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Sociology Books

Explore the depths of human society and social behaviour in our extensive Sociology section. From theories and structures, to issues of globalisation and inequality, our selection offers insightful reads for both casual learners and seasoned sociologists. Delve into pivotal works that examine the narratives shaping our societies today.

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Rebellion in Black and White: Southern Student Activism in the 1960s
Robert Cohen | Johns Hopkins University Press

Rebellion in Black and White: Southern Student Activism in the 1960s

$16.90 $9.90 41% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$16.90 $9.90 41% off

81% off est. retail
If you're someone who's drawn to the complexities of civil rights history and enjoys learning about unsung heroes and lesser-known battles, "Rebellion in Black and White" will resonate with you. This book paints a broader, more inclusive picture of student activism, especially in the traditionally conservative South. Its varied scholarly perspectives might just fill in the gaps of what we think we know about the era.
The Rough Guide to Los Angeles 3
Jeff D. Dickey | Rough Guides

The Rough Guide to Los Angeles 3

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$13.90 $5.90 58% off

Los Angeles is a city of paradoxes—glittering yet gritty, superficial yet substantial—and "The Rough Guide to Los Angeles 3" is like a key that helps unlock its intricate puzzles. If you're looking for a guide that sidesteps the clichés and shows the City of Angels in all its chaotic splendor, this book captures that perfect blend of practical information and evocative storytelling. You'll come to appreciate LA's sprawling diversity and find hidden gems beyond the well-trodden Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Steep: The Precipitous Rise of the Tea Party
Lawrence Rosenthal, Christine Trost  | University Of California Press

Steep: The Precipitous Rise of the Tea Party

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

Goodreads rating: 3.42

$15.90 $6.90 57% off

83% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the shifts in American political landscapes, "Steep" offers an in-depth exploration of the Tea Party movement. Lawrence Rosenthal and Christine Trost provide a comprehensive look at how this faction rose to prominence and its significant influence on conservative politics. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone keen on dissecting modern political strategies or movements.
Coming Of Age - America In The Twentieth Century - Thryft
Virginia Scharff, Michael Schaller, Robert D. Schulzinger  | Cengage Learning

Coming Of Age - America In The Twentieth Century

$29.90

Goodreads rating: 2.25

$29.90

90% off est. retail
Recommended for history enthusiasts seeking comprehensive insight.
The Race Beat: The Press, the Civil Rights Struggle, and the Awakening of a Nation
Gene Roberts, Hank Klibanoff  | Knopf

The Race Beat: The Press, the Civil Rights Struggle, and the Awakening of a Nation

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$18.90

61% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by history and the transformative power of the press, "The Race Beat" is a compelling pick for you. It provides an insightful exploration of how journalists covered and affected the Civil Rights era, painting a vivid picture of the social and political dynamism of the time. The intense and brave work of these reporters not only informed the public but also helped propel the movement forward.
102 Minutes: The Untold Story of the Fight to Survive Inside the Twin Towers
Jim Dwyer, Kevin Flynn  | Times Books

102 Minutes: The Untold Story of the Fight to Survive Inside the Twin Towers

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

88% off est. retail
"102 Minutes" isn't just a retelling of the tragic day we all remember; it's a deep dive into personal courage and systemic failure, stitched together through interviews and chilling transcripts. Reading it, you'll find yourself right there in the smoke-filled corridors, among the heroes and the doomed, and you'll emerge with a profound sense of both the fragility and the resilience of the human spirit.
Inaudible Music: Jazz, Gender & Australian Modernity
Bruce Johnson | Currency Press

Inaudible Music: Jazz, Gender & Australian Modernity

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you have an interest in how music, especially jazz, intertwines with cultural shifts and gender roles, "Inaudible Music" by Bruce Johnson could be a fascinating read for you. It's not just a dry historical account; it weaves in the author's personal experiences within the jazz community, adding an intimate layer that makes the narrative come alive. Plus, for those intrigued by the global influence of Australian jazz musicians, this book offers rich, often untold stories of their international impact.
1,003 Great Things about America - Thryft
Ann Hodgman, Lisa Birnbach, Patricia Marx  | Andrews Mcmeel Publishing

