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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Horrible Histories: Woeful Second World War
Terry Deary | Scholastic Ltd

Horrible Histories: Woeful Second World War

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Goodreads rating: 4.15

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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.
The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination

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This is a great read if you love big, idea-rich nonfiction that makes art feel alive across centuries. Boorstin connects giants like Homer, Picasso, and Woolf into one flowing story, so you get both vivid lives and the larger evolution of creativity itself. It feels like a guided tour through the minds that shaped culture, without losing the wonder of how art emerges from its time.
A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power

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This is a passionate, clear-eyed read for anyone who wants to understand how deeply sexism is woven into culture, politics, and religion. Carter writes with the urgency of someone who has witnessed these injustices firsthand, which gives the book a direct, human weight. Readers who appreciate socially conscious nonfiction will likely find it both sobering and motivating, especially because it pushes beyond outrage into a real call for change.
A Sea of Words: A Lexicon and Companion for Patrick O'Brian's Seafaring Tales

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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.
Voting in Change
Terence Lee, Kevin YL Tan  | Ethos Books

Voting in Change

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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If you're intrigued by the complexities of Singapore's political scene, "Voting In Change" offers a deep dive into its electoral changes and implications. Kevin Y.L. Tan provides a clear analysis that's both accessible and thought-proving, perfect for anyone interested in the nuances of governance and citizen participation in Singapore. It's a read that's bound to leave you with a richer understanding of democracy in a rapidly evolving city-state.
The WikiLeaks Files: The World According to US Empire

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If you've ever been curious about the behind-the-scenes of US foreign policy, "The WikiLeaks Files" could be the eye-opener you need. It's not just a compilation; it's a critical analysis of how America's power plays out on the global stage, laid bare by experts who digest the significance of the revelations. For anyone keen to understand the gritty realities that shape our world, this book offers a rare, uncensored glimpse.
Perpustakaan dan Perkembangan Tamadun

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If you're intrigued by the progression of civilizations and the pivotal role libraries have played through time, "Perpustakaan dan Perkembangan Tamadun" could offer a unique perspective. Authored by the renowned Malaysian scholar Syed Hussein Alatas, it merges the historical significance of knowledge preservation with cultural evolution. It’s an enlightening read that emphasizes the importance of intellectual heritage in the development of societies.
Daily Rituals: Women at Work
Mason Currey | Picador

Daily Rituals: Women at Work

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Goodreads rating: 3.83

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If you're intrigued by the behind-the-scenes of creative mastery, "Daily Rituals: Women at Work" is a must-read. Mason Currey offers a window into the lives of over 140 pioneering women artists, unveiling their day-to-day habits and the sacrifices they made in the service of their art. This book might just inspire you to adopt your own ritual that sparks creativity and discipline in your work or artistic endeavors.
Leadership in the Eye of the Storm: Putting Your People First in a Crisis

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This feels especially valuable if you want leadership advice that stays grounded in real people, not just corporate theory. Drawing from crises like 9/11, Katrina, and SARS, it shows how strong leaders put employees and families first without losing sight of the organization. Readers who like practical wisdom with a compassionate core will likely find it both reassuring and genuinely useful.
The Sawbones Book: The Hilarious, Horrifying Road to Modern Medicine: Revised and Updated for 2020
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.
Cuba: My Revolution

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"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.
Havana - Thryft
Brendan Sainsbury | Geoplaneta

Havana

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

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Havana could be a good read for travel enthusiasts who want to experience the authentic charm of Cuba. The book provides a comprehensive language section with additional coverage of language schools and volunteer opportunities. The author's insights into Cuban culture and history make the book a reliable source of information for anyone planning a trip.
Butterfly: From Refugee to Olympian, My Story of Rescue, Hope, and Triumph

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If you've ever sought a story that melds adversity with the pinnacle of human achievement, Yusra Mardini's "Butterfly" is a natural choice. Not only does it chart a heart-wrenching journey of escape from war but also an ascent to the heights of Olympic glory. It's a narrative that affirms the indomitability of the human spirit, and a first-hand account that could inspire resilience and hope in anyone who feels adrift in their own challenges.
A History of Photography: From 1839 to the Present

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If you're fascinated by how the click of a camera captures more than just moments but also the progression of an entire art form, "A History of Photography: From 1839 to the present" could be a treasure trove for you. It's like a museum tour in book form, charting the seminal milestones of photography, guided by the rich collection of the George Eastman House. Here, you'll connect with the lens legends and their timeless works, offering a panoramic view of how photography has shaped, and been shaped by, history.
Wild Women
Mariella Frostrup | Anima

