Books matching: internal struggles with identity
59 result(s)
- #1
Save:'The New Me' by Halle Butler follows the life of Millie, a disaffected millennial working as a temp in an office setting. The book delves into Millie's struggles with personal hygiene, social interactions, and her aspirations to become a better version of herself. Through a darkly humorous lens, the narrative explores themes of office life, self-discovery, and the challenges faced by young adults in finding their place in the world.
The author, Halle Butler, adopts a sharp and biting writing style to portray the mundane yet chaotic life of Millie. The novel offers a glimpse into the millennial experience, showcasing the protagonist's internal monologues, self-absorbed behaviors, and the subtle cruelties of everyday social interactions. As the story unfolds, Butler skillfully navigates Millie's journey towards self-improvement and self-awareness, painting a convincing portrait of a young woman at a crossroads in her life.
In the windowless back offices of a designer furniture showroom, women stand in a circle, stuffed into ill-fitting black jeans, gray jeans, olive jeans, the ass cloth sagging one inch, two, below wher... - #2
Save:'To Shake the Sleeping Self' by Jedidiah Jenkins is a travel memoir that follows the author's journey from Oregon to Patagonia in search of self-discovery and a life with no regrets. The book chronicles Jedidiah's quest to escape the rat race and embark on an adventure through Latin America. Readers are taken on a raw and honest adventure where the author reflects on his experiences, struggles with his sexuality, and grapples with his personal beliefs and upbringing. The writing style is described as absorbing, open, and magical, whisking readers away on an epic journey filled with deep observations and powerful metaphors.
In early 2011, I told my friends and coworkers. I posted a map of South America on my Instagram. “When I turn thirty, I’m cycling to Patagonia.” Some people cheered me on. “Fuck, yeah!! Go get ’em!” O... - #3
Save:There is a lot packed into this slim novel and juxtaposition in every chapter. Helga Crane was born in the early 1900s to a white mother and an absent black father. At a young age Helga needs to fend for herself and she doesn't fit in with the black or white communities she is a part of. The novel starts with her teaching at an all black school in the South she is not only upset by the subservient attitude taught there but finds she doesn't have the pedigree to fit in the high society of which she is covetous. Her search for acceptance takes her to Chicago, Harlem, Copenhagen, Harlem again, and then back to the South. The book is a sad tale of a woman with limited options trying to find love and identity. It was an interesting view of the race question Helga wasn't black enough to be comfortable in Harlem, but in Copenhagen, where race supposedly wasn't an issue, she is sought after because she is an exotic creature, making her even more uncomfortable and longing for her people.
Quicksand was a fascinating depiction of a woman who can't fit in. Much like Nella Larsen herself, Helga Crane is a black woman, brought up unhappily in a white family her mother is white, her black father is no longer around, and her mother has remarried a white man . Some of the references to her childhood were heartbreaking, knowing that Larsen was writing from her life. Helga Crane is not a very likeable character far too prickly and difficult but a fascinating character. Helga finds it difficult to fit in with white people with her obviously black ancestry , but also finds it difficult to fit into the black community. She has a fascinating friendship with a black woman, Anne, who is very concerned with the race issue which I think is one of those very multi faceted issues, because I couldn't pin it down to one particular aspect . This lack of being able to identify with other people, for Helga, leads to her tragic ending.
HELGA CRANE sat alone in her room, which at that hour, eight in the evening, was in soft gloom. Only a single reading lamp, dimmed by a great black and red shade, made a pool of light on the blue Chin... - #4
Save:The Magnolia Sword: A Ballad of Mulan by Sherry Thomas is a reimagining of the classic tale of Mulan, focusing on martial arts, loyalty, duty, and politics. The book delves into the struggles of Mulan as she disguises herself as her dead brother in an army of soldiers to face off against the Rouran, a group of ethnic Chinese aiming to overthrow the current dynasty. The story intricately weaves historical accuracy with a strong emphasis on Chinese culture, showcasing the refined martial artistry and the complex system of hierarchy and honor that underpins every interaction. The writing style is described as beautiful yet clear, incorporating Chinese elements seamlessly to enhance the setting and culture without disrupting the flow of the narrative.
In those notes of his that somehow find their way into my hands, he has always referred to himself as the Humble Nameless. But I know who he is. I knew the moment I first laid eyes on his sword-lean, ... - #5
Save:'Oblivion: Stories' by David Foster Wallace is a collection of short stories that showcases the author's experimental and complex writing style. The stories delve into themes of existential despair, corporate America, the complexities of consciousness, and the emptiness of affluent society. Wallace's narratives are characterized by intricate sentences, recursive stream of consciousness, and a focus on the internal lives of his characters. The stories touch on topics like suicide, childhood trauma, unusual physical deformities, and the illusions of memory.
