Books matching: human struggles

100 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    Havah by Tosca Lee
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    'Havah' by Tosca Lee is a retelling of the story of Eve from the moment of her creation to their fall and exile, narrated from Eve's point of view. The novel brings to life the characters of Adam and Eve, portraying them as real people in a real world filled with beauty, pain, and love. The author's writing style is described as challenging but captivating, offering a personal and intimate perspective on the biblical tale of creation.

    I lay on a soft bed of grass that tickled my shoulders, the arch of my foot, whispering sibilant secrets up to the trees. I could feel the thrum of sap in the stem—the pulsing veins of the vine, the m...

  2. #2

    Ironweed by William Kennedy
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    'Ironweed' by William Kennedy is a poignant and tragic tale set during the Great Depression, focusing on the life of Francis Phelan, a former baseball player turned homeless gravedigger. The novel delves into Francis's past, haunted by ghosts of his checkered history and his struggle with guilt and redemption. Through vivid imagery and descriptive writing, Kennedy portrays the underbelly of society, exploring themes of forgiveness, love, and the harsh realities faced by the homeless and destitute during that era.

    The story unfolds in Albany, New York, painting a raw and gritty picture of life on the streets, where characters like Francis and his common-law wife, Helen, navigate through their past traumas and present struggles. Kennedy's writing style is described as powerful and intimate, drawing readers into the depths of Francis's journey and the atmospheric setting of Depression-era America.

    Riding up the winding road of Saint Agnes Cemetery in the back of the rattling old truck, Francis Phelan became aware that the dead, even more than the living, settled down in neighborhoods. The truck...

  3. #3

    This Dark Earth by John Hornor Jacobs
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    This Dark Earth by John Hornor Jacobs is a zombie novel with a unique twist. The story follows characters like Lucy, Knock Out, and Gus as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world filled with zombies. The book delves into the devolution of humankind, showcasing their struggle for survival and the challenges they face in a world overrun by the undead. The writing style is described as beautiful, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps readers engaged till the end.


  4. #4

    The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet - Wayfarers by Becky Chambers
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    'The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet' by Becky Chambers follows the journey of the crew aboard the Wayfarer, a mixed species group traveling through space to a distant planet. The novel is a character-driven science fiction tale that delves into themes of relationships, personal growth, and diverse cultures. With a focus on the crew's interactions and daily lives, the story unfolds as a cozy and intimate exploration of the universe where humans are a minor part of the Galactic Commons. The narrative combines elements of space opera with episodic adventures, providing insightful glimpses into human and sapient nature.

    The writing style of the book is described as light and engaging, with a strong emphasis on character development and world-building. The author intricately introduces multiple alien species, each with distinct characteristics and cultural backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry of diverse perspectives and experiences. Despite the lack of traditional dramatic tension, the novel offers a heartfelt and enjoyable read that resonates with fans of character-driven narratives and space exploration.

    Living in space was anything but quiet. Grounders never expected that. For anyone who had grown up planetside, it took some time to get used to the clicks and hums of a ship, the ever-present ambiance...

  5. #5
    The Sparrow
    Book 1 in the series:The Sparrow

    The Sparrow - The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell
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    The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell is a speculative fiction novel that delves into themes of faith, friendship, and first contact with an alien civilization. The story follows a Jesuit-led mission to the planet Rakhat, exploring the complexities of human nature, morality, and the consequences of cultural misunderstandings when encountering an alien race. Through a non-linear narrative, the author weaves together past and present timelines, gradually revealing the heartbreaking fate of the characters and the challenges they face in a mission that tests their beliefs and resilience.

    The Sparrow is a character-driven novel that combines elements of science fiction, theology, and anthropology to create a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant story. Mary Doria Russell's writing style is rich and deep, immersing readers in a world that is both unique and familiar, while exploring profound questions about faith, love, and the human condition. The book offers a moving exploration of the inner struggles and journeys of its characters, presenting a narrative that is both captivating and poignant.

