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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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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.
Battle of Brothers: William and Harry – The Friendship and the Feuds
Robert Lacey | William Collins

Battle of Brothers: William and Harry – The Friendship and the Feuds

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

If the regal drama captivates you, "Battle of Brothers" is more than just a peek behind the palace curtains – it's a deep dive into the dynamics of royal brotherhood. Robert Lacey's expertise lends authenticity to the narrative, revealing the complexities and challenges faced by Princes William and Harry. It's a compelling analysis for anyone intrigued by the personal toll of royal duty and familial bonds tested in the public eye.
Civilization: The West and the Rest
Niall Ferguson | Lane Allen

Civilization: The West and the Rest

$18.90 $12.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$18.90 $12.90 32% off

"Civilization: The West and the Rest" offers a panoramic perspective on how Western Europe gained an unexpected upper hand in global affairs. Niall Ferguson presents a thought-provoking analysis on the cultural and technological 'apps' that fueled Western ascendancy. If you're fascinated by the interplay of history and power dynamics, this book will provide a compelling narrative and a fresh lens through which to view the past and anticipate possible futures.
Why We Kneel, How We Rise
Usain Bolt, Michael Holding, Ed Hawkins  | Simon & Schuster Uk

Why We Kneel, How We Rise

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

64% off est. retail
Michael Holding's insights into racism interwoven with personal accounts from world-class athletes make this an eye-opener. It's not just about the challenges; it also offers a pathway toward understanding and societal transformation through sports. This book is a strong call to action for anyone ready to confront societal injustices and learn through the lens of athletics.
The Gangs Of New York - Thryft
Herbert Asbury | Arrow

The Gangs Of New York

$10.14

Goodreads rating: 3.58

$10.14

50% off est. retail
The Gangs of New York has long been hand-passed among its cult readership. It is a tour through a now unrecognizable city of abysmal poverty and habitual violence cobbled, as Luc Sante has written, “from legend, memory, police records, the self-aggrandizements of aging crooks, popular journalism, and solid historical research.” Asbury presents the definitive work on this subject, an illumination of the gangs of old New York that ultimately gave rise to the modern Mafia and its depiction in films like The Godfather. “A universal history of infamy [that] contains all the confusion and cruelty of the barbarian cosmologies....”—Jorge Luis Borges “The tale is one of blood, excitement and debauchery.”—The New York Times Book Review “The Gangs of New York is one of the essential works of the city....”—Luc Sante, The New York Review of Books
Letters of Note: Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience
Shaun Usher | Canongate Books

Letters of Note: Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Imagine holding a piece of history in your hands, not through textbooks, but through the personal words of those who made it. "Letters of Note" offers that intimate experience, allowing you to witness private thoughts and moments that have shaped our world. It's a book for those who cherish the lost art of letter writing and relish the chance to connect with the humanity behind the names we so often see in headlines and history books.
Machiavelli: A Beginner's Guide
Cary J. Nederman | Oneworld Publications

Machiavelli: A Beginner's Guide

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're intrigued by the mechanisms of power and political strategy, Machiavelli's name likely resonates with you. This guide serves as a gateway to understanding the complex ideas of a man often simplistically branded as cunning or ruthless. It will offer you a more nuanced perspective of his thoughts on leadership and morality, which continue to influence thinkers and leaders to this day.
The Great Humanists: An Introduction
Jonathan Arnold | I.b. Tauris

The Great Humanists: An Introduction

$27.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$27.90

If you're fascinated by how the seeds of modern thought were sown during the turbulence of the Renaissance, "The Great Humanists" could be a treasure trove for you. Jonathan Arnold intricately weaves the biographies of influential figures like Erasmus and Thomas More with the broader cultural and philosophical shifts of their time, offering insights that resonate even in modern scholarship. It's a well-crafted introduction to the era's thinkers who shaped our understanding of humanity and laid the groundwork for the world as we know it.
Ship Beneath the Ice: The Discovery of Shackleton's Endurance
Mensun Bound | Macmillan

