draws on a diverse range of philosophical and cultural perspectives, offering an interdisciplinary approach to this complex topic. With insightful analyses and clear prose, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the ethical implications of identity.
Death, Dying and Bereavement: A Hong Kong Chinese Experience - Thryft
Sold out
Amy Yin Man Chow, Cecilia Lai-Wan Chan  | Hong Kong University Press

Death, Dying and Bereavement: A Hong Kong Chinese Experience

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

86% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're intrigued by cultural perspectives on sensitive topics like death and bereavement, this book offers a deep look into the Chinese experience, particularly from a Hong Kong context. It bridges east and west, blending ancient rituals with modern practices. Such insights could be invaluable for professionals in the field, or anyone interested in how different cultures approach life’s final chapter. This isn’t just academic—it's a gateway to understanding and possibly improving end-of-life care.
Colonial Fantasies: Towards a Feminist Reading of Orientalism - Cambridge Cultural Social Studies
Sold out
Meyda Yeğenoğlu | Cambridge University Press

Colonial Fantasies: Towards a Feminist Reading of Orientalism - Cambridge Cultural Social Studies

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$13.90

Out of stock

For anyone fascinated by the intersection of feminism and postcolonial studies, "Colonial Fantasies" is an enlightening dive. It challenges established perspectives on orientalism, adding layers of gender dynamics to your understanding of historical and cultural narratives. If you're looking for a read that pushes the envelope on critical thought, this would be it.
The Rights of Subordinated Peoples - Thryft
Sold out
Oliver Mendelsohn | Oxford University Press

The Rights of Subordinated Peoples

$4.55

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$4.55

Out of stock

These excellent essays consider the rights of subordinated peoples on several continents. The contributors base their comprehensive analysis on the Tribals and Untouchables of India, the Aborigines of Australia, the Indians of Brazil, indigenous people of the old USSR, the blacks of SouthAfrica, and women under fundamentalist Islam. Through their detailed study, they recognize that subordinate conditions must be primarily overthrown by the subordinated peoples themselves; and there are now clear signs that these people have begun to stand up for themselves as never before. Thecontributors which include David Maybury-Lewis, James Crawford, and Ramachandra Guha, are all experts in the field and their individual discussions of subordinated peoples will be essential reading for sociologists and those interested in Subaltern studies.
The Psychology of the Chinese People - Thryft
Sold out
Michael Harris Bond | Oxford University Press

The Psychology of the Chinese People

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$6.90

Out of stock

Although the Chinese people constitute more than a quarter of the world's population, this book is the first to summarize and integrate the wealth of data available (both in Chinese and English) on their psychological functioning. The well-known contributors emphasize prime areas of research,the theoretical models used to integrate these findings, and problems for future investigation. They provide a cross-cultural perspective on the data, covering topics such as socialization, perception, cognition, personality, psychopathology, social behavior, and organization. Full of interestingcomparisons, facts, and insights, the work will appeal to psychologists and psychiatrists, cultural anthropologists, sociologists, and anyone interested in Chinese culture.
Beyond Repair? - America's Death Penalty - Thryft
Sold out
Stephen P. Garvey, Larry W. Yackle, Samuel D. Gross  | Duke University Press Books

Beyond Repair? - America's Death Penalty

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

Out of stock

If you are drawn to complex moral issues, "Beyond Repair? - America's Death Penalty" will resonate deeply with you. This book offers a powerful exploration of one of the most contentious facets of the American justice system. You'll find yourself engrossed in a rigorous examination of capital punishment's inherent challenges, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in law, ethics, or social justice.
In The Mix - A Collection Of Writing From Around The World - Thryft
Sold out
Esther Menon | Cambridge University Press

In The Mix - A Collection Of Writing From Around The World

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 1.5

$5.07

89% off est. retail

Out of stock

"In The Mix" is a captivating and diverse anthology that offers a range of texts from different parts of the world. It is perfect for readers who are interested in exploring unique perspectives, experiences, and cultures. The book's most distinctive feature is the way it highlights the commonalities and differences within humanity. Through its moving and varied stories, "In The Mix" reflects who we are as a global community. Overall, it is a thought-provoking and engaging read for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of the world.
The Psychology of the Chinese People - Thryft
Sold out
Michael Harris Bond | Oxford University Press

