Books matching: human relationships
100 result(s)
- #1
'The Fat Man in History' by Peter Carey is a collection of short stories that showcase the author's unique writing style and storytelling abilities. The stories cover a range of themes and ideas, often delving into satire and social commentary. Carey's prose is praised for being excellent, with some stories exploring abstract and macabre elements while others focus on human relationships and surrealistic plots. The writing style is described as spare but powerful, often evoking emotions and leaving a strong impression on the reader.
His feet are sore. The emporium seems endless as he shuffles an odd-legged shuffle with the double-bed sheets under his arm. It is like a nightmare—the exit door in sight but not coming any closer, th... Elective Affinities by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is a novel that delves into the intricate relationships between characters, exploring the concept of human chemistry and the inevitability of attraction. The plot revolves around a married couple, Charlotte and Eduard, who invite an old friend and a young girl to live with them, leading to a series of romantic entanglements reminiscent of chemical reactions. Goethe's writing style in this book is characterized by a deep exploration of human behavior and emotions, using the analogy of chemistry to portray the complexities of love, marriage, and free will.
Eduard—let that be the name we give to a wealthy baron in the best years of his life—Eduard had spent the loveliest hours of an April afternoon in his nursery grafting young trees with shoots newly ar...- #3
'Mara and Dann' by Doris Lessing is a post-apocalyptic novel set in a distant future where Africa is the only inhabitable continent due to global warming. The story follows the journey of siblings Mara and Dann as they travel from drought-ridden South Africa to a better life in the North. Along the way, they encounter various challenges, make friends and enemies, and explore remnants of past civilizations. explores themes of survival, adaptation to climate change, societal issues, and the endurance of the earth through inevitable change, all portrayed through the complex and authentic characters created by Lessing.
The scene that the child, then the girl, then the young woman tried so hard to remember was clear enough in its beginnings. She had been hustled—sometimes carried, sometimes pulled along by the hand—t... - #4
'Clade' by James Bradley is a thought-provoking and haunting novel set in a near future world plagued by climate change. The story follows the lives of various characters as they navigate through the challenges of a world facing environmental catastrophes. Bradley's writing style is described as beautifully written, imaginative, and futuristic, offering a glimpse into a possible future that is both terrifying and insightful.
As Adam steps outside the cold strikes him like a physical thing, the shock still startling after all these weeks. For a moment he pauses, looking out across the bay, the crowding floes of ice. Then, ... - #5
'A Fisherman of the Inland Sea' is a collection of short stories by Ursula K. Le Guin that explores various worlds within the Hainish Universe. The book delves into themes of technology, human relationships, gender identity, and societal norms through thought-provoking and imaginative storytelling. Le Guin's writing style is described as beautifully written, thought-provoking, and rich with anthropological and sociological explorations of oppression, societal norms, and fundamental understandings of reality.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Hainish Cycle ) - #6
'Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8: A Young Man's Voice from the Silence of Autism' by Naoki Higashida is a powerful and enlightening book that offers a unique perspective on living with autism. Through the eyes of the author, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and hope. Naoki's writing style is engaging, sometimes funny, heartbreaking, and heartwarming, providing an intimate look into his inner world and the challenges he faces daily. The book is a message of encouragement, answering questions, and sharing wonderful stories that resonate with both caregivers and individuals with autism.
Naoki's book delves deep into the complexities of autism, highlighting the importance of patience, understanding, and love in navigating the obstacles faced by autistic individuals. The narrative not only sheds light on the strength and obstacles that autistic people endure but also emphasizes the power of hope and the ability to soldier on even in the toughest of times. Through Naoki's articulate and heartfelt descriptions, readers gain a whole new perspective on life, learning to empathize, think differently, and appreciate the humanity that unites us all.
A sudden shower arrived out of nowhere. As soon as Mum heard the sound of rain she cried, “It’s raining!” and dashed upstairs to the balcony to gather in the washing without looking out of the window.... - #7
The Good Apprentice by Iris Murdoch follows the story of Edward, a young man plagued by guilt after a tragic incident involving his best friend. The novel delves into themes of guilt, remorse, sex, and love, exploring the complexities of human relationships and the search for redemption. Set in London, the narrative weaves together the lives of various characters, including Edward's family members, as they navigate through their own personal struggles and moral dilemmas. With a dense and complicated plot, the book touches on philosophy, morality, and the supernatural, offering surprising plot twists and coincidences that challenge the characters' beliefs and values.
These were not perhaps the actual words which Edward Baltram uttered to himselfon the occasion of his momentous and mysterious summons, yet their echo was not absent even then, and later he repeated t... - #8
"Silverview" by John le Carre is a contemplative spy novel that delves into the complexities of espionage and the inner workings of a spy organization. The plot revolves around a dying espionage agent and the impact of her clandestine activities on those around her. The novel highlights the consequences of poorly planned intelligence efforts, the conflicts between loyalty and self-interest, and the blurred lines between duty and personal relationships. Through a narrative that focuses on human drama and conflicting values, the author explores themes of betrayal, duty, and the sacrifices made in the world of spies.
The writing style in "Silverview" is characterized by intricate storytelling that draws readers into a world where people and relationships matter. The author skillfully weaves together a narrative that explores the moral complexities of espionage, while also providing insights into the characters' inner struggles and the consequences of their actions. offers a reflective look at the world of spies, inviting readers to question the values of loyalty, patriotism, and the true cost of living a life shrouded in secrets.
- #9
'Today I Am Carey' by Martin L. Shoemaker is a captivating science fiction novel that delves into the theme of artificial intelligence and self-awareness. The story follows an android named Carey who evolves beyond its programming, sparking questions about sentience and the blurred lines between man and machine. Through Carey's journey of growth and introspection, the novel explores complex topics such as dementia, human relationships, and the essence of humanity. Shoemaker's writing style skillfully weaves together philosophical questions with emotional depth, creating a thought-provoking narrative that resonates with readers.
My brother-in-arms “Editor” Bill Emerson has stood by me since the start of my writing career. He reads everything I write. He comments on most of it. I listen to most of his comments. (Well, some . .... - #10
'A Collection of Nightmares' by Christina Sng is a dark and beautifully crafted collection of poetry that delves into themes of sleeplessness, shadows, horror, and dark science fiction. The poems paint vivid and haunting imagery, exploring topics like parenthood, human relationships, the apocalypse, death, and the macabre. Through Sng's elegant and dangerous writing style, readers are taken on a journey through blood and gore, where nightmares come to life in poetic form, leaving a lasting impact on the mind.