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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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The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination
Daniel J. Boorstin | Vintage Books

The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination

RM44.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.18

RM44.00 MYR

72% off est. retail
This is a great read if you love big, idea-rich nonfiction that makes art feel alive across centuries. Boorstin connects giants like Homer, Picasso, and Woolf into one flowing story, so you get both vivid lives and the larger evolution of creativity itself. It feels like a guided tour through the minds that shaped culture, without losing the wonder of how art emerges from its time.
The Soundtrack of My Life
Anthony DeCurtis, Clive Davis  | Simon & Schuster

The Soundtrack of My Life

RM44.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.74

RM44.00 MYR

54% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the thought of delving into the heart of the music industry, Clive Davis's 'The Soundtrack Of My Life' might just be your backstage pass. This book is a must-read because it's not just about the hits and the stars; it's a personal narrative that weaves through the tapestry of modern music, as told by a man who's been a key player in shaping its course. For anyone fascinated by the stories behind the songs and the business of making musical legends, this memoir offers an intimate glimpse into a world few get to see.
The Bob Dylan Scrapbook, 1956-1966
Bob Dylan

The Bob Dylan Scrapbook, 1956-1966

RM37.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 0.0

RM37.00 MYR

If you're a Dylan aficionado or a fan of rock history, "The Bob Dylan Scrapbook, 1956-1966" is a treasure trove of memorabilia that takes you back to the times when Dylan was redefining music. It's an intimate glimpse into the artist's journey, amplified by rare photographs and reproductions of handwritten lyrics. You'll feel closer to the legend himself with every page.
Ac/Dc: Maximum Rock & Roll - The Ultimate Story of the World's Greatest Rock-and-Roll Band
Arnaud Durieux, Murray Engleheart  | It Books

Ac/Dc: Maximum Rock & Roll - The Ultimate Story of the World's Greatest Rock-and-Roll Band

RM37.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 41% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

RM37.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 41% off

78% off est. retail
If you've ever been head-banging to "Back in Black" or felt the visceral pull of "Thunderstruck," this AC/DC biography is your backstage pass to the raucous world of a legendary band. It's a vivid tale that doesn't shy away from the grit and sweat that fueled their rise to rock immortality. This book will make you feel like you're part of the AC/DC family, giving you an all-access, unfiltered dive into their tumultuous and electrifying journey.
Redemption Song: The Definitive Biography of Joe Strummer
Chris Salewicz | Harpercollins Entertainment

Redemption Song: The Definitive Biography of Joe Strummer

RM44.00 MYR RM18.00 MYR 59% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

RM44.00 MYR RM18.00 MYR 59% off

79% off est. retail
For fans of music history and punk culture, "Redemption Song" offers an insider's view into the life of Joe Strummer, the heart of The Clash. Imagine delving deep into the ethos of punk, guided by a friend who knew Strummer for over 25 years—this is the kind of authenticity and depth that makes the book stand out as a definitive biography. It's a tribute that goes beyond his music, highlighting the man who inspired a legion of rebels and dreamers.
Dolly : My Life and Other Unfinished Business - Thryft
Dolly Parton | Harpercollins

Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business

RM44.00 MYR RM29.00 MYR 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

RM44.00 MYR RM29.00 MYR 34% off

76% off est. retail
If you've ever been intrigued by the sparkle and wit of Dolly Parton, her autobiography "My Life and Other Unfinished Business" is as genuine as it gets. You'll find yourself wrapped in her honesty and humor, as she unveils the journey from her humble beginnings to becoming a country music icon. It’s a read that promises to be as endearing and memorable as Dolly herself, offering a down-to-earth perspective that might resonate with your own life's unfinished business.
Sir Arthur Bliss - The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
John Sugden | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Sir Arthur Bliss - The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

RM58.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.0

RM58.00 MYR

If you're intrigued by the fusion of history and music, this biography of Sir Arthur Bliss offers a rich portrait not just of the man, but of the era that shaped him. As much as it's about personal letters and recollections, it's also about the social canvas of the time, making it a compelling read for anyone who appreciates a deep dive into a composer's world within the context of their historical backdrop.
Composer's World: Mozart
Wendy Thompson | Faber Music

