Books matching: internal struggles
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- #1
Save:A genuine and resonant coming-of-age tale that doesn’t shy away from messy feelings or real-world imperfections - recommended for anyone drawn to authentic, character-driven YA, especially those wanting thoughtful LGBTQ+ stories.
"The Vast Fields of Ordinary" by Nick Burd is a coming-of-age novel that follows Dade, a gay teenager on the brink of adulthood. Dade navigates his last summer before college, grappling with his closeted relationship, his parents' failing marriage, and the desire for something more. When he meets Alex, a mysterious and transformative figure, Dade begins to explore love, self-acceptance, and the complexities of growing up. The writing style is described as lyrical, capturing the urgency and beauty of young romance while delving into mature themes like drug use, sexual activity, and destructive behaviors.
My father, Ned, ran Cedarville’s only luxury car dealership, and my mother, Peggy, was an art teacher at St. Jude’s, the smaller of the two Catholic schools in town. When I was thirteen we moved from...April 2009•329 pages - #2
Save:A cornerstone of classic French literature - more about heartbreak, honor, and introspection than grand romance. Not an easy read, but a rewarding one if you love thoughtful, layered stories.
The Princesse de Cleves by Madame de La Fayette is a novel set in the French court during the reign of Henri II. Centered around the aristocratic love affair between the Princess de Cleves and the Duc de Nemours, the story delves into themes of forbidden love, court politics, and societal expectations. The narrative explores the inner turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by the characters, particularly focusing on the Princess's struggle between duty to her husband and her feelings for another man. The writing style is noted for its extreme inwardness, providing a deep insight into the characters' minds and emotions, reminiscent of early psychological novels.
1678•284 pages - #3
Save:A philosophical deep-dive into alienation and the search for meaning - brilliant and thought-provoking for some, slow and gloomy for others. Read if you want to challenge your mind; skip if you crave action or lightheartedness.
Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre is a philosophical novel that delves into the existential crisis of the protagonist, Antoine Roquentin. The book is written in a diary-like format, detailing Roquentin's thoughts and experiences as he grapples with the meaninglessness of life and his own existence. The narrative explores themes of existentialism, self-reflection, and the struggle to find purpose in a world devoid of inherent meaning. Sartre's writing style is introspective and contemplative, presenting a deep dive into the inner workings of the protagonist's mind.
I think I’m the one who has changed: that’s the simplest solution. Also the most unpleasant. But I must finally realize that I am subject to these sudden transformations. The thing is that I rarely th...1938•223 pages - #4
Save:A short, intense, and thought-provoking classic that delivers an unforgettable (if sometimes uncomfortable) dive into self-doubt, spite, and the reasons we act against our own interests. Difficult but rewarding - perfect for those who want their fiction to pull no punches.
'Notes from Underground' by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novella that delves into the existential crisis of the unnamed protagonist, referred to as the Underground Man. The story is presented in a diary form, exploring the protagonist's self-loathing, bitterness, and feelings of insignificance. The narrative is a mix of philosophical musings, societal critique, and introspective reflections, showcasing the protagonist's struggles with alienation and his disdain for societal norms. Dostoyevsky's writing style is described as beautiful yet painful, capturing the essence of a man living a life of terrible insignificance.
The novella is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on the Underground Man's philosophical ramblings and the second part providing a narrative that sheds light on the protagonist's background and descent into the underground. Dostoyevsky weaves themes of free will, existentialism, and the human condition throughout the narrative, presenting a character who grapples with his own sense of identity and purpose. The book is praised for its smooth writing style, compelling storytelling, and the profound insights it offers into the complexities of human nature and societal conventions.
I am a sick person . . . A spiteful one. An unattractive person, too. I think my liver is diseased. But I don’t give a damn about my disease and in fact I don’t even know what’s wrong with me. I do no...1864•134 pages A stylish and atmospheric love letter to Batman, told through a collage of short stories by some of comics’ top creators. Not every tale is a home run, but the best are truly memorable - a must-read for Bat-fans and graphic novel enthusiasts alike.
"Batman: Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?" is a collection of short stories by different authors and artists, each providing a unique take on the character of Batman. The book features a variety of perspectives on Batman, showcasing different art styles and storytelling techniques. The stories range from comical to dark and provide insight into the mind of the Dark Knight and his relationships with his allies and foes.
The artwork in this collection emphasizes the Dark Knight persona of Batman, fitting the themes of the character perfectly. The stories focus more on creating atmosphere and characterization rather than following a strict plot, resulting in a darker and more introspective portrayal of Batman. The book offers a range of stories, from psychological dramas to WWII adventures, all contributing to a multifaceted exploration of Batman's world and his impact on Gotham City.