Ship Beneath the Ice: The Discovery of Shackleton's Endurance

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$16.90

46% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by tales of exploration and human endurance, "Ship Beneath the Ice" might just resonate with you. It's not just the gripping story of Shackleton's ship, but also a contemporary adventure of finding Endurance against all odds. The blend of historical intrigue and modern exploration is a tribute to the relentless human spirit – appealing to history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind
Just Arrived
Jeffrey Keeten, Yuval Noah Harari  | Vintage

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$6.90

75% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the story of humanity and want to understand how we became the dominant species on Earth, "Sapiens" is the perfect book for you. Through a captivating narrative, Harari takes you on a journey spanning thousands of years, examining what makes us unique as a species. From our ability to create powerful myths and cooperate in large numbers, to the impact we've had on the planet, "Sapiens" offers a thought-provoking perspective that will challenge and inspire you in equal measure.
David Hume: The Philosopher as Historian
Nicholas Phillipson | Penguin Books Ltd

David Hume: The Philosopher as Historian

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're someone who appreciates the interplay between philosophy and history, you'll find "David Hume: The Philosopher as Historian" particularly engaging. Nicholas Phillipson delves into Hume’s innovative approach to history, untangling it from religious and political narratives. This book isn't just a biography; it's a window into Hume's influence on the modern understanding of human action and historical processes. It’s perfect for those looking to grasp how a philosopher's ideas can reshape the recording of humanity's past.
The Library Book
Susan Orlean | Atlantic Books

The Library Book

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$8.90

If you're the kind of person who finds solace among bookshelves and has a fascination for untold stories, "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean will likely resonate with you. This isn't just a chronicle of a disastrous fire; it's a heartfelt homage to the institution of the library itself, teeming with intrigue and the quiet power of books. It might reignite your appreciation for these treasured communal spaces.
Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You
Jason Reynolds, Ibram X. Kendi  | Thorndike Striving Reader

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You

$17.90

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$17.90

If you're seeking to understand the roots and effects of racism without getting lost in dense historical texts, "Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You" offers a refreshing take. Authors Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi have created a remix of a scholarly work that reads like a conversation, making the heavy subject matter accessible and relatable, especially for younger audiences or those new to the subject. It's thought-provoking and educational, yet approachable.
The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper
Hallie Rubenhold | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$13.90

If you're intrigued by true crime and are drawn to untold stories, "The Five" is a poignant shift from the glorification of the infamous Jack the Ripper to a compassionate focus on his victims. Hallie Rubenhold delves into their backgrounds with care, humanizing these women beyond being mere footnotes in a notorious tale. It's an absorbing read that not only serves as a tribute to their forgotten lives but also as a reflection on society's long-held narratives about women and victimhood.
With My Little Eye
Sandra Hogan | Allen & Unwin

With My Little Eye

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

79% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by real-life spy stories with a personal touch, "With My Little Eye" offers a fresh perspective that's both poignant and humorous. It's a rare glimpse into the life of a seemingly ordinary family whose daily routines doubled as espionage for ASIO during the Cold War. Beyond its thrilling elements, it's also a story about family loyalty and the sacrifices made in a world where the personal and political intertwined under constant threat and secrecy.
A Thousand Days: John F. Kennedy in the White House
Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. | First Mariner Books

A Thousand Days: John F. Kennedy in the White House

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$10.90

If you love political history that feels alive rather than distant, this is a gripping place to land. Schlesinger writes with the access of an insider and the eye of a gifted storyteller, so JFK comes across as vivid, witty, and human. It is long, but readers who enjoy big, immersive biographies often find that depth exactly what makes it so rewarding.
The Last Spike: The Great Railway, 1881-1885
Pierre Berton | Anchor Canada

The Last Spike: The Great Railway, 1881-1885

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$11.90

If you enjoy big true stories driven by outsized personalities, this feels vivid, urgent, and surprisingly dramatic. Pierre Berton turns a massive engineering project into a human saga full of risk, ambition, political tension, and sheer momentum. It’s especially rewarding if you like history that reads like an epic adventure while showing how a country was stitched together.
Inventing Freedom: How the English-Speaking Peoples Made the Modern World
Daniel Hannan | Broadside Books

