Secondhand Non-Fiction Journeys Bargain Book Box DSH1204

Secondhand Non-Fiction Journeys Bargain Book Box

Unearth a treasure trove of knowledge and compelling narratives with our Secondhand Non-Fiction Bargain Book Box. This curated collection spans fascinating biographies, insightful historical accounts, engaging scientific explorations, and thought-provoking social commentaries, perfect for stimulating your mind and expanding your horizons. Each book is secondhand and may show signs of wear.

1. Man Bites Murdoch by Bruce Guthrie
   Delve into the high-stakes world of media power and courtroom drama through the eyes of a seasoned journalist. Bruce Guthrie provides an unfiltered account of his battle against Rupert Murdoch's media empire, offering a rare glimpse into the intense pressures and ethical dilemmas faced within the industry. This gripping narrative explores what happens when a powerful figure is challenged directly, revealing the intricate ties between journalism, power, and the pursuit of truth. It's a compelling behind-the-scenes look at a significant media trial.

2. The King's Speech: How One Man Saved the British Monarchy by Mark Logue and Peter Conradi
   Discover the remarkable true story behind the Academy Award-winning film, detailing the unlikely friendship and pivotal relationship between King George VI and his unconventional speech therapist, Lionel Logue. Based on Logue's recently discovered diaries, this book intimately portrays the King's struggle to overcome his debilitating stammer. It highlights the profound dedication and unique methods that enabled him to deliver empowering wartime speeches, ultimately bolstering a nation facing its darkest hour.

3. Journeyings: The Biography of a Middle-Class Generation, 1920-1990 by Janet McCalman
   Explore the lives of a generation shaped by profound social and economic shifts in 20th-century Australia, chronicling their experiences from childhood to old age. Janet McCalman masterfully weaves together collective biography and social history, illuminating the everyday realities, aspirations, and challenges faced by ordinary middle-class families. This book offers a deeply human perspective on the evolving Australian society, providing valuable insights into the intergenerational impact of historical events. It’s a rich tapestry of lived experience captured with scholarly depth.

4. Georgiana by Brenda Niall
   Uncover the vibrant life of Georgiana McCrae, a remarkable artist and diarist who emigrated from Scotland to Australia in the mid-19th century. Brenda Niall brings to life a complex woman who navigated a pioneering landscape while maintaining her individual spirit and artistic passions. Through Georgiana's vivid personal writings and Niall's meticulous research, readers gain an intimate portrait of colonial life, family dynamics, and the struggles of a creative woman. It's a fascinating look into a bygone era through an extraordinary lens.

5. Why Things Bite Back: Technology and the Revenge Effect by Edward Tenner
   Edward Tenner provocatively examines how our technological innovations, intended to simplify and improve life, often lead to unexpected and undesirable consequences, or "revenge effects." From the rise of new diseases due to medical advances to the environmental toll of convenience, this book meticulously critiques the unforeseen boomerang effects of human intervention. It offers a crucial perspective on the inherent complexities of progress, urging a more cautious and holistic approach to technological development. A must-read for anyone pondering the future of technology.

6. The Way We Live Now: The Controversies of the Nineties by Robert Manne
   Dive into a critical collection of essays by one of Australia's most incisive public intellectuals, Robert Manne, as he dissects the defining controversies and cultural shifts of the 1990s. From political debates and social justice issues to the evolving media landscape, Manne offers sharp, unflinching analysis. This book provides an essential historical lens on a pivotal decade, showcasing Manne's profound commitment to ethical inquiry and his unsparing critique of contemporary society. It's a compelling examination of a recent past that continues to shape our present.

7. Bypass: The Story of a Road by Michael McGirr
   Join Michael McGirr on a captivating journey that explores the rich history, cultural significance, and surprising stories embedded within the familiar stretch of road called 'The Bypass'. Beyond asphalt and concrete, McGirr unearths a tapestry of human experience, natural history, and philosophical reflections tied to this seemingly mundane infrastructure. This unique narrative transcends a simple travelogue, inviting readers to reconsider the hidden narratives and unexpected beauty found in everyday landscapes. It’s a delightful and insightful exploration of place.

8. An Accidental Brush With History by Elizabeth Marshall
   Step into the extraordinary life of Elizabeth Marshall, whose experiences during the tumultuous Second World War offer a unique and personal perspective on a pivotal historical period. Marshall's memoir intimately recounts her unexpected encounters and profound moments amidst global conflict, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit. Her story provides a vivid, firsthand account of navigating a world turned upside down, revealing the personal impact of grand historical events. This is a compelling testament to the strength found in challenging times.

9. It Doesn't End There: Journeys with John Laws by Christopher Stewart
   Go behind the gilded microphone and into the private world of legendary Australian radio broadcaster John Laws, through the insightful narrative of Christopher Stewart. This biography delves beyond the public persona, revealing the complexities, controversies, and enduring appeal of a media icon. Stewart explores Laws's remarkable career and personal life, offering an unfiltered look at a man who shaped public discourse for decades. It's a candid and compelling portrait of an influential figure in Australian media history.

