Books matching: cultural reflection
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'Ghosts of the Tsunami: Death and Life in Japan?s Disaster Zone' by Richard Lloyd Parry is a deeply moving and insightful account of the tragic events that unfolded during the 2011 tsunami in Japan. Through the lens of the Ishinomaki Okawa Elementary School, the author delves into the personal stories of survivors, the devastating loss of lives, and the cultural nuances of Japanese society. Parry's writing style captures the emotional impact of the disaster while providing a detailed exploration of grief, resilience, and the aftermath of the tsunami.
The first time I met her, in the big wooden house at the foot of the hills, Sayomi Shito recalled the night when her youngest daughter, Chisato, sat suddenly up in bed and cried out, “The school has g...- #2
Save:'I'm a Stranger Here Myself' by Bill Bryson is a collection of weekly columns that the author wrote for a British newspaper upon returning to the United States after living overseas for two decades. The book delves into Bryson's humorous and insightful observations as he navigates the changes in American culture and lifestyle. Readers are treated to a series of short stories that offer a retro take on US life, filled with interesting historical references and quirky commentary on everyday experiences, such as American customer service and the peculiarity of Christmas tree stands.
Bryson's writing style is characterized by his unique observations, eccentric humor, and use of language that often leads to bursts of laughter. The book captures his perspective as an outsider in his native country, providing readers with a blend of funny and poignant moments that shed light on the cultural differences between the UK and the US. Despite some outdated references, 'I'm a Stranger Here Myself' remains relevant and engaging, offering a delightful read that explores American peculiarities through Bryson's self-deprecating humor and sharp wit.
I once joked in a book that there are three things you can’t do in life. You can’t beat the phone company, you can’t make a waiter see you until he is ready to see you, and you can’t go home again. Si... - #3
Save:The Book of Tea by Kakuzo Okakura is a philosophical exploration of the Japanese tea ceremony, Teaism, and its influence on Japanese culture and aesthetics. Okakura uses tea as a metaphor to demystify Japanese culture for a Western audience, discussing topics such as Zen Buddhism, Taoism, art appreciation, and flower arranging in relation to Teaism. The book delves into the history and significance of the tea ceremony, emphasizing simplicity, beauty, and the appreciation of the present moment.
Tea began as a medicine and grew into a beverage. In China, in the eighth century, it entered the realm of poetry as one of the polite amusements. The fifteenth century saw Japan ennoble it into a rel... - #4
Save:Oaxaca Journal by Oliver Sacks is a travel journal that takes readers on a journey to Oaxaca, Mexico, focusing on ferns but delving into much more. Dr. Sacks, accompanied by a group of naturalists and botanical enthusiasts, explores the region's diverse botany, Zapotec culture, amateur naturalists, edible insects, psychedelics, and the history and culture of the places he visits. The book offers vivid descriptions of the landscape, attractions, and the author's insightful observations on his traveling companions.
The author's writing style combines detailed descriptions of the natural landscape, food, and conversations with friends, creating an intimate look into his observations and experiences. While the book centers around ferns, it also touches on various topics such as lost civilizations, mescal, cochineal insects, and the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca, providing a comprehensive view of the region and its botanical wonders.
We have a leisurely three hours in Mexico City airport—lots of time before our connection to Oaxaca. As I go to have lunch with two of the group (scarcely known to me as yet—but we will know each othe... - #5
Save:'Rabbit at Rest' by John Updike is the fourth and final installment in the Rabbit Angstrom series, following the life of Harry Rabbit Angstrom in his hometown near Brewster, Pennsylvania. The book delves into Rabbit's midlife crises, his relationships with his family, particularly his son Nelson, and the conflicts that arise within the family. Set in the late 80s, the novel captures the essence of American life during that time period, exploring themes of family dynamics, societal mores, and personal introspection. Updike's writing style intricately weaves together detailed observations, vivid descriptions, and inner narratives, providing a deep insight into Rabbit's character and his journey through life.
