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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The Premonition: A Pandemic Story
Michael Lewis | Allen Lane

The Premonition: A Pandemic Story

RM87.00 MYR

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Goodreads rating: 4.33

RM87.00 MYR

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Imagine diving into the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic through the eyes of those who saw it coming. "The Premonition" is a thrilling account by Michael Lewis, who masterfully narrates the efforts of unconventional experts racing against time. Their foresight and relentless pursuit to understand and contain the virus are both educational and chillingly engaging. This isn't just about a virus; it's about human tenacity in the face of bureaucracy and the unknown. If you're drawn to real-world heroism amidst crisis, this book will resonate deeply with you.
Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine
Nicola Twilley, Geoff Manaugh  | Picador

Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine

Regular price RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.94

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57% off est. retail
"Until Proven Safe" could really resonate with you if you're interested in public health and its evolution. The book is a timely exploration, especially given recent global events, and it thoughtfully examines the impact of quarantine throughout history. This isn't just a retrospective account; it also prompts consideration of our future preparedness in the face of new diseases, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the intersections of history, science, and policy.
Preventable: The Inside Story of How Leadership Failures, Politics, and Selfishness Doomed the U.S. Coronavirus Response

Regular price RM47.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 30% off

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"Preventable" gives a gripping, insider's perspective on a national tragedy that many of us have lived through. If you’re looking to understand not only the specific missteps of the recent pandemic response but also the underlying flaws in America's health and political systems that allowed for such a catastrophe, Andy Slavitt’s account is a crucial read. It resonates with a call for accountability and the urgency to learn from these painful lessons.
The Indian Spa: Ayurveda Yoga Wellness Beauty

RM33.00 MYR

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If you're intrigued by the idea of holistic wellness and have an affinity for the immersive, rich traditions of India, "The Indian Spa" could be the perfect getaway wrapped in the pages of a book. Kim Inglis leads you on a serene journey through India's healing systems, enveloping you in the country's culture of natural medicine and self-care. It's not just text on a page but an invitation to explore elegant spas and spiritual retreats, beckoning you to experience tranquility and rejuvenation that have withstood the test of time.
Elephants on Acid and Other Bizarre Experiments
Alex Boese | Boxtree

Elephants on Acid and Other Bizarre Experiments

Regular price RM61.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 75% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.76

Regular price RM61.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 75% off

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If you're looking to be simultaneously amused and astonished, "Elephants on Acid" is your go-to. The book dives into some of the most outlandish experiments ever conducted in the name of science. Perfect for satiating curious minds and those with an appetite for the oddities in scientific pursuits.
The Violinist's Thumb and Other Lost Tales of Love, War, and Genius, as Written by Our Genetic Code

RM36.00 MYR

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If you have ever been captivated by the quirks and idiosyncrasies that make us uniquely human, "The Violinist's Thumb" is a treasure trove that's both enlightening and wildly entertaining. Sam Kean takes you on a journey through our genetic code, revealing quirks and stories that are as fascinating as they are informative. It's like uncovering the secret stories of human history encoded in our DNA, all told with a narrative flair that makes complex science feel like an adventure.
Pain Killer: An Empire of Deceit and the Origins of America's Opioid Epidemic
Barry Meier | Sceptre

Pain Killer: An Empire of Deceit and the Origins of America's Opioid Epidemic

Regular price RM43.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 23% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.02

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"Pain Killer" is a deep dive into one of the most devastating health crises of our time. Barry Meier's investigative prowess brings to light the intricate web of deceit spun by Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, making this book an essential read. It offers a gripping narrative that connects with anyone concerned about corporate greed and public health, unveiling the grim truth behind a so-called miracle drug's journey from pharmacy shelves to the streets.
DNA: The Secret of Life
James D. Watson, Andrew Berry  | Knopf

DNA: The Secret of Life

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Goodreads rating: 4.12

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You seem intrigued by the building blocks of life itself. "DNA: The Secret of Life" traces the thrilling journey of genetic discovery from its foundational double helix to the modern marvels of genetic engineering. If you're seeking a deeper understanding of how we're made and what the future may hold, this book will offer you a front-row seat to science's most groundbreaking narrative.
Good Germs, Bad Germs
Jessica Snyder Sachs | Hill And Wang

