Books matching: heroism
100 result(s)
'The Hero' by Lee Child delves into the concept of heroism, exploring how the term 'hero' is used and misused in society. Child challenges the conventional notions of heroism, discussing the devaluation of the concept and critiquing the promiscuous application of the hero label. also touches on the evolution of language, creating words, and the development of heroes in literature throughout history.
November 2019•91 pages- #2
Save:A fascinating and thorough account of a nearly forgotten tragedy that changed a city and brought two nations closer - great for those who enjoy narrative nonfiction about remarkable moments in history, even if the storytelling style isn't universally loved.
'The Great Halifax Explosion: A World War I Story of Treachery, Tragedy, and Extraordinary Heroism' by John U. Bacon chronicles the devastating events of the Halifax Explosion on December 6, 1917. Through the perspectives of survivors, the book details the prelude, collision, explosion, and aftermath of this horrific incident, providing a chronological account that gives readers chills with its detailed descriptions. Bacon's narrative not only delves into the legal ramifications of the disaster but also highlights the compassion and resilience of the affected communities in Halifax, Dartmouth, and Richmond.
goes beyond just recounting the tragedy, shedding light on the historical context and intricate details surrounding the disaster. It explores the negligence and mishandling of the explosive cargo, the subsequent legal battles to assign blame, and the monumental effort of rebuilding the shattered communities into stronger and more resilient entities. Bacon's writing style weaves together a compelling story of heartache, compassion, and extraordinary human response in the face of unimaginable devastation.
At 8:00 p.m., 15,000 hearty souls left their warm, dry offices and homes to crowd around the stage in the center of Boston Common, the nation’s oldest city park, dating back to 1634. They were waiting...November 2017•451 pages - #3
Save:The Book of Heroes by Miyuki Miyabe follows the story of Yuriko, an ordinary fifth-grade girl whose world is turned upside down when her beloved older brother goes missing after a shocking incident. As Yuriko delves into her brother's room, she discovers a magical book that leads her on a journey filled with fantasy and adventure. The novel explores themes of heroism, reality, and the power of storytelling, blending elements of reality and fantasy in a compelling way. Through Yuriko's quest to find her brother, readers are taken on a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of heroism and the dual nature of characters.
Kana held a hand to her mouth, stifling a laugh. Yuriko grinned at her. Their seats were in the middle of the classroom. She looked around behind her. At least half of her twenty-five classmates were...2010•364 pages As compelling as it is meticulous, 'Challenger' delivers both a fascinating history lesson and a sobering look at the cost of ambition and compromise. If you want a smart, immersive read about space, this absolutely deserves a spot on your shelf.
"Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space" by Adam Higginbotham is a detailed exploration of the Space Shuttle program and the events leading up to the Challenger disaster. The book delves into the complex design and operational challenges that NASA faced, exposing how risky decisions and technical failures culminated in the tragic explosion of Challenger shortly after launch in 1986. Higginbotham captures both the technical aspects of space travel and the human stories of the astronauts and NASA personnel involved, turning a historical account into a gripping narrative filled with suspense.
Higginbotham's writing style is clear, engaging, and thorough, making even the technical details accessible to readers. He intertwines the stories of the Challenger crew with the institutional failings of NASA, providing a balanced view that highlights both the triumphs and the catastrophic errors of the space program. The book is both informative and impactful, offering a poignant reflection on heroism and tragedy against the backdrop of America's space exploration efforts.
May 2024•544 pages'A Hobbit, a Wardrobe, and a Great War: How J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis Rediscovered Faith, Friendship, and Heroism in the Cataclysm of 1914-18' by Joseph Loconte delves into the impact of World War I on the lives and works of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Through the lens of war experiences, the author explores how these two iconic authors found solace and inspiration in creating timeless literary works such as The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings series. The narrative vividly portrays how the horrors of war shaped their perspectives on faith, friendship, and heroism, ultimately leading to the creation of beloved characters and themes that resonate with readers to this day.
seamlessly weaves together historical accounts, biographical details, and excerpts from the authors' works to provide a comprehensive understanding of the profound influence of World War I on Tolkien and Lewis. It highlights their shared journey from disillusionment to hope, showcasing how they used storytelling as a means to convey deep theological truths and moral lessons. By exploring the intersection of personal experiences, literary endeavors, and spiritual quests, 'A Hobbit, a Wardrobe, and a Great War' offers a compelling narrative that sheds light on the transformative power of art and friendship in the face of adversity.
