Books matching: chaos of war
100 result(s)
- #1
The White Guard by Mikhail Bulgakov is a historical novel set in Kiev during the turmoil of the Russian Revolution. The story follows the Turbin family, former Tsarists, as they navigate the chaos and uncertainty of the city overrun by various factions. The novel delves into themes of war, loyalty, betrayal, and the disintegration of society, portraying the family's struggles and experiences amidst the changing political landscape. Bulgakov's writing style captures the atmosphere of the time with vivid descriptions, immersive storytelling, and a focus on the personal lives of the characters intertwined with the larger historical events.
Great and terrible was the year of Our Lord 1918, of the Revolution the second. Its summer abundant with warmth and sun, its winter with snow, highest in its heaven stood two stars: the shepherds' sta... - #2
Helmet for My Pillow by Robert Leckie is a memoir depicting the author's experiences as a Marine in the Pacific during World War II. Through vivid and intense storytelling, Leckie takes the reader on a journey from his enlistment, basic training, and deployment to the fierce battles in the Pacific theatre, including Guadalcanal and Peleliu. The book captures the horrors of combat, the camaraderie among the marines, and the day-to-day struggles faced by these young men in the midst of war. Leckie's writing style is described as honest, unsentimental, and at times poetic, offering a personal and gripping account of one man's war experience.
The war with Japan was not yet four weeks old, Wake Island had fallen. Pearl Harbor was a real tragedy, a burning bitter humiliation. Hastily composed war songs were on the lips of everyone, their hea... 'The Diary of a Napoleonic Foot Soldier' by Jakob Walter is a unique autobiographical account of a common foot soldier's life in Napoleon's army during the Russian Campaign. Through the eyes of Jakob Walter, readers get a firsthand experience of the monotonous drudgery, violence, and hardship faced by soldiers, including the brutal conditions during the march to Moscow and the disastrous retreat from the city. The diary provides a detailed and personal insight into the horrors of war, the struggles for survival, and the resilience of the soldiers in the face of extreme adversity.
Walter's writing style is straightforward and accessible, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the narrative. offers a compelling look at the Napoleonic wars from a ground-level perspective, shedding light on the experiences of ordinary soldiers who were often overlooked in historical accounts. It captures the sheer brutality of war, the challenges of daily life in the army, and the unwavering hope and faith that sustained soldiers like Jakob Walter through one of history's most infamous military campaigns.
While we may recall Napoleon’s glory and his genuinely lasting accomplishments in law, education, and administration—both in France and in vassal regions of Western and Central Europe—we cannot forget...- #4
'The Path to the Spiders' Nests' by Italo Calvino is a novel set during World War II, focusing on the Italian resistance movement. The story follows Pin, a young boy living with his prostitute sister, who gets involved with the resistance after stealing a pistol from a German soldier. Through Pin's perspective, the novel explores the chaos of war, the complexities of human nature, and the blurred lines between sides in conflict. Calvino's writing style in this debut novel is straightforward and realistic, offering a cynical view of humanity seen through the eyes of a confused child.
Down they plunge, the sun’s rays, past windows dotted at random over the walls, and plants of basil and oregano in cooking-pots on the sills, and underwear hung out to dry; right down they go until th... - #5
'The Beauty and the Sorrow' by Peter Englund is an intimate history of the First World War that follows the lives of 20 individuals from various nationalities and social classes. Through letters, journals, and diaries, the author portrays the profound impact of the war on these individuals, showcasing their hopes, fears, and experiences during the conflict. Englund weaves a narrative that goes beyond battles and victories, focusing on the personal stories of those who fought, lived, and died during the war, offering a unique perspective on the human experience amidst the chaos of war.
It has been a perfect summer. Not only has the weather been perfect—hot, sunny, wonderful sunsets—but they have also moved into a newly built summer villa, tucked away by the lakes in the beautiful Au... - #6
Sarah Kane's play 'Blasted' is a dark and twisted piece of theater that delves into themes of violence, sexuality, and human depravity. The plot unfolds in a hotel room in Leeds where two characters, Ian and Cate, navigate a complex and disturbing relationship while being confronted by the horrors of war and the presence of a menacing Soldier. The writing style is described as thought-provoking, well-executed, and beyond the point of shock, pushing readers to the limits of human experience.
- #7
'Shiloh' by Shelby Foote is a novel that vividly portrays the chaos, horror, and carnage of the Civil War battle at Shiloh from multiple perspectives. The author focuses on individual characters and their experiences during the battle, bringing to life the heroics, horrors, and emotions of the soldiers involved. The book is structured into multiple parts, each narrated by different characters positioned at various locations on the battlefield, providing a diverse and comprehensive view of the events unfolding during the battle.
The sky had cleared, the clouds raveled to tatters, and at four o’clock the sun broke through, silver on the bright green of grass and leaves and golden on the puddles in the road; all down the column... - #8
'Pride of Baghdad' by Brian K. Vaughan is a graphic novel inspired by real events, depicting the fictional account of four lions escaping Baghdad zoo after the bombing in 2003. The book explores themes of war, humanity, and the consequences of conflict through the eyes of these animals, giving them personalities and emotions that resonate with readers. The writing style captures the dialogue between the animals in a way that imagines how they might interpret their circumstances, while the art beautifully portrays the city of Baghdad as a compelling character in itself.
- #9
'Fall of a Kingdom' in 'The Farsala Trilogy' by Hilari Bell follows the story of Sorahb, a law-abiding citizen who transforms into a strong leader when her kingdom is taken over. With the help of her friends, she strikes back and overcomes the challenges she faces, ultimately prevailing. Set in a land populated with Persian myths and history, the novel weaves a story of war, friendship, and determination, showcasing the journey of characters like Sorahb, Jiaan, and Kavi as they navigate through the invasion of the Hrum empire and the battle for Farsala. The writing style is described as engaging, using elements of fantasy, coming of age, and Persian culture to create a well-crafted and satisfying read with likable characters and an intriguing plot.
- #10
Jeff Shaara's 'A Blaze of Glory' is a meticulously researched historical fiction novel that vividly recounts the Battle of Shiloh during the Civil War. Through alternating perspectives of high-ranking generals and front-line infantrymen, Shaara humanizes the historical characters and brings the battlefield to life. The book delves into the horrors of war, the struggles of officers, and the sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides, all while providing a detailed look at the battle through informative maps and in-depth descriptions.
Seeley’s words were harsh, loud, the men around him doing all they could to obey. The shotguns hung by each man’s side, and the lieutenant felt a shaking nervousness, was not ready to give the order t...