Books matching: death and loss
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Ordinary Grace' by William Kent Krueger is a coming-of-age story set in the summer of 1961 in a small town in Minnesota. The protagonist, Frank Drum, a 13-year-old boy, navigates through a series of mysterious deaths that shake his community. The narrative delves into family dynamics, faith, grief, and the complexities of growing up. The writing style is evocative and descriptive, capturing the essence of small-town life and the emotional journey of the characters.
The plot of 'Ordinary Grace' unfolds as Frank Drum grapples with guilt, loss, and the search for meaning amidst tragedy. The story weaves together elements of mystery, faith, and familial relationships, portraying a poignant picture of life in the early 1960s. The author skillfully intertwines themes of grace, hope, and resilience, creating a narrative that resonates with readers of all ages.
Moonlight pooled on the bedroom floor. Outside the chirr of crickets and other night bugs gave life to the dark. It was not yet July but already hot as blazes. That may have been why I was awake. In 1... - #2
Save:'On Grief and Grieving' by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross is a compassionate and insightful exploration of the grieving process through the five stages of loss. The authors, drawing from their extensive experience, offer wisdom and guidance on dealing with death and loss. The book is structured in a way that serves as a handbook for navigating various aspects of grief, providing practical advice and shedding light on common issues faced during times of bereavement. It offers a holistic understanding of grief, helping readers comprehend the complexities of the grieving process and providing valuable insights on how to cope with loss.
The book delves into the personal journeys of the authors with grief, making it relatable and authentic. Through expert suggestions and personal anecdotes, the authors emphasize the individual nature of grief, highlighting that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. By exploring topics such as different types of grieving, stages of grief, and managing emotions, 'On Grief and Grieving' offers a comprehensive guide for both those experiencing grief and individuals supporting others through the grieving process.
The stages have evolved since their introduction, and they have been very misunderstood over the past three decades. They were never meant to help tuck messy emotions into neat packages. They are resp... - #3
Save:'The Last Elf' by Silvana De Mari is a heartwarming novel that appeals to both children and adults. The plot intricately weaves together themes of death, loss, and hope, all packaged in a kid-friendly manner. The characters, especially the elf, are portrayed in a very real and relatable way, leading to moments of both laughter and tears. The book is part of a series but stands on its own, with the first installment being translated into English.
The story follows the adventures of the elf and his interactions with humans, creating hilarious misunderstandings that entertain readers. Despite some adult themes, the book is tastefully written and has been recommended for children aged nine and above. The author's writing style is described as well-thought-out and beautifully written, making it a beloved read for many.
- #4
Save:"Beasts of Burden: Animal Rites" by Evan Dorkin is a unique series that combines elements of spoopy supernatural mystery, humor, and tenderness, following a pack of dogs and a cat fighting supernatural forces in a suburban neighborhood. The stories are mature, deep, and even tragic, with moments of genuine horror mixed with humor, making it an endearing and captivating read. The artwork, done in watercolor, adds to the eerie and emotional atmosphere of the book, portraying the animals in a realistic yet expressive manner that conveys a wide range of emotions.
The storytelling in "Beasts of Burden" is praised for its ability to make readers laugh, cry, and feel deeply connected to the characters, who are personified in a relatable way. The book straddles the line between grim adulthood and childlike fancy, with a fresh concept and beautiful illustrations that enhance the overall reading experience. The dialogue, character development, and themes of death, loss, courage, and compassion are seamlessly woven into the narrative, creating a compelling and unforgettable world of supernatural animals.
- #5
Save:Sylvia Plath's 'The Collected Poems' is a powerful and emotive collection that delves into themes of love, despair, domestic life, and mental health. Plath's writing style is described as sad, depressing, heart-wrenching, and impactful. The collection is arranged chronologically, allowing readers to witness the progression of Plath's poetic voice over the years, showcasing her evolution as a poet.
- #6
Save:The Great Good Thing by Roderick Townley is a captivating tale that delves into the secret lives of characters within a book, exploring what happens to them when the reader closes the cover. Princess Sylvie, the main character, embarks on a journey beyond the pages of her story to enter the dreams of the reader and her daughter, rewriting her own narrative along the way. The book is praised for its imaginative theme, creative storytelling, and the profound exploration of memory, imagination, and the power of storytelling.
The book seamlessly weaves together elements of adventure, friendship, family relationships, and the passage of time, appealing to both younger readers and adults. The story not only entertains but also prompts deeper reflections on life, love, and the enduring impact of stories on readers' lives, making it a truly enchanting and thought-provoking read.
- #7
Save:'Staggerford' by Jon Hassler is a novel that revolves around the life of high school English teacher Miles Pruitt in a small town in Minnesota. The story follows Miles as he navigates through a challenging week dealing with personal struggles, school issues, and unexpected events involving his students. is praised for its compelling storytelling, interesting and eccentric characters, and humorous scenes and conversations. The writing style is described as easy and fun to read, with a mix of humor and pathos, creating a warmhearted and feel-good mood throughout the novel.
It seemed to Miles that while the faces changed from year to year, the personality of a first-hour class never varied. It was a tractable class. Most of the thirty students hadn’t been out of bed for ... - #8
Save:'Sagittarius Rising' by Cecil Lewis is a memoir that vividly recounts the author's experiences as a pilot in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I. The book provides a unique perspective on the early days of aviation, detailing the challenges, dangers, and camaraderie among aviators during this tumultuous period. Lewis skillfully weaves together accounts of aerial combat, personal reflections, and historical insights, offering readers a glimpse into the life of a pilot in a time of great conflict. The writing style is a mix of pathos and humor, with Lewis displaying compassion towards his comrades and a clear sorrow for the lives lost during the war.
The book also delves into Lewis's post-war experiences, including his involvement in setting up a civil air service in China. Despite the shift in focus towards the end of the book, the narrative remains engaging and informative, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of aviation history. Lewis's writing, although occasionally verbose, is praised for its authenticity and first-person perspective, providing readers with a valuable insight into the early days of flight and the impact of war on individuals.
- #9
Save:'The Nimrod Flip-Out' by Etgar Keret is a collection of short stories that delve into surreal and quirky scenarios, often touching on themes of loneliness, absurdity, and human nature. The stories are described as micro short tales, each with a unique twist of strangeness that sets them apart. Keret's writing style is noted for its originality, blending elements of humor, surrealism, and poignant reflections on ordinary life.
Surprised? Of course I was surprised. You go out with a girl. First date, second date, a restaurant here, a movie there, always just matinees. You start sleeping together, the sex is mind-blowing, and... - #10
Save:'Professor Astor' in the series 'Off-Limits' by Catharina Maura is a captivating story of forbidden romance, emotional depth, and overcoming challenges together. The book follows the journey of Leia and Adrian, as they navigate through difficult themes such as death, loss, and cultural expectations while building a strong connection and facing obstacles with open communication. The writing style of Catharina Maura shines through in this book, providing a heartfelt and engaging story that keeps readers hooked until the end.
(Also, see 65 recommendations for the series Off-Limits )