1995•138 pages- #6
Save:A bold, emotional family drama with heavy themes and a unique narrative style - messy and ambitious, it will intrigue Picoult fans and those drawn to controversial issues, but might frustrate readers wanting more focus and subtlety.
The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult revolves around the story of a family in turmoil after their daughter, Trixie, is raped by her ex-boyfriend. The novel delves into the complexities of family relationships, addressing issues of infidelity, identity, and parental response to trauma. Through the narrative, Picoult sensitively explores themes of rape, betrayal, and the struggles faced by each family member as they navigate through the aftermath of the assault.
The storyline of The Tenth Circle is interwoven with elements of Dante's poetry, comic book illustrations, and the Alaskan setting, adding layers of depth and intrigue to the plot. The author skillfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers engaged, incorporating unexpected twists and thought-provoking themes that highlight the challenges faced by the characters in dealing with loss, judgment, and personal growth.
October 2006•468 pages - #7
Save:A dark, haunting, and thought-provoking classic that’s as challenging as it is rewarding, especially for readers who crave deep psychological and philosophical storytelling.
'The Temple of the Golden Pavilion' by Yukio Mishima is a novel based on true events, following the protagonist Mizoguchi, a Zen acolyte tormented by his pathological obsession with the Golden Pavilion. The book delves deep into Mizoguchi's mind, motivations, and destructive impulses, exploring themes of beauty, obsession, nihilism, and the harshness of life. Mishima's exceptional prose vividly portrays Mizoguchi's descent into madness, drawing parallels with a real-life arson incident at the Golden Temple in 1950.
The narrative unfolds through Mizoguchi's eyes, a troubled character struggling with a severe stutter and an unattainable ideal of beauty. Mishima's writing style immerses the reader in a world of obsession and destruction, exploring the inner workings of a sick individual and prompting self-reflection on the nature of beauty and perfection. The book offers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of Mizoguchi's existential journey, culminating in a disturbing and poignant tale of obsession and tragedy.
My birthplace was a lonely cape that projects into the Sea of Japan northeast of Maizuru. Father, however, was not born there, but at Shiraku in the eastern suburbs of Maizuru. He was urged to join th...1956•283 pages - #8
Save:'Devilry' in the series 'King University' by author Marley Valentine is a tale of forbidden love between Cole Huxley, a new professor at King University, and Elijah Williams, a scholarship student from a super religious town. The story unfolds as these two characters navigate their undeniable chemistry and the challenges that come with their relationship. The plot is filled with internal struggles, complicated situations, and major roadblocks that test their love while showcasing growth and acceptance from friends and family. The writing style is described as fantastic, romantic, swoon-worthy, and emotional, with a beautiful development of the romance between Cole and Elijah.
June 2019•365 pages After the destruction of the second Death Star on Endor, Han proposes to Leia and they embark on a honeymoon aboard The Halycon, which turns into a diplomatic mission to a moon valuable to the Republic. The story alternates between Han and Leia's perspectives, delving into Leia's internal conflict about training as a Jedi and her complicated feelings towards her lineage, while showcasing Han and Leia's early relationship post-Empire defeat.
That’s what Han had told the rebel Pathfinders after he’d left the Imperial base they’d uncovered on the other side of Endor. While the Death Star had been constructed in orbit around the forest moon,...August 2022•383 pages- #10
Save:A witty, beautifully written look at the contradictions of modern motherhood and marriage, set against a vibrant Tokyo backdrop. Perfect for fans of honest, character-driven stories.
'Fault Lines' by Emily Itami is a novel that delves into the complexities of marriage, motherhood, and societal expectations. The story follows Mizuki, a Japanese housewife who seemingly has it all - a loving husband, two children, and a comfortable life. However, beneath the surface, Mizuki grapples with feelings of unfulfillment and loneliness. When she meets a charming man named Kiyoshi, Mizuki finds herself drawn to him emotionally and romantically, leading her to navigate the blurred lines between her desires and responsibilities. Through Mizuki's journey, the book explores themes of love, attraction, societal norms, and the search for personal fulfillment, all set against the backdrop of Tokyo.
Emily Itami's writing style in 'Fault Lines' has been praised for its lyrical and evocative quality, painting a vivid picture of Tokyo and Japanese culture. The author skillfully weaves a narrative that captures the raw emotions and inner turmoil of Mizuki, creating a compelling story that resonates with readers on a deep and emotional level.
The whole Kiyoshi situation started a long time before he was ever in the picture. The way a calligraphy painting begins before the first black stroke makes it onto the page. Begins when the painter c...September 2021•226 pages
