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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Any Baedeker will tell us where we ought to travel, but only Alain de Botton will tell us how and why. With the same intelligence and insouciant charm he brought to How Proust Can Save Your Life, de Botton considers the pleasures of anticipation; the allure of the exotic, and the value of noticing everything from a seascape in Barbados to the takeoffs at Heathrow. Even as de Botton takes the reader along on his own peregrinations, he also cites such distinguished fellow-travelers as Baudelaire, Wordsworth, Van Gogh, the biologist Alexander von Humboldt, and the 18th-century eccentric Xavier de Maistre, who catalogued the wonders of his bedroom. The Art of Travel is a wise and utterly original book. Don’t leave home without it.
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Introducing Japan could be a good read for someone who wants to understand the unique aspects of Japan's heritage and customs. The book is written by two American experts who have lived in Japan for a long time and have ample experience with the country. Users would appreciate the book's concise nature, with just 72 pages, yet it covers Japan's history in a comprehensive manner.
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Alexander Tzonis, Liane Lefaivre |
Routledge
Architecture of Regionalism in the Age of Globalization : Peaks and Valleys in the Flat World
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Goodreads rating: 3.83
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Recommendation: This book provides a clear analysis of how globalization has influenced architecture and design, while addressing issues such as identity and sustainability. It identifies the conflicts that have arisen between regionalism and globalization, and how they have shaped the design of cities. This book would be a good read for architecture enthusiasts, designers, and those interested in understanding the impact of globalization on city design.
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Sonja Massie
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Alpha
Books
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Irish History and Culture
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Goodreads rating: 3.56
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This book is a great read for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the vibrant history and culture of Ireland. With exhaustive coverage of all aspects of Irish history, it is perfect for those who want to understand the crucial role of Christianity and conflicts with England, as well as Irish assimilation into American culture. The concise biographies of Irish leaders and profiles of famous poets, novelists, and playwrights also make it an excellent reference guide.
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Francis Fukuyama
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Penguin
The End of History and the Last Man
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Goodreads rating: 3.59
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The End of History and the Last Man is an insightful read for those interested in understanding the fundamental changes that have taken place since the Cold War. Fukuyama's argument that liberal democracy has emerged as the ultimate global ideology still holds weight, making it a must-read for those seeking a deep understanding of contemporary global politics.
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Richard M. Clurman
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Simon
&
Schuster
To the End of Time : The Seduction and Conquest of a Media Empire
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Goodreads rating: 3.83
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A behind-the-scenes expose of the Time Warner media conglomerate explains how the merger came about, profiles the personalities involved, and provides an eye-opening look at the deals, intrigues, and machinations. 30,000 first printing. $30,000 ad/promo.
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Gordon Brown
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Bloomsbury
Pub
Ltd
Moving Britain Forward : Selected Speeches, 1997-2006
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Goodreads rating: 3.0
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This book is recommended for those who are interested in the political processes, Britain's role in the world, and social responsibilities of citizens towards each other. It is a collection of speeches by the former Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown, which provide readers with a coherent vision for a modern, forward-looking Britain. The speeches are integrated and serve as a formidable reflection of the intellect of the author. The book also contains short introductions from prominent personalities such as Kofi Annan, Nelson Mandela, and J.K. Rowling. All the proceeds from this book go towards a significant cause, the Jennifer Brown Research Laboratory for medical cell biology.
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Jon Stewart
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Dey
Street
Books
Naked Pictures of Famous People
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Goodreads rating: 3.58
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Recommendation: Naked Pictures of Famous People is a must-read for those seeking a satirical take on contemporary society. Jon Stewart's unique brand of humor shines through in these irreverent essays that cover a wide range of topics, from fashion to politics. Readers will appreciate how Stewart brilliantly uses humor to expose the absurdities of modern life.
