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Books matching: family dynamics in transition

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  1. #1

    An Artist of the Floating World by Kazuo Ishiguro
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    "An Artist of the Floating World" by Kazuo Ishiguro is a novel set in post-WWII Japan, following the story of Mr. Ono, a retired artist reflecting on his past political positions and actions. The narrative delves into themes of guilt, family dynamics, and societal changes as Ono grapples with the consequences of his past choices. The story is told through Ono's perspective, offering a glimpse into his present life and his recollections of the past, creating a fascinating exploration of a Japanese family navigating a society in transition.

    The book is characterized by its beautifully written prose, intricate exploration of memory and legacy, and the complexities of self-perception. Through the lens of an unreliable narrator, Ishiguro weaves a tale of introspection and self-realization, as Ono confronts his own mistakes and struggles to come to terms with his past actions in a changing world.

    If on a sunny day you climb the steep path leading up from the little wooden bridge still referred to around here as ‘the Bridge of Hesitation’, you will not have to walk far before the roof of my hou...

  2. #2

    Every Soul a Star by Wendy Mass
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    Set at Camp Moon Shadow, where people gather to witness a total eclipse of the sun, "Every Soul a Star" by Wendy Mass follows the intertwining lives of three teenagers - Ally, Bree, and Jack. Through alternating perspectives, the book delves into the personal growth and self-discovery of the characters as they navigate their individual challenges and form unlikely friendships during the transformative event of a total solar eclipse. Wendy Mass weaves a touching story that combines elements of astronomy, friendship, and self-reflection against the backdrop of a rare celestial occurrence.

    Now that the big day is within sight, we all have to step up our chores to get the campground in order. The eclipse chasers are going to start trickling in over the next few weeks, and Dad wants to be...

  3. #3

    One of the Boys by Daniel Magariel
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    The novel 'One of the Boys' by Daniel Magariel is a harrowing and raw portrayal of abuse, family dynamics, and the impact of substance abuse on children. The story follows two young boys and their father as they move from Kansas to New Mexico after a messy divorce. The narrative, told through the eyes of the younger son, delves into the escalating abuse, manipulation, and dysfunction within the family as the father's drug addiction spirals out of control, leading to a disturbing and tragic revelation about their circumstances.

    The writing style of the book is described as thought-provoking, raw, and utterly disturbing. The author, Daniel Magariel, presents a gripping story that delves deep into the complexities of familial relationships, the brutality that can occur behind closed doors, and the lasting impact of abuse on children. The narrative is intense, with a laconic prose that keeps the readers engaged and emotionally invested in the characters' struggles.

    My father was swerving around cars, speeding, honking. I rested my head on the strap of the seat belt, tried to ignore how fast he was driving, unsure if he was outrunning the storm or just angry with...

  4. 'The Unredeemed Captive' by John Putnam Demos tells the story of Eunice Williams, a young girl captured during a raid on Deerfield, Massachusetts in 1704. The narrative explores the cultural and religious divides between the English Puritans and French Catholics in Canada, as well as the struggles faced by Eunice's family in trying to retrieve her. delves into the complexities of Eunice's life as she becomes integrated into the Kahnawake tribe, adopts Catholicism, and marries, all while her family in New England grapples with her decision.

    Demos weaves together primary sources, historical accounts, and sociological materials to bring Eunice's story to life, offering a rich portrayal of the challenges and conflicts faced by individuals caught between different faiths and cultures. also highlights the themes of family, faith, and identity, as well as the enduring impact of Eunice's choices on her relatives and descendants.

    DEERFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS. October 1703. Harvest over. First frost. The valley ablaze with autumn color: reds and yellows at the sides (along the forested ridges of East Mountain and the lower hills to...

  5. "How Dare the Sun Rise: Memoirs of a War Child" by Sandra Uwiringiyimana is a powerful memoir that follows Sandra's journey from surviving a massacre in the Democratic Republic of Congo to becoming an activist in the United States. Sandra shares her struggles as a refugee, the challenges she faced as an immigrant, and the healing path she embarked on. Through her writing, Sandra sheds light on the persecution faced by refugees globally and addresses important topics such as racism, nationalism, and the trauma of war. Her story is inspiring, emotional, and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on resilience and the quest for justice.