Inventing Freedom: How the English-Speaking Peoples Made the Modern World

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$13.90

50% off est. retail
This will likely appeal if you enjoy big-idea history with a strong political argument and don’t mind a clearly opinionated voice. Hannan makes the story of freedom feel contingent rather than inevitable, which gives the book urgency and bite. Readers who like provocative takes on democracy, law, and national identity may find it energising, even when they disagree.
Elizabeth the Queen: The Woman Behind the Throne
Sally Bedell Smith | Penguin Books

Elizabeth the Queen: The Woman Behind the Throne

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

If you've ever watched The Crown and found yourself hungry for more authentic royal details, this biography is for you. Sally Bedell Smith paints an intimate portrait of the Queen, pulling back the curtain on both her public duties and private life. It's a humanizing glimpse at an iconic figure, serving as a profound reminder of Elizabeth's unwavering sense of duty and her enduring impact.
SAS Great Escapes
Damien Lewis | Quercus

SAS Great Escapes

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$11.90

If you're drawn to stories of resilience against all odds, "SAS Great Escapes" will captivate you. Damien Lewis masterfully chronicles harrowing tales of SAS soldiers who turned the tide of their fates through audacious escapes. The book's gripping firsthand accounts plunge you into the tension and exigency of wartime, promising a read that's as educational as it is thrilling. It's a real treat for enthusiasts of military history and tales of heroism.
Downton Abbey: A Celebration
Jessica Fellowes, Julian Fellowes  | St. Martin's Press

Downton Abbey: A Celebration

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.42

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

82% off est. retail
If you've been enchanted by the grandeur and intimate human dramas of Downton Abbey on screen, this book is a backstage pass into its creation. Not only does it satiate your hunger for Downton trivia and exclusive photographs, but it also deepens your connection with the characters and the historical era they inhabit, making your next series rewatch even more rewarding.
The Baby Farmers
Just Arrived
Annie Cossins | Allen & Unwin Australia

The Baby Farmers

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$9.90

67% off est. retail
If you like true crime that digs into the social world behind the horror, this is a gripping read. It is not just about a notorious case, but about poverty, women’s desperation, and the silence of a whole society. Readers who enjoy vivid historical detail and unsettling real-life courtroom drama will find it especially absorbing.
Walt Disney - National Geographic Reader: Level 3, Fluent Reader
Ages 8-10
Barbara Kramer | National Geographic Kids

Walt Disney - National Geographic Reader: Level 3, Fluent Reader

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

69% off est. retail
If you have ever been mesmerized by the magic of Disney parks or stories, diving into this book will give you a captivating look at the man behind the fairy tales. It's perfect for anyone who appreciates how one person's creativity can ignite a global phenomenon, sparking joy and imagination in children and adults alike. Barbara Kramer's accessible writing style ensures that the journey through Walt Disney's life is as absorbing as it is inspiring.
Heritage of Singapore: Kopitiam
Killiney Kopitiam

Heritage of Singapore: Kopitiam

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90

65% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by Singapore's vibrant culture, this book offers a warm seat in its traditional coffee shops, the kopitiams. It's like people-watching through pages, revealing how these communal hubs play a pivotal role in the everyday life of Singaporeans. Dive into this book and savor the blend of history, personal anecdotes, and cultural insights.
The Forgotten 500: The Untold Story of the Men Who Risked All for the Greatest Rescue Mission of World War II
Gregory A. Freeman | Dutton Caliber

The Forgotten 500: The Untold Story of the Men Who Risked All for the Greatest Rescue Mission of World War II

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

If you find tales of courage in the face of danger inspiring, 'The Forgotten 500' is a riveting read. It takes you deep into a lesser-known episode of World War II, highlighting the raw bravery of both soldiers and civilians. This book opens a window to the human spirit's capacity for self-sacrifice and the remarkable feats achieved when ordinary people are thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
Civilizations
Felipe Fernández-Armesto | Key Porter Books

Civilizations

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$11.90

If you like big-idea history that makes you rethink how societies rise, connect, and define themselves, this could be a rewarding read. Felipe Fernández-Armesto is known for taking a broad, global view, so the book likely feels more expansive than standard region-by-region history. It’s the kind of read that can leave you seeing civilization itself as a more surprising, contested, and human story.
The Murder Room: The Heirs of Sherlock Holmes Gather to Solve the World's Most Perplexing Cold Cases
Michael Capuzzo | Gotham

