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.

350 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!

350 Results

No results

Before the Throne: Dialogs with Egypt's Great from Menes to Anwar Sadat

Regular price $13.90 $4.90 65% off

Unit price
per

Imagine standing before ancient deities, having to justify your life's deeds and decisions. "Before the Throne" brings you to this exact surreal courtroom, where Egypt's most iconic figures, from Menes to Anwar Sadat, plead their cases for immortality. Naguib Mahfouz, a Nobel laureate, crafts each historical narrative with compelling depth, making it a fascinating read for those intrigued by history, power, and the human quest for legacy.
Declaration Universelle Des Droits De L'Homme Dans 6 Langues ONU

$3.90

Unit price
per

If you're intrigued by global perspectives and value human rights, this collection might just enrich your worldview. Through the translation of pivotal human rights concepts into six different languages, you'll gain insight into the universal principles that bind us together, while appreciating the nuance and beauty of each language's interpretation. It's a unique journey through cultural and linguistic landscapes, all focused on a shared vision for humanity.
Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring: Witness poems and essays from Burma/Myanmar - Thryft

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

83% off est. retail
If the courage of a people amid turmoil speaks to you, "Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring" offers a rare glimpse into that raw spirit. The compilation of poems and essays is not just literature; it's the heartbeat and the battle cry from the very core of Myanmar's struggle for democracy. It's an evocative and visceral anthology that binds the personal to the political, creating a poignant narrative that resonates with the universal quest for freedom and expression.
Musings. Series One
Tai Ho Woon, George Yong-boon Yeo  | Wspc

Musings. Series One

Regular price $40.90 $24.90 39% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.33

Regular price $40.90 $24.90 39% off

Unit price
per

75% off est. retail
If you're drawn to books that not only provide a window into a leader's mind but also traverse a variety of weighty topics, George Yeo's "Musings" might pique your curiosity. It's like sitting down with a philosopher-statesman; Yeo's conversations with Woon Tai Ho cover everything from the personal to the global, offering insights into his vision for Singapore and reflections on international affairs. This book promises a reflective journey through the thoughts of a man who has seen Singapore's narrative intertwined with the world's.
The Umbrella Murder: The Hunt for the Cold War's Most Notorious Killer

$16.90

Unit price
per

If you've got a taste for true crime stitched with the fabric of espionage, "The Umbrella Murder" is a gripping dive into one of the Cold War's most chilling episodes. As you walk alongside journalist Ulrik Skotte, you'll be piecing together a historical puzzle that has captivated the world for decades. It's not just history; it's a detective story that promises to hold your attention with every turned page.
Queen of Our Times: The Life of Queen Elizabeth II
Robert Hardman | March 17, 2022

Queen of Our Times: The Life of Queen Elizabeth II

Regular price $21.90 $3.90 82% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.32

Regular price $21.90 $3.90 82% off

Unit price
per

90% off est. retail
If the royal family piques your interest, especially the figure of Queen Elizabeth II, "Queen of Our Times" could be for you. Robert Hardman offers an in-depth look at the Queen's long-standing reign and her adaptability through decades of global change. His access to royal insiders provides a rich, intimate portrait that could offer new insights even to those familiar with her storied life.
Made in China: A Prisoner, an SOS Letter, and the Hidden Cost of America's Cheap Goods

$10.90

Unit price
per

71% off est. retail
If you've ever wondered about the true price of those unbeatable deals, "Made in China" is an eye-opener. Amelia Pang's investigative prowess takes you behind the sheen of bargain shopping, uncovering the labor and human rights issues seldom seen. It's a powerful narrative that not only recounts the ordeal of Sun Yi and others but also challenges you to rethink the impact of your purchases. This book could alter the way you shop forever.
Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II
Robert Hardman | Macmillan

Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II

Regular price $21.90 $14.90 32% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.32