Wild Women

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Goodreads rating: 3.69

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If you're inspired by stories of extraordinary women who traversed the globe against all odds, "Wild Women" will resonate with you. It's a powerful anthology that might light a fire within you to explore and embrace the unknown, just as these fearless women did. The book serves as a reminder that adventure and discovery are not exclusive to any gender.
Forbidden Desire in Early Modern Europe: Male-Male Sexual Relations, 1400-1750

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This is a fascinating read if you like history that completely reshapes familiar narratives. Noel Malcolm takes a subject often treated narrowly and opens it across Europe, the colonies, and the Ottoman world, making the whole picture feel far richer and more human. Readers who enjoy deeply researched but lucid scholarship will appreciate how it blends big historical arguments with vivid individual lives.
Doing the Continental: A New Canadian-American Relationship

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This is a smart pick if you like current affairs with real-world relevance and a distinctly Canadian lens. Dyment makes a complex, often overlooked relationship feel lively, showing how two close neighbours can be deeply connected and still misunderstand each other. It feels like the kind of concise policy book that leaves you seeing headlines, borders, and diplomacy a little more clearly.
National Geographic Kids Skyscrapers
Ages 7-10
Libby Romero | National Geographic Kids

National Geographic Kids Skyscrapers

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Goodreads rating: 4.31

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If your curiosity stretches as tall as a skyscraper, this book will satisfy your architectural intrigue. It's a great fit for kids who are fluent readers and ready to climb the ladder of knowledge about humanity’s towering achievements. You'll find yourself amazed, learning how these giants are constructed and what makes each one stand out.
Power Games: A Political History of the Olympics
Jules Boykoff, Dave Zirin  | Verso

Power Games: A Political History of the Olympics

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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If you've only seen the glimmer of Olympic medals and international camaraderie, Jules Boykoff's "Power Games" will introduce you to the complex, often unsavory politics simmering beneath. It's a deep dive into the historical intricacies that shaped the Olympics beyond the track and field, offering an enlightening perspective for those interested in the intersection of sports and politics. A thought-provoking read for anyone looking to uncover the multifaceted nature of this global event.
Picking Up the Threads: The Colours of World Football
John Chandler | Pitch Publishing

Picking Up the Threads: The Colours of World Football

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Goodreads rating: 2.5

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If you're a fan who savors the vibrant tapestry of football, "Picking Up the Threads" is like a leisurely stroll through a gallery of team colors and the stories they tell. John Chandler has managed to capture the essence of fandom, nostalgia, and the quirks that shape football culture. Dive into this illustrated collection, and you'll come away with anecdotes that'll enrich your next match experience.
Hidden Treasures of Ancient Egypt: Unearthing the Masterpieces of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo
If you're fascinated by the grandeur of ancient Egypt and its enigmatic history, then this book is a literal treasure trove for you. Zahi Hawass is an authority on the subject, and his insights will deepen your appreciation for these masterpieces. The vivid photographs alone are enough to transport you to another time, making it a visual as well as an intellectual feast.
The Golden Ratio: The Story of Phi, the World's Most Astonishing Number

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If numbers and aesthetics pique your interest, "The Golden Ratio" by Mario Livio will likely resonate with you. It's not just a journey through the mathematical significance of phi, but an exploration of its presence in nature and art that connects deeply with our sense of beauty and the sublime. Livio's narrative is both historical and personal, bringing to life the fascinating figures obsessed with this enigmatic ratio. It's the type of read that might change the way you perceive the world around you.
The Making of Modern South Africa: Conquest, Apartheid, Democracy

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If you're intrigued by how nations transform through turbulent times, this book delves into South Africa's journey from conquest and apartheid to forming a new democracy. It's a sharp, analytical read that doesn't just recount events but also provokes thought regarding the complexities of social change and national identity. Perfect for understanding the historical context of today's South Africa.
Churchill and America
Martin Gilbert | Mcclelland & Stewart

Churchill and America

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Goodreads rating: 4.05

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

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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.
Journey Through Esther: 30 Biblical Insights
Peter Lau | Discovery House Publishing

Journey Through Esther: 30 Biblical Insights

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Goodreads rating: 3.0

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For anyone fascinated by the power of individual impact amidst adversity, "Journey Through Esther" is inspiring. Peter Lau unpacks the biblical tale of Esther with a focus on her reluctant heroism and the subtle workings of divine providence. This read not only enlightens you on historical and religious contexts but challenges you to consider your own role in life's grand narrative. It's a pick for the contemplative soul eager to explore how faith and action can coalesce in moments that seem to be orchestrated "for such a time as this."
The Usborne Story of Music

