Books matching: cultural oppression
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:The Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava Reid is a dark and immersive fantasy novel that intertwines Slavic and Jewish mythology. The story follows Evike, a pagan woman who forms an unlikely alliance with her enemy, Gaspar, as they navigate through danger, intrigue, and self-discovery. Set in a world filled with folklore, magic, and monstrous creatures, the book explores themes of abuse, sacrifice, and the clash between faith and history.
The writing style in The Wolf and the Woodsman is described as lyrical and captivating, painting a vivid picture of a world infused with rich details and deep cultural influences. The story delves into dark and unflinching themes, incorporating elements of Hungarian history and mythology to create a heart-wrenching narrative that explores the complexities of identity and the consequences of cultural persecution.
The girls who are skilled forgers fashion little iron stakes to drive through the roots of the trees and into the earth, anchoring them in place. With no gift for forging between the two of us, Boróka... - #2
Save:'A Woman Is No Man' by Etaf Rum is a heart-wrenching novel that delves into the lives of three generations of Palestinian women living in Brooklyn. The story revolves around the struggles faced by these women in breaking free from the oppressive cultural norms and abusive relationships they are trapped in. Through shifting viewpoints, the author paints a vivid picture of the challenges these women endure, from arranged marriages to domestic abuse, while also highlighting themes of resilience, strength, and the desire for individual freedom.
The narrative of 'A Woman Is No Man' unfolds through the voices of different family members, spanning across time frames and generations. It explores the themes of cultural pressure, family traditions, and the complexities of women's roles within the Palestinian community. The author, Etaf Rum, skillfully weaves together a tale of sacrifice, duty, and the quest for autonomy, shedding light on the emotional turmoil and struggles faced by these women as they navigate between their heritage and their desire for independence.
Deya Ra’ad stood by her bedroom window and pressed her fingers against the glass. It was December, and a dust of snow covered the row of old brick houses and faded lawns, the bare plane trees lining t... - #3
Save:'If You Could Be Mine' by Sara Farizan is a YA novel set in Iran, following the story of Sahar and Nasrin, two teenage girls in love but facing the harsh reality of homosexuality being a crime punishable by death in their country. As Nasrin is arranged to be married, Sahar contemplates drastic measures to be with her, including considering gender reassignment surgery, which is allowed in Iran. The novel explores themes of forbidden love, cultural expectations, and the struggles of LGBTQ individuals in a less open society, shedding light on the challenges faced by the characters in their quest for love and acceptance.
In a moving and realistic portrayal, the story delves into the emotional turmoil of Sahar as she navigates her feelings for Nasrin, the societal pressures, and the risks involved in pursuing their love. provides insight into the cultural aspects of life in Iran, highlighting the complexities of relationships, identity, and the lengths one might go to for love in a society where being queer is not only taboo but also illegal.
Nasrin pulled my hair when I told her I didn’t want to play with her dolls. I wanted to play football with the neighborhood boys. Even though sometimes they wouldn’t let me because I was a girl, they ... - #4
Save:"Not Without My Daughter" by Betty Mahmoody narrates the harrowing true story of a mother and her daughter being held in Iran against their will. The author gives a detailed account of their escape from Iran after being taken there by the husband and father, showcasing themes of courage, resilience, and survival in the face of danger and the unknown. The writing style captures the reader's attention, offering a compelling and engaging narrative that keeps readers on the edge until the last page.
- #5
Save:'The Pearl that Broke Its Shell' by Nadia Hashimi is a novel set in Afghanistan, spanning two generations of women, Rahima and Shekiba. The book delves into the harsh realities of Afghan women's lives, highlighting their struggles, oppression, and resilience. The plot alternates between the early 1900s and the early 2000s, showcasing the parallel narratives of Rahima, who was married off at a young age, and Shekiba, who navigated through societal expectations by living as a man. The writing style is described as lyrical and captivating, offering a poignant portrayal of the challenges faced by women in Afghanistan.
Parwin shot me a look and we picked up our hurried pace. We did the best we could without running. Rubber soles slapped against the road and raised puffs of dusty smoke. The hems of our skirts flapped... 'The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World' by Melinda Gates is a compelling account of empowering women globally to uplift communities and societies. Melinda Gates shares personal stories and experiences from her work with the Gates Foundation, highlighting issues like inequality, family planning, work disparity, child marriage, and access to contraceptives. Through raw and palpable insights, she emphasizes the need for gender equality and equal opportunities for women, showcasing how uplifting women can lead to societal progress and prosperity. combines narratives of empowering women in various regions like Africa, India, and the US, shedding light on the importance of addressing women's rights on a global scale.
