Books matching: impoverished setting
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- #1
Save:'Perfect Chemistry' by Simone Elkeles is a young adult novel that follows the story of Brittany Ellis, a popular white girl, and Alex Fuentes, a Mexican gang member, who are forced to be lab partners in senior chemistry class. Despite their vastly different backgrounds and the stereotypes surrounding them, Brittany and Alex find themselves attracted to each other. As they navigate through racial prejudice and societal expectations, they must break free from these constraints to be together. The book explores themes of love, friendship, gang life, and the challenges faced by teenagers from diverse backgrounds.
The plot of 'Perfect Chemistry' is a modern twist on classic tales like Romeo and Juliet and West Side Story, portraying a romance between two individuals from opposite sides of the tracks. The author, Simone Elkeles, skillfully alternates between the voices of Brittany and Alex, providing insight into their lives, emotions, and struggles. The writing style is engaging, realistic, and relatable, capturing the complexities of teenage life, relationships, and societal pressures.
- #2
Save:"My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante is a captivating novel that follows the friendship between two intelligent girls, Elena and Lila, as they navigate the impoverished and violent setting of mid-twentieth century Naples. The story delves into their diverging paths in life, detailing Elena's academic pursuits and Lila's struggles with family obligations and early marriage. Through rich period details and intricate character development, the book explores themes of friendship, rivalry, societal expectations, and the complexities of growing up in a challenging environment.
Elena Ferrante's writing style in "My Brilliant Friend" is praised for its ability to vividly capture the essence of childhood and adolescence, blending detailed descriptions with insightful reflections on life. The narrative, told from Elena's perspective, offers a child's view of the world while weaving in deeper themes of friendship, societal norms, and personal growth. The book sets the stage for a compelling quartet that delves into the evolving relationship between Elena and Lila against the backdrop of post-war Italy.
Lila appeared in my life in first grade and immediately impressed me because she was very bad. In that class we were all a little bad, but only when the teacher, Maestra Oliviero, couldn’t see us. Lil... - #3
Save:'Little Infamies' by Panos Karnezis is a collection of strikingly original short stories set in a small, nameless village in Greece. The stories are described as extraordinary, shocking, colorful, amusing, resonant, and sometimes tragic. Karnezis' writing style is praised as fresh, lyrical, and enriched, with the ability to subvert English into a delight to read. captures the essence of contemporary Greece while being compared to the works of renowned authors like James Joyce, Raymond Carver, and Guy de Maupassant.
Since dawn the air had the sultriness of fermenting juices and later, just before lunch, the dog started barking for no reason and did not stop until Father Yerasimo chased her away with stones. He co... - #4
Save:'The Moonfire Bride' by Sylvia Mercedes is a slow-burn magical romance set in a world where a human girl, Valera, is claimed as a Fae Bride. The book delves into the complex relationship between Valera and Erolas, focusing on their emotional and physical attraction despite Valera's mistrust and fear of the fae. The plot unfolds gradually, with a detailed exploration of Valera's character development and her evolving perceptions of the fae world. The writing style combines vivid descriptions, heartwarming moments, and intense conversations between the characters, creating a captivating and enchanting story with elements of fairy tale retellings.
Strange. I could have sworn that a voice—deep and dark as a moonless night—whispered directly into my ear. Even now I feel the tickle of warm breath raising gooseflesh on my neck. But no. The room is ... - #5
Save:'Cruddy' by Lynda Barry is a dark and disturbing coming-of-age tale that follows the life of 16-year-old Roberta, also known as Clyde, as she recounts her troubled past. Kidnapped by her father at age 11, Roberta is taken on a violent and surreal road trip in search of her grandfather's hidden inheritance. The narrative alternates between Roberta's harrowing past and her drug-fueled teenage years, where she befriends outcasts and delves into a world of chaos and self-discovery. The book is described as a blend of horror, humor, and dark realism, with compelling characters and a unique storytelling style that keeps readers gripped until the end.
The Turtle said, “Would you ladies like to join me in New Orleans? Would you like to experience the malodor of the sad drunk’s urine in Pirate’s Alley? Would you care to gaze upon the House of the Ris... "Infections and Inequalities: The Modern Plagues" by Paul Farmer is a compelling exploration of the modern epidemics of tuberculosis and HIV infection, focusing on the challenges faced by impoverished victims in countries like Haiti, Peru, and the US. Farmer provides clinical vignettes that vividly showcase the impact of inequalities on health and the struggles of those affected by infectious diseases. delves into the political economy of disease while emphasizing the global interconnectedness of health issues and the urgent need for action to address health disparities worldwide.
As I prepared this book, an anonymous reviewer of an early draft suggested that, since the book reflects a personal journey, it should make explicit the itinerary taken. The idea of a confessional cas...- #7
Save:'My Autobiography' by Charlie Chaplin is a detailed account of the legendary actor's life, from his poverty-stricken London childhood to his rise to fame in Hollywood. The book delves into Chaplin's introspective character, his emotional journey, and his experiences in the film industry, providing insights into his personal life and career. The writing style is described as simple, honest, and emotional, allowing readers to connect with Chaplin on a deeper level and gain a better understanding of the man behind the iconic 'Little Tramp' character.
I WAS born on 16 April 1889, at eight O’clock at night, in East Lane, Walworth. Soon after, we moved to West Square, St George’s Road, Lambeth. According to Mother my world was a happy one. Our circum... - #8
Save:Outer Dark by Cormac McCarthy is a dark and haunting tale set in rural Appalachia, following the story of a brother, Culla, and his sister, Rinthy. The plot revolves around the disturbing events of incest, abandonment, and the search for a lost baby. Throughout their journeys, the siblings encounter various characters, both kind and cruel, as they navigate a bleak and unforgiving world. The writing style of McCarthy is described as beautifully expressive, with haunting prose that effectively captures the brutality and beauty of the characters and their surroundings.
She shook him awake from dark to dark, delivered out of the clamorous rabble under a black sun and into a night more dolorous, sitting upright and cursing beneath his breath in the bed he shared with ... - #9
Save:'A Cry of Angels' by Terry Kay is a heart-stirring story set in a small town in Georgia during the 1950s. The plot revolves around themes of life, hardship, coming of age, and the fight against racial injustice. The book introduces readers to vivid and believable characters who struggle against mob-like oppression and aim for victory. The writing style is described as brilliant, with detailed characterizations and vividly painted scenes that bring the story to life.
The narrative is centered on a 14-year-old boy who, after the traumatic death of his parents, befriends a large Indian man who helps him overcome his fears through physical and somewhat scary methods. The story captures a pivotal point in American history and is praised for its portrayal of friendship, resilience, and the fight against injustice.
Irene Spencer's memoir, 'Shattered Dreams: My Life as a Polygamist's Wife,' delves into her life growing up in an impoverished polygamous family, her marriage to a true polygamist, and the challenges she faced living with nine other wives and over fifty children. The book details Irene's struggles with poverty, neglect, and harsh living conditions, as well as her eventual questioning of the polygamous religion she was raised in. Despite the hardships, Irene's story is one of courage and escape, offering readers a glimpse into the realities of polygamous lifestyles.
As we were growing up, polygamy was the ruling tenet of our lives. This “Celestial Law” was so integral to who we were and what we were trying to accomplish that most often, we referred to it simply a...
