Books matching: human ambition
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"Moondust: In Search Of The Men Who Fell To Earth" by Andrew Smith explores the lives of the surviving Apollo moonwalkers, delving into their experiences and personal reflections decades after their historic journeys. The book poses a thought-provoking question: After going to the moon, what comes next for those who achieved such a monumental feat? Smith interviews the remaining moonwalkers, including Neil Armstrong and David Scott, as well as other astronauts and individuals involved in the Apollo program, weaving their larger-than-life stories into a narrative that balances historical context with personal memoir. His writing style combines journalistic detail with a philosophical discourse, inviting readers to consider not just the events of the moon landings, but their significance in shaping human ambition and collective memory.
The book does not aim to provide a technical account of the Apollo missions; rather, it offers a reflective examination of the impact of these events on both the astronauts and society at large. Smith's narrative is a blend of collective biography, personal essay, and philosophical inquiry, making it a unique exploration of a pivotal moment in human history. While some readers may find the non-linear storytelling and personal anecdotes distracting, others appreciate the emotional depth and context they provide, ultimately enriching the reader's understanding of what the moon landings meant to those who lived through them.
To be the skipper of the only boat on the Moon was a distinction that Pat Harris enjoyed. As the passengers filed aboard Selene, jockeying for window seats, he wondered what sort of trip it would be t...- #2
'The Dream-Quest of Unknown Kadath' by H.P. Lovecraft is a collection of stories about the adventures of Randolph Carter in the dream world and parts of the waking world. Lovecraft shapes a dream world with elements of nightmares, creating scenarios that are both creepy and fascinating. The novella takes readers on a journey through the Dreamlands, encountering loathsome creatures, ancient evils, and gods from outer space. The writing style is described as lush in opulent detail, although it can become repetitive and tiresome at times.
Three times Randolph Carter dreamed of the marvellous city, and three times was he snatched away while still he paused on the high terrace above it. All golden and lovely it blazed in the sunset, with... - #3
Black Paradox by Junji Ito is a captivating manga that delves deep into the darker side of human nature, exploring the consequences of unchecked ambition. The story follows a surreal and bizarre narrative depicting the tale of human ambition and the impending doom that follows progress. Through the lens of absurdity and the uncanny, Ito crafts a story that defies logic and convention, urging readers to confront uncomfortable truths and question the morality of collective decisions. The plot unfolds into a unique premise where four random individuals come together to commit suicide, leading to a series of events that spell the end of humanity.
The book is a blend of horror, visual artistry, and thought-provoking themes, staying true to Ito's signature style. The manga delivers a double dose of stimulation to both the senses and the intellect, taking readers on a captivating journey through twists and turns that are both horrific and unimaginable. Black Paradox serves as an allegory for the present-day dilemma faced by humanity, highlighting the paradoxical nature of modern society where advancements often come at the cost of environmental degradation and energy depletion.
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'The Rider on the White Horse' by Theodor Storm is a novella set in the North Frisian coast, depicting the struggle of villagers against the forces of nature and superstition. The story revolves around a dike master's efforts to introduce new methods to protect the land against the sea, leading to tragic events during a violent storm. The narrative is described as a classic that portrays the plain, rough life of people living in northern Germany, where the sea constantly threatens to reclaim the land.
The writing style of the book is noted for its eerie and mysterious atmosphere, reminiscent of Edgar Allan Poe in parts. The dialogues are praised for their old German charm, and the story is commended for evoking great moods, especially during thunderstorms. The novella is lauded for its depiction of society on the northern German coast, offering a clear picture of life and struggles in the region.
What I am about to tell I learned nearly half a century ago in the house of my great-grand-mother, old Madame Fedderson, widow of the senator, while I was sitting beside her armchair, busy reading a m... - #5
The Tower of Babylon by Ted Chiang is a captivating short story that reimagines the biblical tale of the Tower of Babel. Chiang's writing style is described as imaginative, creative, and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on the building of the tower using tools and knowledge from a primitive era. The story follows the journey of stone masons tasked with working on the tower, exploring themes of human ambition, the pursuit of knowledge, and the mysteries of the universe.
