Books matching: humor mixed with serious
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:'English Passengers' by Matthew Kneale is a novel that intricately weaves together multiple perspectives to tell the story of the British colonization of Tasmania in the 19th century. The book follows a diverse cast of characters, including a Manx smuggler, a country parson, an escaped convict, a mixed-race aborigine, a race supremacy theorist, and a reluctant botanist, as they navigate through the chaotic expedition to Tasmania in search of the original Garden of Eden. Through various voices, the author sheds light on the historical background, the amusing yet heartbreaking tale, and the different viewpoints on colonization, prejudice, and genocide.
The writing style of 'English Passengers' is praised for its humor, wit, and multi-perspective narrative. The book delves into the dark history of Tasmania, tackling themes of racial extinction, religious fervor, and the impact of European colonization on the indigenous population. With a blend of comedy and tragedy, the novel offers a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the historical events and characters in a way that is both entertaining and informative.
SAY A MAN catches a bullet through his skull in somebody’s war, so where’s the beginning of that? You might say that’s easy. That little moment has its start the day our hero goes marching off to figh... - #2
Save:'Cold Fire' in the series 'The Circle Opens' by Tamora Pierce follows Daja as she travels to Namorn with her mentor Frostpine. While there, she discovers twin girls with unique magical abilities and takes on the responsibility of training them. As Daja navigates the magical world in a new city, she also faces the challenge of stopping a firebug who is setting fires in a city made mostly of wood. The story delves into darker themes such as arson, abuse, and the complexities of human nature, all while showcasing the growth of Daja as a character and her interactions with the people she meets.
Niamara Bancanor, twelve and sometimes too helpful in Daja Kisubo's opinion, gripped Daja's left hand and elbow. They stood on one edge of a broad circle of ice where the Bancanors docked their househ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Circle Opens ) - #3
Save:"The Charm Offensive" by Alison Cochrun is a heartwarming gay demisexual contemporary romance that unfolds on a reality TV show akin to The Bachelor. The story follows Charlie, a tech millionaire cast as the show's Prince Charming, and Dev, his producer. As their emotional relationship deepens, Charlie experiences sexual attraction for the first time, leading to a sweet and thought-provoking exploration of love, mental health, and personal growth amid the backdrop of a heteronormative environment.
The book delves into the intimate journey of Charlie and Dev as they navigate their mental health struggles, find acceptance, and seek true love in unexpected places. Through accurate and respectful representation of queer love and neurodivergent mental illness, the author, Alison Cochrun, weaves a tale of connection, communication, and depth that resonates with readers seeking emotional intimacy and meaningful relationships.
He is ten years old, sitting cross-legged in his living room, staring up at the television in awe at Ever After. It’s like the stories he reads before bed, tented under Star Wars sheets long after his... - #4
Save:'Bear Head' in the series 'Dogs of War' by Adrian Tchaikovsky is set in a near-term dystopian future where climate change, amoral politicians, and untrammeled power shape the backdrop of a fast-paced plotline centered around Mars colonization. The narrative explores themes of abuse of power, technological advancements, and reflections on our current world through a sci-fi lens. The author weaves astute observations on politics and the risks posed by advancing technology into the adventure, creating a thought-provoking and engaging storyline. The characters, including uplifted animals, humans, and modified beings, navigate complex moral dilemmas and face off against evil forces, all while delving into what it means to be human in a world where boundaries are blurred.
We’re off to the perimeter, heading uphill on our little Loonie towards where a canopy tether should have been but – Damage Central tells us – isn’t. Three of us crammed into the front, and a big old ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dogs of War ) - #5
Save:'Loathe at First Sight' by Suzanne Park follows the journey of Melody Joo, a Korean woman working as a video game producer in a male-dominated industry. The book sheds light on the challenges Melody faces in a workplace filled with sexism, misogyny, and racism. While the romantic subplot is present, the focus remains on Melody's career struggles and her determination to succeed in a hostile environment. The writing style is described as funny, well-paced, and engaging, offering a unique perspective on the gaming world.
The other two Asian guys in the room looked at me, then whispered to each other in Cantonese and laughed. Whatever they said, I knew it wasn’t She seems very smart and cool—we should cut her some slac... - #6
Save:'Superbia' in the 'Shades of Sin' series by Colette Rhodes is a enemies-to-lovers story focusing on Astrid, the best Shade Hunter who defected from the human realm to protect her sister, Queen Ophelia. The plot continues from the first book, involving rebels trying to unseat the king and Astrid's sister, led by Soren's sister who is in prison. The book delves into themes of prejudice, breaking down walls, and overcoming internal conflicts, all while maintaining a balance between humor, tension, and steamy scenes. The writing style is described as flowing effortlessly, with fully realized characters, realistic personalities, and engaging inner monologues.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Shades of Sin ) - #7
Save:In "Murder Must Advertise," Lord Peter Wimsey goes undercover at an advertising agency to investigate a suspicious death and uncovers a drug smuggling ring. The book delves into the world of advertising in the 1930s, with the author drawing on her own experience in the industry to provide a detailed and fascinating portrayal of office life and office politics. The plot combines elements of mystery, humor, and social commentary, offering a witty and entertaining read for fans of the genre.
Miss Rossiter tucked her note-book under her arm, closed the glass-panelled door noiselessly after her and tripped smartly down the corridor. Peeping through another glass-panelled door, she observed ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Lord Peter Wimsey ) - #8
Save:'The Culling of Man' by Craig Kobayashi is a litrpg story set in an apocalyptic world where humanity faces a sudden and catastrophic event leading to the near extinction of the human race. The main character, Garath, navigates through a world filled with monsters, skills, and gaming elements while exploring the consequences of his choices and the impact on his soul. The plot revolves around survival, character growth, and the discovery of the true cost of summoning demons in a world where humanity must unite to face foreign threats and maintain their position on their home planet.
The writing style of 'The Culling of Man' is described as engaging, with a focus on world-building, game mechanics, and character development. The story combines elements of fantasy, survival, and strategy, keeping readers intrigued by the unfolding events, twists, and challenges faced by the characters as they strive to survive in a post-apocalyptic world.
Aleron was spending his Tuesday evening in much the same way he had spent every evening in recent memory: playing games hunched over his computer. On that fateful night, he had been solo grinding to l... - #9
Save:'The Bastard of Istanbul' by Elif Shafak is a novel that intertwines the lives of a Turkish and an American Armenian family, shedding light on the unmentionable topic of the Armenian genocide. The story follows two young girls, Asya and Armanoush, who discover their shared past and family secrets, bridging the gap between their Turkish and Armenian heritage. Through vivid descriptions of Istanbul and a mix of historical and contemporary fiction, the author explores themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage, providing insights into the complex relationships between Turks and Armenians.
No matter what might pour down, no matter how heavy the cloudburst or how icy the sleet, you should never ever utter profanities against whatever the heavens might have in store for us. Everybody know... - #10
Save:Anya's Ghost by Vera Brosgol is a graphic novel about a teenage girl named Anya who is struggling to fit in at school while dealing with issues like weight, fitting in, and falling down a well where she meets a ghost named Emily. Initially, Emily helps Anya with school and boys, making her life seem perfect, but as the story unfolds, Anya realizes that things may not be as they seem, and she must navigate the complexities of friendship, identity, and fitting in.
The book beautifully captures the themes of adolescent struggles, the immigrant experience, and the desire to belong while incorporating elements of suspense, humor, and insight. Through expressive storytelling and engaging illustrations, Vera Brosgol weaves a tale that explores the challenges of growing up, the importance of cultural heritage, and the complexities of teenage relationships.
