Politics Books

Examine the complexities of democracy, policy, and international relations here in our Politics section at Thryft. Whether you’re interested in political theory, governance, or recent political events, we’ve got the titles to quench your curiosity. Engage with works by political scientists, renowned authors, and essential essays that shape today’s political discourse.

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Enemies Within: Inside the NYPD's Secret Spying Unit and Bin Laden's Final Plot Against America

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If the interplay of espionage and real-world events draws you in, "Enemies Within" could be a compelling read for you. Apuzzo and Goldman, with their expert journalistic chops, shed light on post-9/11 internal security tactics. It's the kind of book that not only informs but also immerses you in the high-stakes tension of thwarting terrorism.
The Arrow Impossibility Theorem

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This is a rewarding read if you like ideas that genuinely change how you see the world. It takes Arrow’s famous theorem and makes its surprising consequences feel alive, showing why fair voting is far harder than it first seems. Readers who enjoy economics, politics, or philosophy often find it both intellectually humbling and strangely thrilling, especially because it pairs rigorous reasoning with big real-world questions.
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.
Stumbling Giant: The Threats to China's Future

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If you're keen on understanding the complexities of China's economic and political landscape, "Stumbling Giant: The Threats to China's Future" offers an insightful analysis. It's not just a critique but provides an eye-opening look at potential threats to China's sustained growth and what it means for the world. This is the book for you if you want to grasp the bigger picture behind the headlines.
Truth Be Told: My Journey Through Life and the Law

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If you're fascinated by pivotal figures in legal history or enjoy memoirs that offer a blend of personal triumphs and professional milestones, Beverley McLachlin's "Truth Be Told" could be an inspiring read for you. It’s a candid journey through the life of a woman who navigated the challenges of gender barriers in law to shape a nation's justice system. McLachlin's story is bound to resonate with readers looking for narratives about resilience and principled leadership.
If you’re drawn to real-life institutional drama, this is a sharp, gossipy, surprisingly gripping look at Harvard at a moment of identity crisis. It reads like a backstage account of power clashing with idealism, with Lawrence Summers at the center of the storm. You come away feeling like elite universities are not just places of learning, but arenas where ambition, politics, and personality shape the future.
Leadership for a Fractured World: How to Cross Boundaries, Build Bridges, and Lead Change
Recommended for those looking to transcend internal and external boundaries and learn about the delicate and creative work of boundary spanning. The book teaches readers how to approach these boundaries, whether cultural, organizational, political, geographic, religious, or structural, and become genuine change agents able to heal wounds, resolve conflicts, and bring a fractured world together.
Confronting COVID-19: A Strategic Playbook for Leaders and Decision Makers
This is a strong pick if you want more than a recap of COVID-19 and are looking for a structured way to think through crisis leadership. It brings together politics, public health, economics, and country case studies in a way that feels practical rather than abstract. Readers who like evidence-backed analysis and actionable recommendations will likely find it especially useful for making sense of both the pandemic itself and what comes after.
Dynamic Governance: Embedding Culture, Capabilities and Change in Singapore
If you're intrigued by the principles and practices that underpin successful governments, "Dynamic Governance" offers thoughtful insights into Singapore's ability to adapt and thrive amidst global challenges. It's not just a political textbook; it's an inspiration for organizations and leaders aiming to infuse their structures with agility and responsiveness. This book might just change your perspective on governance and organizational transformation.
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.
The Autumn of Dictatorship: Fiscal Crisis and Political Change in Egypt Under Mubarak

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If you're fascinated by the intersection of economics and political change, "The Autumn of Dictatorship" is a compelling dive into Egypt's recent history. Samer Soliman methodically uncovers how financial mismanagement and social inequity under Mubarak set the stage for revolution. It's a thought-provoking analysis that moves past the surface-level narratives and encourages a deeper understanding of what fuels a populace to demand change.
The High-Beta Rich: How the Manic Wealthy Will Take Us to the Next Boom, Bubble, and Bust

