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Books matching: complex feelings

100 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    A Life's Work: On Becoming a Mother by Rachel Cusk
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    'A Life's Work: On Becoming a Mother' by Rachel Cusk is a raw and honest portrayal of one woman's journey into motherhood, filled with humor, ambivalence, and vivid descriptions of the challenges and realities that come with caring for a newborn. Through the author's candid writing style, readers are taken on a personal exploration of the author's experiences with midwives, doctors, friends, and her own daughter, highlighting the struggles, doubts, and moments of humor that accompany the transition into parenthood. Cusk's narrative delves deep into the complexities of new motherhood, offering a stark and unfiltered account of the joys and tribulations that come with raising a child.

    The book captures the essence of the author's experience as she navigates the uncharted territory of motherhood, challenging societal expectations and shedding light on the harsh realities of caring for a newborn. Through her poignant storytelling and introspective reflections, Cusk paints a vivid picture of the isolation, humor, despair, and personal transformation that define her journey into motherhood, providing readers with a candid and thought-provoking glimpse into the complexities of maternal identity and the struggles of early parenthood.

    In the changing rooms at the swimming pool you can see the bodies of women. Naked, they have a narrative quality, like cave paintings; a quality muted by clothes and context, a quality seen only here,...

  2. #2

    Alan and Naomi by Myron Levoy
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    "Alan and Naomi" by Myron Levoy tells the story of Alan Silverman, a Jewish boy from New York, who forms a bond with a traumatized French girl named Naomi in the aftermath of World War II. The book explores themes of friendship, trauma, and the impact of war on individuals, particularly through the lens of a young protagonist. The writing style is described as emotionally intense, with a focus on character development and the complexities of relationships, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read for readers of all ages.

    The plot of "Alan and Naomi" delves into the deep emotional connection between the two main characters, showcasing the power of empathy and understanding in overcoming past traumas. The narrative unfolds in a way that captivates readers, drawing them into the struggles and triumphs of Alan and Naomi as they navigate their respective pasts and forge a bond that transcends cultural and personal barriers.


  3. #3

    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...

  4. #4

    Westwood by Stella Gibbons
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    'Westwood' by Stella Gibbons is a novel set during the Second World War, following the frustrations of a 23-year-old girl named Margaret Steggles. The story is well-constructed with many subplots and well-drawn characters. The book explores social divides and the wartime setting, showcasing the realistic and down-to-earth nature of the plot. While lacking the humor and satire of 'Cold Comfort Farm', 'Westwood' offers a twist in the ending, deviating from typical love story conclusions.

    London was beautiful that summer. In the poor streets the people made an open-air life for themselves under the blue sky as if they were living in a warmer climate. Old men sat on the fallen masonry a...

  5. #5

    What You Wish For by Katherine Center
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    'What You Wish For' by Katherine Center is a heartwarming story set on Galveston Island, Texas, revolving around the life of Samantha Casey, a librarian at an elementary school. The plot unfolds with the unexpected death of the school founder, Max, and the arrival of a new principal, Duncan Carpenter, who brings significant changes to the school. Through a mix of humor, romance, and tackling tough subjects, the book explores themes of joy, grief, and finding happiness in challenging times. The writing style is engaging, with well-developed characters and a storyline that keeps readers invested from page one.

    Actually, pretty much everything that night was me. Max and Babette had gone on a last-minute, two-week, second-honeymoon cruise around the boot of Italy that they’d found for a steal—and the return d...

  6. #6
    Another Day
    Book 2 in the series:Every Day

    Another Day - Every Day by David Levithan
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    'Another Day' by David Levithan is a companion book to 'Every Day' that retells the story from the perspective of Rhiannon, a teenager who falls in love with A, a spirit that inhabits a different body daily. The book explores themes of love, identity, and relationships as Rhiannon grapples with the challenges of loving someone regardless of their changing physical appearance. The writing style delves into introspection and moral dilemmas, offering a fresh perspective on the events from the original book.

    I watch his car as it pulls into the parking lot. I watch him get out of it. I am in the corner of his eye, moving toward its center—but he isn’t looking for me. He’s heading into school without notic...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Every Day )

  7. #7

    Pillow Thoughts - Pillow Thoughts by Courtney Peppernell
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    'Pillow Thoughts' by Courtney Peppernell is a collection of poetry and prose that delves into themes of love, heartache, loss, and self-worth. The author's writing style is described as simple yet heartfelt, capturing complex feelings and emotions in an easily relatable way. is organized into sections based on different topics such as love, heartbreak, loneliness, and self-esteem, making it a thoughtful and thought-provoking read for anyone going through emotional experiences like breakups or seeking encouragement.

    Love is all around us. It’s in flowers and sunsets, it’s the whisper in trees, the breath of a newborn child. It’s two teenage lovers, free and wild. Love is a mountain, a river, a hand to hold, it’s ...

  8. #8

    The Ultimate Betrayal by Michelle Reid
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    'The Ultimate Betrayal' by Michelle Reid is a classic old school romance novel that delves into the complexities of a troubled marriage. The story follows a young teenage female main character who becomes pregnant, leading to a marriage with the male main character who takes on responsibility. However, as the plot unfolds, trouble and disillusionment arise for the female main character, bringing emotional turmoil and challenges to their relationship.

    The book is described as a raw and emotional read, focusing on themes of emotional cheating, marriage in crisis, and the struggles of forgiveness and redemption. The writing style is praised for its beautiful prose, realistic dynamics between characters, and the way it captures intense emotions such as love, betrayal, and regret.

    THE telephone started ringing as Rachel was coming downstairs after putting the twins to bed. She muttered something not very complimentary, hitched six-monthold Michael further up her hip, and rushed...

  9. 'The Confession of a Child of the Century' is an autobiographical inspired novel by Alfred de Musset, recounting his own experiences through the character in the story. The novel delves into the emotional turmoil and self-destructive tendencies of the narrator, Octave, who is portrayed as a very unhappy and self-critical individual. It explores the aftermath of Musset's affair with George Sand, reflecting on themes of love, heartbreak, and the impact of external influences on personal relationships.

    The writing style of the book is described as beautifully written, engaging, and sensitive, capturing the sincere emotions and air of the 19th-century Romantic era. The narrative offers a subtle analysis of human behavior and relationships, incorporating historical aspects to depict the state of mind of a generation known as 'a child of the century,' making it a poignant and reflective read.

    When I woke up next morning, I was filled with self-loathing. I judged myself so demeaned, so degraded in my own view of myself, that the moment I moved I was gripped by a terrible temptation. I spran...

  10. #10

    Simple Passion by Tanya Leslie, Annie Ernaux
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    'Simple Passion' by Annie Ernaux is a spare, elegant account of the author's intense obsession with a younger married man. Through bare, unadorned prose, Ernaux immerses the reader in the narrator's past affair, depicting her submissiveness, waiting anxiously for the man's calls, and putting her life on hold for their encounters. The narrative delves deep into the emotions and experiences of the protagonist during this tumultuous relationship, offering a raw and honest exploration of passion and obsession.


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