Books matching: cultural tensions
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:Beer in the Snooker Club by Waguih Ghali is a novel set in Egypt during the 1950s, exploring the life of Ram, an educated and conflicted character navigating the social and political landscape of post-colonial Egypt. The book delves into themes of identity, class, politics, and personal conflicts, offering a unique perspective on the era through the eyes of characters like Ram, Font, and Edna. The narrative style is a blend of satire, bitterness, and worldly knowledge, with a focus on dialogue to drive the plot forward and reveal the complexities of the characters.
I watched my aunt signing papers. Three hundred or more in a neat pack in front of her, her secretary standing behind her taking one sheet at a time as it was signed, and forming another neat pack of ... - #2
Save:Some Prefer Nettles by Jun'ichiro Tanizaki is a novel set in pre-World War II Japan, exploring the cultural conflict between Eastern and Western influences through the lens of a disintegrating marriage between Kaname and Misako. The story delves into themes of indecision, traditional Japanese values, modernity, and the struggle between stability and excitement. Tanizaki's writing style is described as dreamy, detached, and loaded with subtext, reflecting the complexities of the characters' relationships and the societal changes happening around them.
Kaname as usual was evasive, however, and Misako found it impossible to make up her own mind. The morning passed. At about one o'clock she took a bath and dressed, and, ready for either eventuality, s... - #3
Save:"My Name Is Asher Lev" by Chaim Potok is a novel that follows the life of Asher Lev, a Hasidic Jewish artist, as he navigates the conflict between his artistic passion and his religious heritage. The story delves into Asher's struggles, inner turmoil, and the difficult choices he must make to pursue his art while balancing his family's expectations and cultural traditions. Potok's writing style is described as vivid, detailed, and emotionally engaging, painting a rich picture of Asher's journey of self-discovery and artistic expression.
I am an observant Jew. Yes, of course, observant Jews do not paint crucifixions. As a matter of fact, observant Jews do not paint at all—in the way that I am painting. So strong words are being writte... - #4
Save:Ali and Nino by Kurban Said is a love story set in Azerbaijan during WWI, portraying the romance between Ali, a Muslim Azerbaijani, and Nino, a Christian Georgian girl. The book delves into the clash of cultures, religions, and political turmoil of the time, as the couple navigates obstacles such as war, cultural tensions, and societal norms. The narrative unfolds in locations like Baku, Caucasus, and Iran, showcasing the interplay between East and West in a poignant and tragic love story.
The writing style of Ali and Nino is described as colorful, poetic, and detailed, with beautiful descriptions of settings, cultures, and customs. The author skillfully weaves together historical, cultural, and political elements, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The novel captures the essence of the region, the complexities of relationships, and the enduring themes of love and identity amidst a backdrop of war and societal change.
We were a very mixed lot, we forty schoolboys who were having a Geography lesson one hot afternoon in the Imperial Russian Humanistic High School of Baku, Transcaucasia: thirty Mohammedans, four Armen... - #5
Save:Champion of the Scarlet Wolf, Book One by Ginn Hale is a fantasy novel that follows the journey of Elezar, a loyal yet conflicted duelist, as he embarks on a dangerous mission to the far north to uncover the powers threatening war. Along the way, Elezar encounters strange magic, old gods, hedge witches, corrupt rulers, and religious figures, all while wrestling with his own internal struggles regarding his society's views on same-sex relationships. The plot unfolds with a sense of urgency and dynamism, revealing deep-rooted societal issues and personal conflicts that Elezar must navigate to protect his homeland and loved ones.
The writing style of Champion of the Scarlet Wolf is described as smooth and engaging, with well-developed characters and a heart-breaking backstory for Elezar that adds layers to his character. The book expertly weaves together elements of mystery, politics, powerful forces, and personal relationships, creating a fantasy romance that captivates readers with its intricate world-building and complex character dynamics.
Shadows flooded past the heavy iron bars of the cell as the light from a distant lamp guttered out. Elezar swore softly into the darkness. The enveloping black unnerved him far more than waking, half ... - #6
Save:"The Cold Dish" by Craig Johnson is the first in the Walt Longmire series, set in Absaroka County, Wyoming, featuring Sheriff Walt Longmire who is dealing with personal struggles following his wife's death. The story revolves around a murder investigation triggered by the discovery of a young boy's body, leading to unexpected twists and turns in a rural setting rich with character development and a mix of Native American culture. Johnson's writing style is described as highly visual, simple yet engaging, with a focus on the beautiful yet harsh setting of Wyoming.
She might have knocked, but I didn’t hear it because I was watching the geese. I watch the geese a lot in the fall, when the days get shorter and the ice traces the rocky edges of Clear Creek. The she... - #7
Save:'The Hungry Ghosts' by Shyam Selvadurai is a compelling novel that delves into the intricate themes of cultural displacement, family dynamics, and the exploration of sexual identity. The story follows Shivan Rassiah, a young man navigating the complexities of his Sri Lankan heritage and his new life in Canada. Through vivid storytelling and poignant prose, the author weaves a narrative that explores the clash of cultures, the struggle for belonging, and the emotional turmoil faced by the protagonist as he grapples with his past and his future.
The novel skillfully intertwines the personal journey of Shivan with larger societal issues, such as political tensions in Sri Lanka and the challenges of immigrant life in Canada. As Shivan confronts his grandmother's oppressive influence, his mother's disillusionment, and his own exploration of love and sexuality, readers are taken on a thought-provoking and emotional journey that highlights the complexities of identity, family ties, and the search for acceptance in a world marked by division and conflict.
- #8
Save:The Ritual Bath is the first book in the Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series by Faye Kellerman. The story follows the lives of Peter and Rina as they investigate crimes within a closed Jewish community while navigating their own complex relationship. Through the eyes of the readers, the book introduces the rich Jewish traditions, beliefs, and customs seamlessly woven into the storyline. The plot twists and turns keep the readers engaged, offering a blend of romance and detective elements with a focus on cultural clashes and personal conflicts.
“The key to a good potato kugel is good potatoes,” Sarah Libba shouted over the noise of the blow dryer. “The key to a great potato kugel is the amount of oil. You have to use just enough oil to make ... - #9
Save:'Heart of Gold' by Sharon Shinn is a compelling standalone novel that delves into the intricate dynamics between different races living on a continent. The story follows the conflict and tension between the powerful and populous Indigo, a matriarchal society with blue skin, and the Gulden, a patriarchal golden-skinned minority. As the two cultures clash due to colonialism and expansion, the narrative explores themes of race relations, gender issues, and the struggle for understanding and coexistence. The plot unfolds through the perspectives of various characters, including Kit, a descendant of Gulden anthropologists, and Nolan, an indigo biotech worker who uncovers dangerous secrets that challenge his predetermined fate.
Sharon Shinn's writing style in 'Heart of Gold' is praised for its immersive world-building and thought-provoking storytelling. The book intricately weaves together elements of romance, intrigue, and societal complexities, offering readers a blend of escapism and introspection. Through well-developed characters like Nolan, Kit, and others, Shinn crafts a narrative that not only entertains but also prompts readers to reflect on cultural norms, values, and the impact of individual choices on society.
- #10
Save:Set in early 20th century Singapore, 'Singapore Sapphire' follows the adventures of Harriet Gordon, a strong-willed woman with a mysterious past involving a typhus epidemic in India and suffragette activism in Britain. When a British expat is murdered, Harriet is drawn into a web of complex situations with hidden intrigues and deception. The book expertly captures the colonial society of Singapore, blending actual events and characters into a captivating historical mystery set in a richly detailed atmospheric backdrop.