Composer's World: Mozart

RM44.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

RM44.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 25% off

If you're curious about the man behind classics like "Eine kleine Nachtmusik," then "Composer's World: Mozart" will surely delight you. It's more than just a biography; it offers a visually engaging gateway to understand how Mozart's era shaped his music. Perfect for young readers and adults alike, this book intertwines history and melody on a rich, illustrative canvas.
Antonio Stradivari: His Life and Work
Arthur Frederick Hill, William Henry Hill, Alfred Ebsworth Hill  | Dover Publications

Antonio Stradivari: His Life and Work

RM51.00 MYR RM37.00 MYR 27% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

RM51.00 MYR RM37.00 MYR 27% off

42% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of music, history, and craftsmanship, "Antonio Stradivari" is a harmonious blend that hits all the right notes. It's a fascinating dive into the meticulous skills that positioned Stradivari's violins as unparalleled masterpieces. Reading it, you'll feel a step closer to understanding the enduring magic of these celebrated instruments.
Noel And Cole - The Sophisticates - Thryft
Stephen Citron | Oxford University Press

Noel And Cole - The Sophisticates

RM29.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 10% off

Goodreads rating: 3.48

RM29.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 10% off

88% off est. retail
Born an ocean apart--one in Peru, Indiana, to great wealth, the other in Teddington, England, to an itinerant piano salesman--Cole Porter and Noel Coward have come to represent the ultimate in sophistication and urbanity. "You Do Something to Me," Gay Divorce , "I Get a Kick Out of You," "JustOne of Those Things," Anything Goes , "Begin the Beguine," Private Lives , "Night and Day," Blithe Spirit , "Let's Do It," Hay Fever , "It's De-Lovely"--the list of witty and irreverent songs and plays goes on and on. It is a body of work that was tremendously exciting when it first appeared and remainsremarkably popular today.Based on access to previously unpublished manuscripts, lyrics, scores and letters, plus dozens of interviews, Noel and Cole presents a fresh and often surprising portrait of these two geniuses and their work, packed with numerous photographs, some of which have never been published before.Stephen Citron interweaves the biographical strands with consummate skill, providing insight into both men's private lives--including a frank discussion of their homosexuality--while illuminating their musical achievements. Indeed Citron, a composer and lyricist himself, excels at musical analysis,and throughout the volume he sheds considerable light on Porter's and Coward's art. He tells us, for instance, that in composing the melody of "Night and Day," Cole Porter restricted himself to mid-range notes, with hardly any vocal leaps that would betray a breathless dancer, especially as thedancer was Fred Astaire, who had never studied singing seriously, and was just launching his solo career. (Citron also tells us that Astaire wanted "Night and Day" dropped from the show, because he feared that with its long-held notes, especially on the word "day," his voice would crack.) Citronalso shows how fast a worker Noel Coward could Coward wrote Hay Fever in three days, for instance, and his finest play, Private Lives , took him four days (while he was laid low with a bout of influenza in Shanghai).Packed with information, including a quintuple chronology and a fifty-page section devoted to the analysis of selected songs, Noel and Cole will be an essential reference as well as a fascinating dual biography of two men who brought style and dazzle to the art of popular entertainment.
Playing for Time
Arthur Miller, Fania Fénelon, Marcelle Routier  | Nick Hern Books

Playing for Time

RM40.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 63% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

RM40.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 63% off

77% off est. retail
"Playing for Time" is a poignant choice for anyone interested in the human spirit's resilience under the most harrowing conditions. Arthur Miller's adaptation of Fania Fénelon's experiences offers an intimate look at how the power of art can prove to be a lifeline amidst the darkest atrocities. It's a testament to hope and solidarity in a place designed to strip away all humanity. A necessary, if heart-wrenching, read.
Tribute to Her Majesty
Don; Lemoine, Serge Coolican | Windward/scott Publishing

Tribute to Her Majesty

RM33.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 55% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

RM33.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 55% off

If you're someone who admires the British Monarchy, particularly the late Queen Elizabeth II, 'Tribute To Her Majesty' offers a rich, pictorial journey through her life. It's a fitting homage that encapsulates her legacy, encapsulated in a time capsule from 1986. This book offers a nostalgic and respectful exploration of her early years as Queen, her impact, and how she was perceived during her reign.
The New Rolling Stone Album Guide
Christian Hoard, Rolling Stone Magazine, Nathan Brackett  | Fireside