1,003 Great Things about America

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

75% off est. retail
This book is a perfect read for anyone who wants to feel proud and affirmed about their American identity. The book lists 1,003 unique things that make America great, ranging from cultural icons like Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra, to the beauty of Mount Rushmore, the excitement of the Super Bowl, and the simplicity of apple pie. The book strikes a perfect balance between humor and serious appreciation, reminding readers of the strength, resilience and spirit of America.
Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families
J. Anthony Lukas | Knopf

Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families

$28.90 $17.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$28.90 $17.90 38% off

If you're drawn to exploring the complex interactions of race, politics, and education in America's history, "Common Ground" could resonate with you. J. Anthony Lukas meticulously intertwines the lives of three Boston families across the divides of class and color during the tumultuous 1970s. It's not just an award-winning non-fiction narrative; it's a deep dive into a decisive era that still echoes in today's societal challenges.
Satisfaction Guaranteed - Thryft
Susan Strasser | Pantheon

Satisfaction Guaranteed

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

90% off est. retail
Recommended for history and marketing enthusiasts. Explores the origins of popular brands like Coca-Cola, Kellogg's, Wrigley's, and Kodak. Provides insight into the creation of mass-produced products and consumer culture.
CliffsNotes on Paton's Cry, the Beloved Country
Alan Paton, Eva Fitzwater, CliffsNotes  | Cliffs Notes

CliffsNotes on Paton's Cry, the Beloved Country

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

57% off est. retail
If you're tackling Alan Paton's 'Cry, The Beloved Country' and feeling a bit lost, this CliffsNotes companion could be a lifesaver. It provides context and simplifies complex characters and themes, making your reading experience richer and more accessible. Ideal for students seeking a deeper understanding or readers interested in the historical and literary significance of the novel.
Museums, History and Culture in Malaysia
Ahmad Abu Talib | Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Museums, History and Culture in Malaysia

$21.90 $13.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$21.90 $13.90 37% off

76% off est. retail
If you have an interest in how a nation's history can be shaped and reflected through its museums, "Museums, History and Culture in Malaysia" is a compelling read. It's not just a study of static exhibitions but a deeper look into the nation's soul, challenging and exploring what makes Malaysia, Malaysia. This book will take you on a journey through cultural clashes, evolving narratives, and the delicate balance of presenting a unified national story. It's an insightful exploration for anyone fascinated by history, culture, and the politics of memory.
Ultra Modern History : The History of Sitcoms, Porn, Microwaves and Skateboards - Not to Mention Every Other Cool Thing on the Planet - Thryft
Nicotext, Fredrik Colting  | Nicotext

Ultra Modern History : The History of Sitcoms, Porn, Microwaves and Skateboards - Not to Mention Every Other Cool Thing on the Planet

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.07

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

75% off est. retail
If you're interested in the intersection of pop culture and technology, this book is for you. Ultra Modern History takes a fun and engaging approach to exploring the evolution of sitcoms, porn, microwaves, and skateboards, among other cool things. Readers will appreciate Gadd's lively writing style and the way he weaves together seemingly disparate topics into a cohesive and fascinating narrative. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary culture and the forces that have shaped it.
Multi America : Essays On Cultural Wars And Cultural Peace - Thryft
Ishmael Reed | Penguin (non-classics)

Multi America : Essays On Cultural Wars And Cultural Peace

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

89% off est. retail
Multi America could be a good read for those interested in exploring the complex issues surrounding America's multiculturalism. The essays address a broad range of topics related to race, assimilation, stereotyping and victimization from the perspectives of African-Americans, Native Americans, Asian-Americans, Italian-Americans, and Irish-Americans. The essays are unpredictable, stimulating, and provocative, and provide readers with authentic and diverse voices that celebrate the cultural richness of America.
Prodigal Sons: The New York Intellectuals and Their World - Thryft
Alexander Bloom | Oxford University Press