The Murder Room: The Heirs of Sherlock Holmes Gather to Solve the World's Most Perplexing Cold Cases

$39.90

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$39.90

If you're intrigued by the interplay of mystery and gourmet cuisine, "The Murder Room" offers a compelling blend. The Vidocq Society, with its top-notch forensic experts, effectively feels like a modern-day roundtable of Sherlock Holmeses. Imagine getting a front-row seat to cold case breakthroughs while breaking bread—an intellectual and gastronomic adventure for true crime aficionados.
Poètes Français Des XIXe et XXe Siècles
Daniel Leuwers | Lgf

Poètes Français Des XIXe et XXe Siècles

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

If you're drawn to the beauty and innovation of French poetry, this is a wonderfully rich exploration of its journey across two centuries. The prose dances from romantic to surreal, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the festive intellect celebrated by Valéry and the rebellious spirit echoed by Eluard. It offers a fresh lens to view poetry, making the timeless art form accessible and invigorating once again. Whether you're a connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this collection promises to rekindle an appreciation for poetic expression.
Polyhedra
Peter R. Cromwell | Cambridge University Press

Polyhedra

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$11.90

87% off est. retail
This is a wonderful pick if you enjoy mathematics with both visual elegance and intellectual depth. Cromwell makes polyhedra feel alive, showing how these shapes connect centuries of ideas in geometry, symmetry, and abstraction. Readers who like seeing rigorous maths grounded in history and illustration will find it especially satisfying and surprisingly captivating.
In Search of Amrit Kaur
Livia Manera Sambuy | Chatto & Windus

In Search of Amrit Kaur

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$9.90

65% off est. retail
"In Search of Amrit Kaur" isn't just a historical investigation; it's a narrative that blends glamour with the gravity of wartime sacrifices. If you have a penchant for stories that dig up the past to reveal poignant truths about the human spirit, Livia Manera Sambuy's deep dive into the life of Princess Amrit Kaur is a compelling blend of detective story and heartfelt family exploration, shedding light on a peculiar, yet captivating slice of history. It's a journey through time that will resonate with anyone who appreciates the complex weave of personal freedom, history, and legacy.
A History of the World in 6 Glasses - Thryft
Tom Standage | Bloomsbury

A History of the World in 6 Glasses

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

85% off est. retail
Imagine sipping on a drink while time-traveling through humanity's milestones—this is what Tom Standage's "A History of the World in 6 Glasses" offers. It's a creative take that will quench your thirst for knowledge about how agriculture, politics, and global trade are tightly interwoven with the evolution of our favorite drinks. It's for everyone who enjoys a blend of history with the everyday pleasures of eating and drinking.
At Home: A Short History of Private Life
Bill Bryson | Doubleday

At Home: A Short History of Private Life

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

"At Home" is an entertaining and illuminating journey into the history of everyday life, from the comfort of one's own home. Through the lens of his old rectory in Norfolk, author Bill Bryson explores the origins of architecture, electricity, food preservation, epidemics, and more. His research is extensive and his storytelling is witty, ensuring that readers will not only learn something new, but also be thoroughly entertained.
The Oregon Trail: A New American Journey
Rinker Buck | Simon & Schuster

The Oregon Trail: A New American Journey

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$18.90

35% off est. retail
If you're captivated by the intertwined threads of history and adventure, "The Oregon Trail" offers a uniquely modern perspective on an epic 19th-century expedition. Rinker Buck's decision to traverse the trail the way early pioneers did resonates with a sense of authenticity and reverence for the past. His vivid storytelling could make you feel like you're riding shotgun on this audacious journey through the American frontier.
Churchill and America
Martin Gilbert | Mcclelland & Stewart

Churchill and America

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.05

$11.90

If you’re drawn to big personalities shaping world history, this feels especially rewarding because it shows Churchill through one of his most defining relationships. Martin Gilbert brings rare authority, so the book has the confidence and depth of someone who truly knows the archives inside out. It’s the kind of history that makes diplomacy feel personal, revealing how friendship, instinct, and political vision helped shape the modern Anglo-American alliance.
Horrible Histories: Woeful Second World War
Terry Deary | Scholastic Ltd

