Books matching: isolation and connection
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- #1
Save:"Tunneling to the Center of the Earth" by Kevin Wilson is a collection of short stories that delve into the surreal and the ordinary, blending whimsical elements with deep emotional themes. From stories about college graduates creating fantastical tunnels to escape reality to poignant tales of coping with loss and bizarre scenarios like a man obsessed with a circus freak show, the book navigates through a range of unique and imaginative narratives. Wilson's writing style is described as offbeat, creative, and emotionally resonant, with a knack for incorporating absurd situations to highlight basic human truths.
the key to this job is to always remember that you aren’t replacing anyone’s grandmother. You aren’t trying to be a better grandmother than the first one. For all intents and purposes, you are the gra...
(Also, see 43 recommendations for the series Art of the Story ) - #2
Save:'Nightwood' by Djuna Barnes is a modernist novel set in expat Paris during the 1930s. The story revolves around complex relationships and characters such as Baron Felix, Robin, Nora, Jenny, and the enigmatic doctor. The narrative delves into themes of love, passion, sexuality, and self-degradation, portrayed through dense prose and dramatic monologues. Barnes' writing style is described as exquisitely crafted, combining various prose styles from different eras, creating a dream-like and gothic atmosphere throughout the book.
Early in 1880, in spite of a well-founded suspicion as to the advisability of perpetuating that race which has the sanction of the Lord and the disapproval of the people, Hedvig Volkbein, a Viennese w... - #3
Save:The Snow Goose by Paul Gallico is a poignant and heartwarming tale set during World War II, focusing on the unlikely bond between a lonely man, Philip Rhayader, a young girl named Fritha, and an injured snow goose. Rhayader, a hunchback living in seclusion on the Essex coast, finds solace in painting and caring for birds until Fritha brings him the wounded snow goose. As they nurse the goose back to health, a special friendship blossoms between the three characters, leading to a touching story of love, friendship, and bravery. When the call for help at Dunkirk arises, Rhayader embarks on a dangerous mission accompanied by the snow goose, leaving Fritha behind to care for their shared memories.
THE GREAT MARSH lies on the Essex coast between the village of Chelmbury and the ancient Saxon oyster-fishing hamlet of Wickaeldroth. It is one of the last of the wild places of England, a low, far-re... - #4
Save:'Out Stealing Horses' by Per Petterson is a contemplative novel that delves into the relationship between a father and son, set in Norway during and after WWII. The story follows Trond, a man in his 60s who retreats to a remote cabin to reflect on his past, particularly a transformative summer spent with his father in the backwoods country close to the Swedish border. Through flashbacks, the reader discovers the father's involvement in the resistance movement and the impact it had on their lives. The novel skillfully weaves together themes of boyhood friendship, tragedy, loneliness, and the complexities of familial relationships, all while offering vivid descriptions of the Norwegian landscape.
Early November. It’s nine o’clock. The titmice are banging against the window. Sometimes they fly dizzily off after the impact, other times they fall and lie struggling in the new snow until they can ... - #5
Save:Parker Sant, a mute teenager who spends his time stealing from rich people, meets Zelda Toth, a mysterious girl planning to end her life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. As Parker tries to convince Zelda that life is worth living, he also undergoes a journey of self-discovery and reflection. The book blends elements of magical realism with a coming-of-age story, exploring themes of loss, connection, and the complexities of life through captivating storytelling and authentic characters.
THE BOY SAT ON A bench in the lobby of the Palace Hotel. It was about eight thirty in the morning, and he was supposed to be at school. But the boy had always thought it was a load of BS that you were... - #6
Save:"You Are Not Alone" by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the story of Shay Miller, a lonely young woman in New York City who witnesses a suicide on a subway platform. This event leads her to the Moore sisters, Cassandra and Jane, who befriend her and seemingly transform her life. However, as Shay becomes more entangled in their world, she starts to question the true intentions of the Moore sisters and the dark secrets they hide. With unexpected twists, treachery, and deception, the novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats as Shay's life takes a dangerous turn.
The authors, Hendricks and Pekkanen, masterfully weave a complex and suspenseful plot filled with intriguing characters and unexpected revelations. Through a mix of mind games, statistics, and a fast-paced narrative that jumps between past and present, the book delves into themes of obsession, manipulation, and the blurred lines between friendship and deceit. Readers are taken on a roller coaster ride of suspense and tension, as Shay's journey unfolds and leads to a shocking climax that will leave them questioning everything they thought they knew.
Numbers never lie. Statistics, charts, percentages—they don’t contain hidden agendas or shades of gray. They’re pure and true. It isn’t until people start meddling with them, spinning and shaping them... - #7
Save:"Lighthousekeeping" by Jeanette Winterson is a novel that intertwines multiple timelines centered around the keepers of a lighthouse, particularly focusing on an orphan named Silver living with a blind lighthousekeeper named Mr. Pew. The story delves into the lives of various characters, including a 19th-century clergyman named Babel Dark, exploring themes of love, storytelling, and the metaphorical comparison of life to the ocean. The writing style is described as poetic, with short chapters and a blend of magical realism that creates a unique and fantastical atmosphere.
I have no father. There’s nothing unusual about that, even children who do have fathers are often surprised to see them. My own father came out of the sea and went back that way. He was crew on a fish... - #8
Save:Dark Prince by Christine Feehan is the first book in 'The Dark' series, introducing readers to the Carpathians, a race of 'good vampires' who must find a lifemate to avoid becoming evil. The story follows Mikhail, the prince of the Carpathians, who meets Raven, a powerful telepath working with the FBI. As they navigate their intense and dark romance, they face dangers from assassins and vampires threatening their world.
He could no longer fool himself. Slowly, with infinite weariness, Mikhail Dubrinsky closed the leather-bound first edition. This was the end. He could no longer bear it. The books he loved so much cou... - #9
Save:Deafening by Frances Itani is a multilayered story that follows the life of Grania, a deaf woman who navigates the challenges of her disability in the early 20th century, set against the backdrop of World War I. The narrative shifts between Grania's experiences at a deaf school in Ontario and her relationship with her hearing husband, Jim, who goes off to fight in the war. The book delves into the complexities of deaf culture, the impact of war on individuals and families, and the power of love and resilience in the face of adversity.
Grania watches her grandmother’s lips. She understands, pushes aside the heavy tapestry curtain that keeps the draught from blowing up the stairs, and runs up to the landing. She pauses long enough to... - #10
Save:'Pure of Heart' in the 'Faoladh' series by Danielle Parker is a supernatural romance novel set in a small Alaskan town called Fincher. The story follows Harper, a neighborhood werewolf, and Emerson, a book nerd, along with their friends and family. The plot is filled with comedic moments, acceptance of young love, and the budding of relationships. The writing style is engaging, featuring snappy and fun dialogues that keep readers entertained and laughing out loud. The storyline introduces new problems for the protagonists, leading to an intense and heart-rending climax that promises a sequel to answer lingering questions and bring more delightful conflict.