10. House of Karls by Dr Karl Kruszelnicki
    Prepare for an exhilarating ride through the weird and wonderful world of science with Australia's favourite science communicator, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, as he answers some of life's most perplexing and hilarious questions. From the bizarre to the everyday, Dr Karl unravels scientific mysteries with his signature wit, clarity, and contagious enthusiasm. This book is a delightful compilation of facts and trivia, making complex scientific concepts accessible and entertaining for curious minds of all ages. It's an essential read for anyone who loves learning.

11. Never Mind the Bullocks: Here's the Science by Dr Karl Kruszelnicki
    Challenge misconceptions and debunk myths as Dr Karl Kruszelnicki tackles common urban legends and scientific misunderstandings with his characteristic blend of humour and rigorous scientific explanation. With an engaging and accessible approach, Dr Karl delves into popular beliefs, unveiling the true scientific principles behind them. This book empowers readers to think critically and provides reliable, evidence-based answers to fascinating questions. It's a refreshing tonic for the intellectually curious, cutting through the noise with scientific clarity.

12. Captain James Cook: A Biography by Richard Hough
    Embark on an epic voyage alongside one of history's most celebrated navigators and explorers, Captain James Cook, in this comprehensive biography by Richard Hough. Hough vividly recreates Cook's remarkable expeditions, detailing his significant contributions to cartography, navigation, and scientific discovery. This compelling account paints a nuanced portrait of the man behind the legend, exploring his triumphs, challenges, and lasting legacy in shaping our understanding of the world. It’s an essential read for maritime history enthusiasts.

13. The Monuments Men by Robert M. Edsel with Bret Witter
    Discover the astonishing true story of the art historians, curators, and architects who risked their lives during World War II to rescue invaluable artistic and cultural treasures from Nazi plunder. Robert M. Edsel and Bret Witter meticulously chronicle the heroic efforts of these unsung saviors who battled against time and destruction to preserve humanity's artistic heritage. This gripping narrative illuminates a little-known but vitally important chapter of the war, showcasing the profound value placed on culture even amidst devastation.

14. The Fountain of Age by Betty Friedan
    Betty Friedan, the author of The Feminine Mystique, brilliantly challenges societal perceptions of aging, arguing for a new vision of later life as a period of continued growth, purpose, and potential. Friedan deconstructs the negative stereotypes surrounding old age, advocating for greater self-actualization and engagement for older individuals. This powerful and pioneering work urges a re-evaluation of ageism and encourages a more fulfilling approach to the later chapters of life. It’s a transformative book for rethinking what it means to grow older.

15. Stephen Hawking: A Life in Science by Michael White and John Gribbin
    Gain profound insight into the extraordinary mind and life of Stephen Hawking, one of the most brilliant theoretical physicists of our time, in this compelling biography by Michael White and John Gribbin. This book explores Hawking's groundbreaking scientific theories, his remarkable resilience in the face of debilitating illness, and his tireless quest to understand the universe. It offers a comprehensive and accessible portrait of a man who expanded humanity's cosmic understanding despite immense personal challenges.

16. The Horologicon: A Day's Jaunt Through the Lost Words of the English Language by Mark Forsyth
    Delight in a whimsical and enlightening exploration of peculiar, forgotten, and utterly charming words from the English language, guided by the inimitable Mark Forsyth. The Horologicon presents a lexical journey through the hours of a day, uncovering words perfectly suited for describing everyday actions and emotions that we never knew we needed. This book is a witty and entertaining compendium for logophiles, showcasing the enduring richness and quirky history of our language. It’s a pure joy for word enthusiasts.

17. The Zanzibar Chest by Aidan Hartley
    Aidan Hartley embarks on a poignant and perilous journey across post-colonial East Africa, intertwining his family's personal history with the region's turbulent past. Haunted by the mysterious death of his British intelligence officer father and an American spy uncle, Hartley seeks answers within the "Zanzibar Chest" – a repository of family secrets and colonial intrigue. This gripping memoir combines adventure, history, and a deeply personal quest, offering a vivid and often harrowing portrait of a continent in flux.

18. Watson's Dictionary of Weasel Words, Contemporary Clichés, Cant & Management Jargon by Don Watson
    Sharpen your linguistic skills and cleanse your communication with Don Watson's critically acclaimed and hilariously incisive dictionary of modern corporate and bureaucratic speak. Watson dissects the pervasive "weasel words," clichés, and jargon that infest contemporary language, stripping away their pretense and revealing their emptiness. This essential guide is both a witty critique and a practical tool for anyone aiming for clarity and authenticity in their writing and speech. It's a witty and essential companion for clear communicators.