Prodigal Sons: The New York Intellectuals and Their World

$19.90 $5.90 70% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$19.90 $5.90 70% off

89% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the inner workings of intellectual circles and the evolution of thought through pivotal historical moments, "Prodigal Sons" will feel like a personal backstage pass. Alexander Bloom's meticulous research translates into a narrative brimming with the life stories of the influential figures you might have only previously encountered in bylines and bibliographies. As you trace their journeys from the fringes to the core of American intellectual life, the book itself becomes an exploration of cultural change, identity, and the power of ideas.
The American Dream: Stories from the Heart of Our Nation
Dan Rather | William Morrow

The American Dream: Stories from the Heart of Our Nation

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

85% off est. retail
This book is a collection of inspiring stories of ordinary Americans who persevered with determination and hard work to achieve their American Dream. It shows that the American Dream is still alive and well, and accessible to anyone who is willing to work for it. The book emphasizes the inclusive nature of the American Dream, highlighting the wide range of aspirations and ambitions that it encompasses. It is a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration to follow their dreams and realizing their fullest potential.
A Limited Bounty: The U.S. Since WWII - Thryft
Otis L. Graham | Mcgraw-hill College

A Limited Bounty: The U.S. Since WWII

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$7.90

89% off est. retail
This book is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to gain a comprehensive understanding of America's post-World War II era. Unlike most textbooks, it goes beyond superficial explanations and delves deep into the development of crucial themes like population, resources, and the environment. By tracing the roots of our current dilemmas, it enables readers to connect the dots and comprehend the present through the lens of the past. Otis L. Graham's narrative approach makes learning about this period engaging and accessible.
A Proper Sense of Honor: Service and Sacrifice in George Washington's Army - Thryft
Caroline Cox | The University Of North Carolina Press

A Proper Sense of Honor: Service and Sacrifice in George Washington's Army

$27.90 $6.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$27.90 $6.90 75% off

90% off est. retail
If you're a history buff intrigued by the ethos of the American Revolution, this dive into the lives of George Washington's army could offer you a fresh perspective. Caroline Cox not only recounts historical events but delves deep into the personal stories of those who served, uncovering the essence of honor and sacrifice that defined a nation's early struggles. This book brings an intimate, human touch to a pivotal time in American history.
What Truth Sounds Like: Robert F. Kennedy, James Baldwin, and Our Unfinished Conversation About Race in America
Michael Eric Dyson | St. Martin's Press

What Truth Sounds Like: Robert F. Kennedy, James Baldwin, and Our Unfinished Conversation About Race in America

$15.90 $12.90 19% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$15.90 $12.90 19% off

"What Truth Sounds Like" is a compelling read that delves deep into the heart of America's ongoing conversation about race and justice. It weaves historical events with current societal challenges, examining the roles of various key figures and the importance of understanding and empathy in policy-making. If the dynamics of race, politics, and social change intrigue you, then Michael Eric Dyson's insights could offer you a profound and stirring experience.
Hard Work
Sarah Fleming, Mick Gowar, Claire Llewellyn  | Oxford University Press, Usa

Hard Work

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

If you're looking for a book to fuel a child's curiosity and respect for diligence, "Hard Work" could be just the ticket. It's a feast for young minds, blending captivating facts with vivid imagery, sure to keep their attention while instilling an appreciation for effort and achievement. Perfect for broadening horizons.
Sex, Death, and God in L.A - Thryft
David Reid | University Of California Press

Sex, Death, and God in L.A

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

89% off est. retail
If you're enamored with the multifaceted nature of Los Angeles, "Sex, Death, and God in L.A." offers a tapestry of perspectives that feel both intimate and comprehensive. They dive beyond the glamorous veil showcasing how various communities, from Latino to Asian to Hollywood elite, shape the pulsing heart of the city. It's like eavesdropping on an enlightened conversation about a place both mythical and decidedly real.
The Green Crusade: Rethinking the Roots of Environmentalism
Charles T. Rubin | Free Press

