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History Books

Unearth the past with our wide selection of history books at Thryft. Explore ancient civilisations, world wars, and pivotal moments that shaped humanity. Whether you're a history buff or a curious learner, our collection offers both insight and intrigue.
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Ignorance: How It Drives Science
Stuart Firestein | Oxford University Press, Usa

Ignorance: How It Drives Science

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$12.90 $7.90 39% off

79% off est. retail
If you’ve ever felt like science was too abstract or unapproachable, "Ignorance: How It Drives Science" could be a refreshing perspective. Stuart Firestein invites you to see the beauty in not knowing, transforming the stereotype of science's rigidity to a narrative of exploration and curiosity. It’s a thought-provoking dive into the true driving force of scientific inquiry—ignorance itself—which might just make you appreciate the unknowns in life a bit more.
Seeing and Believing: How the Telescope Opened Our Eyes and Minds to the Heavens
Richard Panek | Penguin Books

Seeing and Believing: How the Telescope Opened Our Eyes and Minds to the Heavens

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$11.90

52% off est. retail
This is a great pick if you enjoy science told through big shifts in human thinking. It is not just about the invention itself, but about the people who used it to completely reframe our sense of the universe. Readers who like concise, idea-rich nonfiction will probably find it both eye-opening and quietly awe-inspiring.
Hiding in the Mirror: The Mysterious Allure of Extra Dimensions, from Plato to String Theory and Beyond
Lawrence M. Krauss | Viking Adult

Hiding in the Mirror: The Mysterious Allure of Extra Dimensions, from Plato to String Theory and Beyond

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$13.90

48% off est. retail
This is a great pick if you love science that feels big, strange, and intellectually playful. Krauss connects philosophy, physics, and pop culture in a way that makes extra dimensions feel less like abstract math and more like a deeply human obsession. Readers who enjoy having their imagination stretched while still being grounded in real scientific debate will likely find it especially rewarding.
Comm Check...: The Final Flight of Shuttle Columbia
William Harwood, Michael Cabbage  | Free Press

Comm Check...: The Final Flight of Shuttle Columbia

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$9.90

65% off est. retail
If you're drawn to real-life disaster stories with depth, this is the kind of book that stays with you. It goes beyond the tragedy itself and shows how small decisions, pressure, and missed warnings built toward something catastrophic. Readers who like space history and behind-the-scenes accountability will find it both heartbreaking and quietly infuriating.
Aurora
Candace Savage | Douglas & Mcintyre Ltd

Aurora

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.90

This is a lovely pick if you want nature writing that also satisfies your curiosity. Candace Savage makes the aurora feel both mysterious and understandable, weaving together folklore, history, and science without ever becoming dry. It’s the kind of book readers enjoy when they want to feel wonder, but also come away feeling they truly learned something.
The Once and Future Moon
Paul D. Spudis | Smithsonian Institution Press

The Once and Future Moon

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$13.90

This is a great pick if you want science writing that feels both approachable and full of wonder. It takes the moon beyond familiar moon-landing imagery and shows why its geology and hidden far side matter so much to our understanding of the solar system. Readers who enjoy learning through big, thought-provoking connections will likely find it especially rewarding.
How to Build a Time Machine: The Real Science of Time Travel
Brian Clegg | St. Martin's Press

How to Build a Time Machine: The Real Science of Time Travel

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

If your curiosity extends beyond science fiction and you find yourself captivated by the mysteries and paradoxes of time, "How to Build a Time Machine" by Brian Clegg is a journey you'll want to embark on. Clegg's exploration of time travel is rooted in real scientific theories and current research, making it a stimulating and thought-provoking read. It's an invitation to ponder what was once impossible, with a touch of scientific rigor that makes the impossible seem tantalizingly plausible.
Earth: Evolution of a Habitable World
Cynthia J. Lunine, Jonathan I. Lunine  | Cambridge University Press

Earth: Evolution of a Habitable World

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$9.90

This is a great pick if you want Earth science to feel big, connected, and genuinely awe-inspiring rather than like a pile of separate facts. It traces the story from the cosmos to cells, so you really get why Earth became habitable when other planets did not. Readers who enjoy seeing science stitched into one sweeping narrative will likely find it both clarifying and quietly mind-expanding.
The Last Man on the Moon: Astronaut Eugene Cernan and America's Race in Space
Eugene Cernan, Donald A. Davis  | St. Martin's Press