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Alec Ash
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Picador
Wish Lanterns : Young Lives in New China
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Goodreads rating: 4.22
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This is the generation that will change China. The youth, over 320 million of them in their teens and twenties, more than the population of the USA. Born after Mao, with no memory of Tiananmen, they are destined to transform both their nation and the world.These millennials, offspring of the one-child policy, face fierce competition to succeed. Pressure starts young, and their road isn't easy. Their stories are also like those of young people all over the world: moving out of home, starting a career, falling in love.Wish Lanterns follows the lives of six young Chinese. Dahai is a military child and netizen; 'Fred' is a daughter of the Party. Lucifer is an aspiring superstar; Snail a country migrant addicted to online games. Xiaoxiao is a hipster from the freezing north; Mia a rebel from Xinjiang in the far west.Alec Ash, a writer in Beijing of the same generation, has given us a vivid, gripping account of young China as it comes of age. Through individual stories, Wish Lanterns shows with empathy and insight the challenges and dreams that will define China's future global impact.
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The Secret Barrister
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Picador
Uk
The Secret Barrister : Stories of the Law and How It's Broken
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Goodreads rating: 3.9
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An anonymous barrister offers a shocking, darkly comic and very moving journey through the legal system – and explains how it's failing all of us.The Sunday Times number one bestseller.Winner of the Books are My Bag Non-Fiction Award.Shortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year.Shortlisted for Specsavers Non-Fiction Book of the Year.You may not wish to think about it, but one day you or someone you love will almost certainly appear in a criminal courtroom. You might be a juror, a victim, a witness or – perhaps through no fault of your own – a defendant. Whatever your role, you’d expect a fair trial.I’m a barrister. I work in the criminal justice system, and every day I see how fairness is not guaranteed. Too often the system fails those it is meant to protect. The innocent are wronged and the guilty allowed to walk free.In The Secret Stories of the Law and How It's Broken I want to share some stories from my daily life to show you how the system is broken, who broke it and why we should start caring before it’s too late.A Sunday Times top ten bestseller for twenty-four weeks.‘Eye-opening, funny and horrifying’ – Observer‘Everyone who has any interest in public life should read it’ – Daily Mail
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Patricia Ward Biederman, Warren Bennis |
Nicholas
Brealey
Organizing Genius The Secrets of Creative Collaboration
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Goodreads rating: 3.79
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This book is perfect for those interested in understanding how great ideas come to fruition through collaborative efforts. The authors showcase how different individuals with unique skills and perspectives came together to create some of the most innovative products and services that transformed industries. This book highlights the unique aspect of how collaboration can change our ways of lives and lead to revolutionary changes.
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Parag Khanna
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Random
House
Connectography: Mapping the Future of Global Civilization
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Goodreads rating: 3.82
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"Connectography" by Parag Khanna is a captivating guide for anyone interested in understanding the future of global politics and economics. It's a book that will stretch your mind by showing how traditional borders are becoming less important than the ties of trade, infrastructure, and technology. If you're looking to grasp the pulse of the 21st century and where our world might be heading, Khanna's insights offer a fresh and optimistic perspective amidst the often gloomy narratives of global affairs.
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Jared Diamond
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Penguin
Books
Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive
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Goodreads rating: 3.93
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"Collapse" isn't just about the past; it's a thoughtful exploration of the patterns that have led societies to their zenith and their nadir. You'll be taken on a global tour of history, learning from the lessons etched in the remains of once-great civilizations. As you delve into these narratives, you may find yourself pondering the sustainability of our own society. It's a compelling read for those who enjoy history with a side of existential inquiry.
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Daniel Klein, Thomas Cathcart |
Penguin
(non-classics)
Heidegger And A Hippo Walk Through Those Pearly Gates : Using Philosophy (and Jokes!) to Explore Life, Death, the Afterlife, and Everything in Betweeen
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Goodreads rating: 3.6
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This book is a humorous, irreverent take on the complex and often scary topics of life, death, and the afterlife. It uses jokes and philosophy to explore how humans approach death and why we embrace life. Readers will be entertained while gaining wisdom from the great philosophers, theologians, and psychotherapists. Recommended for those looking for a light-hearted and insightful read on a heavy topic.
