Books matching: historical nonfiction
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A masterfully told, unforgettable account of disaster and survival - read it if you want history that leaves you breathless.
'Under a Flaming Sky: The Great Hinckley Firestorm of 1894' by author Daniel James Brown is a comprehensive account of the horrors of The Great Hinckley Fire. The author skillfully transports the reader back to the same day and time as those experiencing the tragedy firsthand, highlighting the heroism shown by a few individuals amidst the disastrous fire. Through vivid storytelling and great detail, the book explores the emotional impact of the firestorm, shedding light on the unbelievable weather patterns and sheer power contained within a firestorm.
On a starred night Prince Lucifer uprose. Tired of his dark dominion, swung the fiend Above the rolling ball in cloud part screened, Where sinners hugged their spectre of repose. Poor prey to his hot...May 2006•302 pagesFascinating and provocative, but don’t take it as gospel - enjoy it for the questions it raises, not the answers it claims to provide.
'1421: The Year China Discovered America' by Gavin Menzies explores a new theory backed by compelling evidence that challenges current historical thinking. It delves into the voyages of Chinese explorers, the great tribute fleets of China, and the possible connections between Chinese and Western explorations. The writing style presents historical narratives and explanations, with detailed research and reasoning that captivates readers and provides a fresh perspective on world exploration.
The Gate of Heavenly Purity, the Forbidden City, Beijing, early 15th century. Werner Forman Archive; the Hall of Harvest Prayer, the Temple of Heaven, early 15th century. Getty Images/Image Bank; the...2002•650 pagesCompelling and inspiring - Fly Girls brings overlooked aviation pioneers and their jaw-dropping feats back into the spotlight. Highly recommended for fans of untold histories and strong women defying the odds.
'Fly Girls: How Five Daring Women Defied All Odds and Made Aviation History' by Keith O'Brien is a nonfiction account that focuses on the lives of female aviators in the 1920s and 30s. The book delves into the struggles and triumphs of women such as Florence Klingensmith, Ruth Elder, Ruth Nichols, and Louise Thaden, alongside the more well-known figure of Amelia Earhart. It highlights the camaraderie, sportsmanship, and friendships that developed among these pioneering women as they fought against prejudice and discrimination in the male-dominated world of aviation. The narrative captures the bravery, perseverance, and determination of these aviators as they challenged societal norms and pushed the boundaries of what women were deemed capable of achieving.
THE COAL PEDDLERS west of town, on the banks of the Arkansas River, took note of the new saleswoman from the moment she appeared outside the plate-glass window. It was hard not to notice Louise McPhet...August 2018•341 pages- #4
Save:A deeply researched, eye-opening look at the genesis of the Mafia in America - essential reading for crime buffs and history fans, but a dense, academic journey that’s less suited to those craving pulpy page-turners.
'The First Family' by Mike Dash is a meticulously researched book that delves into the early days of the Mafia in the USA, focusing on the Morello Terranova family. The narrative takes the reader back to the 1890s, tracing the roots of this criminal organization from Sicily to New York. The author paints a vivid picture of the crime-infested streets of Manhattan, portraying the rise of the first Sicilian mafia led by Giuseppe Morello. From extortion to murder, the book explores the dark underbelly of the Mafia's operations, detailing their methods of intimidation and control in a new land with new opportunities.
The writing style of the book is praised for its attention to detail and historical accuracy. Dash skillfully weaves together a narrative that shifts seamlessly between Sicily, Louisiana, and New York, capturing the essence of early 20th-century America. The book not only provides a compelling account of the Mafia's origins but also sheds light on the law enforcement efforts to combat organized crime, showcasing the courage and dedication of individuals like Detective Flynn and NY Police Detective Petrosino in the face of a growing criminal menace.
Outside, on Prince Street in the heart of Little Italy, a fine drizzle slanted down to puddle amid the piles of rotting garbage strewn along the edges of the street, leaving the cobbles treacherous an...July 2009•418 pages 'The World That Made New Orleans: From Spanish Silver to Congo Square' by Ned Sublette is a well-researched and beautifully written account that delves into the unique history and culture of New Orleans. Sublette skillfully intertwines the influences of France, Cuba, Spain, and Haiti to explain why New Orleans has always been a city like no other. Readers are taken on a journey through the Creole population, the Mardi Gras Indians, and even the origins of street names, providing a comprehensive understanding of the city's rich tapestry. Despite some minor criticisms of the author's tangential discussions, the book is praised for its accessibility, entertainment value, and informative content.