The Last Man on the Moon: Astronaut Eugene Cernan and America's Race in Space

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

You'd appreciate Eugene Cernan's raw account if you're fascinated by the human elements of space exploration—the personal sacrifices, the intense camaraderie among astronauts, and the sheer thrill of achieving the extraordinary. "The Last Man on the Moon" dives into not just the technicalities and adventures of spaceflight but also the profound emotions and behind-the-scenes struggles of those who aimed for the stars. It's a story of human ambition and the price one pays for glory, narrated by someone who's been to the very edge of human experience.
Power Crystals: Spiritual and Magical Practices, Crystal Skulls, and Alien Technology
John DeSalvo | Destiny Books

Power Crystals: Spiritual and Magical Practices, Crystal Skulls, and Alien Technology

$15.90 $9.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$15.90 $9.90 38% off

68% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the intersection of the scientific and the mystical, "Power Crystals" could be a revelation for you. John DeSalvo takes you through a journey that connects ancient wisdom with modern implications, not just theoretically but with practical exercises too. Imagine wielding a piece of Atlantis's mystique or tapping into a primordial communication network; this book might just be your guide.
Earth's Dynamic Systems
Eric H. Christiansen, W. Kenneth Hamblin  | Pearson College Div

Earth's Dynamic Systems

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$10.90

89% off est. retail
This feels like a big-picture geology guide that helps everything click, from plate tectonics to the water cycle. It is especially good if you want more than scattered facts, because it shows how Earth’s systems connect and shape the planet over time. Readers who like clear visuals and a global perspective would probably find it both grounding and genuinely eye-opening.
In Space - The History News
Michael Johnstone | Walker Books Ltd

In Space - The History News

$18.90 $3.90 79% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$18.90 $3.90 79% off

If you're intrigued by the cosmos and the milestones that have shaped our understanding of it, "In Space" offers a creative twist on conventional history books. With its unique newspaper format, every page turns the wonders of space into tangible headlines and articles that connect you to space's grand narrative like a time traveler catching up on the past’s latest news. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or a curious reader, this book will engage you with a blend of educational content and entertaining presentation.
Messier's Nebulae and Star Clusters
Kenneth Glyn Jones | Cambridge University Press

Messier's Nebulae and Star Clusters

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$10.90

If you love the feeling of actually finding something extraordinary in the night sky, this book really delivers. It blends Messier’s historic catalog with practical guidance, maps, and drawings that make distant nebulae and clusters feel reachable through your own telescope. Amateur astronomers would probably love how it turns skywatching into both a scientific adventure and a personal treasure hunt.
Stephen Hawking - A Life in Science
John Gribbin, Michael White  | Plume

Stephen Hawking - A Life in Science

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

71% off est. retail
If you’re intrigued by the cosmos and the resilience of the human spirit, "Stephen Hawking - A Life In Science" will not disappoint. It doesn’t just lay out the science; it allows you to witness the trials and triumphs of one of the most extraordinary physicists, as Hawking’s personal and professional life unfold in a narrative as engaging as his theories are profound.
Kepler's Conjecture: How Some of the Greatest Minds in History Helped Solve One of the Oldest Math Problems in the World
George G. Szpiro | Wiley

Kepler's Conjecture: How Some of the Greatest Minds in History Helped Solve One of the Oldest Math Problems in the World

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$9.90

72% off est. retail
This is a great read if you like big ideas made surprisingly approachable. It turns a deceptively simple question about stacking spheres into a sweeping story of obsession, rivalry, and intellectual persistence across centuries. Readers who enjoy popular math with strong historical texture will likely find it both clever and deeply satisfying.
Universe on a T-Shirt: The Quest for the Theory of Everything
Dan Falk | Bpr Publishers,

Universe on a T-Shirt: The Quest for the Theory of Everything

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$13.90

This is a great pick if you like science books that make huge, mind-bending questions feel approachable rather than intimidating. Dan Falk takes the search for a theory of everything and gives it a human, curious energy, so it feels less like a lecture and more like joining an ongoing adventure. Readers who enjoy physics, cosmology, and the thrill of seeing how everything might connect will likely find it both smart and genuinely exciting.
Millikan's School: A History of the California Institute of Technology - Thryft
Judith R. Goodstein | W W Norton & Co Inc