The Psychology of the Chinese People

$8.45

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$8.45

Out of stock

Although the Chinese people constitute more than a quarter of the world's population, this book is the first to summarize and integrate the wealth of data available (both in Chinese and English) on their psychological functioning. The well-known contributors emphasize prime areas of research,the theoretical models used to integrate these findings, and problems for future investigation. They provide a cross-cultural perspective on the data, covering topics such as socialization, perception, cognition, personality, psychopathology, social behavior, and organization. Full of interestingcomparisons, facts, and insights, the work will appeal to psychologists and psychiatrists, cultural anthropologists, sociologists, and anyone interested in Chinese culture.
The Chinese Question: Ethnicity, Nation, and Region in and Beyond the Philippines
Sold out
Caroline S. Hau | National University Of Singapore Press

The Chinese Question: Ethnicity, Nation, and Region in and Beyond the Philippines

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.90

81% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're fascinated by the interplay of cultural identities and how they influence national narratives, "The Chinese Question" could resonate with you. Caroline S. Hau delves into the evolving concepts of race, class, and ideology within the Philippines, framing it through the lens of the local Chinese community. This book might particularly appeal to those interested in ethnicity and regional dynamics in Southeast Asia, as it offers a profound exploration of what it means to belong and how heritage can shape an entire nation's perspective.
Contesting Space - Power Relations And The Urban Built Environment In Colonial Singapore - Thryft
Sold out
Brenda S.A. Yeoh | Oxford University Press

Contesting Space - Power Relations And The Urban Built Environment In Colonial Singapore

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$8.90

Out of stock

If urban development and history fascinate you, "Contesting Space" would be an enriching read. Brenda S. A. Yeoh delves into how colonial Singapore's urban spaces became a battleground of cultural and political interests, reflecting the complexities and struggles between colonial authorities and Asian communities. It's a meticulous exploration of the forces that shaped a city, ideal for those intrigued by urban studies and colonial history.
Melayu : The Politics, Poetics and Paradoxes of Malayness - Thryft
Sold out
Maznah Mohamad | National University Of Singapore Press

Melayu : The Politics, Poetics and Paradoxes of Malayness

$14.53

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$14.53

Out of stock

People within the Malay world hold strong but diverse opinions about the meaning of the word Melayu, which can be loosely translated as Malayness. Questions of whether the Filipinos are properly called "Malay", or the Mon-Khmer speaking Orang Asli in Malaysia, can generate heated debates. So too can the question of whether it is appropriate to speak of a kebangsaan Melayu (Malay as nationality) as the basis of membership within an aspiring postcolonial nation-state, a political rather than a cultural community embracing all residents of the Malay states, including the immigrant Chinese and Indian population.In Melayu: The Politics, Poetics and Paradoxes of Malayness, the contributors examine the checkered, wavering and changeable understanding of the word Melayu by considering hitherto unexplored case studies dealing with use of the term in connection with origins, nations, minority-majority politics, Filipino Malays, Riau Malays, Orang Asli, Straits Chinese literature, women's veiling, vernacular television, social dissent, literary women, and modern Sufism. Taken as a whole, this volume offers a creative approach to the study of Malayness while providing new perspectives to the studies of identity formation and politics of ethnicity that have wider implications beyond the Southeast Asian region.
The Scripting of a National History - Singapore and Its Pasts - Thryft
Sold out
Lysa Hong, Jianli Huang  | Hong Kong University Press

The Scripting of a National History - Singapore and Its Pasts

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$8.90

Out of stock

If you're into the interplay between history and politics, you'll find this deep dive into how Singapore's history has been shaped by its rulers truly fascinating. It's not just a book; it's an exploration of national identity, governance, and memory. It challenges accepted truths and shows how history is not just about the past, but about power, policies, and perceptions that shape a nation's soul.
Investigating Modern Art - Thryft
Sold out
Liz Dawtrey, Mary Masterton, Toby Jackson  | Yale University Press

Investigating Modern Art

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Out of stock

If modern art's complexities have eluded you, "Investigating Modern Art" could be the guide you've been waiting for. It dissects the nuances of modern masterpieces and the social contexts that shaped them. Think of it as a companion that makes sense of the intricate dance between history, culture, and the bold strokes of modern artistry. Through this book, you may find yourself looking at a Pollock or Warhol with fresh eyes and deeper understanding.
The Teacher's Body: Embodiment, Authority, and Identity in the Academy - Thryft
Sold out
Diane P. Freedman, Martha Stoddard Holmes  | State University Of New York Press