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If you've ever wondered how the super-rich impact our economy, "The High-Beta Rich" is an intriguing exploration. Robert Frank delves into the roller-coaster fortunes of America's wealthiest and how their high-stakes financial gambles can ripple through our own fiscal reality. It's an eye-opening look at wealth's instability and its broader effects – a must-read for anyone interested in the nexus of affluence and economic trends.
Saving Justice: Truth, Transparency, and Trust

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If you're intrigued by the complexities of the American justice system and how it has evolved, especially under the recent political climate, "Saving Justice" by James Comey could be a riveting read for you. Comey offers a unique insider's perspective, drawing on his extensive experience to highlight the importance of truth and fairness. His firsthand accounts of high-profile cases and the pursuit of justice make for a compelling narrative that could both inform and resonate with your civic sensibilities.
The New Paradigm for Financial Markets: The Credit Crisis of 2008 and What It Means

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If you're looking to make sense of the 2008 financial crisis, George Soros’s perspective is invaluable. His unparalleled experience in the financial markets offers not just a recount of events, but a deep understanding of the boom and bust cycles that characterize our economic systems. This book will arm you with practical insights and a bit of philosophy to navigate future financial landscapes or simply to understand the underpinnings of such economic upheavals.
Lincoln and the Triumph of the Nation: Constitutional Conflict in the American Civil War

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If you like Civil War books that go beyond battlefield stories, this one feels especially rewarding. It shows how the Union and Confederacy fought not only with armies but with competing ideas of law, power, and nationhood. Readers who enjoy sharp historical analysis will appreciate how Lincoln emerges here not just as a wartime leader, but as a constitutional strategist.
Paradise Lost: Mahathir & The End of Hope

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If you're keen on understanding contemporary Malaysian politics and how a single figure can influence the course of a nation's history, "Paradise Lost: Mahathir & The End of Hope" is a compelling read. Dennis Ignatius provides a critical view of Mahathir Mohamad's leadership, which can offer valuable lessons on power, governance, and democracy.
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.
Delhi Riots 2020 - The Untold Story
Monika Arora, Sonali Chitalkar, Prerna Malhotra  | Garuda

Delhi Riots 2020 - The Untold Story

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Goodreads rating: 4.3

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This book would truly resonate with those who appreciate in-depth investigative journalism and are keen to understand complex socio-political events. The authors have meticulously gathered ground-level data to offer a perspective that delves beyond mainstream narratives, laying bare the intricacies of communal violence and the alleged premeditation behind it. It's an enlightening read if you're interested in contemporary Indian politics or the dynamics of urban unrest.
The Last Spike: The Great Railway, 1881-1885

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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.
The Modern History of Iraq
Phebe Marr | Westview Press

The Modern History of Iraq

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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If you're keen to understand the complex tapestry that is Iraq's modern saga, Phebe Marr's book is an invaluable resource. Marr brings clarity to the country's search for a cohesive national identity and economic progression amidst the challenges of its diverse society. Offering a nuanced exploration of Iraq's political landscape, this book could serve as a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in Middle Eastern affairs and the historical context of current events.
Reflections of a Siamese Twin: Canada at the End of the Twentieth Century

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This is a thoughtful, provocative read for anyone curious about what really holds Canada together. Saul challenges the usual English-French, east-west, Native-settler binaries and makes the country feel more complex, more uneasy, and more interesting. If you like big-picture political writing that questions national myths and gives you fresh language for debates you thought you knew, this one can feel surprisingly clarifying.
The Undercover Economist
Tim Harford | Abacus

The Undercover Economist

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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Recommendation: - This book is a must-read for anyone curious about how the economy works. Tim Harford provides a fresh perspective on familiar situations, showcasing the hidden forces that shape our daily lives. From the secret economics of coffee to the truth behind immigration, "The Undercover Economist" will leave you with a newfound understanding of the world around you.
Inventing Freedom: How the English-Speaking Peoples Made the Modern World