Horrible Histories: Woeful Second World War

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

67% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the untold, grittier side of history, "Horrible Histories: Woeful Second World War" is an eye-opening read. It dives into the lesser-known, often shocking aspects of the conflict in a way that's as educational as it is entertaining. It's perfect if you're after a fresh perspective on history that doesn't shy away from the truth, no matter how unpleasant.
Cuba: My Revolution
Dean Haspiel, José Villarrubia, Inverna Lockpez  | Vertigo

Cuba: My Revolution

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$6.90

"Cuba: My Revolution" might resonate with you deeply if you appreciate stories that blend personal journeys with the backdrop of significant historical events. The graphic novel format brings to life the turmoil and transformation in Cuba, offering both an intimate and visually striking perspective. Through its poignant narrative, it offers a fresh lens on revolution, idealism, and the cost of dreams.
Lord Byron Poems - Romantics Collection
Lord Byron, Paul Muldoon  | Faber & Faber

Lord Byron Poems - Romantics Collection

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

If you're intrigued by the interplay of past and present in literature, you'll find this collection compelling. It's not just about getting lost in Byron's sweeping Romantic verse; it's also about gaining fresh perspectives. Paul Muldoon, a contemporary poet, bridges centuries by selecting poems that resonate today. His prefaces invite you on a more personal journey into Byron's work, one that might just reflect back on our modern sensibilities and sentiments.
A Sea of Words: A Lexicon and Companion for Patrick O'Brian's Seafaring Tales
Dean King, J. Worth Estes, John B. Hattendorf  | Owl Books (ny)

A Sea of Words: A Lexicon and Companion for Patrick O'Brian's Seafaring Tales

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.90

80% off est. retail
If Patrick O'Brian's novels ever made you pause at the sea jargon, this is the kind of companion that makes everything click without dulling the adventure. It turns unfamiliar terms into part of the pleasure, with the feeling of having a seasoned guide beside you. Fans tend to love how it deepens the whole voyage and makes rereading the series even richer.
Ancient Egypt - National Geographic Kids Readers Level 3 Fluent Reader
Ages 8-10
Stephanie Warren Drimmer | National Geographic Kids

Ancient Egypt - National Geographic Kids Readers Level 3 Fluent Reader

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 4.05

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

75% off est. retail
If you're curious about the mystique of ancient civilizations, particularly Egypt, this Nat Geo Kids Reader could take you on an exciting exploration without leaving your couch. The vivid photography brings distant artifacts to life, while the text – perfect for young readers who are confidently fluent – makes sense of a complex history with accessible language. It's an educational adventure that makes learning about pharaohs, pyramids, and mummies both fascinating and fun.
The Jesus Papers: Exposing the Greatest Cover-Up in History
Just Arrived
Michael Baigent | Harper Element

The Jesus Papers: Exposing the Greatest Cover-Up in History

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$11.90

52% off est. retail
If you enjoy religious history that challenges orthodox narratives, this is the kind of book that pulls you straight into the deep end. Baigent writes with the confidence of someone piecing together a hidden puzzle, mixing biblical mystery, controversial theory, and investigative intrigue. Even readers who disagree often find it fascinating for how boldly it reimagines one of history’s most debated lives.
Journey Through Judges: 50 Biblical Insights
Gary Inrig | Discovery House Publishing

Journey Through Judges: 50 Biblical Insights

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

84% off est. retail
If you're seeking a deeper understanding of the tumultuous times in the book of Judges and its relevant lessons for today, this insightful guide offers a rich exploration. Gary Inrig invites you to connect historical biblical narratives with contemporary life, showing how ancient wisdom can illuminate a path of faith in today's complex world. It's a great choice if you're looking to add depth to your devotional routine or simply want to learn how to navigate life's moral challenges with biblical guidance.
1968: The Year That Rocked the World
Mark Kurlansky | Ballantine Books (ny)

1968: The Year That Rocked the World

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

60% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by history with a pulse, "1968: The Year That Rocked the World" might just be your next favorite read. Mark Kurlansky has a knack for bringing the vibrancy of historical events to life, and this book is no exception. It's a vivid time capsule that puts you right in the heart of a year where every corner of the globe seemed to be on the edge of monumental change.
Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush, 1896-1899
Pierre Berton | Anchor Canada

Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush, 1896-1899

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$11.90

70% off est. retail
This feels like history at its most alive, packed with larger-than-life characters, desperate ambition, and the raw chaos of a world being built overnight. Berton makes the Klondike more than a gold rush story by showing the danger, greed, spectacle, and strange humanity of it all. If you like nonfiction that reads with the momentum of an adventure tale, this is an easy one to get swept up in.
What Is an Archaeologist?
Ages 7-10
Libby Romero | National Geographic Kids

What Is an Archaeologist?