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If you carry a tune for uncovering the symphonies of the past, "The Usborne Story of Music" is your maestro. It elegantly orchestrates a voyage from ancient rhythms to contemporary beats, offering a time-travel experience. Whether you're a budding musician or a connoisseur of music history, this book will strike the right chord, enriching your understanding of music's transformative role through the ages.
The United States of Europe: The New Superpower and the End of American Supremacy

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If you like big geopolitical ideas told in an accessible way, this is a compelling read. It takes the European Union seriously as a world-shaping force and makes that argument feel vivid rather than abstract. Readers who enjoy provocative, debate-starting nonfiction will appreciate how it challenges assumptions about American dominance and global power.
Mathematics from the Birth of Numbers

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This is the kind of book for someone who wants math to feel alive rather than intimidating. It moves from the birth of numbers to advanced ideas with a warm, surprisingly readable style, mixing history, illustrations, and humor in a way that makes the subject feel human. Readers who like learning deeply and wandering through big intellectual landscapes will find it endlessly rewarding.
Introducing Keynesian Economics

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If you're curious about how modern economies are managed, "Introducing Keynesian Economics" can help make sense of complex fiscal policies in a way that’s both engaging and accessible. Peter Pugh not only delves into the theories but also gives you a glimpse into Keynes' life, adding a personal dimension to the economic discourse. Whether you're a student or just interested in economic theory, this book serves as an excellent primer.
The Beer Devotional: A Daily Celebration of the World's Most Inspiring Beers

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If you savor the complexity of a well-crafted brew, "The Beer Devotional" could be a delightful companion for your year-round beer journey. Not only will Jess Lebow's expertise expand your palate with a unique beer for each day, but the rich history, diverse pairings, and spirited quotes wrapped in this tome will elevate your appreciation for the frothy beverage. True aficionados, as well as novices with a budding interest, will find this devotional an enriching guide to the vast world of beers.
National Geographic Concise History of World Religions: An Illustrated Time Line

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If you're fascinated by how faith shapes history and cultures, this book is a gem. It's not merely a dry account; it's a richly illustrated tapestry that captures the essence of world religions and their impact. Reading this can feel like traversing time and space, as it's filled with stories, artifacts, and images that bring spiritual traditions to life. Whether you're a visual learner or just appreciate a well-crafted historical overview, you'll find it both enlightening and visually captivating.
FTSE: The Inside Story
Mark Makepeace, James Ashton  | Nicholas Brealey

FTSE: The Inside Story

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Goodreads rating: 3.6

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If you’re curious how a stock index became a global symbol of money and trust, this gives you the story from the inside. It feels part business memoir, part backstage pass to high finance, packed with sharp personalities, political tension, and dealmaking drama. Readers who enjoy seeing how big institutions are really built will find it especially rewarding.
The Fourth Revolution: The Global Race to Reinvent the State

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If you like big-picture nonfiction that connects history, politics, and global competition, this feels urgent rather than abstract. It argues that government itself is being reinvented, and that the real contest of this century is not just economic but political. Readers who enjoy provocative, debate-starting books will appreciate how it makes state reform feel immediate and high-stakes.
A Concise Economic History of the World: From Paleolithic Times to the Present

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This is a great pick if you want to understand how the modern world economy actually came to be without getting buried in jargon. It takes huge stretches of history and makes them feel connected, from ancient societies to industrialization to late twentieth-century global shifts. Readers who enjoy seeing politics, development, and inequality explained through a broad historical lens will find it especially rewarding.
The Sunday Times A Life in the Day: Words of Wisdom and Domestic Details from the Rich and Famous

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If you're intrigued by the quirks and insights of noteworthy individuals, "The Sunday Times A Life in the Day" is your backstage pass to their private moments. This book not only offers a peek into the daily routines of influential people but also tugs at the thread of common humanity we share with them. Each story is a tapestry woven with details that surprise, charm, and sometimes even inspire.
Altered Pasts: Counterfactuals in History
Richard J. Evans | Abacus

Altered Pasts: Counterfactuals in History

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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If you've ever found yourself lost in musings about how different the world might be if just one historical event had a different outcome, "Altered Pasts: Counterfactuals in History" is likely to captivate you. Richard J. Evans provides a rigorous study of history’s could-have-beens, blending a scholarly approach with accessible writing. It can change the way you think about history and its study, challenging you to consider the past — and thus the present — with more nuance and imagination.
Kochland
Christopher Leonard | Simon & Schuster

