Books matching: government repression
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- #1
Save:'Rooftops of Tehran' by Mahbod Seraji is a coming-of-age novel set in early 1970s Iran, following the story of Pasha as he navigates young love, friendship, and the oppressive Iranian government. The book delves into the struggles and heartbreak that accompany growing up, depicting characters who face the consequences of political involvement and the loss of loved ones. Through vivid descriptions and a mix of humor and tragedy, the author transports the reader to Tehran, exploring themes of love, politics, and cultural dynamics in a turbulent time.
Sleeping on the roof in the summer is customary in Tehran. The dry heat of the day cools after midnight, and those of us who sleep on the rooftops wake with the early sun on our faces and fresh air in... - #2
Save:The Slynx by Tatyana Tolstaya is a Russian dystopian novel set in a post-apocalyptic world resembling a satirical take on tsarist Russia, the revolution, and communism. The story follows Benedikt, a scribe in the Work Izba who accidentally marries up the social ladder, navigating a society where the written word is controlled by a dictator named Fyodor Kuzmich. The book delves into themes of literature, language, history, and the human condition in a world where books are transcribed and mice are a dietary staple. The narrative combines humor, satire, and existential dread as it explores the consequences of living in a retrograde civilization after a catastrophic event known as 'the Blast.'
Benedikt pulled on his felt boots, stomped his feet to get the fit right, checked the damper on the stove, brushed the bread crumbs onto the floor-for the mice-wedged a rag in the window to keep out t... - #3
Save:"Angela Davis: An Autobiography" by Angela Y. Davis is a detailed account of the author's life, from her upbringing in Alabama to her involvement in the civil rights and revolutionary movements of the 1960s and 1970s. The book covers pivotal moments such as Davis evading police, her arrest and trial, her time in jail, and her ultimate acquittal in 1972. Through her political autobiography, Davis delves into her personal development, her activism, her time in Cuba, and her commitment to fighting against government repression.
- #4
Save:'Karnak Cafe' by Naguib Mahfouz is a novella set in Cairo in the early 1970s, focusing on the experiences of patrons at a cafe, particularly three young men who are repeatedly detained, tortured, and released by the police. Through a series of vignettes, Mahfouz provides a commentary on Egyptian life during a tumultuous time, highlighting the impact of political repression on the youth. The narrative delves into themes of autocracy, dictatorship, betrayal, and the consequences of living under a repressive regime, all told from the perspective of an external observer who reflects on the great hope and subsequent destruction of a generation.
Mahfouz's writing style in 'Karnak Cafe' is described as dense, clear, and transformative, with the ability to turn ordinary moments into profound reflections that captivate the reader. The novella addresses complex issues such as torture, political ideologies, and the nature of love, all within the setting of a cafe where friendships are tested, political discussions unfold, and the aftermath of historical events like the Arab-Israeli war is felt. The story culminates in a moral examination of loyalty, fear, betrayal, and the internal struggles faced by the characters in a society plagued by oppression and political turmoil.
It was sheer chance that brought me to the Karnak Café. One day I’d made my way to al-Mahdi Street to get my watch repaired; the job was going to take several hours, so I had to wait. To kill the time... - #5
Save:'The Russian Revolution' by Alan Moorehead provides a detailed and clear picture of the social, political, and economic conditions in Russia leading up to the revolution. It covers topics such as the bureaucracy of the Czar's monarchy, the revolutionary movements, the impact of World War I on Russian society, and the key players like Trotsky, Lenin, and Stalin. also delves into the role of Germany in aiding Lenin's return to Russia and seizing power, ultimately leading to the establishment of the communist government.
- #6
Save:In an alternate universe resembling France during the 1930s, 'The Betrayals' by Bridget Collins unfolds at Montverre, a prestigious academic institution focused solely on a complex art form known as the 'grand jeu'. The novel follows Leo Martin, a disgraced politician exiled to Montverre, where he must confront past tragedies and navigate a web of secrets and betrayals. Leo's interactions with the first female Magister Ludi, Claire Dryden, drive the heart of the story, set against a backdrop of political turmoil and academic rivalry. The narrative weaves between past and present, slowly revealing mysteries and emotions while exploring themes of love, betrayal, friendship, and deception.
The book intricately explores the intricate world of the grand jeu, combining elements of math, music, philosophy, and life lessons. Through multiple perspectives, diary entries, and mysterious characters, the story delves into political intrigue, backstabbing betrayals, unlikely love stories, and secretive government interference. Despite its unique setting and ambitious storytelling, 'The Betrayals' captivates readers with its compelling plot, well-executed story, and a blend of past and present narratives that keep the reader engaged until the unpredictable ending.
Tonight the moonlight makes the floor of the Great Hall into a game board. Every high window casts a bright lattice, dividing the hall into black and white, squares and margins. The ranks of wooden be... - #7
Save:The Yacoubian Building by Alaa Al Aswany is a novel set in modern-day Cairo, focusing on the residents of a decaying building as a representation of Egyptian society. Through interwoven character stories, the author explores themes such as political corruption, social inequality, sexual repression, and the search for love and respect. The writing style is described as rich, engaging, and offering a broad vision of the contradictions and peculiarities of life in Egypt.
The distance between Baehler Passage, where Zaki Bey el Dessouki lives, and his office in the Yacoubian Building is not more than a hundred meters, but it takes him an hour to cover it each morning as... - #8
Save:Set around 60 years in the future, "April" by Mackey Chandler follows the story of a group of teenagers living on a space station, where they navigate personal freedoms being restricted for security reasons and engage in an armed rebellion against a government reminiscent of the Trump legacy. The narrative blends believable physics with engaging political aspects, exploring themes of youth empowerment and societal control. The plot unfolds in a fast-paced, adventure-filled sci-fi setting, touching on topics like life extension therapies, gene modifications, and the consequences of political systems failing their people.
Art checked the time again. It was 09:27, Sunday, Oct 3, 2083. He was finally past the three day hold he'd been ordered to endure and able to take his mission active. He was tired of wandering the bor... - #9
Save:'The Colour of Blood' by Brian Moore is a suspenseful thriller that follows the story of Cardinal Stefan Bem, a kind-hearted and deeply spiritual man who finds himself caught between the church and state in a Soviet bloc country. As he navigates through personal violence, hidden enemies, and political turmoil, Cardinal Bem must make difficult choices that test his faith and integrity. The novel delves into the complexities of living in a totalitarian regime and explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the role of the Catholic Church in times of unrest.
- #10
Save:'The Death and Life of Schneider Wrack' is a unique and captivating novel that blends elements of horror, fantasy, and science fiction. The story follows the journey of Schneider Wrack, a zombie on a floating city tasked with hunting giant sea creatures. The book is praised for its non-stop world-building, diverse and passionate characters, and a plot that takes unexpected twists and turns. Readers are drawn into a world filled with gruesome imagery, humor, and unexpected depth, making it a standout in the zombie genre.
The writing style of Nate Crowley in 'The Death and Life of Schneider Wrack' is described as immersive and richly detailed. The author expertly weaves together elements of necromancy, seamonsters, repressive governments, and pointless wars, creating a narrative that appeals to fans of authors like Mieville, Stross, and Lovecraft. The book is commended for its unique warmth, sense of the ridiculous, well-researched zoology, and a fast-paced plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The sun poured through the windows of the old library: even with his eyes shut, it blazed sepia through the lids. All around him was the sound of paper, dusty pages shuffling as the old fellows fumble...
