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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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Clean: The New Science of Skin
James Hamblin | Riverhead Books

Clean: The New Science of Skin

RM52.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.89

RM52.00 MYR

If you're curious about the skin's complex ecosystem and the myths surrounding our hygiene rituals, "Clean" by James Hamblin is a must-read. Hamblin, a doctor and journalist, dives into the world of skin microbes with a narrative that's as educational as it is entertaining. His exploration may change the way you approach your daily skin care routine, offering insights into a more natural understanding of what being clean means. You'll likely appreciate the savvy blend of science and personal experiment, which could shift your health and wellness perspective.
The Premonition: A Pandemic Story
Michael Lewis | Allen Lane

The Premonition: A Pandemic Story

RM89.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.33

RM89.00 MYR

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.
The Murder Room: The Heirs of Sherlock Holmes Gather to Solve the World's Most Perplexing Cold Cases
Michael Capuzzo | Gotham

The Murder Room: The Heirs of Sherlock Holmes Gather to Solve the World's Most Perplexing Cold Cases

RM148.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.63

RM148.00 MYR

If you're intrigued by the interplay of mystery and gourmet cuisine, "The Murder Room" offers a compelling blend. The Vidocq Society, with its top-notch forensic experts, effectively feels like a modern-day roundtable of Sherlock Holmeses. Imagine getting a front-row seat to cold case breakthroughs while breaking bread—an intellectual and gastronomic adventure for true crime aficionados.
Breath From Salt: A Deadly Genetic Disease, a New Era in Science, and the Patients and Families Who Changed Medicine Forever
Bijal P. Trivedi | Benbella Books

Breath From Salt: A Deadly Genetic Disease, a New Era in Science, and the Patients and Families Who Changed Medicine Forever

RM41.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.44

RM41.00 MYR

If you're moved by tales of resilience and medical breakthroughs, "Breath from Salt" will captivate you. It's not just the story of a devastating genetic disease but a narrative of how relentless determination by patients, families, and scientists reshaped the future of medicine. Reading it, you'll feel the weight of the struggle and the exhilaration of progress in genetic therapies that once seemed like distant dreams.
Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine
Nicola Twilley, Geoff Manaugh  | Picador

Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

58% 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
Andy Slavitt | St. Martin's Press

Preventable: The Inside Story of How Leadership Failures, Politics, and Selfishness Doomed the U.S. Coronavirus Response

RM48.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 31% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

RM48.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 31% off

"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 Sawbones Book: The Hilarious, Horrifying Road to Modern Medicine: Revised and Updated for 2020
Teylor Smirl, Justin McElroy, Sydnee McElroy  | Weldon Owen

The Sawbones Book: The Hilarious, Horrifying Road to Modern Medicine: Revised and Updated for 2020

RM45.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.31

RM45.00 MYR

44% off est. retail
If you love learning through equal parts laughter and disbelief, this is a great pick. It turns bizarre medical history into something wildly entertaining, while still giving you real perspective on how modern medicine evolved. You come away grossed out, smarter, and much better at spotting nonsense health advice.
The Violinist's Thumb and Other Lost Tales of Love, War, and Genius, as Written by Our Genetic Code
Sam Kean | Little, Brown And Company

The Violinist's Thumb and Other Lost Tales of Love, War, and Genius, as Written by Our Genetic Code

RM37.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.01

RM37.00 MYR

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.
Elephants on Acid and Other Bizarre Experiments
Alex Boese | Boxtree

Elephants on Acid and Other Bizarre Experiments

RM63.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 76% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

RM63.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 76% off

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 COVID-19 Chronicles: Singapore's Journey from Pandemia to Peri-Pandemic Limbo - Thryft
National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine | World Scientific Publishing

The COVID-19 Chronicles: Singapore's Journey from Pandemia to Peri-Pandemic Limbo

RM30.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 50% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

RM30.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 50% off

91% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for someone who wants to understand Singapore's response to the COVID-19 pandemic in a unique and engaging way. Through bite-sized illustrated stories, the book provides simple explanations of complex public health issues, while also offering a humorous perspective on life during the pandemic. It captures the essence of Singapore's journey from crisis to confusion, and ultimately to a state of uncertainty in the peri-pandemic limbo. It is both informative and entertaining, making it an enjoyable read for anyone interested in the global response to COVID-19.
52 Things to Do While You Poo
Hugh Jassburn | Sourcebooks