The New Rolling Stone Album Guide

RM66.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 4.09

RM66.00 MYR

58% off est. retail
If you're someone who loves rock music and wants to delve deeper into the genre, "The New Rolling Stone Album Guide" could be an invaluable resource. This guide has been meticulously curated to not only rate albums but also to provide you with rich commentary and context, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of rock music's most celebrated works.
Duende: A Journey in Search of Flamenco
Jason Webster | Black Swan

Duende: A Journey in Search of Flamenco

RM37.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

RM37.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 30% off

If you're feeling stuck in a routine, "Duende" might just be the escape you need. Jason Webster takes you on a riveting journey through Spain, rich with the raw passion and jeopardy of flamenco. It's more than a travel memoir; it's a story of self-discovery, love, and the pursuit of ecstasy that could spark a fire in your own life.
Pink Floyd: The Visual Documentary
Andy Mabbett, Barry Miles  | Omnibus Press

Pink Floyd: The Visual Documentary

RM37.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 41% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

RM37.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 41% off

If you're a Pink Floyd fan or a connoisseur of rock history, this visual documentary will strike the right chord. You'll delve into not just the band's tumultuous dynamics and prolific performances, but you'll also unearth rare photos and artifacts that illuminate their journey. This book promises to enhance your appreciation for the band's artistry, from Syd Barrett's early contributions to the post-Waters era.
Breakout: Profiles in African Rhythm
Gary Stewart | University Of Chicago Press

Breakout: Profiles in African Rhythm

RM51.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 35% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

RM51.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 35% off

76% off est. retail
If you're interested in the crossroads of culture, history, and music, "Breakout" is an insightful pick. It offers a window into the lives of African musicians navigating the complexities of international success while preserving their artistic authenticity. Their personal stories interweave with the socio-political landscape of Africa, shedding light on broader themes of cultural identity and the global music scene.
Revolution: The Making of the Beatles' White Album
David Quantick | Unanimous

Revolution: The Making of the Beatles' White Album

RM69.00 MYR RM44.00 MYR 36% off

Goodreads rating: 3.57

RM69.00 MYR RM44.00 MYR 36% off

If you're intrigued by the labyrinth of The Beatles' genius during their most experimental phase, "Revolution: The Making of The Beatles' White Album" is a deep dive you shouldn't miss. David Quantick's intricate exploration into the iconic album's creation peels back layer after layer of the music, the mayhem, and the magic that only the Fab Four could conjure in the recording studio. It's a read that will enrich your appreciation of their craft and the unforgettable White Album.
Leonard Bernstein - The Political Life Of An American Musician - Thryft
Barry Seldes | University Of California Press

Leonard Bernstein - The Political Life Of An American Musician

RM44.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 41% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

RM44.00 MYR RM26.00 MYR 41% off

86% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersections of art and politics, Barry Seldes's biography of Leonard Bernstein presents a compelling portrait that goes beyond his musical achievements. Seldes peels back the layers of Bernstein's public persona to reveal how his compositions and career were inextricably linked with his social and political values. It's an enlightening read that might deepen your appreciation for the man's work and his commitment to social change through music.
World's Best Jazz Club: The Story Of Bennets Lane - Thryft
David James | Major Street Publishing

World's Best Jazz Club: The Story Of Bennets Lane

RM22.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 32% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

RM22.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 32% off

This book would be a good read for anyone who wants to dive deep into the captivating world of Australian jazz. Through over 50 insightful interviews, David James brings the history of Bennetts Lane, one of the world's best jazz clubs, to life. As a journalist and jazz musician himself, James takes you on a melodic journey that explores the characters, musical styles, and changing aesthetics of Australian jazz. Prepare to be enchanted by the passion and talent that resonates throughout this iconic club's story.
Pops: A Life of Louis Armstrong
Terry Teachout | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Pops: A Life of Louis Armstrong

