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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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The Premonition: A Pandemic Story
Michael Lewis | Allen Lane

The Premonition: A Pandemic Story

$23.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$23.90

Imagine diving into the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic through the eyes of those who saw it coming. "The Premonition" is a thrilling account by Michael Lewis, who masterfully narrates the efforts of unconventional experts racing against time. Their foresight and relentless pursuit to understand and contain the virus are both educational and chillingly engaging. This isn't just about a virus; it's about human tenacity in the face of bureaucracy and the unknown. If you're drawn to real-world heroism amidst crisis, this book will resonate deeply with you.
Clean: The New Science of Skin
James Hamblin | Riverhead Books

Clean: The New Science of Skin

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$13.90

If you're curious about the skin's complex ecosystem and the myths surrounding our hygiene rituals, "Clean" by James Hamblin is a must-read. Hamblin, a doctor and journalist, dives into the world of skin microbes with a narrative that's as educational as it is entertaining. His exploration may change the way you approach your daily skin care routine, offering insights into a more natural understanding of what being clean means. You'll likely appreciate the savvy blend of science and personal experiment, which could shift your health and wellness perspective.
Life at the Speed of Light: From the Double Helix to the Dawn of Digital Life
J. Craig Venter | Abacus

Life at the Speed of Light: From the Double Helix to the Dawn of Digital Life

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

77% off est. retail
Picture a world where we can custom design new species—an idea both thrilling and daunting. J. Craig Venter, a giant in genomics, reveals the revolutionary potential of synthetic life in his book. If you're curious about how rewriting life’s code could transform our health, environment, and even evolution, Venter's insider view is a compelling window into these monumental changes that edge towards science fiction.
Breath From Salt: A Deadly Genetic Disease, a New Era in Science, and the Patients and Families Who Changed Medicine Forever
Bijal P. Trivedi | Benbella Books

Breath From Salt: A Deadly Genetic Disease, a New Era in Science, and the Patients and Families Who Changed Medicine Forever

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.44

$10.90

If you're moved by tales of resilience and medical breakthroughs, "Breath from Salt" will captivate you. It's not just the story of a devastating genetic disease but a narrative of how relentless determination by patients, families, and scientists reshaped the future of medicine. Reading it, you'll feel the weight of the struggle and the exhilaration of progress in genetic therapies that once seemed like distant dreams.
Augmented: Life in the Smart Lane
Brett King | Marshall Cavendish International (asia) Pte Ltd

Augmented: Life in the Smart Lane

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$9.90

If you're someone who lies awake mulling over the future, "Augmented: Life in the Smart Lane" could really resonate with you. It's a journey through the possibilities of what our lives might look like, wrapped around the evolution of technology — from AI to health tech. For those curious about the societal and personal impacts of the inevitable tech revolution, this book promises to be both an eye-opener and a conversation starter about our not-so-distant future.
The Sawbones Book: The Hilarious, Horrifying Road to Modern Medicine: Revised and Updated for 2020
Teylor Smirl, Justin McElroy, Sydnee McElroy  | Weldon Owen

The Sawbones Book: The Hilarious, Horrifying Road to Modern Medicine: Revised and Updated for 2020

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$11.90

52% off est. retail
If you love learning through equal parts laughter and disbelief, this is a great pick. It turns bizarre medical history into something wildly entertaining, while still giving you real perspective on how modern medicine evolved. You come away grossed out, smarter, and much better at spotting nonsense health advice.
Preventable: The Inside Story of How Leadership Failures, Politics, and Selfishness Doomed the U.S. Coronavirus Response
Andy Slavitt | St. Martin's Press

Preventable: The Inside Story of How Leadership Failures, Politics, and Selfishness Doomed the U.S. Coronavirus Response

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

"Preventable" gives a gripping, insider's perspective on a national tragedy that many of us have lived through. If you’re looking to understand not only the specific missteps of the recent pandemic response but also the underlying flaws in America's health and political systems that allowed for such a catastrophe, Andy Slavitt’s account is a crucial read. It resonates with a call for accountability and the urgency to learn from these painful lessons.
Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine
Nicola Twilley, Geoff Manaugh  | Picador

Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

63% off est. retail
"Until Proven Safe" could really resonate with you if you're interested in public health and its evolution. The book is a timely exploration, especially given recent global events, and it thoughtfully examines the impact of quarantine throughout history. This isn't just a retrospective account; it also prompts consideration of our future preparedness in the face of new diseases, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the intersections of history, science, and policy.
Fast Food Nation : The Dark Side of the All-American Meal - Thryft
Eric Schlosser | Harper Perennial