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Lee Kuan Yew
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Times
Media
Private
Limited
The Singapore Story: Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew
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Goodreads rating: 4.46
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This memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in politics, leadership, and the incredible transformation of Singapore. Through the eyes of Lee Kuan Yew, the founding father of modern Singapore, you'll gain insights into his visionary leadership and the strategies he employed to turn a small, resource-poor nation into a thriving global hub. Lee's candid and pragmatic approach to governance will leave you inspired and in awe of Singapore's success story.
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If you're fascinated by the inner workings of power dynamics and enjoy analyzing strategic thought across history, "The 48 Laws of Power" will likely captivate you. The blend of historical anecdotes and strategic advice gives insight into the ruthless side of human nature and power struggles, making it a compelling read for aspiring tacticians and those intrigued by realpolitik.
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Ronald Hutton
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Oxford
University
Press
The Restoration: A Political and Religious History of England and Wales, 1658-67
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Goodreads rating: 4.1
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In less than a decade, the commonwealth of Oliver Cromwell was dramatically transformed into the very different realm of the Restoration monarchy. This is the first detailed account of this vital and eventful period, which witnessed the end of a republic, the reestablishment of royal government, naval wars, plague, religious persecution, and the destruction of the capital in the Great Fire. Drawing on a wealth of public and private manuscript sources to rework each issue anew, Hutton explores the way government policy was set and put into practice during these nine years and how national concerns, local issues, and various social, political, and religious groups all interacted to influence the shifting currents of the nation's affairs.
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Fodor's Travel Publications Inc.
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Fodor's
Fodors Texas Seventh Edition
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Goodreads rating: 4.5
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If you're planning a trip to Texas or just curious about the Lone Star State, this Fodor's guide can be your new travel companion. It dives deep into Texan history, culture, and the distinct flavors you'll find in its diverse regions. The recommendations for food and accommodations have most likely evolved since 1990, but the historical insights and regional overviews remain valuable for cultural enthusiasts and travelers alike.
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Sheila Pakir, Malminderjit Singh |
Ethos
Books
The Birthday Book 2017
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Goodreads rating: 3.8
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If you're intrigued by the tapestry of human experiences and reflections, you'll appreciate "The Birthday Book 2017". Each writer delves into a facet of Singapore's identity, challenging readers to consider what is fundamentally important to remember as a society grows. Their combined narratives form a compelling mosaic, revealing the resilient and aspirational spirit of a nation through personal and professional lenses.
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Blaine Harden
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Penguin
Books
Escape from Camp 14 : One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West
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Goodreads rating: 4.0
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"Escape from Camp 14" is a vivid account of the life inside North Korea's political prison. The book portrays the story of Shin Dong-hyuk, the only person born inside one of these camps to have escaped. It highlights the inhumane conditions of the political prison camps and the brutalities people had to deal with on a daily basis. It is a must-read for those interested in human rights and political issues.
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Shelley Frisch, Rüdiger Safranski |
W.
W.
Norton
&
Company
Nietzsche : A Philosophical Biography
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Goodreads rating: 4.1
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A seminal biography, essential reading for anyone studying the philosophy of history's most enigmatic and fascinating thinker. No other modern philosopher has proved as influential as Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) and none is as poorly understood. In the first new biography in decades, Rüdiger Safranski, one of the foremost living Nietzsche scholars, re-creates the anguished life of Nietzsche while simultaneously assessing the philosophical implications of his morality, religion, and art. Struggling to break away from the oppressive burdens of the past, Nietzsche invented a unique philosophy based on compulsive self-consciousness and constant self-revision. As groundbreaking as it will be long-lasting, this biography offers a brilliant, multifaceted portrait of a towering figure.