RM91.00 MYR RM40.00 MYR 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

RM91.00 MYR RM40.00 MYR 56% off

73% off est. retail
"Pops" offers a deep dive into the intriguing world of Louis Armstrong. It's beautifully detailed and serves as an intimate portrayal that goes beyond his music, giving insight into the life of a man who shaped an era. If you're a fan of jazz or history, this book is like hitting a rich seam of Armstrong's personal and professional world, depicted with the kind of nuance that comes from impeccable research.
101 Hymn Stories
Kenneth W. Osbeck | Kregel Publications

101 Hymn Stories

RM51.00 MYR RM37.00 MYR 27% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

RM51.00 MYR RM37.00 MYR 27% off

If you find solace in the hymns sung at church and wonder about the stories that gave birth to these timeless pieces, "101 Hymn Stories" by Kenneth W. Osbeck is for you. It's a journey through history, devotion, and the transformative power of music, offering insights that could deepen your experience during worship and personal reflection. Each hymn story is a testament to faith and the human condition, resonating with believers who cherish spiritual heritage and the art of worship through song.
As I Remember Them - Thryft
Galina von Meck | Dennis Dobson

As I Remember Them

RM61.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 75% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

RM61.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 75% off

"As I Remember Them" offers a unique, intimate glimpse into the life and times surrounding one of the greatest composers, Tchaikovsky, through the eyes of his grandniece. If you're intrigued by personal stories that history often leaves untold, this book feels like uncovering a private treasure chest of cultural and familial insights. The connection to such iconic figures adds a layer of depth to the memoir that you, as a reader, will find both fascinating and enriching.
Ernest Hemingway
Anthony Burgess | Thames & Hudson

Ernest Hemingway

RM47.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 68% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

RM47.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 68% off

77% off est. retail
If you've ever been fascinated by the sheer boldness of Hemingway's prose or his adventurous life, Anthony Burgess's biography peels back the layers of this literary titan. It's a deep dive into the psyche of a man who sought to capture life's essence in sparse yet potent language. With Burgess's eloquent narrative, you're sure to gain a richer understanding of both Hemingway the writer and Hemingway the man.
Bogart - Movie Icons
Paul Duncan, James Ursini  | Taschen America Llc

Bogart - Movie Icons

RM40.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 63% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

RM40.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 63% off

If you're a fan of the Golden Age of Hollywood, then this visual biography of Humphrey Bogart is waiting for you on the shelves. With around 150 photographs, it's not just your traditional read; it's a walk down memory lane accompanied by crisp anecdotes and a concise introduction to the man behind the legend. Perfect if you want to delve into the glamour and the grit of Bogart's era.
Broken Music: A Memoir
Sting | Simon & Schuster

Broken Music: A Memoir

RM37.00 MYR RM18.00 MYR 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.87

RM37.00 MYR RM18.00 MYR 51% off

"Broken Music" offers a glance behind the curtain of Sting's life, revealing his deep connection with music as both a refuge and a compass. It's a treat for music lovers, especially those who appreciate the intricate craft of songwriting and the transformative power of music. The narrative mirrors the patience and dedication of an artist committed to mastery, and inspires a similar patience in readers who are invited to uncover the layers of their own passions.
Offenbach – The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
Peter Gammond | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Offenbach – The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

RM37.00 MYR RM29.00 MYR 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

RM37.00 MYR RM29.00 MYR 22% off

If you're intrigued by the paradox of a composer whose work could simultaneously be seen as frivolous yet foundational, Offenbach's story is for you. Peter Gammond brings Offenbach's dichotomous life to the page with storytelling flair, blending his tuneful creations with his serious influence on the future of musical comedy. It shines a light on the life of a man whose work was adored by the very society he satirized, and whose legacy is ingrained in the fabric of musical theater. This illustrated biography could be a tuneful journey worth embarking on for anyone fascinated by music history or the complexities of artistic influence.
Love in Vain
Sold out
J.M. Dupont, Mezzo  | Faber & Faber Social

Love in Vain

RM37.00 MYR

Goodreads rating: 3.87

RM37.00 MYR

59% off est. retail
If you're mesmerized by the mystique of early blues music and its profound impact on rock'n'roll, "Love in Vain" is a must-read. It offers a rich, artistic journey through Robert Johnson's life, shedding light on his legendary music and the folklore of his supposed deal with the devil. The graphic novel format brings an immersive visual dimension to the storytelling, making the tale of this iconic musician accessible and deeply engaging. It's a tribute that echoes the creativity and soul of Robert Johnson himself.
Lucy A to Z: The Lucille Ball Encyclopedia
Sold out
Michael Karol | Iuniverse

