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Bestselling Nonfiction

Browse popular, highly rated secondhand nonfiction books at affordable prices, starting from just S$3.90! Titles in this collection boast above 4 stars on Goodreads, with at least 500 ratings.

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The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Transformation of Trauma
Just Arrived
Bessel van der Kolk | Penguin Books Ltd

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Transformation of Trauma

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$11.90

60% off est. retail
If you've experienced trauma or know someone who has, "The Body Keeps the Score" could be a vital resource for understanding and healing. Bessel van der Kolk dives deep into the complex effects of trauma and presents innovative treatments that offer hope beyond traditional talk therapy and medications. It's not just informative; it's a compassionate guide that could change the way you think about psychological and emotional healing.
The Quick Fix: Why Fad Psychology Can't Cure Our Social Ills
Jesse Singal | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Quick Fix: Why Fad Psychology Can't Cure Our Social Ills

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$11.90

59% off est. retail
If you've ever doubted the soundbites from TED Talks or questioned the real value behind self-help trends, "The Quick Fix" by Jesse Singal will resonate with you. Singal takes you behind the curtain, revealing how the nuanced and complex field of psychology gets reduced to catchy, marketable optimism. It's an enlightening read for anyone who values scientific integrity over the allure of quick fixes.
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

$17.90 $12.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$17.90 $12.90 28% off

"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.
Prosperity Without Growth: Economics for a Finite Planet
Tim Jackson | Earthscan Publications Ltd.

Prosperity Without Growth: Economics for a Finite Planet

$16.90 $13.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$16.90 $13.90 18% off

This book might resonate with you if you're concerned about the environmental impact of continuous economic expansion. Tim Jackson presents a compelling argument that challenges the conventional wisdom of growth, offering a fresh look at how we can achieve a sustainable future. It's a thought provoking read that doesn't just criticize the status quo, but also offers a vision of hope by detailing a pathway to a prosperous, yet sustainable world.
Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst
Just Arrived
Robert M. Sapolsky | Penguin Books

Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.37

$9.90

67% off est. retail
If you love big, brainy nonfiction that still feels lively and human, this is the kind of book people rave about for years. Sapolsky pulls together neuroscience, psychology, evolution, and society to show how a single moment of behavior is shaped long before it happens. It’s especially rewarding if you like books that make you rethink morality, violence, empathy, and free will without ever feeling dry.
Country Driving: A Chinese Road Trip
Peter Hessler | Canongate Books Ltd.

Country Driving: A Chinese Road Trip

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$11.90

52% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the rapidly changing landscapes of both geography and culture, "Country Driving: A Chinese Road Trip" could be your next great read. It's not just a travel narrative; it's a deep dive into the complexities of modern China, seen through the unique lens of an outsider who's gained insider access. Hessler's driving adventure reveals the nuances of a country on the move, perfect for those looking for a blend of humor, pathos, and societal examination beyond the headlines.
Far from the Tree: Parents, Children and the Search for Identity
Andrew Solomon | Vintage

Far from the Tree: Parents, Children and the Search for Identity

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

"Far from the Tree" might resonate deeply with you if you're intrigued by the complex dynamics of family and identity. Andrew Solomon's exhaustive research and empathetic storytelling will pull you into the lives of families who find unity and love amidst profound differences. This book doesn't just tell stories; it shows the breadth of human connection and the enduring power of acceptance. It's a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the richness of human diversity and the bonds that tie us together, regardless of our challenges.
Cambodia
Nick Ray, Greg Bloom  | Geoplaneta

Cambodia

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$9.90

67% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the delicate interplay between a nation's haunting history and its vibrant present, this travel guide will serve as a poignant companion on your journey through Cambodia. Through vivid descriptions and practical tips, it offers a window into the soul of a country that has endured so much, yet stands resplendent among its ancient temples and bustling streets. Whether you're a history buff, cultural enthusiast, or just love to delve into a place with a complex story, this book promises to enrich your travel experience.
Winners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World
Anand Giridharadas | Vintage

Winners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$8.90

If you're someone who's been skeptical about the grand gestures of the ultra-wealthy and their so-called philanthropy, "Winners Take All" could resonate with you. Anand Giridharadas doesn't just question the sincerity of these endeavors but digs into how they often serve to maintain the inequality they purport to solve. It's a trenchant, thought-provoking read that might alter how you see the relationship between wealth, power, and social change.
Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found
Suketu Mehta | Penguin India

Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

If you're drawn to understanding the soul of a city through its people and their intertwined stories, "Maximum City" by Suketu Mehta could be a great read for you. It'll take you deep into the fabric of Bombay, providing an insider's perspective that's as engaging as it is enlightening. This book acts like a multifaceted lens, capturing the spirit, struggles, and dreams of a metropolis that is at once alluring and overwhelming.
Watching the English
Kate Fox | Hodder And Stoughton

Watching the English

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$8.90

Imagine enjoying a humorous yet scholarly tour through a garden of English quirks. Kate Fox's "Watching the English" offers a rich blend of anthropological insight and witty observation. You'll find yourself both enlightened and entertained as you discover the hidden rules of English behavior. It's like people-watching at a very sophisticated tea party, with the added bonus of understanding why everyone acts the way they do. Perfect for anyone curious about the English or cultural nuances in general.
The Plausibility Problem: The Church and Same-Sex Attraction
Ed Shaw | Inter-varsity Press

The Plausibility Problem: The Church and Same-Sex Attraction

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.43

$10.90

46% off est. retail
If you're navigating the complexities of faith and sexuality, "The Plausibility Problem" may speak to you deeply. Ed Shaw delves into his personal experiences with same-sex attraction without abandoning Biblical teachings. His perspective is both vulnerable and steadfast, offering a compassionate look at an often polarizing topic. Whether you're seeking understanding, or grappling with similar challenges, Shaw's insights could provide a comforting blend of empathy and conviction.
This Is What Inequality Looks Like
Just Arrived
Teo You Yenn | Ethos Books

This Is What Inequality Looks Like

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.45

$11.90

80% off est. retail
If you want to truly understand the realities of inequality in Singapore, "This is What Inequality Looks Like" is a must-read. Through a series of thought-provoking essays, Teo You Yenn offers a deep dive into the experiences of low-income individuals and reveals the intersection between personal struggles and systemic inequality. This book will challenge your perspective, broaden your empathy, and inspire you to take action towards a more equitable society.
Abandoned: The True Story of a Little Girl Who Didn't Belong
Anya Peters | August 6, 2013

Abandoned: The True Story of a Little Girl Who Didn't Belong

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

81% off est. retail
Anya's story is gripping and harrowing. You'll feel every ounce of her pain and her incredible strength as she overcomes unimaginable challenges. "Abandoned" isn't just a memoir—it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. If you're moved by stories of survival and hope, and the power of one's courage to change their narrative, this book will not just capture your attention; it might also change the way you look at life and the struggle for belonging.
How to Change the World: Social Entrepreneurs and the Power of New Ideas
David Bornstein | Oxford University Press

How to Change the World: Social Entrepreneurs and the Power of New Ideas

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

86% off est. retail
You might find "How to Change the World" both uplifting and empowering if you're passionate about social activism or entrepreneurship. It showcases real-life tales of individuals who've tackled massive challenges, sparking that can-do spirit and offering insights on making tangible differences in the world. It's like a playbook for anyone with the drive to create meaningful change but needing a spark of inspiration or affirmation that one person's determination can indeed transform lives.
Parenting Without Borders: Surprising Lessons Parents Around the World Can Teach Us
Just Arrived
Christine Gross-Loh | Penguin Publishing Group

Parenting Without Borders: Surprising Lessons Parents Around the World Can Teach Us

$10.71

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$10.71

This is a refreshing read for parents who feel boxed in by modern parenting pressure. Christine Gross-Loh draws on research and real cultural practices from around the world to show that there isn’t just one right way to raise confident, capable children. It feels eye-opening and reassuring at once, especially if you like practical ideas that challenge familiar assumptions without sounding preachy.
Strong Is the New Pretty: A Celebration of Girls Being Themselves
Just Arrived
Kate T. Parker | Workman Publishing Company

Strong Is the New Pretty: A Celebration of Girls Being Themselves

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.52

$10.90

64% off est. retail
This is the kind of book that makes you smile, tear up, and feel a little stronger by the end. Through candid photographs and uplifting energy, it celebrates girls as muddy, loud, brave, goofy, and completely themselves. It’s a lovely pick for anyone who wants a reminder that confidence and beauty look best when they’re real.
Found - Thryft
Davy Rothbart | N/a

Found

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

79% off est. retail
Recommendation: Found is a unique and captivating collection of lost items that offer a glimpse into the lives of people from diverse backgrounds. Readers who enjoy discovering hidden gems and the stories behind them will love this book. Each item, be it a letter, a doodle, or a shopping list, is a window into the joys, sorrows, and struggles of someone, somewhere. Found is a touching celebration of human connection and resilience, and it will make readers laugh, cry, and marvel at the beauty of serendipity and empathy.
Not Without My Sister
Juliana Buhring, Celeste Jones, Kristina Jones  | Harperelement