The Green Crusade: Rethinking the Roots of Environmentalism

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the evolution of environmentalism from industry's proudest champion to today's crucial social issue, "The Green Crusade" offers a thought-provoking perspective. Rubin challenges the reader to reconsider the scientific and political underpinnings that have shaped the environmental movement. This book is a deep-dive into understanding how the narrative surrounding human interaction with nature has shifted, through the influence of key thinkers, to the powerful force it is today. It's essential reading if you're looking to explore the complexities behind one of the most significant societal shifts of our time.
The History of White People
Nell Irvin Painter | W. W. Norton & Company

The History of White People

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$8.90

82% off est. retail
Dive into "The History of White People" for a profound exploration beyond the often-frontlined stories of racial minorities. Nell Irvin Painter's work challenges readers to confront the socio-historical constructs of race and whiteness, making it a crucial read for anyone interested in understanding the deep-seated roots and impacts of racial concepts on Western civilization. It's a history buff's treasure and a thought-provoker for the socially conscious.
Zeitoun
Just Arrived

Zeitoun

$10.71

$10.71

62% off est. retail
This is the kind of true story that stays with you because it begins with everyday decency and turns into something shocking and deeply unsettling. Zeitoun feels vivid and human, especially in the portrait of a family trying to do right while systems around them collapse. If you’re drawn to narrative nonfiction that reads with urgency but carries real emotional weight, this is a powerful and memorable read.
Crime Movies
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Carlos Clarens, Foster Hirsch  | Da Capo Press

Crime Movies

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

76% off est. retail
This book could captivate you if you're fascinated by the gritty transformation of crime in American film over the years. It's not just a study of films; it's a dive into the changing societal views and the impact that cinema has had on public perception. If you're passionate about film history or intrigued by the infamous glamorization of crime figures, Carlos Clarens' journey through celluloid's most notorious tales will leave you both informed and engrossed.
That Used to Be Us - What Went Wrong with America - and How It Can Come Back
Sold out
Thomas L. Friedman, Michael Mandelbaum  | Little Brown And Company

That Used to Be Us - What Went Wrong with America - and How It Can Come Back

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

88% off est. retail
If you're wondering about the shifts in American society, this book might be your cup of tea. Friedman and Mandelbaum offer a compelling narrative that slices through the fog of political and economic discourse. They do not just present problems but offer a lens of optimism to view America's potential for revitalization, a read that balances critique with hope.
The Culture of Contentment - Thryft
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John Kenneth Galbraith | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

The Culture of Contentment

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

71% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intricate relationship between politics, economics, and social stagnation, "The Culture of Contentment" could be an insightful read for you. Galbraith masterfully uses the climate of the late 20th century to probe into the sense of satisfaction that can often precede serious societal challenges. Whether you're a history buff or just keen on understanding the cyclic nature of contentment and crisis, this book will offer a thought-provoking analysis.
Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Power, and the Past
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Sidney W. Mintz | Beacon Press

Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Power, and the Past

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

70% off est. retail
If you're curious about the intersection of culture, power, and the food on your plate, "Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom" is a tour de force that delves into the deep meanings behind eating practices. Sidney Mintz gives you a scholarly yet accessible perspective on how food choices are intricately linked with history and economy, enriching your understanding of American culinary identity.
Food, Society, and Environment
Sold out
Charles L. Harper, Bryan F. Lebeau  | Prentice Hall

Food, Society, and Environment

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90

If you're curious about the intersection of our eating habits with societal shifts and environmental sustainability, "Food, Society, and Environment" might just feed your curiosity. It's not just a narrative of food through the ages - it's an insightful dissection of how our plates reflect and affect the world we live in, from social justice to ecological impacts. For anyone with a hunger for understanding the broader implications of what's on our forks, this book is a hearty meal for thought.
The Birth of the Modern: World Society 1815-30
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Paul Johnson | Weidenfeld & Nicholson