52 Things to Do While You Poo

RM37.00 MYR RM30.00 MYR 19% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

RM37.00 MYR RM30.00 MYR 19% off

58% off est. retail
Ever been stuck on the loo without entertainment? "52 Things to Do While You Poo" comes to the rescue with a witty mix of games, history, and scientific facts all about the universal pastime. This absorbing read turns idle time into a chance to chuckle and learn, making it the perfect sidekick for bathroom breaks. Whether as a gag gift or your own personal amusement, it'll make you look forward to those quiet moments in the restroom.
Good Germs, Bad Germs
Jessica Snyder Sachs | Hill And Wang

Good Germs, Bad Germs

RM37.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.06

RM37.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 30% off

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.
DNA: The Secret of Life
James D. Watson, Andrew Berry  | Knopf

DNA: The Secret of Life

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

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.
The Genome War: How Craig Venter Tried to Capture the Code of Life and Save the World
James Shreeve | Knopf

The Genome War: How Craig Venter Tried to Capture the Code of Life and Save the World

RM41.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.84

RM41.00 MYR

"The Genome War" isn't just a scientific chronicle; it's a gripping story of ambition, rivalry, and the pursuit of knowledge. If you're fascinated by the human drama behind monumental scientific achievements, this book vividly casts the high stakes and intense competition of a modern scientific endeavor. You'll be engrossed by the larger-than-life characters and their quest to decode our very essence.
Flu Pandemic - Thryft

Flu Pandemic

RM30.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 50% off

RM30.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 50% off

Flu Pandemic is a comprehensive account of the 1918 flu pandemic, exploring the shocking details of this catastrophic event. It offers a historical look into how the 1918 outbreak unfolded, tracing its spread across the globe, and detailing the impact that it had on society. This book is perfect for those who are interested in the history of pandemics and health crises, and it offers a sobering reminder of the importance of preparation and international cooperation in these types of situations.
Webster's New World Encyclopedia
Unknown | John Wiley & Sons Inc

Webster's New World Encyclopedia

RM104.00 MYR RM86.00 MYR 17% off

Goodreads rating: 2.5

RM104.00 MYR RM86.00 MYR 17% off

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.
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

RM52.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 71% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

RM52.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 71% off

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.
Immaculate Contraception: The Extraordinary Story of Birth Control from the First Fumblings to the Present Day
Emma Dickens | Robson Book Ltd

Immaculate Contraception: The Extraordinary Story of Birth Control from the First Fumblings to the Present Day

RM37.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

RM37.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 30% off

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.
Culturing Life: How Cells Became Technologies
Hannah Landecker | Harvard University Press

Culturing Life: How Cells Became Technologies

RM37.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

RM37.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 30% off

"Culturing Life" is likely to resonate with you if you're curious about the ethical and philosophical implications of modern biotechnology. Hannah Landecker doesn't just lay out facts but takes you on a reflective journey exploring the affects of laboratory-grown cells on our very concept of life. This book could reframe your thoughts on individuality, immortality, and what it means to be biological in an age where the line between organic and artificial blurs.
Natural Obsessions - Thryft
Natalie Angier, Lewis Thomas  | Mariner Books

Natural Obsessions

RM26.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 42% off

Goodreads rating: 4.3

RM26.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 42% off

86% off est. retail
Natural Obsessions takes readers on an insightful journey into the advanced world of molecular biology, exploring the human cell, and the science behind cancers. This book is a fascinating read, portraying some of the best young scientists in the world, their challenges and triumphs in scientific research. Readers who are interested in the intricate details that make up life, and what drives the process of scientific inquiry, will find this book an incredible resource.
Understanding the Human Machine: A Primer for Bioengineering
Max E. Valentinuzzi | World Scientific Publishing Company

Understanding the Human Machine: A Primer for Bioengineering

RM137.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.14

RM137.00 MYR

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.
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

RM56.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 41% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

RM56.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 41% off

62% 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.
Sars War: Combating the Disease
E E Ooi, P.C. Leung  | World Scientific Publishing Company

Sars War: Combating the Disease

RM70.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.0

RM70.00 MYR

If you're curious about how the world tackles emerging diseases, "Sars War: Combating The Disease" could be a captivating read for you. It dives into the nitty-gritty of the SARS epidemic, offers a thorough look at its impact on society, and it might just give you a better appreciation for the complexities of global health crises.
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

RM52.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 71% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

RM52.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 71% off

"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.
Doctors : The Biography of Medicine - Thryft
Sherwin B. Nuland | Vintage