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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.
The Viking Blitzkrieg AD 789-1098

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If you're intrigued by how violent incursions can forge a nation's identity, "The Viking Blitzkrieg" might be your next favorite read. It’s not just about battles; it’s an exploration of cultural integration and the unforeseen consequences of Scandinavian invasions on English history. The Whittocks’ account connects the dots between Viking aggression and the building blocks of a unified England, making you rethink the impact of warfare on societal evolution.
The Zero Marginal Cost Society: The Internet of Things, the Collaborative Commons, and the Eclipse of Capitalism

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If you like books that make you rethink how the world works, this is a fascinating one. Rifkin takes economics, technology, and sustainability and ties them into a bold vision of a future where access matters more than ownership. It feels especially rewarding for readers curious about the sharing economy, digital networks, and where capitalism might be heading next.
Pioneers Once More: The Singapore Public Service, 1959-2009

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This book is a tribute to individuals who dare to challenge new frontiers and make great leaps forward. Chua weaves the stories of a diverse range of pioneers such as Changi Airport's first chief, Kampong Lorong Buangkok's last residents, the founder of Banyan Tree Resorts and the founder of Mustafa Centre. This book inspires readers to face challenges with grit and perseverance.
Beyond NIMBY: Hazardous Waste Siting in Canada and the United States
Barry G. Rabe | Brookings Institution Press

Beyond NIMBY: Hazardous Waste Siting in Canada and the United States

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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If you’re delving into environmental policy or urban planning, "Beyond NIMBY" could be a compelling read. The book offers insight into overcoming the ubiquitous "Not In My Backyard" opposition to complex but necessary facilities. Rabe not only explores the challenges but also provides tangible solutions, which could enlighten your brainstorming sessions and policy proposals.
Mulroney: The Politics of Ambition

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If you like political books that feel revealing rather than dry, this could be a strong pick. It digs into Brian Mulroney’s rise with a sense of calculation, personality, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering that makes politics feel intensely human. Readers who enjoy biography mixed with power dynamics may find it especially absorbing.
Critical Theories of the State: Marxist, Neo-Marxist, Post-Marxist

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If you're intrigued by the complexities of political power and how it intertwines with economic systems, "Critical Theories of the State" could be a compelling read for you. Clyde W. Barrow does an impressive job of breaking down dense Marxist and post-Marxist theories, making them more digestible. This book stands out as an educational tool, likely sparking deep thought and providing a foundation for anyone interested in political science, sociology, or even history. It's a dense read, but for the intellectually curious, it can be quite a transformative text.
Urban Naxals: The Making of Buddha in a Traffic Jam

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If you're someone intrigued by the interplay between cinema and socio-political movements, Vivek Agnihotri's "Urban Naxals" offers an eye-opening narrative. It's not just a book but a real-life thriller that takes you into the heart of a controversial subject that intersects with Agnihotri's own experience in the film industry. The book could be a compelling read for those who appreciate first-hand accounts that challenge the status quo and inspire dialogue on critical issues.
Rosa Parks - Readers Bios
Ages 7-9
Kitson Jazynka | National Geographic Kids

Rosa Parks - Readers Bios

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Goodreads rating: 4.26

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"Rosa Parks" by Kitson Jazynka is more than just a history lesson; it's an empowering read that showcases the impact one individual can have on changing the world. It will particularly resonate with those who value social justice and enjoy seeing how personal courage can lead to societal transformation. The vibrant photographs and engaging text are bonus treats that make Rosa Parks's journey accessible and inspiring for readers of all ages.
Confronting Capitalism: Real Solutions for a Troubled Economic System
Philip Kotler | Amacom