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

67% off est. retail
If you've ever fantasized about unearthing ancient secrets, "What Is an Archaeologist?" by Libby Romero is right up your alley. This National Geographic Kids book immerses you in the gritty, thrilling reality of archaeologists, who are the detectives of history. It's perfect for fostering a young reader's curiosity about the past and the exciting tools and techniques used to discover it.
Checkmate in Berlin: The First Battle of the Cold War
Giles Milton | John Murray

Checkmate in Berlin: The First Battle of the Cold War

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

Goodreads rating: 4.43

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

If history fascinates you, particularly the gritty, spy-novel-like drama of the Cold War's beginnings, "Checkmate in Berlin" is a compelling read. Giles Milton paints an almost cinematic picture of the clash between opposing forces in a divided Berlin, giving life to the personalities and high-stakes political games that set the stage for decades of East-West tension. This is not just a recount; it's a gripping narrative that personalizes one of the 20th century's pivotal moments.
The Serpent and the Moon: Two Rivals for the Love of a Renaissance King
Princess Michael of Kent | Touchstone

The Serpent and the Moon: Two Rivals for the Love of a Renaissance King

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$12.90

If you're fascinated by riveting historical dramas woven with the threads of love and power, "The Serpent and the Moon" could be an enriching choice. You'll travel back to Renaissance France, where actual figures from history come alive in a narrative filled with passion and the stark realities of royal life. The vividly told love triangle will keep you engrossed, while the rich historical detail provides a sumptuous backdrop that's educational as it is enthralling.
Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire
Amanda Foreman | Harper Perennial

Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

If you revel in the scandalous sagas of high society peppered with robust political drama, "Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire" by Amanda Foreman might just become your next obsession. It's a deep dive into the tumultuous life of an 18th-century icon whose existence was as complex as it was extravagant. The connection with Princess Diana adds a layer of perennial interest to engross those who are fascinated by influential women throughout history.
My Life With Bonnie and Clyde
John Neal Phillips, Blanche Caldwell Barrow  | University Of Oklahoma Press

My Life With Bonnie and Clyde

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$11.90

This feels less like a glamorized crime tale and more like sitting with the one person who lived long enough to look back on the chaos. Blanche’s perspective gives Bonnie and Clyde a raw, human, deeply uneasy texture that history books often miss. If you like true crime with a rare firsthand voice and a strong sense of time and place, this one has a haunting authenticity.
Cairo's Street Stories: Exploring the City's Statues, Squares, Bridges, Gardens, and Sidewalk Cafes
Lesley Lababidi | The American University In Cairo Press

Cairo's Street Stories: Exploring the City's Statues, Squares, Bridges, Gardens, and Sidewalk Cafes

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$10.90

82% off est. retail
As a lover of both history and art, you might find yourself captivated by "Cairo's Street Stories." It offers more than just a stroll through Cairo’s avenues; it's an immersive journey into the heart of Egypt's evolution. Lesley Lababidi's narrative blends the tales of monumental sculptures and the urban landscape, intricately connecting you with the pulse of this ancient, yet ever-evolving city.
Parachute Infantry: An American Paratrooper's Memoir of D-Day and the Fall of the Third Reich
David Kenyon Webster, Stephen E. Ambrose  | Random House Publishing Group

Parachute Infantry: An American Paratrooper's Memoir of D-Day and the Fall of the Third Reich

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

67% off est. retail
If you’re into raw, personal war narratives, "Parachute Infantry" could be an intense tour through history for you. David Webster doesn't just recite events; he transports you into the boots of a paratrooper. You’ll feel a connection with the soldiers of E Company and experience the camaraderie and terror of WWII's pivotal moments as though you're there, all wrapped in a narrative that's as compelling as fiction.

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.