Doctors : The Biography of Medicine

RM30.00 MYR RM19.00 MYR 37% off

Goodreads rating: 4.06

RM30.00 MYR RM19.00 MYR 37% off

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.
Pox : Genius, Madness, And The Mysteries Of Syphilis - Thryft
Deborah Hayden | Basic Books

Pox : Genius, Madness, And The Mysteries Of Syphilis

RM47.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.75

RM47.00 MYR

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.
The Essentials of Chinese Massotherapy
Peng Jian, Jin Yicheng  | New Phoenix Intl Llc

The Essentials of Chinese Massotherapy

RM56.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 0.0

RM56.00 MYR

If you're intrigued by traditional healing arts or you're a practitioner looking to broaden your understanding of Eastern techniques, "The Essentials of Chinese Massotherapy" is an enlightening resource. This book stands out for its comprehensive examination of massage therapy from a Chinese perspective, offering a blend of historical context, theoretical foundations, and practical applications that could enhance both your knowledge and practice.
Edison & The Electric Chair: A Story of Light and Death - Thryft
Mark Essig | Walker Books

Edison & The Electric Chair: A Story of Light and Death

RM43.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 65% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

RM43.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 65% off

80% off est. retail
Exploring the dichotomy of innovation and ethics, this book delves into a tale of how one of history's greatest inventors, Thomas Edison, became entwined with the development of the electric chair. Beyond the intriguing story of invention, it sheds light on the social, and political intricacies of the time, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the impacts of technology on society and the moral dilemmas innovators often face.
Awakenings
Oliver Sacks | Picador

Awakenings

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

"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.
Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science
Sold out
Kent Heckenlively, Judy A. Mikovits, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  | Skyhorse

Plague of Corruption: Restoring Faith in the Promise of Science

RM33.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.25

RM33.00 MYR

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
Sold out
Suzanne O'Sullivan | Picador

The Sleeping Beauties: And Other Stories of Mystery Illness

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

59% 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.
Gathering Medicines: Nation and Knowledge in China’s Mountain South - Thryft
Sold out
Lili Lai, Judith Farquhar  | University Of Chicago Press

Gathering Medicines: Nation and Knowledge in China’s Mountain South

RM64.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.33

RM64.00 MYR

64% off est. retail
In the early 2000s, the central government of China encouraged all of the nation’s registered minorities to “salvage, sort, synthesize, and elevate” folk medical knowledges in an effort to create local health care systems comparable to the nationally supported institutions of traditional Chinese medicine. Gathering Medicines bears witness to this remarkable moment of knowledge development while sympathetically introducing the myriad therapeutic traditions of southern China.Over a period of six years, Judith Farquhar and Lili Lai worked with seven minority nationality groups in China’s southern mountains, observing how medicines were gathered and local healing systems codified. Gathering Medicines shares their intimate view of how people understand ethnicity, locality, the body, and nature. This ethnography of knowledge diversities in multiethnic China is a testament to the rural wisdom of mountain healers, one that theorizes, from the ground up, the dynamic encounters between formal statist knowledge and the popular authority of the wild.
Ashes to Ashes: America's Hundred-Year Cigarette War, the Public Health, and the Unabashed Triumph of Philip Morris
Sold out
Richard Kluger | Vintage

Ashes to Ashes: America's Hundred-Year Cigarette War, the Public Health, and the Unabashed Triumph of Philip Morris

RM31.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.92

RM31.00 MYR

85% off est. retail
This book offers a fascinating and eye-opening journey through the complex and contradicting world of cigarettes. Through a meticulous exploration of the intertwining strands of finance, politics, and public health, Kluger presents the rise of the tobacco industry and the ensuing debates on regulation. The most striking feature of this book is its ability to humanize the key players involved, shedding light on the intricate web of motivations and interests. With its rich detail and dispassionate analysis, "Ashes To Ashes" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the profound impact of cigarettes on society.
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down - Thryft
Sold out
Anne Fadiman | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

RM33.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 33% off

71% 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.
Medicine and the Reign of Technology - Thryft
Sold out
Stanley Joel Reiser | Cambridge University Press

Medicine and the Reign of Technology

RM43.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.92

RM43.00 MYR

73% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for those interested in the intersection of medicine and technology. It provides a historical account of how technology has transformed the diagnosis and treatment of illness over the past 300 years. The author draws on primary sources to provide a detailed and comprehensive analysis of the subject matter. Users would appreciate the in-depth coverage and the unique perspective on the topic.

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.