Books matching: 1980s america
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'We Believe the Children: The Story of a Moral Panic' by Richard Beck delves into the phenomenon of the Satanic Panic that swept through the United States in the 1980s. It explores how societal changes, quack psychology, and sensationalism led to a widespread belief in Satanic cults conducting ritual abuse, particularly in daycare centers. Beck meticulously recounts prominent court cases, highlighting the devastating impact on all involved. provides a historical overview intertwined with sociological context, showcasing how the panic emerged from a complex interplay of factors, ultimately serving as a substitute for societal issues that were overlooked.
In the years following the end of World War II, American doctors, psychiatrists, and social workers discovered that young children were sometimes beaten by the people who cared for them. For decades t...- #2
Save:'The Case of the Toxic Spell Dump' by Harry Turtledove is a fantasy novel set in an alternate Earth where magic takes the place of technology. The story follows David Fisher, an investigator for the Environmental Perfection Agency, as he delves into a mystery involving leaks from a toxic spell dump, birth defects in children, and a potential plot to bring about the Third Sorcerous War. The book is filled with puns, wordplay, and complex analogies with our world, creating a humorous and intriguing narrative that explores a world where magic is the norm.
The writing style of 'The Case of the Toxic Spell Dump' by Harry Turtledove is described as clever and humorous, with intricate puns and wordplay that add depth to the story. The author masterfully creates a magical version of Southern California, complete with flying carpets, aerospace companies working on magical projects, and a blend of various religions and languages. The plot, while competently done, serves as a backdrop for Turtledove's central conceit and complex puns, offering a unique and entertaining reading experience for fans of urban fantasy.
For one thing, they have a habit of waking you up at the most inconvenient times. It was still dark outside when the one on my nightstand went off like a bomb. I groaned and tried to turn off the alar... 'Backlash: The Undeclared War Against American Women' by Susan Faludi details the historical backlash against feminism and women's progress towards equality. Faludi uses numerous examples to show how different aspects of society, including the media, government, fashion, and religion, have worked against women. is described as informative, well-researched, and thought-provoking, shedding light on the challenges faced by women in the late twentieth century America.
TO BE A WOMAN in America at the close of the 20th century—what good fortune. That’s what we keep hearing, anyway. The barricades have fallen, politicians assure us. Women have “made it,” Madison Avenu...- #4
Save:"The Pursuit of Happyness" by Chris Gardner is an inspirational memoir that tells the story of a man's struggle with homelessness while raising his young son. Gardner's journey from being homeless to becoming a successful stockbroker is portrayed as a tale of resilience, ambition, and overcoming adversity. The writing style is praised for its raw honesty, passionate voice, and the author's willingness to share the harsh realities he faced, such as playing a game to keep quiet during eviction attempts.
is described as a reminder that challenges can be overcome, and there is light at the end of the tunnel. Readers appreciate the author's storytelling, which is compared to a perfect movie script that captures the reader's imagination and emotions. Gardner's journey of perseverance and eventual success resonates with readers, making it a compelling and inspiring read.
In my memory’s sketch of early childhood, drawn by an artist of the impressionist school, there is one image that stands out above the rest—which when called forth is preceded by the mouthwatering aro... - #5
Save:"Finale: A Novel of the Reagan Years" by Thomas Mallon is a historical fiction novel that delves into the complexities of the Reagan administration through a mix of real and fictional characters. The book explores the power dynamics within the White House, especially highlighting the influence of Nancy Reagan and her reliance on astrology for decision-making. Mallon weaves together real historical events like the Iran-Contra scandal and arms control negotiations with fictional elements, offering a unique perspective on the Reagan era. The narrative style includes multiple points of view, providing insight into the thoughts and motivations of key figures like Ronald Reagan, Nancy Reagan, and Richard Nixon.
Through the open window Nancy heard five revs of the chain saw, his signature warm-up. Even before the tool could bite into the madrone’s trunk, she knew that it had to be Ronnie—not Barney Barnett, o... - #6
Save:The Dead Girl by Melanie Thernstrom is a haunting narrative that delves into the life of a young woman navigating through the aftermath of a tragic loss and a perplexing mystery. The author's writing style is described as brilliantly self-conscious, refusing to conform to conventional genres while offering a coming-of-age story that resonates deeply with readers. Thernstrom's exploration of the privileged Ivy League suburbia during the Cold War era captures the fear and paranoia surrounding violent crimes, juxtaposing media portrayals with the reality of sheltered American lives.
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Save:"Bundy: The Deliberate Stranger" by Richard W. Larsen offers a detailed look into the life and crimes of the notorious serial killer Ted Bundy. Written by a journalist who knew Bundy personally, the book provides a comprehensive history of Bundy's victims, life, captures, escapes, and prison sentences. The writing style is described as well-written, cohesive, coherent, and informative, making the story of Bundy's journey from student to conviction easy to read and understand. The author's personal connection with Bundy adds a special touch to the narrative, portraying Bundy as charming, smart, clever, and relatable.
A heavy overcast pressed low on Puget Sound, so that the mountain ranges—the Olympics to the west, the Cascades to the east—were shrouded from view of the city by a thick, misty February veil. Up from... - #8
Save:'My Best Friend's Exorcism' by Grady Hendrix is a horror novel set in the 1980s that follows the story of two best friends, Abby and Gretchen. The book combines elements of friendship, coming of age, and demonic possession. When Gretchen becomes possessed by a demon, Abby must navigate through the challenges of high school drama, toxic friendships, and the supernatural to save her best friend with the power of their unbreakable bond. The writing style is a mix of horror, comedy, and nostalgia, with seamless incorporation of 80s references, creating a fast-paced and entertaining read that keeps readers engaged till the end.
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Save:"The Silence of the Lambs" by Thomas Harris is a gripping thriller that follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she seeks the help of the brilliant but manipulative serial killer, Hannibal Lecter, to catch another monstrous murderer known as Buffalo Bill. The book delves into the psychological depths of its characters, particularly the complex dynamics between Clarice, Hannibal, and the chilling serial killers they are trying to apprehend. The fast-paced plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats, blending elements of horror, suspense, and crime investigation seamlessly. Harris' writing style is described as crisp, creepy, and incisive, with a focus on character development and intricate storytelling that sets it apart from typical crime novels.
Behavioral Science, the FBI section that deals with serial murder, is on the bottom floor of the Academy building at Quantico, half-buried in the earth. Clarice Starling reached it flushed after a fas...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Hannibal Lecter ) Barbarians at the Gate: The Fall of RJR Nabisco by Bryan Burrough is a detailed account of the hostile takeover of US conglomerate RJR Nabisco by various players in the corporate world. The book delves into the world of leveraged buyouts (LBOs), corporate shenanigans, and unfiltered greed on Wall Street during the 1980s. It presents a comprehensive narrative of the battle for control of RJR Nabisco, highlighting the larger-than-life characters involved such as Ross Johnson, Henry Kravis, and George Roberts. The authors provide meticulous research and a lively storytelling style that brings the saga to life, making it a must-read for anyone interested in business deals and understanding the intricacies of American business.
Under that old order, big business was a slow and steady entity. The Fortune 500 was managed by “company men”: junior executives who worked their way up the ladder and gave one company their all and s...