The Focus Group was then reconvened in another of Reesemeyer Shannon Belt Advertising’s nineteenth-floor conference rooms. Each member returned his Individual Response Profile packets to the facilitat... The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man by James Weldon Johnson is a novel that follows the story of an unnamed, light-skinned biracial narrator born in post-Civil War Georgia. The protagonist's journey of self-discovery unfolds as he navigates through different cities, educational pursuits, and societal expectations, ultimately grappling with the decision of whether to live as a Black man or pass for white. Through vivid descriptions of historical events, music, and cultural nuances, the book offers a critical examination of race in society and provides insights into the complexities of identity and privilege during that era.
The narrative style of the book is praised for its emotional clarity, engaging storytelling, and historical relevance, offering readers a glimpse into the protagonist's inner conflicts and societal challenges. The author's choice to present the story as a first-person narrative adds depth to the exploration of race and identity, making it a compelling read that resonates with contemporary readers.
I know that in writing the following pages I am divulging the great secret of my life, the secret which for some years I have guarded far more carefully than any of my earthly possessions; and it is a...- #7
Save:In the book "Game" by Barry Lyga, the protagonist Jazz Dent is called to New York City to assist the NYPD and FBI in catching a serial killer known as the Hat Dog Killer. Jazz, who has a unique insight into the minds of killers due to being raised by a notorious serial killer, navigates the gruesome crimes alongside his girlfriend Connie and friend Howie. The book is filled with suspense, intricate plot twists, and cliffhanger endings that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
The story delves into Jazz's inner struggle as he battles his own demons while trying to solve the murders in New York City. The writing style captures the dark and intense atmosphere of the plot, with gory details and unexpected revelations adding to the suspense. Readers are taken on a thrilling journey as Jazz and his companions unravel the mysteries surrounding the Hat Dog Killer, leading to a gripping conclusion that sets the stage for the next installment in the series.
Well, it didn’t matter. Not anymore. Not right now. Names were labels for things, the killer knew. Nouns. Person, place, thing, idea—just like you learned in school. See this thing I drink from? I giv...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series I Hunt Killers ) - #8
Save:'A Hat Full of Sky' by Terry Pratchett is the second book in the Tiffany Aching series, part of the Discworld universe. The story follows young witch Tiffany Aching as she embarks on her apprenticeship with Miss Level, facing challenges such as a hiver, a parasitic entity that takes over one's consciousness. With the help of the Nac Mac Feegle and Granny Weatherwax, Tiffany must navigate her training and defeat the looming threat. The book is praised for its engaging plot, witty writing style, and the character development of Tiffany Aching.
The book is described as a coming-of-age story for tweens, set in the Discworld universe, with a focus on Tiffany's journey to becoming a capable witch. The narrative is filled with humor, wisdom, and fantastical elements like the Nac Mac Feegle faeries, adding charm and depth to the story. Readers appreciate the seamless world-building by Terry Pratchett and the way he explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and courage through the adventures of Tiffany Aching.
It came crackling over the hills, like an invisible fog. Movement without a body tired it, and it drifted very slowly. It wasn’t thinking now. It had been months since it had last thought, because the...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld ) - #9
Save:'The Book of Esther' by Emily Barton is a novel set in an alternate universe where Khazar Jews fight against the 'Germanii' during World War II. The story follows Esther, the daughter of a leading official in Khazaria, who embarks on a journey to seek out mystical Jews with mythical powers to help her lead her country in battle against the invading Germans. The book is a blend of historical reconstruction and fantasy elements, creating a unique storyline that explores themes of Jewish Orthodoxy, gender identity, and the impact of war on society.
The writing style of 'The Book of Esther' has been described as gorgeously odd, filled with magical creatures, strange inventions, and exotic peoples set against the backdrop of a skewed but recognizable Second World War. The novel delves into the internal and external battles faced by the protagonist, Esther, as she grapples with her religious beliefs, gender identity, and the chaos of war, all while navigating a world filled with mythical sidekicks and technological innovations.
- #10
Save:'Bright Familiar' in the 'Bonds of Magic' series by author Jeffe Kennedy is a character-driven story focusing on the relationship between Gabriel and Nic as they navigate their roles as husband and wife, wizard and familiar, and work towards rebuilding House Phel. The plot delves into themes of equality, power dynamics, and overcoming oppressive structures within a dark and intriguing magical world, while also highlighting the care and companionship shared between the characters.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Bonds of Magic )
