Books matching: contemporary issues
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'The Power of Geography' by Tim Marshall is a clear-sighted and readable account of the past and potential future of critical areas of our planet seen through the lens of their geographical features. It ties together the history and geography of many relatively unknown countries, surprising readers with concise chapters filled with interesting and new information. The book explores the influence of 8 countries, one region, and space historically, regionally, and globally, offering glimpses of the future.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Politics of Place ) - #2
Save:'The Smallest Part' by Amy Harmon is a captivating story revolving around the intertwined relationship between childhood friends Noah, Mercedes, and Cora. The plot delves deep into themes of love, sacrifice, friendship, and imperfections, portraying the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Through a mix of past and present timelines, the author skillfully navigates the reader through the characters' journey of growth, struggles, and heart-wrenching predicaments. Amy Harmon's writing style is praised for its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from joy and sorrow to heartache and healing, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
“Or her marbles,” Noahmurmured. He was working his way through a stack of library booksand had borrowed Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie on a whim. It wasbetter than he’d anticipated. The red-haired girl kind... - #3
Save:'Lost Children Archive' by Valeria Luiselli follows the story of a family on a road trip from New York to Arizona, where the husband is researching the Apache band's last stand, and the wife is working on a documentary about migrant children at the US Border. The narrative explores the dynamics within the family, the troubled marriage of the couple, and the close relationship between the husband's son and the wife's daughter. weaves together themes of family, migration, history, and the impact of US policies on marginalized communities, presented in a dreamy and elegiac writing style that captivates readers.
Mouths open to the sun, they sleep. Boy and girl, foreheads pearled with sweat, cheeks red and streaked white with dry spit. They occupy the entire space in the back of the car, spread out, limbs offe... - #4
Save:Amanda Gorman's book 'Call Us What We Carry' is a collection of poetry that delves into the Black experience in America, interwoven with themes of hope, unity, and historical reflections. Gorman's writing style is described as brilliant, unique, and masterful, with a focus on expressing feelings and ideas in a profound and impactful manner. The book includes a variety of poems with interesting visual presentations, showcasing the author's creativity not only with words but also with the overall structure of the poems.
Goodbye! (at the close of a letter); (in taking leave of the dead); . . . to be worth; (with genitive or ablative of price or value); to mean, signify; parum valent Graeci verbo the Greeks have no pre... A Higher Education: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice by Rosalie Stanton is a contemporary take on the classic story, focusing on Darcy and Elizabeth as older college students navigating their way through education and romance. The plot follows a modern timeline with twists from the original Pride and Prejudice, including passionate interludes suitable for a mature audience. The writing style is engaging, with well-developed characters like Georgiana Darcy and Wickham, and a mix of humour, romance, and intrigue.
Will was not having a good time. Then again, he hadn’t expected to—something Charlie would undoubtedly say was part of the problem. But he wasn’t sure, exactly, how anyone was supposed to have a good ...- #6
Save:'Agent Running in the Field' by John le Carre follows the story of Ned, an aging spy facing the politics of the secret services while trying to mentor Florence, a young agent. When a Russian sleeper agent exposes a major operation, Ned uses his contacts to uncover a potential traitor. The plot is critiqued as thin and predictable with holes, featuring a twist at the end that is deemed unsatisfying and implausible by readers.
- #7
Save:Just Happy to Be Here by Naomi Kanakia tells the story of Tara, a dark-skinned, transgender girl, as she navigates her life in a Virginia all-girls school. Tara yearns for acceptance and wants to join the exclusive Sibyls club, which involves presenting her vision for the world. However, she faces resistance due to her identity and the complexities surrounding being the first out trans girl at her school. The narrative takes a deep look at Tara's internal struggles, her relationships with her often flawed friends and family, and the societal pressures she encounters while trying to find joy in her teenage life.
The writing style of Kanakia is poignant and compelling, creating a vivid portrayal of Tara's voice and experiences. The novel deftly balances serious themes with moments of humor and relatability, making it thought-provoking yet accessible. While it addresses the harsh realities of being a transgender youth in a challenging environment, it also explores the nuances of family dynamics and personal growth. Kanakia’s style leans towards literary fiction rather than typical YA, providing a layered exploration of identity that may not fit conventional expectations of the genre.
- #8
Save:Djinn Tamer: Starter (Bronze League) is a captivating blend of monster battling and personal growth. The story follows Jackson, a teenager facing real-life problems after the loss of his mother. Unlike typical carefree young adult fiction, this tale introduces the challenges of maturity and responsibility. The narrative is engaging, reminiscent of beloved franchises like Pokémon and Digimon, focusing on the singular bond between a trainer and their djinn.
The writing style is accessible and enjoyable, with well-developed characters and a fast-paced plot. Derek Alan Siddoway and AJ Cerna successfully balance nostalgia with fresh elements, creating an easy read for fans of the genre. Although some felt the main character was immature initially, the real-life issues and depth of the story kept readers interested. The book ends with a slightly rushed conclusion, but the overall enjoyment and anticipation for the next installment shine through.
- #9
Save:'The Green Man's Heir' by Juliet E. McKenna is a modern fantasy novel that follows the story of Daniel Mackmain, a woodworker and carpenter who is the son of a human and a dryad. As Daniel gets embroiled in the murder of a young runaway, he discovers his special powers to see supernatural creatures and is tasked by the Green Man to solve the mystery. The book intricately weaves English folklore, modern-day mysteries, and the protagonist's struggle to navigate his mixed heritage, all set in the picturesque Peak District. The narrative is told in first person, allowing readers to delve into a world where ancient beings coexist with humans, and where the protagonist's journey of self-discovery unfolds amidst supernatural encounters and real-world challenges.
- #10
Save:"The Devil and Webster" by Jean Hanff Korelitz is a novel set in a college campus, focusing on the challenges faced by the college president, Naomi Roth, as she navigates through student protests, academic politics, and personal conflicts. The story delves into the complexities of liberal academia, student activism, and the clash between personal beliefs and institutional responsibilities. Through a series of unexpected events and twists, the author paints a vivid picture of a college environment torn apart by social issues and moral dilemmas, all while exploring themes of bias, extremism, and the consequences of certainty in opinion.