Fast Food Nation : The Dark Side of the All-American Meal

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Fast food has hastened the malling of our landscape, widened the chasm between rich and poor, fueled an epidemic of obesity, and propelled American cultural imperialism abroad. That's a lengthy list of charges, but here Eric Schlosser makes them stick with an artful mix of first-rate reportage, wry wit, and careful reasoning.Schlosser's myth-shattering survey stretches from California's subdivisions where the business was born to the industrial corridor along the New Jersey Turnpike where many fast food's flavors are concocted. Along the way, he unearths a trove of fascinating, unsettling truths -- from the unholy alliance between fast food and Hollywood to the seismic changes the industry has wrought in food production, popular culture, and even real estate. (back cover)
Fast Food Nation : What The All-American Meal is Doing to the World - Thryft
Eric Schlosser | Penguin Books

Fast Food Nation : What The All-American Meal is Doing to the World

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

DO YOU REALLY KNOW WHAT YOU'RE EATING WHEN YOU TUCK INTO THAT JUICY BURGER?Britain eats more fast food than any other country in Europe. It looks good, tastes good, and it's cheap. But the real cost never appears on the menu.Eric Schlosser's explosive bestseller, by turns funny and terrifying, tells the story of our love affair with fast food. He visits the lab that re-creates the smell of strawberries; examines the safety records of abattoirs; reveals why the fries taste so good and what really lurks between the sesame buns--and shows how fast food is transforming not only our diets but our world.(back cover)
Fast Food Nation: What the All-American Meal Is Doing to the World
Eric Schlosser | Allen Lane The Penguin Press

Fast Food Nation: What the All-American Meal Is Doing to the World

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

If you've ever wondered about the real cost of convenience—health-wise and ethically—'Fast Food Nation' is an eye-opener. Schlosser's deep dive into fast food's underbelly will make you think twice about your next meal choice. It's investigative journalism that's as addictive as the fries he scrutinizes, delivering a well-researched narrative that could reform your eating habits and awareness.
The COVID-19 Chronicles: Singapore's Journey from Pandemia to Peri-Pandemic Limbo - Thryft
National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine | World Scientific Publishing

The COVID-19 Chronicles: Singapore's Journey from Pandemia to Peri-Pandemic Limbo

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

92% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for someone who wants to understand Singapore's response to the COVID-19 pandemic in a unique and engaging way. Through bite-sized illustrated stories, the book provides simple explanations of complex public health issues, while also offering a humorous perspective on life during the pandemic. It captures the essence of Singapore's journey from crisis to confusion, and ultimately to a state of uncertainty in the peri-pandemic limbo. It is both informative and entertaining, making it an enjoyable read for anyone interested in the global response to COVID-19.
Stuffed and Starved: The Hidden Battle for the World Food System
Raj Patel | Melville House

Stuffed and Starved: The Hidden Battle for the World Food System

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90

If you've ever felt puzzled or outraged about the paradoxes present in global nutrition, "Stuffed and Starved" is more than an eye-opener; it's a clarion call. Raj Patel takes you on an investigative journey that digs deep into the food systems shaping our world. The book reveals stark realities and hopeful movements alike, making it an essential primer for anyone passionate about food justice and the true cost of what’s on our plates.
52 Things to Do While You Poo
Hugh Jassburn | Sourcebooks

52 Things to Do While You Poo

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

64% off est. retail
Ever been stuck on the loo without entertainment? "52 Things to Do While You Poo" comes to the rescue with a witty mix of games, history, and scientific facts all about the universal pastime. This absorbing read turns idle time into a chance to chuckle and learn, making it the perfect sidekick for bathroom breaks. Whether as a gag gift or your own personal amusement, it'll make you look forward to those quiet moments in the restroom.
The Scientific Indian - Thryft
Y.S. Rajan, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam  | Penguin Books India Pvt. Ltd

The Scientific Indian

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

78% off est. retail
The Scientific Indian is a great read for anyone who is curious and wants to learn more about India's scientific advancements. It offers a comprehensive overview of India's recent progress in space exploration, satellite technology, missile development, agriculture, energy, and healthcare. The book emphasizes the importance of tailoring innovation to the goal of national development and provides a pragmatic vision of technological development that will drive India to the forefront of the world in the decades to come. This book will inspire the curious and adventurous mind and encourage tomorrow's scientists and technologists to dream big and work hard to make their dreams come true.
Good Germs, Bad Germs
Jessica Snyder Sachs | Hill And Wang

Good Germs, Bad Germs

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

If you're intrigued by the delicate dance between our bodies and their microscopic companions, "Good Germs, Bad Germs" will illuminate the nuanced relationship that modern medicine has with nature. It's a revelation that we're surrounded by beneficial bacteria, and Jessica Snyder Sachs guides us through our past mistakes and future potential in harnessing the power of these tiny organisms for health. This book is particularly timely given growing concerns about antibiotic resistance, offering not only a critique but a vision for a smarter, symbiotic approach to using science for better health outcomes.
Immaculate Contraception: The Extraordinary Story of Birth Control from the First Fumblings to the Present Day
Emma Dickens | Robson Book Ltd