Not Without My Sister

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$3.90

If you're drawn to real-life stories of resilience and the unbreakable bond of family, "Not Without My Sister" could speak to you profoundly. The sisters' ordeal in the Children of God cult and their ultimate journey to freedom and healing can be both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Their bravery in facing their past and the strength they find in one another are testament to the endurance of the human spirit.
The Fifties - Thryft
David Halberstam | Ballantine Books

The Fifties

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

78% off est. retail
If you're curious about the undercurrents that shaped modern America, "The Fifties" is a treasure trove just for you. David Halberstam masterfully connects the dots between the decade's tranquil facade and its profound societal shifts. You'll emerge from this book with a profound understanding of the events and personalities that laid the groundwork for the country you know today.
The Making of Modern Japan
Just Arrived
Marius B. Jansen | Belknap Press: An Imprint Of Harvard University Press

The Making of Modern Japan

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$11.90

80% off est. retail
If you want a deep, authoritative history of Japan, this is the kind of book that feels endlessly rewarding rather than dry. Readers often admire how it connects shoguns, samurai culture, modernization, war, and postwar reform into one flowing story. It is especially great for anyone who wants to understand not just what changed in Japan, but what remarkably endured.
You Can't Read This Book: Censorship in an Age of Freedom
Nick Cohen | Fourth Estate

You Can't Read This Book: Censorship in an Age of Freedom

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

58% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of free expression and its limits even in societies that tout freedom, "You Can't Read This Book" offers a thought-provoking journey. It's a compelling read for anyone looking to delve deep into the often overlooked intricacies of censorship, highlighting how free speech battles are more relevant than ever.
Folk and Fairy Tales
Martin Hallett, Barbara Karasek  | Broadview Press

Folk and Fairy Tales

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$9.90

This is a great pick if you want more than just charming tales and really want to see how folklore works across cultures and time. It brings together classic stories, different versions, and smart critical essays in a way that feels both academic and genuinely fascinating. Readers who enjoy noticing patterns, symbols, and how stories evolve will find it especially rewarding.
China Wakes: The Struggle for the Soul of a Rising Power - Thryft
Nicholas D. Kristof, Sheryl WuDunn  | Times Books/random House

China Wakes: The Struggle for the Soul of a Rising Power

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

90% off est. retail
If you’re intrigued by the evolution of global powers, “China Wakes” offers a deep dive into the complexities of China's ascension. The reporters take you through the multifaceted societal changes with a level of detail that's personal yet panoramic. It's as eye-opening as it is enlightening, providing a snapshot of a pivotal time in China’s history. This book may change the way you see China and its place in the world.
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.
The Hell of It All
Charlie Brooker | Faber And Faber

The Hell of It All

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90

If you're the type to chuckle at the absurdities of contemporary life with a side of biting wit, "The Hell of It All" might be your next favorite read. Charlie Brooker's acerbic commentary will resonate if you appreciate humor that's as dark as it is intelligent, skewering everything from pop culture to political absurdities. It's like having a hilarious conversation with that one friend who sees the world with a bit of healthy skepticism.
Peluda
Sold out
Melissa Lozada-Oliva | Button Poetry

Peluda

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90

55% off est. retail
"Peluda" could resonate deeply with you if you're interested in exploring the intricate relationships between personal identity and societal beauty standards. Melissa Lozada-Oliva's voice in poetry is fresh and bold, tackling issues like body image and cultural taboos with a mix of humor and poignant clarity. It's a compact read that packs a punch, unraveling layers of Latina identity and the immigrant experience in America.
So You've Been Publicly Shamed - Thryft
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Jon Ronson | Riverhead Books

So You've Been Publicly Shamed

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

82% off est. retail
If you've ever tweeted something you regretted or worried about an offhand comment going viral, "So You've Been Publicly Shamed" is a compelling dive into the world of online shaming. It's a mix of empathy, humor, and cautionary tales that might make you reflect on how we all participate in the digital age's version of the stocks and pillory. Jon Ronson’s storytelling will keep you hooked as you navigate the complex landscape of internet mob justice.
Women Don't Ask : The High Cost of Avoiding Negotiation--And Positive Strategies for Change - Thryft
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Sara Laschever, Linda Babcock  | Bantam

Women Don't Ask : The High Cost of Avoiding Negotiation--And Positive Strategies for Change

