Books matching: midlife crisis
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- #1
Daisy, a widowed paralegal in her 40s, starts seeing ghosts and discovers she is a Death Counselor, guided by the Grim Reaper and the Angel of Mercy. The story follows Daisy's journey of overcoming grief, managing her attraction to a new lawyer, and helping the dead find closure, all while navigating a mix of hilarious moments, romance, and unexpected revelations. The book is filled with genuine characters, humor, and a touch of magic, creating a captivating and engaging paranormal story that keeps readers hooked until the end.
The plot unfolds with Daisy finding her strength and becoming a strong woman who cares deeply about the people in her life, showcasing humor and conflict that comes with imperfection. As she delves deeper into her newfound role, Daisy forms close bonds with her friends, faces challenges with wit and determination, and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. With a mix of laughter, tears, and unexpected twists, the book offers a blend of humor, emotion, and intrigue that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
- #2
'Babbitt' by Sinclair Lewis is a satirical novel that explores the life of George F. Babbitt, a successful yet discontent middle-aged businessman in 1920s America. The book delves into Babbitt's struggles with conformity, societal expectations, and his own sense of identity. Through sharp satire and witty humor, the author presents a cast of characters that reflect the complexities of American society during that era, highlighting themes of midlife crisis, social climbing, and the pressures of maintaining status quo.
The narrative of 'Babbitt' revolves around George Babbitt's journey of self-discovery and rebellion against the norms of his time. Sinclair Lewis skillfully portrays Babbitt's internal conflicts, his relationships with family and friends, and his attempts to break free from the constraints of societal expectations. The novel offers a thought-provoking commentary on the pursuit of success, the disillusionment of the American Dream, and the eternal struggle between individuality and conformity.
THE TOWERS of Zenith aspired above the morning mist; austere towers of steel and cement and limestone, sturdy as cliffs and delicate as silver rods. They were neither citadels nor churches, but frankl... - #3
"A Spot of Bother" by Mark Haddon is a dark comedy that delves into the dysfunctional lives of the Hall family as they navigate through various crises. The story follows the patriarch, George, who spirals into mental illness after mistaking a benign spot for a fatal tumor, while his wife has an affair, his daughter prepares for her second marriage, and his son deals with a breakup. Through alternating perspectives of family members, the book explores themes of mental health, relationships, and the complexities of family dynamics. Haddon's writing style combines humor, wit, and empathy to present a poignant yet entertaining portrayal of a family in turmoil.
The narrative of "A Spot of Bother" unfolds through short chapters told from different family members' viewpoints, offering a deep dive into their individual struggles and vulnerabilities. The book skillfully blends humor with moments of sadness and introspection, capturing the nuances of human emotions and relationships. Haddon's storytelling weaves together a tale of love, dysfunction, and self-discovery, ultimately culminating in a chaotic yet heartwarming climax that emphasizes the resilience and interconnectedness of the Hall family.
It was not the prospect of the funeral that had unsettled him. Nor Bob dying. To be honest he had always found Bob’s locker-room bonhomie slightly tiring and he was secretly relieved that they would n... - #4
'This Book Will Save Your Life' by A.M. Homes follows the story of Richard Novak, a lonely and wealthy man living in Beverly Hills. His life takes an unexpected turn when a sinkhole appears in front of his home, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and connection with various eccentric characters. The plot is described as a midlife crisis tale filled with humor, sadness, and absurdity, showcasing Richard's transformation and reconnection with life amidst the chaos of Los Angeles.
The writing style of the book is noted for its witticisms, dark humor, and social commentary on modern life. The characters are portrayed as flawed and real, navigating through humorous mishaps and satirical reflections on society. The narrative captures the surreal and dreamlike quality of Los Angeles, offering a unique perspective on human connections and personal growth.
- #5
'The Lonely Polygamist' by Brady Udall is a novel that delves into the complex life of Golden Richards, a Mormon with four wives and more than twenty children. The story explores Golden's struggles with loneliness, his attempts to escape from the weight of his responsibilities, and the intricate dynamics within his large family. Through well-drawn characters and engaging storytelling, the novel navigates themes of family relationships, individual desires, and the challenges of polygamous lifestyle.