Immaculate Contraception: The Extraordinary Story of Birth Control from the First Fumblings to the Present Day

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

If you're fascinated by how humans have evolved not just socially but in their most intimate choices, "Immaculate Contraception" offers a deep dive into the history of birth control. It's eye-opening to see how our ancestors tackled family planning. Emma Dickens' thorough research could give you a new perspective on the liberties and innovations we often take for granted today.
Chew on This: Everything You Don't Want to Know About Fast Food
Eric Schlosser | Puffin Books

Chew on This: Everything You Don't Want to Know About Fast Food

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

61% off est. retail
If you've ever found yourself in the drive-thru line, feeling both comfort and curiosity, "Chew On This" is for you. Eric Schlosser peels back the wrapper on the fast food industry, revealing insights that might change your appetite forever. It's a deep-dive into the impact of fast food that's as intriguing as it is important for a health-conscious reader.
Awakenings
Oliver Sacks | Picador

Awakenings

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

"Awakenings" by Oliver Sacks might just redefine your understanding of the human mind and medical science. It blends the almost miraculous stories of patients emerging from decades-long catatonia with deeply philosophical insights, offering both a heartfelt journey and a profound cerebral experience. If you're fascinated by the resilience of the human spirit and the wonders of neurological medicine, this book could leave you with a lasting impression of awe and a greater appreciation for the delicate balance of life.
Sars War: Combating the Disease
E E Ooi, P.C. Leung  | World Scientific Publishing Company

Sars War: Combating the Disease

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$18.90

If you're curious about how the world tackles emerging diseases, "Sars War: Combating The Disease" could be a captivating read for you. It dives into the nitty-gritty of the SARS epidemic, offers a thorough look at its impact on society, and it might just give you a better appreciation for the complexities of global health crises.
Exercises For Gentlemen - 50 Exercises To Do With Your Suit On - Thryft
M. Ellsworth Olsen, Alfred B. Olsen  | Universe

Exercises For Gentlemen - 50 Exercises To Do With Your Suit On

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

85% off est. retail
Recommendation: This book is perfect for busy executives who don't have the time to go to the gym or change clothes. The exercises can be done while wearing a suit and take only 15 minutes. The book also provides guidance on posture, bathing, and homeopathic remedies. The unique and distinctive feature of this book is that it helps to make a person more graceful, strong, and symmetrical without investing much time or money.
Understanding the Human Machine: A Primer for Bioengineering
Max E. Valentinuzzi | World Scientific Publishing Company

Understanding the Human Machine: A Primer for Bioengineering

$36.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$36.90

If you're delving into the realm of biomedical engineering, especially at the undergrad level, this book strikes a balance between educational and engaging. Max E. Valentinuzzi presents complex concepts with a touch of humor, ensuring the material is digestible and memorable. The interactive approach with exercises and historical context isn't just about rote learning; it's about truly understanding the "human machine" you'll be working with. For someone who appreciates learning by doing, this book is like a knowledgeable friend who doesn't mind cracking jokes while helping you study.
Funk & Wagnalls New Encyclopedia, Volume 1: A to American Elk - Thryft
Leon L. Bram | Funk & Wagnalls

Funk & Wagnalls New Encyclopedia, Volume 1: A to American Elk

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're a trivia enthusiast or just thirst for knowledge on a wide array of topics, this encyclopedia volume would be a delightful addition to your collection. It's a snapshot of information from 1986; perfect for nostalgic exploration or if you're specifically interested in historical perspectives and knowledge of that era.
The Essentials of Chinese Massotherapy
Peng Jian, Jin Yicheng  | New Phoenix Intl Llc

The Essentials of Chinese Massotherapy

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$14.90

If you're intrigued by traditional healing arts or you're a practitioner looking to broaden your understanding of Eastern techniques, "The Essentials of Chinese Massotherapy" is an enlightening resource. This book stands out for its comprehensive examination of massage therapy from a Chinese perspective, offering a blend of historical context, theoretical foundations, and practical applications that could enhance both your knowledge and practice.
Germs: America's Secret War against Biological Weapons - Thryft
Stephen Engelberg, Judith Miller, William J. Broad  | Simon & Schuster

Germs: America's Secret War against Biological Weapons

$13.90 $3.90 72% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$13.90 $3.90 72% off

"Germs" is a gripping investigative book that uncovers the truth about biological weapons. It sheds light on the government's efforts to protect against possible bio-terrorism, while also detailing the history and proliferation of dangerous germs, making it a must-read for those concerned about national security and the future of warfare.
Flu Pandemic - Thryft