STANDING amid the tan, excited post-Christmas crowd at the Southwest Florida Regional Airport, Rabbit Angstrom has a funny sudden feeling that what he has come to meet, what’s floating in unseen about...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Rabbit Angstrom ) - #6
Save:"The Man Who Would Be King" by Rudyard Kipling is a classic short story that follows the adventures of two men who set out to establish themselves as kings in Afghanistan. The story is narrated by Kipling himself, who recounts the tale of these men's rise to power and eventual downfall. The writing style is described as detailed and gripping, with Kipling's ability to create vivid characters and settings shining through in this narrative. The plot revolves around the men's attempts to manipulate the superstitions of the locals in order to achieve their goal of becoming rulers.
The book delves into themes of ambition, deception, and the consequences of exploiting others for personal gain. Kipling's storytelling captures the reader's imagination and offers a glimpse into the complexities of human nature, particularly when faced with power and the allure of control. Despite some challenges with the writing style and readability, the book is praised for its depth and the insights it provides into the historical and cultural context of Kipling's era.
The law, as quoted, lays down a fair conduct of life, and one not easy to follow. I have been fellow to a beggar again and again under circumstances which prevented either of us finding out whether th... 'My Life as a Goddess: A Memoir through (Un)Popular Culture' by Guy Branum is a memoir that delves into the author's upbringing in a small town in California, his experiences in Hollywood, and his reflections on popular culture. The book explores Guy's journey as an outsider, his struggles with fitting in, and his eventual acceptance of himself. Through witty anecdotes and insightful observations, Guy shares his unique perspective on life, identity, and the world around him. The writing style is described as smart, funny, and thought-provoking, with a mix of humor, depth, and introspection that keeps readers engaged.
"In the Slender Margin: The Intimate Strangeness of Dying" by Eve Joseph is a moving and thought-provoking exploration of death and dying. The author shares her personal journey of loss and death, drawing from her years of hospice work and reflections on the death of her brother. Through a mix of personal experiences and research on different cultures' perspectives on death, Joseph weaves a narrative that is both intimate and insightful. The writing style is poetic, with references to historical, artistic, and literary elements that add depth to the exploration of this difficult subject.
I had just turned twelve when my brother was killed in a car accident. In 1965, the year Allen Ginsberg coined the term flower power and Malcolm X was shot dead inside Harlem’s Audubon Ballroom, the y...- #9
Save:Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington is a nonfiction book that delves into the world of snake handling churches in Southern Appalachia. The author, a journalist, initially went to cover a criminal trial in the area but ended up immersing himself in the culture of these churches, where believers handle snakes as a test of faith. Through his observations and participation, Covington explores the complexities of this religious practice and the cultural backdrop that sustains it. The book provides an honest and intriguing account of Covington's journey of self-discovery within a world that is both familiar and foreign to him.
Covington's writing style in Salvation on Sand Mountain has been described as masterly and artistic, offering a vivid and engaging narrative that draws readers into the mysterious and human aspects of the snake handling churches. The book not only sheds light on the religious fervor and eccentricities of the practitioners but also delves into the author's personal reflections on his own background, spirituality, and the cultural connections he discovers throughout his exploration of this unique community.
This descent into himself will, at the same time, be a descent into his region. It will be a descent through the darkness of the familiar into a world where, like the blind man cured in the gospels, h... - #10
Save:'When the Elephants Dance' by Tess Uriza Holthe is a poignant novel set during World War II in the Philippines. The story follows a Filipino family and their neighbors who hide in a basement to survive the devastating effects of the war. Through the perspectives of a 12-year-old boy, a 17-year-old girl, and a guerrilla leader, the reader is immersed in the horrors of war, the struggle for survival, and the resilience of the Filipino people. The narrative seamlessly weaves together past and present, offering insights into Philippine culture, history, and the everyday life of the characters.
The book also incorporates elements of magical realism as the elders tell stories to keep the younger ones distracted from the harsh reality outside. These stories not only provide a reprieve from the war but also offer lessons and introduce the reader to the myths and legends of the Filipino people. The writing style is engaging, with vivid descriptions that allow the reader to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Philippines during this tumultuous period.
~ PAPA EXPLAINS THE WAR LIKE THIS: “When the elephants dance, the chickens must be careful.” The great beasts, as they circle one another, shaking the trees and trumpeting loudly, are the Amerikanos a...