When the United States took possession of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the city was an urban crossroads of languages, both spoken and musical, with a complex Afro-Louisianan culture already in exis...January 2008•368 pages- #6
Save:'The Blue Nile' by Alan Moorehead is a historical account of the Western exploration of Northeast Africa and Egypt. It narrates the efforts of three colonial powers - the French invading Egypt, the Ottoman Turks in Sudan, and a British expedition in Ethiopia. also explores the exploration of the Blue Nile, focusing on European expeditions from James Bruce to Kitchener at Khartoum. Moorehead's writing style is described as well-written, entertaining, informative, and very readable.
January 1962•368 pages A haunting, meticulously researched portrait of Russia’s fallen nobility - illuminating, heartbreaking, and best for those who crave deep, immersive history.
Former People: The Final Days of the Russian Aristocracy by Douglas Smith is a captivating and heartbreaking account of the Russian nobility during the tumultuous times of the Bolshevik Revolution and Stalin's Russia. The book delves into the lives of two prominent families, the Sheremetevs and the Golitsyns, showcasing their struggles, losses, and resilience as they faced brutal repression and persecution. Through detailed storytelling and intimate portraits, Smith chronicles the dispossessions, destruction, and ultimate fates of these aristocratic families, shedding light on a dark chapter in Russian history.
At the dawn of the twentieth century, Russia was hurtling into the modern age. In the two decades before the First World War, the country experienced exceptional rates of industrial growth, outpacing...October 2012•512 pagesA masterfully-researched, even-handed, and engagingly written deep dive into the Crusades - the best one-volume introduction out there if you’re ready for serious detail and illuminating perspective.
'The Crusades: The War for the Holy Land' by Thomas Asbridge is a detailed and well-balanced account of the Crusades, primarily focusing on the Middle Eastern and Egyptian crusades. The book covers the historical, religious, political, social, military, and economic contexts of the wars, examining the internal divisions among both Europeans and Muslims that led to the initial success of the Crusades and continued the struggle for two centuries. Asbridge provides a narrative of the events from the Crusader perspective, offering insights into the rise of significant figures like Nur al-Din, Saladin, and the Mamluks in unifying the Levant to drive out the crusaders. The writing style is described as academic yet accessible, with an abundance of detail and clear maps to aid in understanding the routes, battles, and strategies of the Crusades.
Nine hundred years ago the Christians of Europe waged a series of holy wars, or crusades, against the Muslim world, battling for dominion of a region sacred to both faiths–the Holy Land. This bloody s...January 2010•789 pages- #9
Save:Unflinching and moving - this is a classic memoir of survival and humanity in the darkest times. Highly recommended for readers who want to understand the Gulag experience through a brilliantly written personal lens.
Journey into the Whirlwind by Evgenia Ginzburg is a poignant memoir detailing her arrest and years spent in the Soviet Gulag during Stalin's reign of terror. The narrative chronicles her experiences as a loyal communist turned prisoner, her time in various prisons, and her eventual transfer to a Siberian labor camp. Ginzburg captures the overwhelming sadness and horror of the purges while also emphasizing moments of human grace and resilience. Her vivid storytelling reveals the similar trials faced by countless others and shows her will to survive despite the brutal circumstances.
Ginzburg's writing style is clear and insightful, allowing readers to connect with her personal journey and the lives of her fellow prisoners. She describes the importance of literature and culture as a source of hope and comfort in the bleakest conditions. Her reflections are marked by a lack of bitterness, highlighting her inner strength and the profound wisdom gained through suffering. This memoir not only educates readers about the historical context of the Stalinist regime but also showcases the indomitable human spirit.
1967•432 pages A harrowing, deeply detailed, and definitive account of one of the darkest chapters in American pioneer history. It's not light reading, but it's a must for anyone fascinated by survival, the American West, or true stories that test the limits of human endurance.
'Ordeal by Hunger: The Story of the Donner Party' by George R. Stewart is a comprehensive and detailed account of the harrowing journey undertaken by the Donner Party in 1846. The book vividly portrays the struggles, privations, and hardships faced by the emigrants as they attempted to travel to California, including incidents of selfishness, heroism, and unimaginable acts of survival such as resorting to cannibalism. Stewart's writing style, although from a different era, effectively brings to life the personalities and character traits of the individuals involved, making the reader feel deeply immersed in the tragic story of the Donner Party.
TAMSEN DONNER was gloomy and dispirited as the wagons pulled aside; Mr. Thornton noted it in his diary. The others were in high spirits at the prospect of the new route ahead, but she felt they were r...1936•405 pages
