Books matching: challenges in academia
31 result(s)
- #1
Save:Waterlily by Ella Cara Deloria is an ethnographic novel that paints a vivid picture of Dakota Sioux society before white contact. The book delves into the daily life, social customs, traditions, and religion of the Lakota culture from a woman's perspective. Through the story of one woman navigating her culture, marriage, and self-discovery, the author provides readers with a deep understanding of the community dynamics and values prevalent in the late 1800s Northern Native American society. Deloria's writing style is detailed and informative, offering a rich portrayal of a way of life that was previously unknown to many outside the Indian tribes.
The camp circle was on the move again. Whenever one site wore out and became unsanitary, or whenever it was time to go elsewhere to hunt deer or to gather the fruits in season, the magistrates whose d... - #2
Save:'Cosm' by Gregory Benford follows the story of Alicia Butterworth, a black woman physicist who discovers a miniature universe inside a particle accelerator. The novel delves into the world of scientific research, exploring the ethical implications and the struggles of academia. Through the character of Alicia, the author raises questions about physics, scientific discovery, and the complexities of human relationships. The writing style incorporates elements such as letters, emails, and newspaper blurbs to provide different perspectives and enhance the storytelling.
- #3
Save:In "The Shakespeare Requirement," author Julie Schumacher continues her satire of academic life, now focusing on Jason Fitger as he navigates his role as the chair of the English department at Payne State University. The story unfolds with humorous and heartfelt moments, highlighting the challenges Fitger faces in dealing with departmental conflicts, personal relationships, and the pressure to redefine the relevance of English studies in the face of opposition.
Schumacher's storytelling in "The Shakespeare Requirement" is a blend of wit and satire, portraying the struggles and triumphs of Fitger and his colleagues in a small liberal arts college setting. The narrative delves into themes of academia, relationships, and the absurdities of university life, all while maintaining a balance of humor and poignancy that keeps readers engaged throughout the story.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dear Committee ) - #4
Save:Gaudy Night by Dorothy L. Sayers is a mystery novel set in Oxford University where Harriet Vane, a mystery writer, investigates a series of malicious events at her old college, Shrewsbury. The book delves into the role of women in academia, the conflicts between intellectual pursuits and emotional fulfillment, and the evolving dynamics of relationships in the 1930s. Sayers intricately weaves together the mystery plot with musings on societal issues, showcasing her talent for capturing the academic life and the complexities of female characters.
Harriet Vane sat at her writing-table and stared out into Mecklenburg Square. The late tulips made a brave show in the Square garden, and a quartet of early tennis-players were energetically calling t...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Lord Peter Wimsey ) - #5
Save:'Office Hours' by Katrina Jackson follows the story of Deja, a highly stressed black Sociology professor navigating the challenges of academia while on her probationary period for tenure. Despite her focus on coping with the stress of her job, Deja finds a bright spot in her crush, Alejandro, a newly tenured History professor who also harbors feelings for her. delves into their romance, exploring the struggles of minorities in academia, the dynamics of relationships, and the balance between work stress and personal joy. Readers praised the insight into the academic world, the realistic portrayal of characters, and the well-written romance between Deja and Alejandro.
- #6
Save:'By the Book' by Julia Sonneborn is a modern retelling of Jane Austen's Persuasion, following the story of Anne Corey, a college literature professor striving for tenure. When her long-lost love, Adam, reappears as the new college president, Anne is faced with reevaluating her past choices and determining her true happiness amidst relationships and drama. The book is described as a light, entertaining read with elements of romance, humor, and relatable characters set in a small liberal arts college in Southern California.
- #7
Save:The Place Between by Kit Oliver follows the journey of Ned, a doctoral candidate navigating personal and academic challenges, who is paired with Dr. Henry Abbot for a final project. The book delves into themes of second chances at love, professional growth, and the complexities of relationships. The writing style is described as smooth, natural, and filled with witty dialogues that bring out the emotions of the characters. The plot unfolds with a mix of tropes like enemies to lovers, fake dating, and the struggles of balancing academia and personal life.
'The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure' by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt delves into the concept of 'safetyism' on college campuses, where students are shielded from opposing opinions that may cause emotional harm. The authors explore the impact of overprotective regimes, the rise of anxiety and depression among young people, and the consequences of limiting exposure to challenging ideas. Through real-world examples and social scientific analysis, Lukianoff and Haidt examine how modern society's pursuit of justice and the decline of free play have contributed to a culture where emotional safety is prioritized over intellectual growth.
When heaven is about to confer a great responsibility on any man, it will exercise his mind with suffering, subject his sinews and bones to hard work, expose his body to hunger, put him to poverty, pl...- #9
Save:If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio is a dark and suspenseful novel set in an eccentric conservatory college where seven fourth-year acting students are deeply immersed in Shakespearean theater. The story unfolds through the memories of Oliver, who has just been released from prison after serving a ten-year sentence for a crime that is gradually revealed. The book delves into the relationships, secrets, and tragedies that unfold among the students, all while incorporating Shakespearean quotes and themes throughout the narrative. The writing style is described as captivating, emotionally arresting, and filled with tension, making the book a thrilling and engrossing read.
I sit with my wrists cuffed to the table and I think, But that I am forbid / To tell the secrets of my prison-house, / I could a tale unfold whose lightest word / Would harrow up thy soul. The guard s... - #10
Save:The Lecturer's Tale by James Hynes is a dark comedy that follows the protagonist, Nelson Humboldt, a lecturer at a rural school who gains the power to control others by touching them after a freak accident severs his finger. The book delves into the politics and power struggles within academia, with clever references and satirical elements that provide a humorous picture of life in the academic world. The plot takes a dark turn towards magical realism in the climax, keeping the reader engrossed with plot twists, humor, and a high concept premise.
The novel serves as a satire of modern university life, showcasing the typical characters, politics, and issues in academia with humor and elegance. James Hynes skillfully incorporates literary references, academic jargon, and satire to create a vivid portrayal of the academia in the U.S. during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The story explores themes of power, academia, and the fine line between reality and fantasy, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Crossing the Quad on a Halloween Friday, as the clock in the library tower tolled thirteen under a windy, dramatic sky, Nelson Humboldt lost his right index finger in a freak accident. Someone called ...