Regular price $21.90 $14.90 32% off

Unit price
per

If you're keen on royal history or simply intrigued by figures who've shaped the 20th century, "Queen of Our Times" promises a rich, textured dive into Queen Elizabeth II's remarkable life. This biography by renowned royal expert Robert Hardman offers unprecedented insights, drawing on exclusive access to royal documents and personal accounts. It's a masterful blend of historical gravitas and personal detail, celebrating a legacy of resilience and service.
Civilization: The West and the Rest
Niall Ferguson | Lane Allen

Civilization: The West and the Rest

Regular price $18.90 $12.90 32% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.86

Regular price $18.90 $12.90 32% off

Unit price
per

"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.
The World in 2050: How to Think About the Future

$11.90

Unit price
per

If you’re curious or anxious about where the world is heading, this feels like a smart, steady guide rather than wild futurist speculation. McRae brings economics, technology, politics and climate into one big picture, so the future feels more understandable and less abstract. It’s the kind of book readers enjoy when they want to think seriously about coming change without losing sight of real-world opportunities.
Stumbling Giant: The Threats to China's Future

$11.90

Unit price
per

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.
Churchill and America
Martin Gilbert | Mcclelland & Stewart

Churchill and America

$11.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.05

$11.90

Unit price
per

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.
Doing the Continental: A New Canadian-American Relationship

$13.90

Unit price
per

77% off est. retail
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 United States of Europe: The New Superpower and the End of American Supremacy

$13.90

Unit price
per

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.
Checkmate in Berlin: The First Battle of the Cold War
Giles Milton | John Murray

Checkmate in Berlin: The First Battle of the Cold War

Regular price $12.90 $9.90 23% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.43

Regular price $12.90 $9.90 23% off

Unit price
per

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 Decline of the West

$14.90

Unit price
per

40% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the grand narratives of history and the patterns that seem to repeat over eras, Spengler's "The Decline of the West" will captivate you. It's a dense, thought-provoking read that may alter how you view the rise and fall of civilizations, including our own. Its sweeping analysis could offer a new lens through which to interpret current global events.
Inventing Freedom: How the English-Speaking Peoples Made the Modern World

$13.90

Unit price
per

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.
Power Games: A Political History of the Olympics
Jules Boykoff, Dave Zirin  | Verso

Power Games: A Political History of the Olympics

Regular price $12.90 $10.90 16% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.7

Regular price $12.90 $10.90 16% off

Unit price
per

82% off est. retail
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.
Modi@20: Dreams Meet Delivery
BlueKraft Digital Foundation, Sudha Murty, Sadhguru  | Rupa Publication

Modi@20: Dreams Meet Delivery

Regular price $28.90 $17.90 38% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.24

Regular price $28.90 $17.90 38% off

Unit price
per

73% off est. retail
If you're keen on understanding the significant political shifts in India, "Modi@20" might be an insightful read. It doesn't just chronicle Modi's tenure but also provides a comprehensive view of his political strategies and governance style. The contributors are subject matter experts who delve into the nuances of Modi's impact on India, making it a substantive resource for anyone interested in contemporary Indian politics.
The Political Economy of International Relations

$11.90

Unit price
per

This is a strong pick if you want to understand how trade, finance, and global institutions are never really separate from political power. Gilpin writes with unusual clarity for such a big subject, so it feels foundational without being dry. Readers often come away feeling like the modern world economy suddenly makes more sense, especially when thinking about American influence and the fragility of international cooperation.
The Viking Blitzkrieg AD 789-1098

$10.90

Unit price
per

56% off est. retail
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 Fourth Revolution: The Global Race to Reinvent the State

$11.90

Unit price
per

58% off est. retail
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.
Military Power: Explaining Victory and Defeat in Modern Battle