Flu Pandemic

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Flu Pandemic is a comprehensive account of the 1918 flu pandemic, exploring the shocking details of this catastrophic event. It offers a historical look into how the 1918 outbreak unfolded, tracing its spread across the globe, and detailing the impact that it had on society. This book is perfect for those who are interested in the history of pandemics and health crises, and it offers a sobering reminder of the importance of preparation and international cooperation in these types of situations.
Quinine: Malaria and the Quest for a Cure That Changed the World
Fiammetta Rocco | Perenial

Quinine: Malaria and the Quest for a Cure That Changed the World

$13.90 $3.90 72% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$13.90 $3.90 72% off

86% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the intersection of history, medicine, and global politics, "Quinine" by Fiammetta Rocco is a compelling read. The story of quinine is not just about a drug, but about the geopolitical and scientific journeys that were shaped by the quest for a malaria cure. It entwines adventure, greed, colonialism, and the profound impact on warfare and exploration. This book takes you beyond medicine into the broader effects on human endeavors and the world stage.
Doctors : The Biography of Medicine - Thryft
Sherwin B. Nuland | Vintage

Doctors : The Biography of Medicine

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Doctors is a great read for those interested in understanding how medicine has advanced through the centuries. Sherwin B. Nuland offers fascinating life portraits of some of the greatest medical innovators and pioneers, including Hippocrates and Andreas Vesalius. What makes this book unique is that it shows how these medical professionals were products of their own times and places, and how their work has influenced modern medicine. If you're interested in medical history or just curious about the development of medicine, this book is a must-read.
One in Three: A Son's Journey Into the History and Science of Cancer
Adam Wishart | Grove Press

One in Three: A Son's Journey Into the History and Science of Cancer

$14.90 $8.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$14.90 $8.90 40% off

67% off est. retail
If cancer has touched your life, Wishart's blend of personal storytelling and medical history in "One in Three" may resonate with you deeply. The book offers an intimate look at the progress science has made in understanding and treating this complex disease. It's a hopeful read that could change your perspective on cancer, presenting it as something that, while daunting, can be lived with rather than an automatic death sentence.
Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science
Sold out
Kent Heckenlively, Judy A. Mikovits, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  | Skyhorse

Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$8.90

76% off est. retail
If you're the kind of reader who's drawn to stories about underdogs challenging the establishment, "Plague of Corruption" could be the next book you can't put down. Dr. Judy Mikovits's journey combines the intrigue of scientific discovery with the passion of someone fighting to reveal hard truths. It'll appeal to your sense of justice and may change the way you view science's role in society.
The Sleeping Beauties: And Other Stories of Mystery Illness - Thryft
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Suzanne O'Sullivan | Picador

The Sleeping Beauties: And Other Stories of Mystery Illness

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

64% off est. retail
"The Sleeping Beauties" isn't just a medical book; it's a deep dive into the human psyche and its responses to cultural and environmental stressors. Dr. O'Sullivan's compassionate exploration of these bewildering illnesses will not only satisfy your curiosity but also challenge how you think about the intersection of health, culture, and the power of the mind. Perfect for anyone fascinated by the enigmas of the human body and the ways our environments shape us.
Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health
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Marion Nestle | University Of California Press

Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$9.90

If you've ever felt duped by flashy food marketing or bewildered by dietary advice, "Food Politics" sheds light on the murky intersection of food industry interests and public health. Marion Nestle's expertise makes for an insightful read that might just change how you view your next supermarket trip or meal. It's a deep dive into the realities of what drives the food we consume, beyond our appetites.
Ashes to Ashes: America's Hundred-Year Cigarette War, the Public Health, and the Unabashed Triumph of Philip Morris
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Richard Kluger | Vintage

Ashes to Ashes: America's Hundred-Year Cigarette War, the Public Health, and the Unabashed Triumph of Philip Morris

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$8.26

87% off est. retail
This book offers a fascinating and eye-opening journey through the complex and contradicting world of cigarettes. Through a meticulous exploration of the intertwining strands of finance, politics, and public health, Kluger presents the rise of the tobacco industry and the ensuing debates on regulation. The most striking feature of this book is its ability to humanize the key players involved, shedding light on the intricate web of motivations and interests. With its rich detail and dispassionate analysis, "Ashes To Ashes" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the profound impact of cigarettes on society.
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down - Thryft
Sold out
Anne Fadiman | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

75% off est. retail
"The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" is a profound exploration into the clash between two worlds - the Hmong culture's deeply rooted traditions and the stark rationality of Western medicine. Understanding this book could open your eyes to the complexities of cultural assimilation and the often overlooked nuances in healthcare. It's a must-read if you're interested in the ways in which cultural differences impact lives in very real, tangible ways.

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.