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Books matching: 1950s paris

9 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 9 of 9 
  1. #1

    Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin
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    Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin is a powerful and moving novel set in Paris in the 1950s, revolving around David, an American living in Paris who finds himself torn between his fiancée Hella and his passionate relationship with Giovanni, a young Italian man. The book explores themes of love, identity, societal expectations, and the struggles of embracing one's true self. Through Baldwin's masterful writing, the story delves deep into the complexities of human emotions and desires, painting a vivid picture of the characters' internal conflicts and external challenges they face in a society that is not accepting of their love.

    ISTAND AT THE window of this great house in the south of France as night falls, the night which is leading me to the most terrible morning of my life. I have a drink in my hand, there is a bottle at m...

  2. #2

    The Dud Avocado by Elaine Dundy
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    Set in 1950s Paris, 'The Dud Avocado' follows the adventures of Sally Jay Gorce, a high-spirited American woman who embarks on a two-year escapade funded by her rich uncle. Sally Jay navigates the vibrant Parisian scene, from nightclubs to art shows, encountering debauched aristocrats, artists, and love interests along the way. Elaine Dundy's smart and humorous writing style captures Sally Jay's escapades with wit and perception, making her a funny and independent heroine of the 1950s. The novel presents a mix of decadence, humor, and self-discovery as Sally Jay's carefree lifestyle leads her to confront the realities of her future.

    IT WAS A hot, peaceful, optimistic sort of day in September. It was around eleven in the morning, I remember, and I was drifting down the Boulevard St. Michel, thoughts rising in my head like little p...

  3. #3

    Century Rain by Alastair Reynolds
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    'Century Rain' by Alastair Reynolds is a science fiction novel set in a future where Earth has been destroyed by a technological catastrophe known as the Nanocaust. The story follows Verity Auger, an archaeologist exploring the wastelands of Paris, who becomes involved in a dangerous mission involving time travel and alternate realities. The book combines elements of noir romance, transhumanism, and space technology, creating a complex and engaging narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Reynolds' writing style is described as smooth, with deft characterizations and a tone that seamlessly shifts between different timelines and settings.

    The river flowing sluggishly under Pont de la Concorde was flat and grey, like worn-out linoleum. It was October and the authorities were having one of their periodic crackdowns on contraband. They ha...

  4. #4

    The Family Under the Bridge by Natalie Savage Carlson, Garth Williams
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    "The Family Under the Bridge" by Natalie Savage Carlson is a heartwarming story set in Paris about a homeless man named Armand who lives under a bridge and unexpectedly finds himself taking care of a homeless family consisting of a mother and three children. Initially reluctant to help, Armand gradually becomes attached to the family and embarks on adventures around Paris with them. The story beautifully portrays the unlikely friendship that develops between the children and the homeless man, highlighting themes of kindness, family, and the value of relationships. The descriptive language used by the author immerses readers in the setting of Paris, making them feel like they are experiencing the city alongside the characters.

    The plot of the book revolves around how Armand, despite his preference for solitude, learns the importance of family and caring for others as he forms a bond with the homeless family under the bridge. The narrative unfolds gently, showing the gradual transformation of Armand from a solitary individual to someone who finds joy in the company of the children. Through heartwarming interactions and adventures, the book conveys messages of love, kindness, and togetherness, making it a touching read for both children and adults.


  5. #5

    Hopscotch by Julio Cortázar
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    Hopscotch by Julio Cortazar is a complex novel that offers multiple reading paths for the reader. The story follows Horacio Oliveira, an Argentine intellectual living in Paris in the 1950s, who becomes involved with a woman named La Maga. Tragic events lead to his return to Argentina, where he navigates guilt and friendships with a married couple. The novel explores themes of love, art, literature, and the fine line between sanity and insanity, all while challenging traditional narrative structures.

    WOULD I find La Maga? Most of the time it was just a case of my putting in an appearance, going along the Rue de Seine to the arch leading into the Quai de Conti, and I would see her slender form agai...

  6. #6

    The Last Days of New Paris by China Mieville
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    The Last Days of New Paris by China Mieville is a novella set in an alternate timeline where Paris is still resisting the Nazis in 1950. The story revolves around Surrealist artists uniting with the Partisans in resistance, where manifestations of surrealist art roam the streets, fighting Nazis and demons. The narrative delves into the power of art and cultural ideas, creating a world where art becomes a weapon against the enemy, blurring the lines between reality and surreality.

    The book presents a chaotic yet captivating plot where surrealistic artworks come to life in a dystopian Paris, extending the World War II era into the 1950s. The writing style is described as inventive, imaginative, and head-breaking, showcasing Miéville's ability to create astonishing worlds and unique concepts that challenge conventional storytelling norms.

    Past the barricade and a line of tailors’ mannequins assembled in a crude and motionless cancan, Thibaut could see the khaki of scattering Wehrmacht men, gray dress uniforms, SS black, the blue of the...

  7. #7

    Under the Net by Iris Murdoch
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    'Under the Net' by Iris Murdoch follows the story of Jake Donaghue, a translator and aspiring writer, who embarks on a series of adventures in London and Paris. The book delves into themes of relationships, love, life, art, and philosophy, all narrated in a first-person perspective by Jake himself. The plot is described as madcap, whimsical, and humorous, with Jake engaging in unconventional activities like stealing dogs, breaking into apartments, and running across rooftops in pursuit of love and self-discovery.

    Murdoch's writing style in 'Under the Net' is praised for its depth, insight, and philosophical underpinnings. The novel captures the essence of mid-twentieth century London and Paris, depicting a Bohemianesque artistic milieu through the escapades of the central character. The book is noted for its comical moments, complex characters, and exploration of how individuals shape and define their own stories and realities, reflecting Murdoch's own thinking on the life of a young author.

    WHEN I SAW Finn waiting for me at the corner of the street I knew at once that something had gone wrong. Finn usually waits for me in bed, or leaning up against the side of the door with his eyes clos...

  8. #8

    Paris Stories by Mavis Gallant, Michael Ondaatje
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    'Paris Stories' by Mavis Gallant is a collection of short stories set in Europe, predominantly in Paris, showcasing characters who are lost and displaced, trying to find a sense of attachment and belonging. Gallant's writing style is described as economical, spare, and emotionally precise, evoking deep emotions and experiences with brevity and clarity. The stories are filled with rich details and character sketches, often leaving readers with a profound understanding of the human condition and the complexities of relationships.

    It is Sunday morning. They sit in the kitchen, drinking their coffee, slowly, remembering the past. They say the names of people as if they were magic. Peter thinks, Agnes Brusen, but there are hundre...

  9. #9

    Paris Trout by Pete Dexter
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    In Paris Trout by Pete Dexter, the story unfolds in Cotton Point, Georgia, focusing on the loathsome character of Paris Trout, a white businessman who commits a heinous act by murdering a 14-year-old African American girl in a racially charged incident. The book delves into the depravity of Trout and the impact it has on those around him, portraying the dark and disturbing nature of his descent into madness and violence. Through multiple perspectives, including the girl he killed, his lawyer, his wife, and other supporting characters, Dexter paints a realistic portrait of the redneck Georgia setting in the 1950s, exploring themes of racism, violence, and human nature.

    The news that Paris Trout had shot two colored females in Indian Heights came to Harry Seagraves from the police chief, Hubert Norland. Seagraves kept Chief Norland on a small retainer for just that s...

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