    Sandra's memoir is written in a straightforward style that captivates readers, drawing them into her world of pain, resilience, and hope. covers Sandra's happy childhood in Congo, the tragedy of losing her sister in a refugee camp massacre, and the difficulties of adjusting to life in America. Through her storytelling, Sandra emphasizes the importance of speaking out against injustice and the power of activism in creating change. Her narrative is a poignant reminder of the humanity behind refugee statistics, urging readers to see beyond labels and embrace the personal stories of those seeking a place in the world.

    THE NIGHT BEGAN SOFTLY. MY LITTLE SISTER, Deborah, and I were lying in bed, closing our eyes, trying to fall asleep in the midsummer heat. It was a couple hours past dark, a scorcher of an August even...

  6. #6

    My Brother's Name is Jessica by John Boyne
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    'My Brother's Name is Jessica' by John Boyne explores the challenges faced by a family when one of their members comes out as transgender. The story delves into themes of acceptance, identity, and the impact of societal norms on personal relationships. The narrative is told through the eyes of the main character's family members, highlighting their struggles and emotions as they navigate this significant change in their lives. The writing style is described as realistic, with believable characters and a plot that unfolds logically, capturing the complexities of having a trans family member.

    There’s a story I’ve heard many times about how my brother Jason got the scar that runs above his left eye, almost parallel with his eyebrow. He was four years old when I was born, and he’d wanted a b...

  7. #7

    Arcadia by Lauren Groff
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    Arcadia by Lauren Groff is a beautifully written novel that delves into the life of Bit, a boy born in an upstate New York hippie commune in the 1960s. The story follows the rise and fall of Arcadia, a commune that starts small but grows into a large counter-cultural hub before collapsing under the weight of egos, permissiveness, drugs, and sex. Through Bit's perspective, readers witness his journey from viewing Arcadia as a perfect and idyllic world to discovering its flaws and eventually venturing out into the wider world. Groff's prose is described as poetic and rich, capturing both the language and the depth of the story.

    Bit is already moving when he wakes. It is February, still dark. He is five years old. His father is zipping Bit within his own jacket where it is warmest, and Abe’s heart beats a drum against Bit’s e...

  8. #8

    A Pale View of Hills by Kazuo Ishiguro
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    A Pale View of Hills by Kazuo Ishiguro is a novel that delves into the life of Etsuko, a Japanese woman living in England, reflecting on her past in Nagasaki after the war. The story unfolds through Etsuko's memories, particularly focusing on a summer in Nagasaki and her friendship with Sachiko and her daughter Mariko. The narrative shifts between past and present, exploring themes of memory, trauma, and the impact of war on individuals and families. Ishiguro's writing style is described as enigmatic, slow-moving yet evocative, capturing the subtleties and indirectness often associated with Japanese culture.

    Niki, the name we finally gave my younger daughter, is not an abbreviation; it was a compromise I reached with her father. For paradoxically it was he who wanted to give her a Japanese name, and I — p...

  9. #9

    Can't We Talk about Something More Pleasant? by Roz Chast
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    'Can't We Talk about Something More Pleasant?' by Roz Chast is a graphic memoir that delves into the declining years and eventual deaths of the author's parents. Chast's storytelling weaves through the challenges of caring for aging parents, dealing with their personalities as they aged, and the emotional journey of watching them adjust to life in a nursing home. The book is a poignant and honest exploration of aging, death, and the complexities of family relationships, all depicted with a mix of humor and heart-wrenching moments.

    Chast's narrative is presented in a comic book format, utilizing drawings and cartoons to capture the essence of her experiences with her elderly parents. The book tackles difficult topics such as dementia, hoarding, hospital stays, and the end of life, offering a candid portrayal of the struggles and joys that come with caring for aging loved ones. Through her unique storytelling style, Chast provides readers with a relatable and touching account of the challenges of growing old and saying goodbye.


  10. #10

    The Deeper the Water the Uglier the Fish by Katya Apekina
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    'The Deeper the Water the Uglier the Fish' by Katya Apekina delves into the lives of a fragmented family - parents Marianne and Dennis, and their daughters Edith and Mae. The story follows the aftermath of Marianne's suicide attempt, which forces the two sisters to live with their emotionally draining father, Dennis. The narrative is told through alternating perspectives of Edith, who longs to return to her mentally ill mother, and Mae, who is drawn to her father. The novel is structured like a collage, incorporating voices from ancillary characters to provide different viewpoints and serve as a Greek chorus.

    It’s our second day in New York City. We’re with Dennis Lomack. Mom is in St. Vincent’s, resting. She has recently done something very stupid and I’m the one who found her. Dennis has been taking us a...

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