    THE FATHER GENERAL’S private secretary contacted Father John Candotti on the Feast of the Holy Innocents, three weeks after Emilio’s arrival at Number 5. "Sandoz is well enough to see you now," Johann...

  6. #6

    Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
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    'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir is a science fiction novel that follows the story of Ryland Grace, a man who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of who he is or why he is there. He soon discovers that he is on a mission to save humanity from an alien infestation that is consuming the sun. The book combines elements of suspense, science, and adventure as Ryland navigates challenges, solves scientific problems, and forms unexpected alliances with alien lifeforms to unravel the mystery and find a solution to save Earth.

    The writing style of 'Project Hail Mary' is described as fast-paced, humorous, and engaging. The author, Andy Weir, expertly weaves scientific details into the narrative, making complex concepts accessible and adding credibility to the mind-bending events in the story. The book alternates between present-time events on the spaceship and flashbacks that provide background information, creating a well-balanced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    What’s going on? I want to find out, but I don’t have much to work with. I can’t see. I can’t hear anything other than the computer. I can’t even feel. No, that’s not true. I feel something. I’m lying...

  7. #7

    Harvest by Jim Crace
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    Set in an English village known only as The Village, 'Harvest' by Jim Crace follows the aftermath of a unique harvest and the arrival of three new settlers, leading to chaos and confusion that alters the village forever. Through Walter Thirsk's narration, the story unfolds gradually, exploring themes of abuse of power, class dynamics, and the disastrous consequences of change. The book is rich in allegorical elements, with layers that delve into the emotions, behaviors, and interactions of the villagers in a small, isolated community.

    But it is the second twist of gray that calls us close, that has us rushing early from our homes on this rest day toward Master Kent’s house. From a distance this smoke is pale. No one has added green...

  8. #8

    The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
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    The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis is a thought-provoking allegorical tale that follows a man's journey from Hell to a chance at salvation in the afterlife. Through vivid imagery and engaging dialogue, Lewis presents various scenarios exploring sin, goodness, and the choices individuals make in relation to Heaven and Hell. The book delves into deep theological concepts and challenges readers to consider their beliefs about the afterlife and spiritual truths.

    I seemed to be standing in a busy queue by the side of a long, mean street. Evening was just closing in and it was raining. I had been wandering for hours in similar mean streets, always in the rain a...

  9. #9

    The Color of Distance - Alien Ecology by Amy Thomson
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    'The Color of Distance' by Amy Thomson follows Juna Saari, a survey biologist stranded on an alien planet after a crash landing. Rescued by the native Tendu aliens, Juna must adapt to their biotechnological manipulation and unique culture, living among them for five years. The story delves into the rich cultural details of the Tendu, their ecology, and the challenges of bridging the gap between two distinct civilizations. With a focus on ecological hard science fiction and vivid depictions of the alien rainforest, the book explores themes of first contact, survival, and the importance of harmony and balance between different species.

    The patch of white turned out to be two unusual animals lying on the forest floor. At first the two strange animals didn’t even seem to be alive. The white shell that covered them was made of somethin...

  10. #10

    The Art Of Racing In The Rain by Garth Stein
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    'The Art Of Racing In The Rain' by Garth Stein is a heartwarming novel narrated by Enzo, a dog who shares his perspective on life, family, and the world around him. Through Enzo's eyes, readers experience the joys and sorrows of his owner, Denny, a race car driver, and his family. The book weaves together themes of love, loyalty, and the human experience, all while using racing as a metaphor for life's challenges and triumphs.

    The writing style of the book is engaging and unique, as it captures the essence of Enzo's voice and musings on life with humor and insight. The story unfolds through a dog's point of view, offering a fresh and emotional take on family dynamics, personal struggles, and the power of companionship. Readers are drawn into Enzo's world, where he navigates through love, loss, and the pursuit of understanding the complexities of human relationships.

    Gestures are all that I have; sometimes they must be grand in nature. And while I occasionally step over the line and into the world of the melodramatic, it is what I must do in order to communicate c...

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