Millikan's School: A History of the California Institute of Technology

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

90% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of science education and the development of one of the world's most renowned universities. Through detailed accounts of the contributions of its faculty and graduate students to various fields, readers gain insight into the growth of Caltech, and its crucial role in shifting the boundaries of scientific knowledge.
Investigate: Space - Thryft

Investigate: Space

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

This book is perfect for anyone with an interest in astronomy or a desire to delve into the mysteries of the universe. Spike Wademan does an excellent job of providing a comprehensive overview of space and what it entails. From the history of space exploration to the current understanding of the cosmos, Investigate: Space is an engaging read that will leave readers with a newfound appreciation for the world beyond our planet.
The Sleepwalkers: A History of Man's Changing Vision of the Universe
Herbert Butterfield, Arthur Koestler  | Arkana/penguin

The Sleepwalkers: A History of Man's Changing Vision of the Universe

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$9.90

60% off est. retail
This is the kind of big, brainy history that makes the evolution of cosmology feel deeply human rather than dry or technical. Koestler brings scientists to life as flawed, brilliant people shaped by belief, politics, and prejudice, which gives the scientific revolution real drama. If you like books that connect ideas across history, philosophy, and science, this feels rich, provocative, and surprisingly alive.
1978 Yearbook of Astronomy - Thryft
Patrick Moore | W. W. Norton & Company, Inc.

1978 Yearbook of Astronomy

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If stargazing and astronomical events captivate you, this Yearbook of Astronomy from 1978 could provide a nostalgic journey through that year’s cosmic occurrences. It's an excellent piece for anyone interested in the historical perspective of astronomy or those who collect astronomical literature. Diving into this book is like unearthing a time capsule, allowing you a glimpse into the celestial wonderment of the past.
Tell Me When?
Anonymous | Chancellor Press

Tell Me When?

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.53

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

85% off est. retail
This book is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone curious about time-related facts. From historical milestones to natural phenomena, "Tell Me When?" offers clear and concise answers to a wide range of questions. Whether you're a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this book will keep you entertained and enlightened with its wealth of information. Get ready to deepen your understanding of the world around you and impress your friends with interesting tidbits!
To a Rocky Moon: A Geologist's History of Lunar Exploration
Don E. Wilhelms | University Of Arizona Press

To a Rocky Moon: A Geologist's History of Lunar Exploration

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$9.90

82% off est. retail
If you love space history but want more than astronaut memoirs, this gives you the Moon from the scientists’ side of the story. It shines in the behind-the-scenes detail of how landing sites were chosen and how geology shaped the missions themselves. Readers who enjoy smart, authoritative nonfiction will likely find it deeply satisfying, especially because it makes lunar exploration feel both human and rigorously scientific.
A Man on the Moon: The Voyages of the Apollo Astronauts
Andrew Chaikin | Viking Adult

A Man on the Moon: The Voyages of the Apollo Astronauts

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.49

$9.90

80% off est. retail
If you’ve ever wanted the Apollo missions to feel vivid and personal rather than distant and technical, this is a wonderful pick. It gives you the scale, danger, and brilliance of the program without losing the people inside the spacesuits. Readers often love how it turns a familiar historical milestone into something dramatic, intimate, and genuinely awe-inspiring.
Galileo Galilei - Scientists Who Made History
Mike Goldsmith | Hodder & Stoughton Childrens Division

Galileo Galilei - Scientists Who Made History

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

If you're fascinated by the blend of science and drama, "Galileo Galilei - Scientists Who Made History" might resonate with you. Galileo's story isn't just a tale of groundbreaking discoveries; it's a profound narrative about challenging established beliefs and the conflicts that arose from such challenges. It's about the passion for truth in the face of adversity, making it an inspirational read for science enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
High Flying: Set Three
Robert Coupe | Shortland Publications

High Flying: Set Three

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

If you've ever glanced skyward with wonder, "High Flying: Set Three" could be the book for you. Steer through the history of flight from its earliest days to modern advancements. Peek inside a cockpit and feel the thrill of dogfights in warplanes, all without leaving the ground. It's a journey that could ignite your fascination for the skies.
Li, Qi and Shu: An Introduction to Science and Civilization in China
Just Arrived
Ho Peng Yoke | Dover Publications