Confronting Capitalism: Real Solutions for a Troubled Economic System

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Goodreads rating: 3.84

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If you're feeling uneasy about the direction of our economy, "Confronting Capitalism" could provide a thoughtful and analytical perspective that you're looking for. It dissects the American economic system's deepest weaknesses and proposes actionable solutions. This read is particularly poignant if you’re interested in economics, policy-making, or simply understanding the complexities of sustaining a capitalistic society that benefits more people.
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.
Money Laundering and Illicit Financial Flows: Following the Money and Value Trails

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This is a sharp, clear-eyed read for anyone curious about how dirty money actually moves through the world. John Cassara writes with the credibility of someone who has worked the cases himself, so the book feels grounded, direct, and unsettling in the best way. If you like nonfiction that exposes broken systems and makes complex global finance understandable, this one will stick with you.
How We Lead: Canada in a Century of Change
Joe Clark | Vintage Canada

How We Lead: Canada in a Century of Change

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Goodreads rating: 3.58

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This is a thoughtful, big-picture read for anyone curious about what Canada could stand for in a changing world. Joe Clark blends lived political experience with a genuine belief in the country’s strengths, so it feels both informed and personal. If you like books that mix history, policy, and national self-examination, this one offers a hopeful but challenging vision of leadership.
Prosperity Without Growth: Economics for a Finite Planet
Tim Jackson | Earthscan Publications Ltd.

Prosperity Without Growth: Economics for a Finite Planet

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

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This book might resonate with you if you're concerned about the environmental impact of continuous economic expansion. Tim Jackson presents a compelling argument that challenges the conventional wisdom of growth, offering a fresh look at how we can achieve a sustainable future. It's a thought provoking read that doesn't just criticize the status quo, but also offers a vision of hope by detailing a pathway to a prosperous, yet sustainable world.
Greg Sorbara: The Battlefield of Ontario Politics: An Autobiography

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This is a strong pick if you like politics told by someone who was actually in the room when decisions were made. Sorbara gives you the strategy, the personality clashes, and the practical trade-offs behind big Ontario policy shifts. It feels especially rewarding for readers curious about how elections are won and how governing really works once the slogans fade.
Stop Bloody Bossing Me About How We Need to Stop Being Told What to Do

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If you're feeling overwhelmed by societal pressures and a seemingly endless list of dos and don'ts, Quentin Letts's "Stop Bloody Bossing Me About" could be the cathartic reprieve you need. It's a humorous yet sharp critique of the current state of control and conformity. Letts's book might just resonate with your desire for a little more freedom and a good laugh at the expense of those who take themselves too seriously.
Leading Research Universities in a Competitive World

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If you’re curious about why some universities consistently outperform others, this gives you a grounded, global view without feeling vague or overly abstract. It’s especially rewarding for readers interested in higher education policy, leadership, or academic strategy, because it connects rankings, funding, autonomy, and performance in a way that feels genuinely useful. You can imagine readers appreciating how it turns a complex institutional puzzle into something clear, comparative, and thought-provoking.
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 Ten-Year War: Obamacare and the Unfinished Crusade for Universal Coverage

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If healthcare reform conversations stir your intellect, "The Ten Year War" will provide a deep dive into the political trenches of the Obamacare era. Jonathan Cohn's boots-on-the-ground reporting paints the legislative battle in vivid detail, making it an enlightening read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of healthcare, politics, and the tug-of-war for universal coverage. It's a narrative that's as informative as it is gripping.
Imperial Ambitions: Conversations With Noam Chomsky On The Post-9/11 World

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If you're interested in understanding complex global issues and the post-9/11 geopolitical landscape through the sharp lens of Noam Chomsky, "Imperial Ambitions" is a compelling read. These interviews delve into topics with an immediacy and critical perspective that could change or reinforce your views on U.S. foreign policy and global threats. The book's conversational format makes Chomsky's formidable intellect accessible, offering a thought-provoking analysis that's as educational as it is engaging.
For those intrigued by the symbiotic relationship between higher education institutions and urban development, "Univer-Cities" offers a wealth of perspectives. You'll find this read particularly enlightening as it explores how universities in diverse regions are shaping and being shaped by their cities, revealing the potential for future collaborations and urban transformation.
Unleashing Demons: The Inside Story of the EU Referendum
Craig Oliver | Hodder Stoughton Ltd