Good Germs, Bad Germs

Regular price RM36.00 MYR RM25.00 MYR 31% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.06

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If you're intrigued by the delicate dance between our bodies and their microscopic companions, "Good Germs, Bad Germs" will illuminate the nuanced relationship that modern medicine has with nature. It's a revelation that we're surrounded by beneficial bacteria, and Jessica Snyder Sachs guides us through our past mistakes and future potential in harnessing the power of these tiny organisms for health. This book is particularly timely given growing concerns about antibiotic resistance, offering not only a critique but a vision for a smarter, symbiotic approach to using science for better health outcomes.
Quinine: Malaria and the Quest for a Cure That Changed the World
Fiammetta Rocco | Perenial

Quinine: Malaria and the Quest for a Cure That Changed the World

Regular price RM51.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 71% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.83

Regular price RM51.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 71% off

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83% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the intersection of history, medicine, and global politics, "Quinine" by Fiammetta Rocco is a compelling read. The story of quinine is not just about a drug, but about the geopolitical and scientific journeys that were shaped by the quest for a malaria cure. It entwines adventure, greed, colonialism, and the profound impact on warfare and exploration. This book takes you beyond medicine into the broader effects on human endeavors and the world stage.
Webster's New World Encyclopedia
Unknown | John Wiley & Sons Inc

Webster's New World Encyclopedia

Regular price RM101.00 MYR RM84.00 MYR 17% off

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Goodreads rating: 2.5

Regular price RM101.00 MYR RM84.00 MYR 17% off

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77% off est. retail
If you're ever curious or in need of a trustworthy source, the Webster's New World Encyclopedia could be your go-to companion. Its depth of information, covering a vast array of topics, and user-friendly organization make it an invaluable asset for students, professionals, or any knowledge-seeker wanting to delve into various subjects with reliable content and visual aids.
Awakenings
Oliver Sacks | Picador

Awakenings

Regular price RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.09

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"Awakenings" by Oliver Sacks might just redefine your understanding of the human mind and medical science. It blends the almost miraculous stories of patients emerging from decades-long catatonia with deeply philosophical insights, offering both a heartfelt journey and a profound cerebral experience. If you're fascinated by the resilience of the human spirit and the wonders of neurological medicine, this book could leave you with a lasting impression of awe and a greater appreciation for the delicate balance of life.
Doctors : The Biography of Medicine - Thryft
Sherwin B. Nuland | Vintage

Doctors : The Biography of Medicine

Regular price RM29.00 MYR RM18.00 MYR 38% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.06

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Doctors is a great read for those interested in understanding how medicine has advanced through the centuries. Sherwin B. Nuland offers fascinating life portraits of some of the greatest medical innovators and pioneers, including Hippocrates and Andreas Vesalius. What makes this book unique is that it shows how these medical professionals were products of their own times and places, and how their work has influenced modern medicine. If you're interested in medical history or just curious about the development of medicine, this book is a must-read.
Germs: America's Secret War against Biological Weapons - Thryft
Stephen Engelberg, Judith Miller, William J. Broad  | Simon & Schuster

Germs: America's Secret War against Biological Weapons

Regular price RM51.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 71% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.63

Regular price RM51.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 71% off

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"Germs" is a gripping investigative book that uncovers the truth about biological weapons. It sheds light on the government's efforts to protect against possible bio-terrorism, while also detailing the history and proliferation of dangerous germs, making it a must-read for those concerned about national security and the future of warfare.
Bad Medicine: Doctors Doing Harm Since Hippocrates
David Wootton | Oxford University Press

Bad Medicine: Doctors Doing Harm Since Hippocrates

Regular price RM36.00 MYR RM25.00 MYR 31% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.68

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If you're intrigued by healthcare's complex history, David Wootton's "Bad Medicine" could change the way you view medical practices. Wootton doesn't just chronicle the progression of medical knowledge; he delves into the resistance and dogma that hindered it. Reading this could spark a fresh appreciation for modern medicine, alongside a critical understanding of its fallible journey.
Understanding the Human Machine: A Primer for Bioengineering