The Teacher's Body: Embodiment, Authority, and Identity in the Academy

$11.49

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$11.49

Out of stock

These highly personal essays from a range of academic settings explore the palpable moments of discomfort, disempowerment, and/or enlightenment that emerge when we discard the fiction that the teacher has no body. Visible and/or invisible, the body can transform both the teacher s experience and classroom dynamics. When students think the teacher s body is clearly marked by ethnicity, race, disability, size, gender, sexuality, illness, age, pregnancy, class, linguistic and geographic origins, or some combination of these, both the mode and the content of education can change. Other, less visible aspects of a teacher s body, such as depression or a history of sexual assault, can have an equally powerful impact on how we teach and learn. The collection anatomizes these moments of embodied pedagogy as unexpected teaching opportunities and examines their apparent impact on teacher-student educational dynamics of power, authority, desire, friendship, open-mindedness, and resistance."
Talking to Strangers : Anxieties of Citizenship since Brown v. Board of Education - Thryft
Sold out
Danielle S. Allen | University Of Chicago Press

Talking to Strangers : Anxieties of Citizenship since Brown v. Board of Education

$12.62

Goodreads rating: 4.05

$12.62

79% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in improving their understanding of trust and citizenship in modern society. Allen tackles issues around interracial distrust, personal and political alienation, and suspicion of others by proposing techniques of citizenship based on political friendship. Sacrifice is central to this book, as it bridges citizenship and trust. Allen's insights are both trenchant and incisive, and she offers practical solutions for recognizing and reciprocating our daily sacrifices in a democracy. Talking to Strangers provides a renewed sense of hope for a revitalized democratic citizenry.
Orientations : Mapping Studies in the Asian Diaspora - Thryft
Sold out
Kandice Chuh, Karen Shimakawa  | Duke University Press Books

Orientations : Mapping Studies in the Asian Diaspora

$12.49 $6.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$12.49 $6.90 45% off

83% off est. retail

Out of stock

Orientations offers insightful perspectives on the intersections of Asian diaspora, globalization, and postcolonialism. The essays within the book delve into various issues such as the strategies of Filipino immigrants enacting an Asian American identity and the role of Asian Americans within U.S. racial politics. The contributors provide a deep understanding of the complexities of Asian diaspora in contemporary society and how race and globalization intersect with it.
Anthropological Locations : Boundaries and Grounds of a Field Science - Thryft
Sold out
Akhil Gupta, James Ferguson  | University Of California Press

Anthropological Locations : Boundaries and Grounds of a Field Science

$16.13

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$16.13

Out of stock

Among the social sciences, anthropology relies most fundamentally on "fieldwork"―the long-term immersion in another way of life as the basis for knowledge. In an era when anthropologists are studying topics that resist geographical localization, this book initiates a long-overdue discussion of the political and epistemological implications of the disciplinary commitment to fieldwork.These innovative, stimulating essays―carefully chosen to form a coherent whole―interrogate the notion of "the field," showing how the concept is historically constructed and exploring the consequences of its dominance. The essays discuss anthropological work done in places (in refugee camps, on television) or among populations (gays and lesbians, homeless people in the United States) that challenge the traditional boundaries of "the field." The contributors suggest alternative methodologies appropriate for contemporary problems and ultimately propose a reformation of the discipline of anthropology.
Wong Kar-wai's Happy Together - Thryft
Sold out
Jeremy Tambling | Hong Kong University Press

Wong Kar-wai's Happy Together

$13.18

Goodreads rating: 3.04

$13.18

Out of stock

This book is a great read for those interested in exploring the themes of masculinity, identity, and homosexuality in the context of post-colonial Hong Kong. It also delves into the film's relation to American road movies and the history of tango. Tambling's analysis of Happy Together's narrative and images in the light of Borges and Manuel Puig makes for an interesting read on film and literary criticism. It's a thought-provoking book that raises important questions on emotions, masculinity, gender relationships, and sexuality.
Making Meaning of Whiteness : Exploring Racial Identity with White Teachers - Thryft
Sold out
Alice McIntyre, Christine Sleeter  | State University Of New York Press

Making Meaning of Whiteness : Exploring Racial Identity with White Teachers

$17.25

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$17.25

64% off est. retail

Out of stock

"Making Meaning of Whiteness" is a must-read for educators who want to develop teaching strategies that disrupt and eliminate the oppressiveness of white privilege in education. It explores how racial identity shapes teaching practices and provides a critical analysis of race and racism. McIntyre's book offers insight into examining the "whiteness" of educational spaces and provides tools for facilitating conversations on equity.