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David Walsh
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Simon
&
Schuster
Ltd
Seven Deadly Sins : My Pursuit of Lance Armstrong
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Goodreads rating: 4.03
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Recommended for avid sports fans seeking truth. The book provides a gripping account of a journalist's 13-year battle to reveal the truth about Lance Armstrong's doping and conspiracy of silence within the sport. It delves deep into the murky world of professional cycling and the devastating impact on those who dare to speak up. The book is an eye-opener and a must-read for all sports enthusiasts seeking the truth about their idols.
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Cherian George
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Ethos
Books
Air-Conditioned Nation Revisited
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Goodreads rating: 4.33
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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.
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If you’ve been feeling disoriented with the shifting political landscape and the overpowering influence of media on public opinion, Al Gore’s "The Assault on Reason" might speak to your concerns. It’s not just a thesis on democracy's decline but a call to action. Gore compels readers to consider the value of truth and reason in the public sphere. This book would be an empowering read for anyone interested in media influence, politics, and active citizenship.
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David Hackett Fischer
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Oxford
University
Press
Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America
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Goodreads rating: 4.36
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Albion's Seed is a great read for a history enthusiast, particularly those interested in the formation of America's regional cultures. Fischer's work effectively outlines the folkways and cultural differences between early British settlers in America, and how they have persisted to varying degrees in different areas of the country. This book is a valuable resource for understanding American cultural history, and would be a particularly good fit for those studying the social sciences or anyone with a keen interest in American regionalism.
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Donald Low, Sudhir Thomas Vadaketh |
Nus
Press
Hard Choices: Challenging the Singapore Consensus
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Goodreads rating: 4.13
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Recommendation:
Here's a thought-provoking book for those interested in understanding the changing landscape of Singapore. "Hard Choices : Challenging the Singapore Consensus" offers a deep dive into the complex policy and political conundrums that the country faces today. With its collection of essays, the book presents a radical perspective that calls for a rethinking of Singapore's policies and institutions. It challenges the assumptions that have shaped the country's exceptionalism, making it a captivating read for those seeking a fresh understanding of Singapore's future.
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Encyclopedic and panoramic in its scope, this fascinating work chronicles the rich spiritual, political, and cultural institutions of Arab history through 13 centuries.No region in the world today is more important than the Middle East: no people more misunderstood than the Arabs. In this definitive masterwork, distinguished Oxford historian Albert Hourani offers the most lucid, enlightening history ever written on the subject. From the rise of Islam to the Palestinian issue, from the Prophet Mohammed to Mu'ammar al-Qadhafi. A History of the Arab Peoples chronicles the rich spiritual, political and cultural institutions of this civilization through thirteen centuries of war, peace, literature and religion. Lauded by authorities, encyclopedic and panoramic in its scope, here is a remarkable window on today's conflicts and on the future of a glorious and troubled land.
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Stephen Hawking
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Bantam
Books
Black Holes and Baby Universes : And Other Essays
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Goodreads rating: 4.17
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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.
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Loung Ung
|
Harper
Perennial
First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers
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Goodreads rating: 4.33
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This book is a gripping and harrowing memoir that takes you on a journey through the terrifying experiences of a young girl during the Cambodian genocide. Loung Ung's story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of love and courage in the face of unimaginable brutality. If you are looking for a deeply moving and inspiring read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, this book is for you.
