Books matching: impact of modernization on tradition
7 result(s)
- #1
Save:The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane follows the life of Li Yan, a young woman of the Akha people in the Yunnan province of China. The story intertwines the lives of Li Yan and her daughter, exploring themes of culture, tradition, adoption, and the impact of modernization on ancient rituals. Lisa See's writing is praised for its honesty, research, and ability to immerse the reader in the world of Pu'er tea and the Akha people.
“No coincidence, no story,” my a-ma recites, and that seems to settle everything, as it usually does, after First Brother finishes telling us about the dream he had last night. I don’t know how many t... - #2
Save:Whitethorn Woods by Maeve Binchy is a collection of interconnected short stories set in a small town in Ireland. The stories revolve around the lives of various characters, from teenagers to retired folks, all linked by a shrine to St. Ann. The book explores themes of community, spirituality, and the impact of modernization on traditional beliefs, as the town faces the possibility of a bypass being built near the sacred shrine.
The narrative weaves together individual character profiles with storytelling, offering a glimpse into the diverse lives of the townspeople and their connections to Whitethorn Woods and St. Ann's Well. The book portrays a rich tapestry of humanity, with characters facing personal challenges, relationships, and decisions amidst the backdrop of a changing landscape and the preservation of their town's traditions.
Father Brian Flynn, the curate in St Augustine’s, Rossmore, hated the Feast Day of St Ann with a passion that was unusual for a Catholic priest. But then as far as he knew he was the only priest in th... "A Fortune-Teller Told Me: Earthbound Travels in the Far East" by Tiziano Terzani takes the reader on a remarkable journey through Asia, exploring different cultures, traditions, and ideologies. Terzani's storytelling is captivating as he delves into the mystical world of fortune tellers, healers, and spiritual practices. Through his experiences, the author reflects on the impact of modernization and Westernization on Eastern societies, highlighting the importance of preserving ancient traditions and ways of life.
Life is full of opportunities. The problem is to recognize them when they present themselves, and that isn’t always easy. Mine, for instance, had all the marks of a curse: “Beware! You run a grave ris...- #4
Save:The Memory of Old Jack by Wendell Berry is a poignant novel that delves into the life of Jack Beechum, a 90-year-old Kentucky farmer, as he reflects on his past, struggles, relationships, and the changing world around him. Through Jack's memories, the reader is transported to a time spanning from the Civil War to just past World War II, witnessing his battles with himself, his marriage, his farm, and the evolving values of American society. Wendell Berry's writing style immerses the reader beyond narrative, offering a deep exploration of Jack's life and the contrast between modern American agribusiness and the ideal of a nurturing way of life.
As Jack reminisces on his life from sunrise to sunset on his last day, readers are given a glimpse into his character, his regrets, his joys, and his relationships with the community of Port William, Kentucky. The book beautifully captures Jack's longing for fidelity and connection to the land, while questioning the impact of modern progress on traditional ways of life. Through Jack's introspections and interactions with others, Wendell Berry weaves a melancholic and moving tale of a man coming to terms with his past and the passage of time.
- #5
Save:'The Tree Where Man Was Born' by Peter Matthiessen is a classic and beautifully sad account of Africa in the late 60s and early 70s. The author takes the reader on a journey through East Africa like no other, showcasing an Africa seldom seen, with vivid descriptions of both the people and the places. Matthiessen's writing style is described as dense and poetic, with huge acceptance and a moral center that sometimes expresses rage eloquently yet softly. provides insights into the author's travels in East Africa in the 1960s, highlighting encounters with native peoples, the forces of modernity threatening traditional ways, and the beauty of the African landscape.
- #6Honorby:
Save:'Honor' by Elif Shafak is a captivating novel that delves into the Islamist principles of a Kurdish family struggling with migration and settlement in a new land. The story skillfully contrasts the modern daily lives of families living in Kurdistan and in London, particularly focusing on the different paths chosen by the three children of a sister who left her homeland. The plot unfolds in London during the 70s, amidst the punk and skinhead scene, intertwining themes of honor killings, family dynamics, and the clash between traditional rules and modernity.
The narrative seamlessly moves between Kurdistan and London, exploring the complexities of love, honor, and the struggles faced by women and men in making choices between tradition and personal desires. Through richly developed characters and carefully timed flashbacks, the author sheds light on the cultural nuances and mindset of Turkey, offering a thought-provoking insight into a foreign culture and the practice of honor killings.
My mother died twice. I promised myself I would not let her story be forgotten, but I could never find the time or the will or the courage to write about it. That is, until recently. I don’t think I’l... 'The Hungry Brain: Outsmarting the Instincts That Make Us Overeat' by Stephan Guyenet delves into the complex interplay between biology, evolution, environment, and psychology to explain the epidemic of obesity in North America. Through a blend of scientific research and practical tips, the author explores the biological forces that drive hunger and eating behavior, shedding light on why traditional weight loss strategies often fall short in the face of our brain's hardwired instincts to seek out food. Guyenet's accessible writing style and detailed explanations offer readers a deeper understanding of the brain's role in overeating and obesity, providing insights into how to navigate the modern food environment to achieve a healthier lifestyle.
