Books matching: historical background
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
'The Cleanest Race: How North Koreans See Themselves and Why It Matters' by B.R. Myers delves into the unique worldview of North Koreans, portraying them as believing in their racial superiority and moral purity. Myers explains how North Korea's ideology is not driven by traditional communist or Marxist views but rather by an ethnocentric nationalist state led by the Kim family. explores the propaganda, xenophobia, and paranoia that shape the North Korean society, offering a fresh perspective on the country's history and current geopolitical challenges.
“Kim Jong Il doesn’t believe that stuff himself,” an American diplomat cheerfully told me in 2005 after I had finished a lecture on North Korean ideology. “He told Madeleine Albright it’s all fake.” M...- #2
Save:'The River of Consciousness' by Oliver Sacks is a collection of essays that delve into a wide range of topics, from neurology to psychotherapy, evolution, memory, time, and consciousness. Sacks explores the nature of visual consciousness, the fallibility of memory, and the complexities of creativity. Through erudite and wide-ranging explorations, the author reflects on the subjective nature of human experience, the construction of memory, and the essence of narrative truth. The essays in the book offer a deep dive into the workings of the brain and mind, incorporating historical context and personal reflections to ponder questions that have intrigued thinkers for centuries.
We all know the canonical story of Charles Darwin: the twenty-two-year-old embarking on the Beagle, going to the ends of the earth; Darwin in Patagonia; Darwin on the Argentine pampas (managing to las... - #3
Save:'Gandhi: An autobiography' by Mahatma Gandhi covers the life of the author from his birth in 1869 to 1921, focusing on his journey towards becoming a proponent of non-violence in achieving righteous political goals. Through detailed descriptions of his thoughts and experiences, the book showcases Gandhi's deep-rooted belief in truth and his passion for public service, particularly fighting for the rights of the oppressed. It delves into Gandhi's evolution as a leader, highlighting his humility, determination, and fight for equality.
- #4
Save:Simon the Coldheart is a historical fiction novel set in 15th century England, following the journey of Simon Beauvallet, a fearless and humble man who rises from being a bastard son to becoming a formidable knight and leader. The story unfolds as Simon faces battles, foils plots, earns titles, and eventually meets his match in the strong and cunning Lady Margaret of Belremy. The book is praised for its action-packed plot, detailed descriptions of battles and daily life, and well-rounded characters.
He came walking from Bedford into Cambridge one May morning when the sun was still young and the dew scarce gone from the grass. His worldly possessions he carried on his back in an old knapsack; his ... - #5
Save:'The Killer Across the Table' by John E. Douglas is a vividly detailed account written by the famous FBI Profiler, delving into the world of serial killers and predators. Douglas provides an in-depth study of notorious killers like Ted Bundy and David Berkowitz, highlighting their personalities and motivations. takes the reader inside the minds of these criminals, exploring the reasons behind their heinous acts and the impact of their choices. It offers a chilling yet fascinating look at the psychology of extreme offenders, drawing readers into the author's experiences of interviewing these dangerous individuals.
It was just after the July Fourth holiday in 1998 when I took the Amtrak train up north to call on a new potential “instructor.” His name was Joseph McGowan, and he had been a high school chemistry te... - #6
Save:The Shadow Land by Elizabeth Kostova is a novel set in Bulgaria, following an American woman who accidentally picks up a bag containing an urn of ashes and embarks on a journey to find its rightful owner. The plot interweaves post-communist political themes, corruption, flashbacks to WWII, gulags, classical musicians, and a whodunnit caper vibe, while exploring themes of loss, mystery, brutality, music, art, loyalty, and love. The writing style is described as vivid, descriptive, and evocative of both the Blue Ridge Mountains and Bulgaria, with well-developed characters and a narrative that shifts between timelines.
Sofia, the year 2008. The month of May, impeccable spring weather, and the goddess Capitalism sitting on her long-since-tawdry throne. On the top step outside Hotel Forest hovered a young woman, more ... - #7
Save:"The Witching Hour" by Anne Rice is a massive, addictive book that follows the story of the Mayfair family through thirteen generations, each more intriguing than the last. Set in New Orleans, the novel delves into the history of the Mayfair witches spanning centuries, from ancient Scotland to modern times. Rice's writing style, which includes first-person narration, creates an intense and creepy atmosphere that immerses readers into the world of witches, spirits, and mysteries.
And even now in this quiet hotel room above New York City he felt the old alarming disorientation. He’d been talking again with the brown-eyed man. Yes, help her. No, this is just a dream. I want to g... - #8
Save:"A Shadow on the Glass" by Ian Irvine is a high fantasy novel that follows the story of characters like Karan and Llian as they navigate a world with complex interwoven races and magical elements. The plot is filled with twists and turns, and the world-building by Irvine is highly praised. The story revolves around the mystery of the Forbidding, a magical shield trapping different races on the same planet, all seeking a way to break free. The characters are well-developed, and the writing style improves as the series progresses, making it thematically complex and original.
It was the final night of the Graduation Telling, when the masters and students of the College of the Histories at Chanthed told the Great Tales that were the very essence of human life on Santhenar. ... - #9
Save:"Infinite Sacrifice" by L.E. Waters follows the journey of a main character who has died and must review all her past lives with the help of her spirit guide in order to successfully move on. The story delves into the main character's various incarnations in ancient Egypt, Sparta, the Viking invasion of Ireland, and London during the Black Death, showcasing the evolution and understanding that takes place in each lifetime. The narrative style blends philosophy, world religions, and historical accuracy to create an eminently readable story that explores the concept of reincarnation in a realistic and dark manner.
is structured as a collection of short stories, each representing one of the main character's past lives, passing through chronological history. The author, L.E. Waters, incorporates extensive research to support the evolving characters and maintains a tone that requires readers to participate actively in keeping track of key facts and themes throughout the narrative. The interconnected lives of various souls, karmic connections, and the evolution of the main character from self-centered unawareness to compassionate enlightenment are explored, providing a thought-provoking and engaging reading experience.
- #10
Save:A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb is a unique tale of two souls, Helen and James, who are trapped between earth and heaven and fall in love. They inhabit human bodies, unraveling their past identities and forming a deep connection. The novel is a fast-paced and engrossing read that delves into themes of life, death, religion, and love, with a poetic and lyrical writing style that captures the emotions and struggles of the characters. The plot revolves around the impossible love affair between two spirits from different generations inhabiting modern-day teen bodies, dealing with typical teen issues alongside their haunting past lives.
The story unfolds as Helen, the protagonist, navigates being a ghost for 130 years and finds solace in her love for James, leading to a poignant exploration of the enduring nature of love. The book beautifully blends supernatural elements with themes of redemption, loss, and first love, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with readers. The author's prose is described as ethereal, atmospheric, and intense, with references to poets and writers adding depth to the storyline, making it a haunting and emotional journey.
SOMEONE WAS LOOKING AT ME, a disturbing sensation if you’re dead. I was with my teacher, Mr. Brown. As usual, we were in our classroom, that safe and wooden-walled box—the windows opening onto the gra...