Li, Qi and Shu: An Introduction to Science and Civilization in China

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$11.90

41% off est. retail
This is a great read if you love seeing how a whole civilization made sense of the world through interconnected ideas. It brings Chinese thought alive not as abstract theory, but as something shaping astronomy, mathematics, alchemy, and the search for immortality. Readers who enjoy big-picture intellectual history will find it rich, unusual, and quietly mind-expanding.
Mapping Time: The Calendar and Its History
E.G. Richards | Oxford University Press

Mapping Time: The Calendar and Its History

$30.90 $19.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$30.90 $19.90 36% off

If you've ever wondered how the dates on your calendar came to be, "Mapping Time" offers a fascinating deep dive into the subject. You'll come away with new insights into why and how humanity has tried to harness time throughout history—perfect for the intellectually curious mind intrigued by the intertwining of culture, history, and astronomy.
Concise Encyclopedia
John Farndon | Dorling Kindersley Plc P/b

Concise Encyclopedia

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$3.90

78% off est. retail
If you're naturally curious and love to learn more about virtually anything, from the depths of space to the intricacies of the human body, this Concise Encyclopedia will be like a treasure chest for you. It's perfect for broadening horizons and could be especially useful if you're looking to support school studies or just want to dive into a quick study session on a variety of topics. Its cross-referenced nature makes it a breeze to connect the dots across different fields.
Big History
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D.K. Publishing, Jack Challoner, Elsa Bohan  | Dorling Kindersley

Big History

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$8.90

If you're someone who marvels at the sheer scale of existence, "Big History" is for you. It's not just about what happened, it's about weaving the interconnections between events and disciplines, offering a panoramic view that isn't confined to one subject. Imagine standing on a mountaintop, seeing where we've been and where we might be headed — this book is that view for history and human progress.
Planet Quest: The Epic Discovery of Alien Solar Systems
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Ken Croswell | Oxford Univ Pr

Planet Quest: The Epic Discovery of Alien Solar Systems

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

73% off est. retail
You'd probably enjoy "Planet Quest" if you have a keen interest in astronomy and the never-ending question of whether there's life beyond Earth. Ken Croswell combines vivid storytelling with deep scientific insights to create a narrative that's as educational as it is engrossing. It's like a tour through the cosmos with each page potentially leading to the great unknown—ideal if you're seeking that blend of adventure and knowledge from your reading experience.
From Quantum to Cosmos: The Universe Within - Thryft
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Neil Turok | Faber & Faber

From Quantum to Cosmos: The Universe Within

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

84% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the dance of particles at the quantum level and their profound impact on technology and society, "The Universe Within" is a treasure trove. Neil Turok takes us on a journey that bridges the past and imminent future, evoking a sense of awe and anticipation. It's an insightful read that will illuminate the shadows of complexity and offer a glimpse into the transformative potential of quantum discovery.
Black Holes and Baby Universes : And Other Essays - Thryft
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Stephen Hawking | Bantam Books

Black Holes and Baby Universes : And Other Essays

$8.86

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$8.86

68% off est. retail
NY Times bestseller. 13 extraordinary essays shed new light on the mysteries of the universe & on one of the most brilliant thinkers of our time.In his phenomenal bestseller A Brief History of Time, Stephen Hawking literally transformed the way we think about physics, the universe, reality itself. In these thirteen essays and one remarkable extended interview, the man widely regarded as the most brilliant theoretical physicist since Einstein returns to reveal an amazing array of possibilities for understanding our universe. Building on his earlier work, Hawking discusses imaginary time, how black holes can give birth to baby universes, and scientists’ efforts to find a complete unified theory that would predict everything in the universe. With his characteristic mastery of language, his sense of humor and commitment to plain speaking, Stephen Hawking invites us to know him better—and to share his passion for the voyage of intellect and imagination that has opened new ways to understanding the very nature of the cosmos.

Dive into the annals of time

At Thryft, we carry a vast collection of history books that transport you to different eras and locales. From the wonders of ancient Egypt to the complexities of the Cold War, we've curated an array of works that cater to both seasoned historians and casual readers. With selections that shed light on the socio-political landscapes of yesteryears, each book promises a journey into rich narratives and factual revelations. Expand your understanding of human progression with works that are as educational as they are exciting.