RM134.00 MYR

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If you're delving into the realm of biomedical engineering, especially at the undergrad level, this book strikes a balance between educational and engaging. Max E. Valentinuzzi presents complex concepts with a touch of humor, ensuring the material is digestible and memorable. The interactive approach with exercises and historical context isn't just about rote learning; it's about truly understanding the "human machine" you'll be working with. For someone who appreciates learning by doing, this book is like a knowledgeable friend who doesn't mind cracking jokes while helping you study.
Immaculate Contraception: The Extraordinary Story of Birth Control from the First Fumblings to the Present Day

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If you're fascinated by how humans have evolved not just socially but in their most intimate choices, "Immaculate Contraception" offers a deep dive into the history of birth control. It's eye-opening to see how our ancestors tackled family planning. Emma Dickens' thorough research could give you a new perspective on the liberties and innovations we often take for granted today.
Pox : Genius, Madness, And The Mysteries Of Syphilis - Thryft

RM46.00 MYR

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Was Beethoven experiencing syphilitic euphoria when he composed "Ode to Joy"? Did van Gogh paint "Crows Over the Wheatfield" in a fit of diseased madness right before he shot himself? Was syphilis a stowaway on Columbus's return voyage to Europe? The answers to these provocative questions are likely "yes," claims Deborah Hayden in this riveting investigation of the effects of the "Pox" on the lives and works of world figures from the fifteenth through the twentieth centuries. Writing with remarkable insight and narrative flair, Hayden argues that biographers and historians have vastly underestimated the influence of what Thomas Mann called "this exhilarating yet wasting disease." Shrouded in secrecy, syphilis was accompanied by wild euphoria and suicidal depression, megalomania and paranoia, profoundly affecting sufferers' worldview, their sexual behavior and personality, and, of course, their art. Deeply informed and courageously argued, Pox has already been heralded as a major contribution to our understanding of genius, madness, and creativity.
One in Three: A Son's Journey Into the History and Science of Cancer
Adam Wishart | Grove Press

One in Three: A Son's Journey Into the History and Science of Cancer

Regular price RM54.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 39% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.86

Regular price RM54.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 39% off

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61% off est. retail
If cancer has touched your life, Wishart's blend of personal storytelling and medical history in "One in Three" may resonate with you deeply. The book offers an intimate look at the progress science has made in understanding and treating this complex disease. It's a hopeful read that could change your perspective on cancer, presenting it as something that, while daunting, can be lived with rather than an automatic death sentence.
Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science
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RM33.00 MYR

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72% off est. retail
If you're the kind of reader who's drawn to stories about underdogs challenging the establishment, "Plague of Corruption" could be the next book you can't put down. Dr. Judy Mikovits's journey combines the intrigue of scientific discovery with the passion of someone fighting to reveal hard truths. It'll appeal to your sense of justice and may change the way you view science's role in society.
The Sleeping Beauties: And Other Stories of Mystery Illness - Thryft
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Suzanne O'Sullivan | Picador

The Sleeping Beauties: And Other Stories of Mystery Illness

Regular price RM32.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 31% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

Regular price RM32.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 31% off

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58% off est. retail
"The Sleeping Beauties" isn't just a medical book; it's a deep dive into the human psyche and its responses to cultural and environmental stressors. Dr. O'Sullivan's compassionate exploration of these bewildering illnesses will not only satisfy your curiosity but also challenge how you think about the intersection of health, culture, and the power of the mind. Perfect for anyone fascinated by the enigmas of the human body and the ways our environments shape us.
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down - Thryft
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Anne Fadiman | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down

Regular price RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.19

Regular price RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

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70% off est. retail
"The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" is a profound exploration into the clash between two worlds - the Hmong culture's deeply rooted traditions and the stark rationality of Western medicine. Understanding this book could open your eyes to the complexities of cultural assimilation and the often overlooked nuances in healthcare. It's a must-read if you're interested in the ways in which cultural differences impact lives in very real, tangible ways.

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.