Books matching: 1950s america
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- #1
Save:A Boy's Own Story by Edmund White is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows the coming-of-age journey of a young man growing up gay in 1950s America. The protagonist struggles with his homosexuality, yearning for love and acceptance in a society that condemns his desires. The narrative is fragmented, jumping through different time periods in his youth, showcasing his emotional turmoil, psychotherapy experiences, and relationships with both men and women. White's writing style is described as beautiful and evocative, capturing the awkwardness of adolescence and the challenges of self-acceptance in a poignant manner.
We’re going for a midnight boat ride. It’s a cold, clear summer night and four of us – the two boys, my dad and I – are descending the stairs that zigzag down the hill from the house to the dock. Old ... - #2Burnby:
Save:Burn by Patrick Ness is a fast-paced and complex young adult novel set in an alternate reality version of 1957 America where dragons exist alongside humans. The story follows Sarah, a biracial teen, and Malcolm, an assassin, as they navigate a world filled with dragons, racism, police corruption, and the looming threat of a world war. The plot weaves together multiple storylines, balancing fantasy elements with real-world issues such as family dynamics and societal prejudices. Ness creates a vivid world where characters must confront their own identities and face the consequences of their actions in a gripping and suspenseful narrative.
ON A COLD Sunday evening in early 1957—the very day, in fact, that Dwight David Eisenhower took the oath of office for the second time as President of the United States of America—Sarah Dewhurst waite... - #3
Save:'When Women Were Dragons' by Kelly Barnhill is a captivating and lyrical tale that explores the transformation of women into dragons as a metaphor for breaking free from societal constraints and embracing one's true power. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Alex, readers witness a world where women find strength and liberation in embracing their dragon selves, defying the norms and expectations placed upon them. The story delves into themes of rage, longing, and empowerment, weaving a narrative that is both intimate and enthralling, filled with heartbreak, love, and the importance of choice.
Barnhill's writing style is described as beautifully written, captivating, and original, with prose that is both poetic and allegorical. The book is praised for its feminist message that is woven seamlessly into the fantasy narrative, offering a poignant reflection on the struggles and triumphs of women in a society that seeks to suppress and silence them.
(I was wrong, obviously. But I was wrong about a lot of things when it came to her. This is not particularly unusual. I think, perhaps, none of us ever know our mothers, not really. Or at least, not u... - #4
Save:'The Vixen' by Francine Prose is a historical fiction story set during the Cold War era, focusing on the Rosenberg family and a young editor named Simon Putnam. Simon, a Harvard graduate, becomes entangled in a world of deceit and cover-ups, as he is tasked with editing a scandalous novel about Ethel Rosenberg, turning her into a seductive spy. The story delves into themes of McCarthyism, espionage, and personal relationships, highlighting Simon's naivety and struggles in a high-stakes environment.
- #5
Save:Set in the 1950s, 'In the Unlikely Event' by Judy Blume revolves around the real-life events of three plane crashes in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The story follows Miri Ammerman and her friends and family as they navigate the aftermath of these tragedies, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience. Blume's writing style is described as evocative, with multiple characters' viewpoints providing a rich and engaging narrative that captures the essence of life during that time period.
Miri Ammerman and her best friend, Natalie Osner, were sprawled on their bellies on the thick, tweedy wall-to-wall carpet of Natalie’s den, waiting for the first-ever televised lighting of the famous ... - #6
Save:'The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit' by Sloan Wilson is a story set in the post-World War II era, focusing on Tom Rath, a man trying to navigate the challenges of work and family life in the 1950s. Tom, a war veteran, is determined to provide a better life for his wife and children, leading him to make career decisions that come with consequences. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, materialism, and the struggles of balancing personal values with societal expectations. The plot unfolds with flashbacks to Tom's wartime experiences and explores his internal conflicts as he grapples with the pursuit of success and happiness.
BY THE TIME they had lived seven years in the little house on Greentree Avenue in Westport, Connecticut, they both detested it. There were many reasons, none of them logical, but all of them compellin... - #7
Save:The Book of Daniel by E.L. Doctorow is a fictional story inspired by the trial and execution of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg during the McCarthy era. The novel follows the Isaacson family, loosely based on the Rosenbergs, through the eyes of their son Daniel. It delves into the complexities of the Red Scare, the personal tragedies of the characters, and the lasting impact of political events on individuals. The narrative style of the book shifts between different perspectives, time frames, and locations, creating a rich and engaging portrayal of mid-20th century America.
Daniel Lewin thumbed his way from New York to Worcester, Mass., in just under five hours. With him was his young wife, Phyllis, and their eight-month-old son, Paul, whom Daniel carried in a sling chai... - #8
Save:'Boy, Snow, Bird' by Helen Oyeyemi is a novel that weaves together elements of fairy tales and explores themes of race, beauty, identity, and family secrets. The story follows the lives of Boy, Snow, and Bird, revealing their complex relationships and the challenges they face as they navigate through different perspectives and time periods. The narrative is rich and layered, with characters that are compelling and flawed, set against a backdrop of societal expectations and personal struggles.
The writing style in 'Boy, Snow, Bird' is described as beautiful, engaging, and thought-provoking. Oyeyemi expertly combines reality with fairy tale elements, creating a story that is both original and captivating. The novel delves into deep themes such as passing, violence, identity, and the impact of societal norms on individuals, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of human nature and relationships.
nobody ever warned me about mirrors, so for many years I was fond of them, and believed them to be trustworthy. I’d hide myself away inside them, setting two mirrors up to face each other so that when... - #9
Save:"Franny and Zooey" by J.D. Salinger is a novel that delves into the lives of the Glass family, focusing on siblings Franny and Zooey. The book explores themes of family dynamics, spirituality, intellectualism, and existential crises. Franny experiences a mental breakdown due to the conflict between her elitist attitudes and her desire for spiritual salvation, leading her to retreat home where she finds comfort and guidance from her brother Zooey. The narrative is filled with rich dialogue, introspective monologues, and complex characters that struggle with their place in the world.
P.S. Daddy got his X-rays back from the hospital and we're all so relieved. Its a growth but it isn't malignant. I spoke to Mother on the phone last night. Incidentally she sent her regards to you, so... - #10
Save:'The Public Burning' by Robert Coover is a satirical novel that delves into the Cold War era, focusing on the Nixon administration and the controversial Rosenberg trial. The writing style is described as immersive, creative, and filled with vernacular and postmodern elements. Coover skillfully weaves a narrative that parodies the political climate of the time while offering a unique take on historical events, portraying Nixon as a complex character rather than a caricature. explores themes of power, politics, and the darker aspects of American history, drawing parallels to contemporary issues and challenging readers to reflect on the state of society.
I was with the President at his news conference that Wednesday morning when the maverick Supreme Court Justice William Douglas dropped his bombshell in the Rosenberg case. Everything had been proceedi...