Udall's writing style in 'The Lonely Polygamist' is described as humorous, touching, and relatable. The book offers a glimpse into the lives of the characters, portraying their emotions authentically and showcasing a wide range of human experiences. Despite the intricate family tree and initially slow pace, Udall's storytelling skills pull the reader through the narrative, revealing a tale that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
TO PUT IT AS SIMPLY AS POSSIBLE: THIS IS THE STORY OF A POLYGAMIST who has an affair. But there is much more to it than that, of course; the life of any polygamist, even when not complicated by lies a... - #6
Independence Day by Richard Ford is the second installment in the Frank Bascombe trilogy, where the story of Frank Bascombe continues during his Existence Period. The narrative unfolds over the 4th of July holiday weekend as Frank embarks on a road trip with his troubled son Paul, exploring themes of divorce, remarriage, and new relationships. Through Ford's contemplative writing style, the reader delves deep into the psyche of an ordinary American man, navigating through real estate ventures, family dynamics, and personal growth amidst a backdrop of small-town America.
The book captures the essence of American life with its detailed exploration of everyday experiences and emotions. Ford's lyrical prose paints a vivid picture of middle town America, offering insights into human relationships, parenthood, love, and the complexities of existence. The narrative, rich in characterizations and emotional depth, weaves together themes of self-discovery, connection, and the challenges of middle age, culminating in a poignant exploration of hope, permanence, and the intricacies of life.
In Haddam, summer floats over tree-softened streets like a sweet lotion balm from a careless, languorous god, and the world falls in tune with its own mysterious anthems. Shaded lawns lie still and da... - #7
'Rabbit, Run' by John Updike follows the story of Harry "Rabbit" Angstrom, a former high school basketball star who feels trapped in his mundane life as a husband and father. The novel explores Rabbit's selfish and self-centered nature as he makes questionable decisions, such as leaving his pregnant wife, leading to a series of misadventures and failed attempts at finding fulfillment. Updike's writing style captures the complexities of human relationships and emotions, portraying Rabbit's inner turmoil and the impact of his actions on those around him.
Amidst the backdrop of Rabbit's internal struggles and external conflicts, Updike weaves a narrative that delves into themes of disillusionment, selfishness, and the pursuit of identity and purpose. The novel intricately depicts Rabbit's journey of self-discovery and the consequences of his impulsive actions, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition and the complexities of personal relationships.
BOYS are playing basketball around a telephone pole with a backboard bolted to it. Legs, shouts. The scrape and snap of Keds on loose alley pebbles seems to catapult their voices high into the moist M... - #8
All Fours by Miranda July follows a 45-year-old woman grappling with her identity and sexuality as she approaches perimenopause. The story unfolds during a tumultuous road trip where the protagonist explores her desires and has an extramarital affair in a motel, reflecting a midlife crisis that blends humor with raw honesty. The writing is noted for its beauty and compelling descriptions, especially surrounding sexual desire, making it both funny and deeply insightful, though the graphic nature of the content may not be for everyone. The narrative captures the complexities of love, independence, and modern relationships while evoking a range of emotions that resonate with many women.
- #9
'The Mermaid Chair' by Sue Monk Kidd is a story about Jessie, a middle-aged woman who returns to her hometown to take care of her mentally unstable mother. The narrative revolves around Jessie's journey of self-discovery as she confronts her past, her relationships, and her desires, including an unexpected romantic involvement with a monk. The plot delves into themes of marriage, family secrets, mental illness, and the consequences of one's choices, all set against the backdrop of a mysterious chair dedicated to a saint with a mythical origin. The writing style is described as beautiful, evocative, and at times difficult to read, with memorable imagery and poignant lines that capture the raw emotions and complexities of the characters' experiences.
February 17, 1988, I opened my eyes and heard a procession of sounds: first the phone going off on the opposite side of the bed, rousing us at 5:04 A.M. to what could only be a calamity, then rain pum... - #10
'Less' by Andrew Sean Greer follows the journey of Arthur Less, a middle-aged gay writer who embarks on a worldwide trip to avoid attending his ex-boyfriend's wedding. Throughout his misadventures in various countries, including New York, Paris, Italy, and Morocco, Arthur reflects on his life, love, and aging. The novel is a blend of comedy, introspection, and self-discovery, with a narrative that jumps between past and present, offering a quirky and endearing portrayal of its protagonist.
Look at him: seated primly on the hotel lobby’s plush round sofa, blue suit and white shirt, legs knee-crossed so that one polished loafer hangs free of its heel. The pose of a young man. His slim sha...