Where to Start with Timothy Snyder

Begin with Timothy Snyder's On Tyranny, a concise and accessible guide to understanding and resisting authoritarianism.

Who these books are for

Timothy Snyder is a renowned historian known for his insightful analyses of authoritarianism and the fight for democratic freedom. For those new to his work, starting with On Tyranny provides an excellent introduction to his key ideas and themes. This concise book offers a compelling blend of historical context, contemporary relevance, and practical advice on how to recognize and resist the creeping influences of tyranny in our societies.

The collection

  1. On Tyranny Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century

    In this urgent, accessible guide, renowned historian Timothy Snyder provides twenty lessons for resisting and surviving authoritarianism, drawing crucial parallels between today's political climate and the darkest periods of the 20th century. A must-read for anyone seeking to safeguard democracy and individual freedom in the face of rising tyranny.

    Buy on Bookshop.org

  2. On Tyranny Graphic Edition Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century

    "In this powerful graphic adaptation, renowned artist Nora Krug reimagines historian Timothy Snyder's essential guide to surviving and resisting authoritarian rule. Twenty vivid lessons span the 20th century to illuminate urgent truths for our tumultuous times. From the dangers of symbols to the importance of individualized speech, this stunning visual narrative empowers readers to be active participants in shaping a better future."

    Buy on Bookshop.org

  3. On Freedom

    Timothy Snyder's powerful new book, On Freedom, is a clarion call to reclaim and redefine our understanding of this indispensable human value. Through a sweeping synthesis of history, philosophy, and politics, Snyder illuminates the essential difference between freedom from tyranny and freedom to thrive. With his characteristic erudition and urgency, he offers a compelling vision for a future in which Americans work together to create a more just, generous, and abundant society - one that truly honors the spirit of freedom.

    Buy on Bookshop.org

  4. Feminism vs. Fascism Ten Tactics to Topple Tyrants

    In this urgent, provocative guide, renowned feminist icon Mona Eltahawy reframes the struggle against fascism and authoritarianism through the lens of empowering feminist principles. Drawing on a decade of research and activism, she distills ten tactics to topple tyrants, from "Be savage and dangerous" to "Target all tyrants." Combining fiery passion with practical action, Eltahawy presents a powerful, pocket-sized plan to confront the rising far-right and reclaim freedom for all. A must-read for anyone seeking a new, mobilizing approach to resistance and revolution.

    Buy on Bookshop.org

  5. The Origins of Totalitarianism With a New Introduction by Anne Applebaum

    "Dive into Hannah Arendt's seminal work, The Origins of Totalitarianism, for a profound examination of how anti-Semitism, imperialism, and political ideologies gave rise to ruthlessly oppressive regimes like Nazi Germany and Stalinist Russia. Arendt's groundbreaking analysis of propaganda, terror, stateless peoples, and the atomization of society offers crucial insights into the terrifying preconditions for total domination. This classic work remains essential for understanding the modern world and grappling with the resurgence of authoritarianism today."

    Buy on Bookshop.org

  6. Lessons from Cats for Surviving Fascism

    Purr-fectly timed for turbulent times, Lessons from Cats for Surviving Fascism distills feline wisdom into 11 subversive strategies for resisting control and reclaiming power. With humor and sharp insights, Stewart Reynolds shows how cat-like resilience, sass, and adaptability can arm us to face authoritarian nonsense head-on and demand our rights with fierce confidence, just like a feisty tabby claiming its food.

    Buy on Bookshop.org

  7. The Road to Unfreedom Russia, Europe, America

    From the bestselling author of On Tyranny comes a chilling and timely exposé of the authoritarian menace threatening democracy globally. Timothy Snyder reveals how Russia's Vladimir Putin has exported his fascist ideology, finding willing allies in nationalists, oligarchs, and radicals across Europe and America. Snyder's urgent, meticulously researched chronicle warns of the vulnerability of Western societies, whose erosion of values and institutions has left them prey to Russian subversion. This indispensable work illuminates the stark choices before us, between equality, individuality, and truth or oligarchy, totality, and falsehood, offering a beacon of hope for those seeking to defend and renew democratic principles in the face of unprecedented danger.

    Buy on Bookshop.org

  8. Black Earth The Holocaust as History and Warning

    In this haunting and timely work, Timothy Snyder uncovers the chilling parallels between 20th century Holocaust atrocities and the existential threats we face today. Drawing on unprecedented sources, Snyder masterfully weaves a gripping narrative of genocide and survival, warning that by ignoring Holocaust lessons, we imperil the future. A profound, urgently relevant book that reminds us of the horrors of the past and the dangers of complacency in the present.

    Buy on Bookshop.org

  9. On Courage How to Be a Dissident in an Age of Fear

    In a world where fear reigns, courage is the ultimate act of defiance. With unparalleled access to over 100 dissidents worldwide, Julia Angwin reveals the inspiring stories of those who dared to stand against authoritarian rule. From Hong Kong students to immigrant activists, these ordinary people did extraordinary things, and you can too. Part history, part spiritual guide, this invaluable book offers practical lessons and a roadmap to political courage - proving that individual actions can indeed change the course of history. Praise from Rachel Maddow calls it "a classic of our time" - don't miss this profoundly hopeful manual for defying fear in our times.

    Buy on Bookshop.org

  10. His Majesty's Dragon Book One of Temeraire

    Embark on an enchanting adventure as Captain Will Laurence, a British naval officer, forms an extraordinary bond with Temeraire, a rare dragon egg conscripted into the Napoleonic Wars. Together, they soar into aerial combat, defying gravity and convention, in this thrilling fantasy series debut that Stephen King calls "terrifically entertaining."

    Buy on Bookshop.org

Frequently asked questions

What is On Tyranny about?
Timothy Snyder's On Tyranny offers historical insights and contemporary lessons on how to recognize and combat authoritarianism in politics.
Is the graphic edition suitable for beginners?
Yes, the graphic edition of On Tyranny uses illustrations to make Snyder's ideas engaging and accessible for a wide range of readers.
Will I find similar themes in Snyder's other books?
While each work stands alone, many of Timothy Snyder's books, such as Black Earth and The Road to Unfreedom, explore the same ideas of totalitarianism, resistance, and the importance of democratic values.