Let me start with some background. I attended Ursuline Academy, an all-girls Catholic high school in Dallas. In my senior year, I took a campus tour of Duke University and was awed by its computer sci...- #7
Save:Half the Sky: Turning Oppression Into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by Nicholas D. Kristof is a powerful book that sheds light on the struggles faced by women in poor countries around the world. Through real stories of women who have overcome adversity, the book highlights issues such as sexual abuse, arranged marriages, lack of access to healthcare, and societal norms that oppress women. Kristof and his co-author, Sheryl WuDunn, advocate for empowerment, education, and grassroots movements as solutions to combat these challenges and encourage readers to get involved in the fight for women's rights globally.
The narrative of Half the Sky is both heartbreaking and hopeful, showcasing the resilience and courage of women who have faced unimaginable hardships. Kristof's writing style captivates readers with personal stories that provide a glimpse into the lives of those affected by gender-based oppression. The book calls for action and highlights the importance of addressing systemic issues that prevent women from reaching their full potential, making it a compelling read that educates and inspires readers to make a difference.
Srey Rath is a self-confident Cambodian teenager whose black hair tumbles over a round, light brown face. She is in a crowded street market, standing beside a pushcart and telling her story calmly, wi... - #8
Save:'Erstwhile' in the series 'Jekh Saga' by H.E. Trent is a sci-fi romance novel set on the planet of Jekh, where a human woman named Courtney encounters two Jekh men, Murk and Trig, who are in need of a mate to complete their family. The story delves into the forbidden relationship between humans and aliens, the struggles of cultural clashes, and the subjugation of an alien culture by humans. As Courtney navigates through the hostile environment of Jekh and uncovers the truth about her grandfather's death, she becomes entwined in a complex three-way romance that challenges societal norms and explores themes of love, survival, and redemption.
- #9The Little Coffee Shop of KabulBook 1 in the series:Little Coffee Shop of Kabul
Save:Set in Kabul, Afghanistan, 'The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul' follows the story of Sunny, an American woman who opens a coffee shop serving a diverse mix of expats and locals. The novel delves into the lives of five women who frequent the coffee shop, each facing their own challenges and struggles. Through the interactions and friendships that develop within the coffee shop, themes of belonging, cultural clashes, and the lives of Afghan women in contemporary society are explored. The book provides a glimpse into the daily lives of individuals in war-torn Kabul, navigating through a mix of love stories, political conflicts, and social issues.
The writing style of 'The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul' is described as easy to read, with a mix of light moments and heart-wrenching themes. The plot unfolds against the backdrop of a changing Afghanistan post-9/11, showcasing the resilience and strength of the characters as they navigate through personal and societal challenges. The author, Deborah Rodriguez, weaves together a narrative that offers insights into the lives of Afghan women, the clash of cultures, and the complexities of relationships in a war-ravaged country.
It was a vibrant blue-skied Afghan morning, the kind that made Yazmina stop to loosen her scarf and tilt her face to the sun. She and her younger sister, Layla, were returning from the well, their cal... - #10
Save:Terra Nullius by Claire G. Coleman is a re-imagination of the new world order under postcolonial Aboriginal eyes, offering insights into what went wrong and what could have been better. The book is described as being as much about our lives as it is about those in Coleman's parallel worlds, exploring themes of prejudice, relationships between divergent cultures, and the tragedy of human nature. Set in Australia, it depicts the battle of wills between Settlers and Natives, with no happy endings for either side. The author skillfully weaves together the stories of three groups' heritage and events to shed light on the evil that resides in the assumption of superiority.
The narrative alternates between the Aboriginal peoples, the Humans, and the Settlers, showcasing the hounding and decimation of the Aboriginal peoples and their escape to the desert. Through the characters like Jacky, Esperance, and Johnny Star, the book delves into themes of tension, death, and survival in a dystopian future setting, allowing readers to understand the past and present of Indigenous Australia.
When I saw the squalor they lived in, without any of the conveniences that make our lives better, dirty and seemingly incapable of being clean, I was horrified. When I discovered they had intelligence...