Kochland

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Goodreads rating: 4.31

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This is the kind of nonfiction that makes huge systems feel gripping and personal. If you like investigative books that show how business decisions quietly shape politics, labor, and climate, this one really lands. Readers often come away feeling stunned by how invisible Koch’s influence was—and how clearly Leonard connects it to modern America.
Civilizations
Felipe Fernández-Armesto | Key Porter Books

Civilizations

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

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

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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.
The Great Economists: Ten Economists Whose Thinking Changed the Way We Live

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If you're intrigued by the forces that shape our economies and societies, "The Great Economists" is a treasure trove. Phil Thornton offers not just biographies but also delves into the impactful theories that have influenced policy and academic thought alike. It's like a concise guide to the architects of today's economic landscapes, providing insights that could illuminate current financial discussions for you.
The Fix: How Bankers Lied, Cheated and Colluded to Rig the World's Most Important Number

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If you're intrigued by the intricate workings of financial markets and the scandals that erupt from within, "The Fix" stands as a captivating narrative. It's a deep dive into the insidious world of greed and manipulation that influenced global finance. Through the enthralling tale of Tom Hayes and his associates, you'll gain a front-row seat to the corruption that shook the foundations of the banking industry and our understanding of morality in the pursuit of wealth.
Global Disorder
Robert Harvey | Robinson Publishing

Global Disorder

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Goodreads rating: 3.13

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If you're intrigued by global politics and how past events shape our present world, "Global Disorder" by Robert Harvey could add a new perspective to your understanding. Harvey's book goes beyond the initial optimism of a post-Cold War world to examine the complexities and challenges that came with it. His critical analysis on ethnic nationalism, the uncontrolled globalization of capitalism, and the need for security reform makes this a timely read, even years after its publication.
Thunderstruck
Erik Larson | Crown

Thunderstruck

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Goodreads rating: 3.78

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"Thunderstruck" artfully marries the wonders of technological innovation with the dark intrigue of a notorious crime, sowing a narrative that thrives on the contrast between Marconi's groundbreaking work and Crippen's grim deeds. Larson's talent for interweaving historical advancements with human narratives will make you feel intimately connected to the events that shaped modern communication and the captivating chase across the Atlantic. This book is a ticket to travel back in time, experiencing both the awe of invention and the thrill of the chase.
Innovation - The History of England
Peter Ackroyd | Pan Macmillan

Innovation - The History of England

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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If you've ever found history dull or daunting, Peter Ackroyd's "Innovation - The History of England" could repaint it with vibrant colors for you. Ackroyd takes a century of staggering changes and serves it not just as a series of dates but as a tapestry rich with stories. You'll traverse wars, cultural upheavals, and social revolutions feeling like you're part of the era, understanding Britain's evolution like never before.
Half-Real: Video Games Between Real Rules and Fictional Worlds
Jesper Juul | Mit Pr

Half-Real: Video Games Between Real Rules and Fictional Worlds

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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If you're fascinated by how video games straddle the line between structured rules and imaginative worlds, "Half-Real" offers insight into this balancing act. Jesper Juul pulls apart the layers that make games unique, making it a thought-provoking read for game designers, players, and anyone curious about the interplay of reality and fiction in this form of digital entertainment.
Lonely Planet Western Balkans

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Considering a trip to the Western Balkans? This Lonely Planet guide could be your perfect travel companion. It threads together historical context with modern-day insights, offering a rich tapestry of the region's cultural and natural beauty. With this book in hand, you'll feel like you're wandering through the Balkans with a knowledgeable friend, ready to dive into hidden gems and local secrets that could make your journey unforgettable.
The Trillion Dollar Meltdown: Easy Money, High Rollers, and the Great Credit Crash

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If you're fascinated by the intricacies of economic crises and enjoy a deep dive into the causes behind financial turmoil, "The Trillion Dollar Meltdown" is a compelling read. Morris brings a critical eye to pre-2008 excesses, making complex concepts accessible. You'll come away with a richer understanding of the factors that led to a financial system on the brink.
Beyond Measure
Jay Kappraff | World Scientific Publishing Company

Beyond Measure

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Goodreads rating: 4.5

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If you like books that make mathematics feel alive rather than abstract, this one has a special pull. It wanders through music, architecture, ancient symbols, and natural forms, showing how the same patterns quietly echo across worlds. Readers who enjoy big connecting ideas will likely find it thoughtful, surprising, and oddly enchanting.
1968: The Year That Rocked the World
Mark Kurlansky | Ballantine Books (ny)

1968: The Year That Rocked the World

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Goodreads rating: 3.82

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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.

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.