The Birth of the Modern: World Society 1815-30

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're intrigued by how today's world came to be, "The Birth of the Modern: World Society 1815-1830" is a compelling read. Paul Johnson dives deep into pivotal historical moments, making clear connections between the events of the past and the standards of the modern era. His narrative is not just a list of dates and facts; it's a story about the birth of modern society that continues to shape our world.
American Conspiracies: Lies, Lies, and More Dirty Lies that the Government Tells Us - Thryft
Sold out
Dick Russell, Jesse Ventura  | Skyhorse

American Conspiracies: Lies, Lies, and More Dirty Lies that the Government Tells Us

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$6.34

83% off est. retail
This book is a thought-provoking and eye-opening exploration of government conspiracy theories. Jesse Ventura, with his bold and no-holds-barred approach, delves into the wide gap between what the American government knows and what it reveals to the people. He questions the official narratives surrounding major historical events like the assassinations of Lincoln, the Kennedys, and Martin Luther King, as well as the 9/11 attacks. Ventura's book is a must-read for those who are curious about the truth behind political cover-ups and the role of the media in perpetuating deception. Be prepared to have your beliefs challenged and your perspective forever altered.
Powerful Social Studies for Elementary Students - Thryft
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Jere Brophy, Janet Alleman  | Wadsworth Publishing

Powerful Social Studies for Elementary Students

$17.56 $12.29 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$17.56 $12.29 30% off

81% off est. retail
"Powerful Social Studies for Elementary Students" is a great resource for both pre-service and in-service teachers who want to improve their skills in teaching history, geography, and social sciences. The authors provide practical guidance on how to select content, plan instruction and incorporate developmentally appropriate content and methods to help students become active civic members. What sets this book apart is the authors' approach to organizing the curriculum, which retains the most important topics and teaches them in more coherent and powerful ways. Readers may find this book helpful for gaining practical strategies on how to teach social studies content that promotes positive student outcomes.
Stayin' Alive : The 1970s and the Last Days of the Working Class - Thryft
Sold out
Jefferson R. Cowie | The New Press

Stayin' Alive : The 1970s and the Last Days of the Working Class

$11.83 $8.28 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$11.83 $8.28 30% off

81% off est. retail
This book provides an in-depth understanding of the 1970s cultural and political history, highlighting how it shaped modern times. It explores the working class experience and how it affected political and economic upheavals. The book is a great read for history buffs as well as those interested in social justice issues. The author's ability to connect politics to culture through music, film, and TV lore makes the book engaging and edgy. Overall, a thought-provoking and insightful read.
Places Where Teachers Are Taught - Thryft
Sold out
John I. Goodlad, Roger Soder, Kenneth A. Sirotnik  | Jossey-bass

Places Where Teachers Are Taught

$17.96 $12.57 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$17.96 $12.57 30% off

85% off est. retail
This book provides a comprehensive historical perspective on teacher education in the United States, using case histories of diverse education programs to reveal the origins of attitudes and practices that shape teacher education today. It's ideal for those interested in the history and evolution of American education.
The Uprooted - Thryft
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Oscar Handlin | Little, Brown And Company

The Uprooted

$10.30 $7.21 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.58

$10.30 $7.21 30% off

79% off est. retail
The Uprooted could be a good read for those interested in understanding not only the historical facts of immigration but also the human experiences of those who lived it. Oscar Handlin effectively portrays the hopes, yearnings, and profound influence of immigrants on the New World. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to explore and appreciate the rich cultural history of America.
Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America - Thryft
Sold out
David Hackett Fischer | Oxford University Press

Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America

$13.10 $7.86 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$13.10 $7.86 40% off

97% off est. retail
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.

Understanding Social Dynamics

At Thryft, our Sociology section serves as a gateway to understanding complex social structures and behaviours. We offer a wide range of titles covering key sociological theories, modern societal challenges, by influential thinkers. Sociology engages with real world issues, functioning as a lens to view personal and collective social identities. Whether you’re pursuing personal growth or specific academic interests, our collection has something for everyone. Connect with these enlightening works today.