Were the power to be laid down across the plain of Shinar, it would be two days journey to walk from one end to the other. While the tower stands, it takes a month and a half to climb from its base to... - #6
'The Guillotine' by Lucas Pederson is a thrilling novel set in a near-future world facing drastic climate change and environmental challenges. The story follows renowned paleontologist archaeologist, Ash Barrington, as he joins an underwater research team to examine dinosaur bones found in Lake Superior. However, their discoveries awaken a prehistoric fish known as Dunk, capable of shearing sharks in half and posing a grave threat to modern society. The plot unfolds with a mix of action, suspense, and the survival of characters in a post-apocalyptic setting, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The writing style of 'The Guillotine' is described as a blend of Peter Benchley, Steve Alten, and Lovecraft, infused with a dystopian near-future setting full of mutant monsters and cold-blooded billionaires. intricately weaves together elements of horror, science fiction, and adventure, offering a unique and engaging story that explores themes of greed, scientific curiosity, and the consequences of meddling with nature.
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'Walk the Vanished Earth' by Erin Swan is a unique blend of science fiction, dystopia, realism, and fantasy, set in a future where genetic manipulation creates beings capable of surviving on Mars. The novel spans different timelines and locations, from a climate-damaged Earth to Mars, portraying a post-apocalyptic world with intriguing characters and complex relationships. Despite some inconsistencies in the plot, the book offers a thought-provoking narrative that delves into themes of human ambition, survival, and the consequences of climate change.
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'The First Men in the Moon' by H.G. Wells is a science fiction novel published in 1901, revolving around two men who construct a spherical space ship using a material called Cavorite to travel to the moon. Once on the moon, they encounter a race of intelligent insect-like beings known as Selenites, who take them into an underground world. The book explores themes of exploration, discovery, and human nature, with a blend of humor, social commentary, and vivid scientific imagination.
As I sit down to write here amidst the shadows of vine-leaves under the blue sky of southern Italy, it comes to me with a certain quality of astonishment that my participation in these amazing adventu... - #9
"My Enemy, the Queen" by Jean Plaidy (Victoria Holt) delves into the complex relationships of Queen Elizabeth I, Robert Dudley, and Lettice Knollys. The book portrays Elizabeth as a multifaceted character, showcasing her love for her nation and her rivalry with Lettice, who is depicted as an enchanting yet unfaithful competitor. The plot unfolds through Lettice's supposed memoir, offering a fictional biography that provides insight into the ambitious and self-centered individuals of that era.
The story captures the dynamics of power, love, and betrayal within the Elizabethan court, focusing on the intertwined lives of Elizabeth, Robert Dudley, and Lettice. The writing style, although at times dry, skillfully portrays the characters' complexities and foreshadows the dramatic events to come, reminiscent of the author's other works like "The Queen's Confession."
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'To Be Taught, If Fortunate' by Becky Chambers is a novella that follows a crew of four astronauts on a scientific mission to explore distant planets that may contain life. The book is written in the form of a diary, providing insights into the narrator's experiences and thoughts as they navigate through different planets, facing moments of jubilation and crisis. The story delves into themes of space exploration, human adaptation, and ethical considerations in encountering alien life forms.
Chambers' writing style in this novella is described as compelling, philosophical, and thought-provoking. The narrative focuses on the crew's scientific exploration, their excitement about discoveries, and the ethical dilemmas they encounter while maintaining communication with Earth. The character development, particularly of the narrator, is highlighted, providing a personal touch to the story as the crew grapples with the vastness of space and their own place in the universe.
If you read nothing else we’ve sent home, please at least read this. I ask knowing full well that this request is antithetical to what I believe in my heart of hearts. Our mission reports contain our ...