Unleashing Demons: The Inside Story of the EU Referendum

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Goodreads rating: 3.82

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If you're eager to delve behind the headlines of the EU referendum, "Unleashing Demons" is a must-read. It's like being a fly on the wall in Downing Street's corridors, giving you firsthand insights into the political turmoil and strategies that shaped a pivotal moment in UK history. Craig Oliver's access and his unfiltered storytelling will make you feel like you're part of the action, not just a spectator.
Challenging China - Smart Strategies to Encourage Its Liberalization
Sam Kaplan | Tuttle Publishing

Challenging China - Smart Strategies to Encourage Its Liberalization

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Goodreads rating: 3.65

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If you're feeling concerned or even just curious about the shifting dynamics of global power, "Challenging China" might be the enlightening read you're looking for. Author Sam Kaplan funnels three decades of experience into a book that's not only informative but also accessible, employing wit where you'd least expect it. It's a dive into complex international relations that manages to be as engaging as it is educational, potentially reshaping your understanding of global politics and America's role in it.
Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

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This book is a captivating exploration of the political genius of Abraham Lincoln, showcasing his ability to bring together a team of rivals and unite the country during one of its most tumultuous times. Through Doris Kearns Goodwin's expert storytelling, you will not only gain insight into the brilliant mind of Lincoln but also be inspired by his leadership qualities. A must-read for anyone interested in history, politics, and the power of effective leadership.
How the Hell Did This Happen? The Election of 2016
P.J. O'Rourke | Atlantic Monthly Press

How the Hell Did This Happen? The Election of 2016

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Goodreads rating: 3.45

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If you found yourself puzzled or entertained by the whirlwind of the 2016 U.S. election, "How the Hell Did This Happen?" could offer you a therapeutic dose of laughter through its satirical analysis. P. J. O'Rourke's sharp wit cuts through the political circus, turning bewilderment into comedic relief. It's like having a candid conversation with a politically savvy friend who manages to find humor in the chaos.
The Big Stick: The Limits of Soft Power & The Necessity of Military Force
Eliot A. Cohen | Basic Books

The Big Stick: The Limits of Soft Power & The Necessity of Military Force

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Goodreads rating: 3.82

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If you're seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding America's use of military force in international affairs, "The Big Stick" by Eliot Cohen is an invaluable read. As a prominent scholar, Cohen convincingly discusses why, despite the evolving geopolitical landscape, hard power remains an essential element of the U.S. strategy. It's a thought-provoking book that challenges the optimistic reliance on diplomacy and economic sanctions alone.
50 Years of Singapore-Europe Relations: Celebrating Singapore's Connections with Europe

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This feels like a warm, reflective snapshot of how Singapore and Europe have grown alongside each other over five decades. You get history, business, diplomacy, and personal perspectives all in one place, which makes it richer than a standard commemorative book. If you enjoy books that help you understand a country through both policy and lived experience, this is a thoughtful and surprisingly human read.
Cool War: The Future of Global Competition
Noah Feldman | Random House

Cool War: The Future of Global Competition

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Goodreads rating: 3.6

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"Cool War" could be a good read for those interested in international affairs and the future of US-China relations. The author provides a balanced and wise analysis of the ongoing global struggle, emphasizing the economic interdependence of the two nations. He argues that competitive cooperation is the only way forward that can preserve peace and benefit both sides. The book offers a compelling case for why this standing is tenuous but not necessarily doomed to topple into a hot war.

Navigate the World of Politics

Our Politics section at Thryft features titles on global and regional politics, commentaries, and detailed analyses of current affairs. Whether you’re looking into political theory or getting up to date with recent global events, our collection is here to enlighten and provoke thought.