Books matching: keen observations
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:New Arabian Nights by Robert Louis Stevenson is a collection of oddball short stories set in London and Paris, spanning different eras and exploring themes of greed, revenge, murder, and love. The stories are original, captivating, and filled with twists and turns that examine the human condition through clever storytelling techniques. Stevenson's writing style is described as having a beautiful way with language, despite being written about two centuries ago, and is still engaging and relevant to contemporary readers.
The book includes interconnected story cycles such as The Suicide Club and The Rajah's Diamond, where characters navigate through dark and mysterious plots involving secret clubs, deadly games, and stolen diamonds. Stevenson's ability to blend humor, drama, and superior plotting in these stories showcases his mastery as a storyteller and his talent for creating haunting and perilous atmospheres that draw readers into his narrative world.
A sort of maiden dignity and a desire to delay as long as possible the necessity for explanation moved Harry to refuse this chance of help, and to deny his own identity. He chose the tender mercies of... - #2
Save:'Sketches by Boz' by Charles Dickens is a collection of entertaining short stories and character sketches that provide a vivid insight into the world and times of London in the 19th century. Dickens' writing style is described as fascinating, funny, and clever, capturing the essence of people and places with disinterested honesty, realism, and a touch of whimsy. Through his keen observations and detailed descriptions, Dickens paints a vibrant picture of London and its inhabitants, showcasing his mastery in creating rich portraits and engaging narratives.
The book offers a mix of non-fiction and fiction pieces, with Dickens showcasing his talent for character development, social commentary, and storytelling. From the humorous tales of eccentric characters to the detailed descriptions of London's streets and alleys, 'Sketches by Boz' highlights Dickens' early literary efforts and sets the stage for his later acclaimed works, demonstrating his ability to capture the essence of humanity with wit and insight.
- #3
Save:'Just Like You' by Nick Hornby is a contemporary novel that explores the unlikely romance between a 42-year-old woman, Lucy, and a 22-year-old man, Joseph. Set against the backdrop of the Brexit referendum, the book delves into the complexities of their relationship as they navigate issues of age, race, and class. The story follows their evolving connection from a chance meeting at a butcher's shop to a secret relationship that becomes more public. Through witty dialogue and everyday conversations, the author weaves a tale that questions the commonalities needed for two people to be attracted to each other and stay together.
How could one say with any certainty what one hated most in the world? It surely depended on how proximate the hated thing was at any given moment, whether you were doing it or listening to it or eati... Henrietta's War: News from the Home Front, 1939-1942 by Joyce Dennys is a delightful collection of letters from Henrietta, a doctor's wife in a small English village, to her childhood friend Robert, who is fighting in World War II. The book offers a unique perspective on the home front during the war, showcasing the lighter side of the early years of WW2 through humorous anecdotes and charming storytelling. Dennys' writing style is described as simple, direct, and filled with keen observations and sharp wit, providing insight into the challenges faced by those at home during wartime.
- #5
Save:The novel 'The Moviegoer' by Walker Percy follows the protagonist Binx Bolling, a young man living in New Orleans, who finds solace in movies and struggles with existential questions. Set during Mardi Gras week, Binx's introspective journey through alienation, faith, and the search for meaning is intertwined with his relationships and encounters in post-WWII New Orleans. The author's interest in existential philosophy is evident as Binx navigates his way through a world where reality and fantasy blur, leading to a deeper exploration of the human condition.
Percy's writing style in 'The Moviegoer' is described as exquisite, thought-provoking, and evocative, with a focus on character study and exploring existential themes. The novel presents a quiet yet striking narrative, filled with elegant prose that captures the complexities of Binx's inner struggles and the mundane extraordin or extraordinary world around him.
THIS MORNING I GOT a note from my aunt asking me to come for lunch. I know what this means. Since I go there every Sunday for dinner and today is Wednesday, it can mean only one thing: she wants to ha... - #6
Save:'Up in the Old Hotel' by Joseph Mitchell is a collection of stories about New Yorkers, mostly from the 1930s to 1950s-60s, blending nonfiction and fiction. Mitchell, a master storyteller, presents captivating tales about everyday people from the city's past, showcasing a naturalistic writing style with an acceptance, respect, and grace towards his subjects. delves into the lives of iconic characters who lived on the fringes of New York City, offering a glimpse into the city's gritty and realistic yet naturally portrayed atmosphere.
McSORLEY’S OCCUPIES THE ground floor of a red-brick tenement at 15 Seventh Street, just off Cooper Square, where the Bowery ends. It was opened in 1854 and is the oldest saloon in New York City. In ei... - #7
Save:"The Cloister Walk" by Kathleen Norris is a collection of essays that offer a deep dive into monastic life and spirituality, as experienced by the author from a Protestant perspective. Norris shares her reflections on daily life in a Benedictine monastery, exploring themes of ritual, prayer, and simplicity. Through her contemplations on liturgical time, the relevance of Benedictine spirituality in the modern world, and the impact of monastic practices on spiritual reflection, Norris crafts a narrative that intertwines memoir with meditation, creating a unique blend of personal experience and theological exploration.
“The Cloister Walk is a new opportunity to discover a remarkable writer with a huge, wise heart. . . . Norris resonates deeply for a lot of people: She’s one of those writers who demands to be handed ... - #8
Save:'Angel' by Elizabeth Taylor is a novel that follows the rise and decline of the title character, Angelica Deverell, a bestselling author known for her tasteless yet successful novels. The story depicts Angel's journey from a young girl born into poverty to a celebrated author, showcasing her self-absorbed and disdainful nature. Set against the backdrop of the English class system in the early 20th century, the novel explores Angel's relationships with her family and friends, who oscillate between protective love and exasperation towards her. Elizabeth Taylor's writing style in 'Angel' is described as clear and rich in vocabulary, creating a memorable cast of characters and offering a great escape read for the readers.
“Yes, the sky,” Miss Dawson said suspiciously. She handed the exercise-book to Angel, feeling baffled. The girl had a great reputation as a liar and when this strange essay had been handed in—“A Storm... - #9
Save:The novel 'The Soul of Kindness' by Elizabeth Taylor revolves around the character of Flora Quartermaine, a beautiful yet self-centered woman who manipulates those around her while maintaining the facade of acting in their best interests. The storyline unfolds through the impact Flora has on characters like her husband Richard, her friend's brother Kit, and her friend Meg. The author, Elizabeth Taylor, expertly crafts a character-driven narrative that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of blind kindness. The writing style is elegant and enjoyable, portraying the mid-1960s British middle-class society with a touch of irony and compassion.
- #10
Save:'Knockemstiff' by Donald Ray Pollock is a collection of interconnected short stories that delve into the lives of the residents of a small town in Ohio. The stories portray a world filled with poverty, violence, addiction, and despair, capturing the gritty and brutal reality of rural America. Pollock's writing style is described as raw, disturbing, and compelling, offering a deep and complex portrayal of characters who are often marginalized and struggling to survive in a harsh environment.
MY FATHER SHOWED ME HOW TO HURT A MAN ONE AUGUST night at the Torch Drive-in when I was seven years old. It was the only thing he was ever any good at. This was years ago, back when the outdoor movie ...