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

85% off est. retail
If the thought of negotiating makes you uneasy, "Women Don't Ask" could be exactly what you need. This book doesn't just highlight the disparity between men and women in negotiations; it empowers you with the insight to break personal barriers and societal stereotypes. You'll finish this read feeling prepared to assert your worth in personal and professional spheres, equipped with strategies that can potentially change the entire trajectory of your career and personal life.
Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China
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Leslie T. Chang | Picador Usa

Factory Girls: Voices from the Heart of Modern China

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90

54% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the personal stories behind the headlines of China's economic surge, "Factory Girls" is for you. Leslie T. Chang dives deep into the lives of two women navigating the chaotic world of migrant labor, shedding light on the human cost of the products we often take for granted. It offers a profound, eye-opening experience that's both socially relevant and emotionally resonant.
Black Ants and Buddhists : Thinking Critically and Teaching Differently in the Primary Grades - Thryft
Sold out
Mary Cowhey | Routledge

Black Ants and Buddhists : Thinking Critically and Teaching Differently in the Primary Grades

$10.86

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$10.86

79% off est. retail
Black Ants and Buddhists could be a good read for teachers who want to inspire their students to be more accepting and inclusive. The book shares innovative approaches to promoting a more peaceful way of viewing the world, with interwoven stories of Mary's Irish roots and her selected heroes such as Gandhi and Martin Luther King. The book doesn't provide easy solutions, however, it offers various ways of inciting conversations about diversity.
Tightrope - Americans Reaching For Hope - Thryft
Sold out
Nicholas D. Kristof, Sheryl WuDunn  | Knopf

Tightrope - Americans Reaching For Hope

$5.12

Goodreads rating: 4.28

$5.12

88% off est. retail
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.
David and Goliath: Art of Battling Giants
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Malcolm Gladwell | Penguin Export

David and Goliath: Art of Battling Giants

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

62% off est. retail
This book is perfect for someone who wants to understand how to overcome roadblocks, how to tackle major challenges and how to fight against giants. With engaging stories and examples, Gladwell shows that it's not just physical strength that has power. Instead, there are many factors that contribute to victory, including unconventional approaches, determination, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. If you're looking for inspiration and insight, this book is for you.
Radhika's Story: Surviving Human Trafficking - Thryft
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Radhika's Story: Surviving Human Trafficking

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$3.88

Recommended for readers interested in understanding the reality of modern slavery and its impact on its victims. Radhika's Story provides a raw, honest account of a survivor's journey, including the complexity of trauma and the difficulty in trusting others. This book sheds light on the urgent need for systemic change to prevent human trafficking and protect the vulnerable.
The Fall of Public Man - Thryft
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Richard Sennett | Gardners Books

The Fall of Public Man

$7.53 $5.27 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$7.53 $5.27 30% off

78% off est. retail
Recommendation: The Fall of Public Man is a thought-provoking analysis of the decline in public life and political involvement in recent decades. Richard Sennett's erudition and historical imagination brilliantly describe the growing imbalance between private and public experience in modern society. This book provides a fascinating perspective on the relationship between public life and the cult of the individual, and argues for a more formal public culture to reconnect with our communities.
The Ticklish Subject : Absent Centre of Political Ontology - Thryft
Sold out
Slavoj Žižek | Verso

The Ticklish Subject : Absent Centre of Political Ontology

$8.99

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.99

71% off est. retail
The Ticklish Subject introduces a fresh perspective on the Cartesian subject, arguing that its subversive core might hold indispensable value for any emancipatory politics. If you're interested in exploring philosophical frameworks for politics, this book could be an intriguing read. Zizek's writing is thought-provoking and incisive, and his book could be a unique addition to any reader's collection.
Stayin' Alive : The 1970s and the Last Days of the Working Class - Thryft
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Jefferson R. Cowie | The New Press

Stayin' Alive : The 1970s and the Last Days of the Working Class

$11.83 $8.28 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$11.83 $8.28 30% off

81% off est. retail
This book provides an in-depth understanding of the 1970s cultural and political history, highlighting how it shaped modern times. It explores the working class experience and how it affected political and economic upheavals. The book is a great read for history buffs as well as those interested in social justice issues. The author's ability to connect politics to culture through music, film, and TV lore makes the book engaging and edgy. Overall, a thought-provoking and insightful read.
Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited
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Cherian George | Ethos Books

Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$11.90

56% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate blend of comfort and central control in Singapore's society. Through a compilation of essays by Cherian George, it provides critical insights into the country's political culture, shedding light on both its mastery of the environment and the potential risks it poses to individual autonomy and sustainability. With updated reflections on continuity and change, this 20th anniversary edition offers a comprehensive exploration of Singapore's unique societal dynamics, making it a must-read for those intrigued by the complexities of this nation.