Anthony Recommends~ Biography and History Gift List

To find a gift that you know would be perfect for the intended person, can be very special, and when it’s a book, even more so. You’re giving hours of entertainment that is emotive, informative, and personal.

Biography

The Man from the future by Ananyo Bhattacharya

This is a thrilling intellectual biography of the visionary thinker, John Von Neumann. Believed to be one of the most influential scientists of all time. A brilliant read and perfect for anyone who would be interested in individuals who have shaped humanity.

The Redemption of Bobby Love by Bobby & Cheryl Love with Lori L Tharps

The true story of an escaped convict, the love of his life, and a second chance. This is a wonderful story that illuminates some of the enduring experiences of being Black in America and really brings home that everyone deserves a second chance. You get a real feeling of the voices of Bobby & Cheryl; their flaws, their hopes, and their love. Perfect for someone who loves a human story.

The Storyteller Tales of Life and Music by Dave Grohl

Perfect gift for a music lover and those that grew up with Nirvana/Foo Fighters. Not only is Dave Grohl a hugely talented musician, his biography demonstrates that he is a gifted, engaging writer. A real, raw, and honest portrait of Dave’s extraordinary life.

Spinning Plates by Sophie Ellis-Bexter

The autobiography of the popstar, Sophie Ellis-Bexter. This is a moving, funny and honest account of a life well-lived through the music industry and motherhood. Perfect for those interested in pop, music, and family.

Spider Woman: A Life by Lady Hale

The autobiography of one of the most formidable women in modern history. Inspirational, warm, and brilliant, this is the story about a feminist icon who championed causes she believed in and made many historical achievements through to the pinnacle of her career – The President of the Supreme Court. Perfect for those interested in the law, equality, and feminism.

History

The Dream of Europe: Travels in the Twenty-First Centery by Geert Mak

This is a book that charts the seismic events that have shaped Europe up to the present day. It is history, politics, and culture that the author’s voice brings to life. Perfect for anybody interested in the history of modern Europe. From the author of ‘In Europe’ which is one of our Bookseller Jane’s favourite non-fiction books so you are already onto a winner here.

Tunnel 29: The True Story of an extraordinary escape beneath the Berlin Wall by Helena Merriman

A wonderful book about one man’s story to help others escape from East Berlin under the Wall. A powerful and thrilling narrative. Drawing from hundreds of hours of interviews with survivors and thousands of pages of Stasi documents, Helena Merriman tells a real stranger-than-fiction story. The perfect gift for someone who loves an exciting true story.

Hitler’s American Gamble: Pearl Harbor and the German March to Global War by Brendan Simms and Charlie Laderman

This is a brilliant history book that shows the decisive decisions made by key individuals around the world at the time. It examines the terrifying period between the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbour and Hitler’s declaration of war on the United States. Five days that transformed the world. A great read and fascinating angle on WWII. Perfect for a history absorber.

A Fatal Thing Happened on the way to the Forum: Murder in Ancient Rome by Emma Southon

Ancient Rome and the murders that shaped it. Emma Southon examines the real homicides from Roman History and how Romans viewed life, death, and what it means to be human. This is an engrossing and informative read, perfect for the historian in your life.

The Shortest History of China by Linda Jaivin

Linda Jaivin takes you on a vast and complex journey through history through a vivid narrative, from ancient times to Xi Jinping, the COVID Pandemic, and the rise of the ‘wolf warrior’. She also looks at what lies ahead for both China and the world. With a terrific eye for detail, this is book provides an extraordinary insight. Perfect for those that want to get a better understanding of one of the world’s global superpowers.

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