Lucy A to Z: The Lucille Ball Encyclopedia

RM51.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 35% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

RM51.00 MYR RM33.00 MYR 35% off

68% off est. retail
If you adore the queen of comedy, Lucille Ball, "Lucy A to Z" is a treasure trove of her world. Unpack this encyclopedia of everything Lucy, from her humble beginnings to becoming an icon. This could be the key you're looking for to unlock a deeper admiration for her work and legacy.
1791 Mozart's Last Year
Sold out
H.C. Robbins Landon | Flamingo

1791 Mozart's Last Year

RM29.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 24% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

RM29.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 24% off

51% off est. retail
If you're a classical music enthusiast with a penchant for historical narratives, you'll find "1791: Mozart's Last Year" striking a chord. The texture of Mozart's life, his genius, and the mystery surrounding his last days are intricately woven by Robbins Landon, offering an intimate look at a year packed with personal struggle and sublime composition. This is not just a peek into 1791 but an immersive experience into the life of a legendary composer whose music has transcended time.
Brass Bands of the Salvation Army: Their Mission and Music - Thryft
Sold out
Richard W. Holz | Streets Publishers

Brass Bands of the Salvation Army: Their Mission and Music

RM47.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 68% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

RM47.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 68% off

If you have an interest in the unique interplay between music and societal impact, this book could resonate with you. It goes beyond mere history, detailing how the Salvation Army has used brass bands as a tool for both spiritual solace and social change. Consider it a deep dive into how melodies can march alongside missions.
Charlie Chaplin: A Brief Life - Thryft
Sold out
Peter Ackroyd | Nan A. Talese

Charlie Chaplin: A Brief Life

RM47.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 53% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

RM47.00 MYR RM22.00 MYR 53% off

83% off est. retail
If the magic of old Hollywood fascinates you and you're drawn to the enigmatic figures who shaped it, then Ackroyd’s concise biography of Charlie Chaplin is something you should consider. In the sea of extensive biographies, this one is a gem for delivering a potent narrative without overwhelming you with details, perfect for an authentic glimpse into the Little Tramp's world and beyond the silver screen.
Live Aid - The Greatest Show On Earth - Thryft
Sold out
Peter Hillmore | Unicorn

Live Aid - The Greatest Show On Earth

RM29.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 48% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

RM29.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 48% off

Live Aid - The Greatest Show On Earth is a must-read for music lovers of all ages who want to know more about the biggest benefit concert in history. The book captures the incredible energy and optimism of the day, from the iconic performances to the behind-the-scenes stories that make the event so memorable. Whether you were there or not, this book will transport you back to the 1980s and remind you of the power of music to bring people together for a greater good.
Lost Highway: Journeys and Arrivals of American Musicians - Thryft
Sold out
Peter Guralnick | Back Bay Books

Lost Highway: Journeys and Arrivals of American Musicians

RM37.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 59% off

Goodreads rating: 4.22

RM37.00 MYR RM15.00 MYR 59% off

86% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the roots of American music. Peter Guralnick's incisive portraits of musicians like Elvis Presley and Merle Haggard capture their boundless passion for music-making and the grit it takes to keep going on the road. Fans of country, rockabilly, and the blues will appreciate this masterful exploration of the distinctly American sound.
Creators : From Chaucer to Walt Disney - Thryft
Sold out
Paul Johnson | Phoenix

Creators : From Chaucer to Walt Disney

RM25.00 MYR RM18.00 MYR 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

RM25.00 MYR RM18.00 MYR 28% off

64% off est. retail
Creators: From Chaucer to Walt Disney can be a great read for those who are interested in the behind-the-scenes creative process of well-known individuals. The book celebrates the courage and self-confidence that these figures possessed, along with their emphasis on excellence. While some creators like Turner and Victor Hugo possessed recognition and sales throughout their careers, others such as Jane Austen were not recognized until after their death. The book highlights the importance of luck, and how it can play a crucial role in achieving success. Overall, it is a thought-provoking read which enables readers to witness the celebrated lives of creatives who put excellence before any other consideration.

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.