Meet New Books

Books matching: loss and resilience

100 result(s)

Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman by Ernest J. Gaines
    Save:

    The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman by Ernest J. Gaines is a fictional autobiography that follows the life of Miss Jane Pittman, a woman born into slavery who lives through the Civil War, emancipation, and the Civil Rights movement. The book is a compelling narrative that interweaves historical references and recollections to tell the story of one woman's journey from enslavement to the fight for civil rights, capturing the essence of the black experience in America from the 19th to the 20th century.

    It was a day something like right now, dry, hot, and dusty dusty. It might ’a’ been July, I’m not too sure, but it was July or August. Burning up, I won’t ever forget. The Secesh Army, they came by fi...

  2. #2

    A Family Lexicon by Jenny McPhee, Peg Boyers, Natalia Ginzburg
    Save:

    A Family Lexicon by Jenny McPhee, Peg Boyers, Natalia Ginzburg is a memoir that vividly portrays the life of the Levi family in Italy during the rise of Fascism and World War II. The book focuses on the details of family life, using family sayings to bring back the rhythm of daily life and capture the exceptional events that unfolded during that tumultuous period. The writing style is warm and friendly, with great humor and well-described characters that provide a glimpse into Italian literary and leftist politics from the 1940s to the 1970s.

    In addition to the “nitwits,” there were also the “negroes.” For my father, a “negro” was someone who was awkward, clumsy, and faint-hearted; someone who dressed inappropriately, didn’t know how to hi...

  3. #3

    This House of Sky: Landscapes of a Western Mind by Ivan Doig
    Save:

    Ivan Doig's memoir, 'This House of Sky: Landscapes of a Western Mind', delves into his upbringing in Montana, where he and his father navigated life on ranches after the death of his mother when he was just six years old. The book paints a vivid picture of the Montana landscape, the people, and the hardships faced by the author and his family, offering a uniquely American story that is both fascinating and evocative. Through poignant storytelling, Doig captures the essence of growing up in rural Montana in the mid-20th century, providing a glimpse into a world of sheep farms, small towns, and the rugged terrain of the American West.


  4. #4

    The Way of the Warrior - Young Samurai by Chris Bradford
    Save:

    'The Way of the Warrior' in the 'Young Samurai' series by Chris Bradford follows the story of Jack, an English teenager who finds himself in Japan during the 1600s after a shipwreck. Forced to learn the ways of the samurai to survive and find a way back home, Jack navigates a world filled with challenges, friendships, and cultural taboos. The plot is filled with exciting challenges, fight scenes, and historical accuracy, making it an engaging and educational read for all ages.

    The writing style of the book is described as captivating, interesting, and easy to follow. The characters, especially the protagonist Jack, are well-developed and relatable, drawing readers into the story of a young boy facing loss, prejudice, and the journey to earn his place in the world. blends history, martial arts, and cultural lessons seamlessly, providing an immersive experience for readers interested in Japan and samurai culture.

    Jack Fletcher, only twelve, was nonetheless tall for his age, slim and muscular from two years at sea. Hidden behind the straggly mess of straw-blond hair he had inherited from his mother, his eyes we...

  5. #5

    The Rabbi by Noah Gordon
    Save:

    The Rabbi by Noah Gordon is a novel that follows the life journey of a young Rabbi named Michael, showcasing his struggles, successes, and the impact he has on his congregation. The book delves into themes of faith, love, family, and cultural divides, providing a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by individuals in balancing personal aspirations with societal expectations. Through a combination of historical facts and fictional storytelling, the author weaves a narrative that is both uplifting and educational, offering insights into Jewish culture and theological differences.


  6. #6
    The River
    Book 2 in the series:Brian's Saga

    The River - Brian's Saga by Gary Paulsen
    Save:

    The River by Gary Paulsen follows the protagonist, Brian Robeson, as he embarks on a journey in the Canadian wilderness to demonstrate survival skills to a psychologist. The story is filled with thrilling adventures, including navigating a treacherous river and facing unexpected challenges. Readers are drawn into the realistic and detailed descriptions of Brian's wilderness experiences, making them feel like they are right beside him throughout the journey. The writing style, as described by readers, is engaging and immersive, capturing the essence of survival and courage in the face of adversity.

    Brian opened the door and stood back. There were three men, all in dark suits, standing on the front porch. They were large but not fat, well built, with bodies in decent shape. One of them was slight...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Brian's Saga )

  7. #7

    Land of Big Numbers: Stories by Te-Ping Chen
    Save:

    'Land of Big Numbers: Stories' by Te-Ping Chen is a collection of ten short stories set in contemporary China, exploring the lives of ordinary men and women facing various challenges and struggles in a society focused on progress and economic development. The stories offer a diverse portrayal of Chinese society, blending elements of magical realism with poignant narratives that delve into themes of hope, resilience, and the complexities of everyday life in China.

    The hour of our birth had been carefully forecast, a winter’s day cesarean timed to coincide with Dr. Feng’s lunch break. The doctor pulled me out first, indignant, squalling, like a hotel guest inexp...

  8. #8

    How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water by Angie Cruz
    Save:

    'How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water' by Angie Cruz follows the story of Cara Romero, a fifty-five-year-old Dominican American immigrant navigating life in America. The book is structured as a series of interviews between Cara and her employment worker, where she candidly shares her life story, including her struggles with unemployment, gentrification, and relationships. Through Cara's narrative, the book explores themes of aging, cultural identity, and the challenges faced by immigrants in a new country.

    The writing style of the book is engaging, with short chapters that vary in style, adding an element of surprise and keeping the reader interested. The protagonist, Cara, is portrayed as a complex character, both tough and tender, imperfect yet relatable, making her journey a compelling and emotional one for readers to follow.


  9. #9

    Creek Mary's Blood by Dee Brown
    Save:

    "Creek Mary's Blood" by Dee Brown tells the heartrending tale of the takeover of Indian land by white people with no regard for the beauty and self-sufficiency of Native American culture. It covers the history and trials of various Native American tribes, spanning from the east to Yellowstone, showcasing the lives of a Creek family as they navigate through attacks, peaceful times, and encounters with both Natives and whites. The narrative follows the life of Creek woman Amayi, known as Creek Mary, from her early adulthood in Georgia to her experiences with the Cherokees and the Trail of Tears, offering a detailed account of the destruction of Native American communities and their way of life.

    The novel is a mix of history and fiction, reflecting the sorrow and anger felt by Native Americans towards the betrayal by the white man and the government. Through the stories related by the narrator, Dane, the book sheds light on five generations of a Native American family, providing a different perspective on American history from the Colonial period to the presidency of Teddy Roosevelt, highlighting the tragic events such as the Battle of Wounded Knee and the Trail of Tears.


  10. #10

    The Haar by David Sodergren
    Save:

    'The Haar' by David Sodergren is a horror novel set in a seaside Scottish town where an elderly lady refuses to leave her home despite a company's attempts to buy out the village. The story involves gore, surprising creatures, and a touch of humor, as the main character, Muriel, encounters supernatural beings and fights against the harassing corporation with the help of an otherworldly ally. The book is described as a quick read with a mix of horror, romance, and fantasy elements, creating a unique and entertaining experience for the readers.

    The plot of 'The Haar' centers around the community under threat by a big corporation, leading to a clash between the residents who refuse to be bought out and the sinister forces at play. The characters, especially Muriel, are portrayed with wit and a rebellious spirit, adding depth to the narrative and showcasing themes of love, loss, and defiance against powerful entities. Despite some character inconsistencies and a rushed climax, the book offers a blend of heartwarming moments, gory horror, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged till the end.


Page 1 of 10Next Page