$13.90

Unit price
per

If you're passionate about military strategy and intrigued by the complex interplay between technology and tactics, "Military Power" is the kind of thought-provoking read you'd appreciate. Stephen Biddle takes us beyond the common assumption that bigger and more advanced armies win wars. He makes a compelling argument about the crucial importance of how these forces are employed, offering a fresh perspective that could redefine your understanding of military history and future strategies.
States, Nations, and the Great Powers: The Sources of Regional War and Peace
This is a strong pick if you like big, serious questions about why some regions keep sliding into conflict while others stabilize. Miller gives you a clear framework that feels more illuminating than abstract, then tests it across the Middle East, Balkans, South America, and Western Europe. Readers who enjoy international relations books often appreciate how it turns sweeping history into a pattern you can actually follow.
Kochland
Christopher Leonard | Simon & Schuster

Kochland

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$9.90

Unit price
per

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.
A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power

$13.90

Unit price
per

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.
Introducing Keynesian Economics

$10.90

Unit price
per

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.
Pioneers Once More: The Singapore Public Service, 1959-2009

Regular price $110.90 $10.71 90% off

Unit price
per

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.
The WikiLeaks Files: The World According to US Empire

$12.90

Unit price
per

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

Voting in Change

$9.71

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$9.71

Unit price
per

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.
Cultural Evolution
Ronald Inglehart | Cambridge University Press

Cultural Evolution

$13.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$13.90

Unit price
per

This is a smart, big-picture read for anyone curious why societies swing between openness and authoritarianism. Inglehart connects survival, prosperity, and cultural change in a way that feels both sweeping and grounded in real-world evidence. You come away seeing debates over identity, democracy, and equality not as random chaos, but as part of a deeper pattern.
An Imperfect Offering: Humanitarian Action in the Twenty-First Century

$13.90

Unit price
per

50% off est. retail
This is for readers who want moral clarity without easy answers. Orbinski writes with the raw authority of someone who was there, so the book feels both intimate and world-shaking. It’s devastating, but also deeply humane, especially in how it insists on dignity, courage, and responsibility even in history’s darkest moments.
Ideology and International Relations in the Modern World
Alan Cassels | Routledge

Ideology and International Relations in the Modern World

Regular price $10.90 $9.64 12% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.5

Regular price $10.90 $9.64 12% off

Unit price
per

If you enjoy delving into the intellectual forces that have sculpted our modern world, Alan Cassels' book is quite the gem. It throws light on how various ideologies, beyond just totalitarian ones, have influenced international relations. It's a fresh lens through history that could challenge your perspective on global politics.
Global Disorder
Robert Harvey | Robinson Publishing

Global Disorder

Regular price $8.90 $6.90 22% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.13

Regular price $8.90 $6.90 22% off

Unit price
per

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.
The Passion of Bradley Manning: The Story Behind the WikiLeaks Whistleblower

$11.90

Unit price
per

If you're intrigued by the thin line between treason and heroism, "The Passion of Bradley Manning" could enlighten you. It's a deep dive into the motivations and implications of Manning's actions, questioning not just one man's decisions but the broader ethics of government secrecy. It provokes thought on where the public's right to know stands against national security, making it an essential read in an era where such debates are more relevant than ever.
Cuba: My Revolution

$6.90

Unit price
per

"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.
Behind the Embassy Door: Canada, Clinton, and Quebec

$11.90

Unit price
per

If you enjoy politics that feels immediate and human, this offers a rare seat inside the U.S.-Canada relationship when NAFTA and Quebec sovereignty made every gesture matter. It has the appeal of a memoir, but with real historical stakes and behind-the-scenes access to Clinton-era power. Readers who like smart political storytelling will appreciate how it makes diplomacy feel personal, fragile, and surprisingly vivid.
The Trillion Dollar Meltdown: Easy Money, High Rollers, and the Great Credit Crash

$51.90

Unit price
per

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.
Churchill and Orwell: The Fight for Freedom

$13.90

Unit price
per

69% off est. retail
This is a smart, energizing read if you like history that feels urgently alive. Ricks makes Churchill and Orwell feel less like distant icons and more like two stubborn, clear-eyed men who saw through political lies before most people did. You come away feeling why their courage still matters, especially in a world where truth and freedom never stay safe for long.
Past Imperfect, Future UNcertain: The United Nations at Fifty