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The Phenomenal #1 Worldwide Bestseller—With a New AfterwordHillary Rodham Clinton is known to hundreds of millions of people around the world. Yet few beyond her close friends and family have ever heard her account of her extraordinary journey. She writes with candor, humor and passion about her upbringing in suburban, middle-class America in the 1950s and her transformation from Goldwater Girl to student activist to controversial First Lady.Living History is her revealing memoir of life through the White House years. It is also her chronicle of living history with Bill Clinton, a thirty-year adventure in love and politics that survives personal betrayal, relentless partisan investigations and constant public scrutiny.Hillary Rodham Clinton came of age during a time of tumultuous social and political change in America. Like many women of her generation, she grew up with choices and opportunities unknown to her mother or grandmother. She charted her own course through unexplored terrain -- responding to the changing times and her own internal compass -- and became an emblem for some and a lightning rod for others. Wife, mother, lawyer, advocate and international icon, she has lived through America's great political wars, from Watergate to Whitewater.The only First Lady to play a major role in shaping domestic legislation, Hillary Rodham Clinton traveled tirelessly around the country to champion health care, expand economic and educational opportunity and promote the needs of children and families, and she crisscrossed the globe on behalf of women's rights, human rights and democracy. She redefined the position of First Lady and helped save the presidency from an unconstitutional, politically motivated impeachment. Intimate, powerful and inspiring, Living History captures the essence of one of the most remarkable women of our time and the challenging process by which she came to define herself and find her own voice -- as a woman and as a formidable figure in American politics.
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David Aikman
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Regnery
Publishing
Jesus in Beijing : How Christianity Is Transforming China and Changing the Global Balance of Power
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Goodreads rating: 3.89
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The book provides a unique and insightful look into the religious transformation happening in China, and the potential implications it could have on the country's politics. Aikman's firsthand experience as a journalist in Beijing allows him to provide a detailed and accurate portrayal of the situation. Recommended for anyone interested in the intersection of religion and politics, particularly in China.
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Thomas L. Friedman
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Picador
The World Is Flat: The Globalized World in the Twenty-First Century
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Goodreads rating: 3.69
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If you're fascinated by how technology bridges distances and creates a competitive global environment, Friedman's "The World Is Flat" might pique your interest. It's more than an exploration; it offers an insightful look into how our world has changed and is continuing to evolve. Think of it as a decoder for the intricate web of global connectivity that affects us all. Whether you're a business enthusiast, a tech-savvy individual, or just curious about global dynamics, this book puts the twenty-first-century world into perspective.
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Clay Shirky
|
Columbia
Global
Reports
Little Rice : Smartphones, Xiaomi, and the Chinese Dream
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Goodreads rating: 3.73
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This book is a captivating exploration of how Xiaomi, a Chinese smartphone company, rose to become a major global player. Clay Shirky, an influential observer of technology's impact, delves into the implications of Xiaomi's success for China and the rest of the world. With insightful perspectives on the Chinese Dream and the future of globalization, this book is a must-read for those fascinated by the intersection of technology, culture, and power. Whether you're curious about China's tech industry or interested in the broader implications of smartphone production, "Little Rice: Smartphones, Xiaomi, and the Chinese Dream" offers a riveting journey that will leave you inspired and informed.
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Koh Buck Song, Grace Chua, Umej Bhatia |
Landmark
Books
From Boys to Men: A Literary Anthology of National Service in Singapore
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Goodreads rating: 4.11
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This anthology offers a powerful exploration of Singapore's National Service, featuring personal stories and experiences from a diverse group of writers. It provides a unique insight into the cultural and social significance of mandatory military service in Singapore.
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.
We have a wide range, from historical fiction to well-researched non-fiction covering ancient, medieval, and modern history. You’ll find insights into various cultures and pivotal world events.
Yes, indeed! Our history collection boasts books on Singapore’s unique colonial and post-colonial developments, detailing key historical figures and events. Head over to our Asian History collection for more!
We recommend choosing based on any timeline or geographical region that piques your interests! As history is something not only applicable to the past but also a process that is extends to our everyday, you could also pick a book based on where you currently live in or are planning to visit!
Absolutely! Many of our history books overlap with topics like philosophy and politics, offering diverse perspectives and in-depth analyses of historical events.
Yes, you can discover rare editions within our Vintage and Rare Books section, allowing you to own a piece of historical literature that holds both academic and collectible value.