On May 13, 1901, three months after joining Parliament, twenty-six-year-old Winston Churchill rises to deliver a rebuke to his Conservative Party colleagues in the House of Commons. Anxious about Germ...June 2015•256 pages- #6
Save:In 'Winter Warriors' by David Gemmell, a tale of heroism and sacrifice unfolds as three aging warriors, Nogusta, Kebra, and Bison, must protect an unborn child who is destined to become a king from demonic forces seeking to bring about an age of darkness. The story is filled with themes of courage, love, and devotion, showcasing Gemmell's signature style of fast-paced storytelling and well-defined characters. The plot revolves around the quest to save Queen Axiana and her unborn son, with the protagonists facing insurmountable odds and standing up for what they believe in.
The writing in 'Winter Warriors' is concise and engaging, with Gemmell's storytelling prowess shining through in the action-packed sequences and emotional moments. The novel weaves together elements of sword and sorcery, supernatural forces, and human sacrifice, creating a gripping narrative that explores themes of heroism, redemption, and the power of friendship. Gemmell's ability to craft relatable characters and compelling relationships adds depth to the story, making it a memorable addition to the Drenai Saga series.
The night sky over the mountains was clear and bright, the stars like diamonds on sable. It was a late winter night of cold and terrible beauty, the snow hanging heavy on the branches of pine and ceda... - #7
Save:A quick but emotionally heavy read, "Heroes" is a powerful look at the scars of war and the murky nature of heroism - best suited for readers ready for some serious, soul-searching storytelling.
Heroes by Robert Cormier is a dark and gripping novel set during World War II, following the story of Francis Joseph Cassavant, a young war hero who returns home without a face. The book delves into Francis's quest for revenge against his childhood hero, Larry LaSalle, who committed a heinous act that changed Francis's life forever. Through flashbacks and suspenseful storytelling, the author explores themes of heroism, betrayal, and the impact of war on individuals' lives.
Oh, I have eyes because I can see and eardrums because I can hear but no ears to speak of, just bits of dangling flesh. But that’s fine, like Dr. Abrams says, because it’s sight and hearing that count...1998•138 pages - #8
Save:History that actually feels exciting! A super engaging, accessible read for anyone curious about the real person behind America’s most infamous traitor (and war hero). Highly recommended for history lovers of all ages, especially teens and tweens.
'The Notorious Benedict Arnold' by Steve Sheinkin is a compelling historical nonfiction narrative that delves into the life of Benedict Arnold, exploring his journey from war hero to traitor during the American Revolution. The author's writing style is engaging and reads like a captivating story rather than a dry historical account, making it accessible and enjoyable for readers of all ages. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Sheinkin brings to life the complexities of Arnold's character, his military exploits, and the political intrigue of the Revolutionary War era.
November 2010•353 pages - #9
Save:Guns of the Timberlands by Louis L'Amour tells a gripping story of conflict in the Old West. It revolves around a clash between lumberjacks and ranchers over natural resources, with a rogue banker scheming behind the scenes. The plot is well-paced, featuring clever twists and meaningful character development, particularly in the romance that weaves through the narrative. L'Amour's vivid descriptions of the region and the struggles of early settlers make the story come alive, providing a compelling look at heroism, loyalty, and the darker sides of human nature like greed and avarice.
L'Amour's writing style is captivating and accessible, drawing readers in with relatable characters and intense situations. His extensive knowledge of the era shines through, making the historical context enriching. The book holds readers' attention with its exciting plot and likable characters. Many fans of L'Amour find this novel a standout among his works, one that invites multiple re-readings and a deep connection to the characters and their journeys.
1955•224 pages - #10
Save:'Kick-Ass' by John Romita Jr. and Mark Millar is a graphic novel series that follows the story of Dave Lizewski, a comic book nerd who decides to become a real-life superhero named Kick-Ass. Along the way, he meets other superheroes like Hit Girl and Big Daddy, faces intense violence, and inspires others to join his cause. The writing style is described as graphically violent, entertaining, and filled with pop cultural references that comic book fans will appreciate.
The plot of 'Kick-Ass' involves themes of violence, heroism, and the consequences of taking justice into one's own hands. The story follows Dave's journey as he navigates the challenges of being a superhero while dealing with real-life dangers and personal struggles. The artwork is praised for its detail and the characters are depicted as relatable and engaging, making the series a captivating read for fans of the genre.
May 2009•216 pages