$10.90

Unit price
per

If you’re drawn to world affairs beyond the headlines, this feels like a thoughtful stocktake of the UN at a moment of huge promise and painful failure. What makes it stand out is how it brings together diplomats, generals, and scholars, so the debate feels grounded rather than abstract. It’s the kind of book readers often appreciate for being sober, candid, and still quietly hopeful about what international cooperation can realistically achieve.
The Modern History of Iraq
Phebe Marr | Westview Press

The Modern History of Iraq

$10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$10.90

Unit price
per

82% off est. retail
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.
Defying the Dragon: Hong Kong and the World's Largest Dictatorship
Stephen Vines | Hurst

Defying the Dragon: Hong Kong and the World's Largest Dictatorship

Regular price $20.90 $15.90 24% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.31

Regular price $20.90 $15.90 24% off

Unit price
per

44% off est. retail
If you're drawn to contemporary geopolitical dynamics and the spirit of resistance, "Defying the Dragon" is a compelling read. Stephen Vines presents a critical look at the Hong Kong protests, shedding light on the courage and challenges faced by citizens standing against the Chinese government. This book isn't just informative; it's an inspiring story of resilience that's sure to resonate with anyone interested in human rights and international politics.
The Making of Modern South Africa: Conquest, Apartheid, Democracy

$13.90

Unit price
per

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.
Russia 7
Simon Richmond | Geoplaneta

Russia 7

Regular price $12.90 $11.90 8% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.96

Regular price $12.90 $11.90 8% off

Unit price
per

Venturing into Russia can be daunting, but Lonely Planet Russia is like having a well-informed friend by your side. It's packed with practical tips, from navigating cultural quirks to finding hidden treasures that are off the typical tourist trail. Whether you're looking to explore the vast Siberian wilderness or absorb the historic ambiance of Red Square, this guide provides the blueprint for an authentic and enriching Russian adventure.
Why It's Still Kicking Off Everywhere: The New Global Revolutions

$12.90

Unit price
per

48% off est. retail
If current events and social movements stir your interest, Paul Mason's update to "Why It's Still Kicking Off Everywhere" will resonate with you. Mason's blend of on-the-ground reportage and analytical prowess offers a vivid snapshot of various movements, from Occupy to the Arab Spring. It's a compelling read for those keen on understanding the intersection of technology, economics, and political activism in shaping today's world.
In Search of Amrit Kaur
Livia Manera Sambuy | Chatto & Windus

In Search of Amrit Kaur

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$9.90

Unit price
per

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.
1968: The Year That Rocked the World
Mark Kurlansky | Ballantine Books (ny)

1968: The Year That Rocked the World

Regular price $12.90 $9.90 23% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.82

Regular price $12.90 $9.90 23% off

Unit price
per

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.
Travels With Tocqueville Beyond America
Jeremy Jennings | Harvard University Press

Travels With Tocqueville Beyond America

Regular price $24.90 $18.90 24% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.71

Regular price $24.90 $18.90 24% off

Unit price
per

If you've ever been fascinated by the mind that dissected American democracy, "Travels With Tocqueville" takes you on a broader journey. Jeremy Jennings spotlights the less traversed paths of Tocqueville, places where he grappled with Catholicism, nationalism, and colonization. It's a fresh angle on a familiar intellectual figure—perfect if you're looking to deepen your understanding of Tocqueville's far-reaching political thought.
The History of the World in Bite-Sized Chunks

$14.90

Unit price
per

If you're often daunted by thick history tomes, this book could be the perfect antidote. Emma Marriott's "The History of the World in Bite-Sized Chunks" distills vast historical periods into manageable portions. It's an engaging way to fill gaps in your knowledge or refresh what you may have forgotten since school days, and it's well-suited for anyone with an interest in world history but with limited time to dedicate to more voluminous works.
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.

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.