Books matching: nomadic lifestyle
56 result(s)
Nomadland: Surviving America in the Twenty-First Century by Jessica Bruder is an investigative journalism piece that delves into the lives of older Americans who, after facing financial hardships like the Great Recession, turn to living in vans, RVs, and makeshift homes while working seasonal jobs. The author, through her well-researched narrative, sheds light on the struggles, resilience, and camaraderie of this often overlooked community, highlighting their day-to-day challenges, the labor they endure, and the sense of community they form while on the road.
Some first-time campground hosts expect a paid vacation in paradise. It’s hard to blame them. Ads for the job are splashed with photos of glittering creeks and wildflower-choked meadows. A brochure fo...- #2
'Wolf Totem' by Jiang Rong is a semi-autobiographical novel set during the Cultural Revolution in China, focusing on a young Chinese student named Chen Zhen who immerses himself in the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongols in Inner Mongolia. Through his experiences, the book explores the intricate relationship between humans, wolves, and the grassland ecosystem, highlighting themes of preservation, cultural clash, and environmental sustainability. The narrative delves into the struggles of maintaining a delicate balance between tradition and modernization, as well as the impact of political ideologies on nature and indigenous cultures.
The book paints a vivid picture of life on the Mongolian grasslands, capturing the beauty and harshness of nature while delving into the deep connection between the nomadic tribes and the wolves that play a crucial role in maintaining ecological equilibrium. Through Chen Zhen's journey of discovery and conflict, readers are exposed to a rich tapestry of Mongolian culture, environmental issues, and the complex interplay between tradition and progress, all set against the backdrop of a changing political landscape during a tumultuous period in Chinese history.
As Chen Zhen looked through the telescope from his hiding place in the snow cave, he saw the steely gaze of a Mongolian grassland wolf. The fine hairs on his body rose up like porcupine quills, virtua... - #3
"The Wandering Falcon" by Jamil Ahmad is a collection of interconnected stories that provide glimpses into tribal life in the remote regions where Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran meet. The book follows the character Tor Baz, the 'Wandering Falcon', who wanders through tribal lands, encountering different tribes and exploring their ways of life. The stories depict the harsh landscape, cultural practices, and struggles of the people living in these borderlands during the 1950s and 60s.
The writing style of Jamil Ahmad is described as evocative, spare, and respectful of tribal beliefs and traditions. The stories are interconnected, with Tor Baz appearing in each one, providing a thread that links the narratives together. The book offers a unique insight into the nomadic tribes of Pakistan and Afghanistan, capturing the beauty, brutality, and complexities of life in the region.
Lonely, as all such posts are, this one is particularly frightening. No habitation for miles around, and no vegetation except for a few wasted and barren date trees leaning crazily against one another... - #4
'The Songlines' by Bruce Chatwin is a fascinating exploration of the Aboriginal culture in Australia, focusing on the Dreaming Tracks and nomadic lifestyle. Chatwin weaves together his own experiences in Australia with reflections on the importance of movement, storytelling, and human connection to the land. The book combines elements of travelogue, memoir, and philosophical musings, offering a unique perspective on the history and traditions of the Aboriginal people.
The writing style of 'The Songlines' is described as immersive, thought-provoking, and occasionally disjointed. Chatwin's narrative shifts between fictionalized travel accounts, excerpts from his notebooks, and reflections on anthropology and nomadism. The book delves into the complexities of Aboriginal culture, the significance of Songlines, and the author's personal journey of discovery and understanding.
His father, Ivan Volchok, was a Cossack from a village near Rostov-on-Don, who, in 1942, was arrested and sent with a trainload of other Ostarbeiter to work in a German factory. One night, somewhere i... - #5
Gloria Steinem's 'My Life on the Road' is a captivating memoir that delves into her nomadic lifestyle as a feminist activist and organizer. Through anecdotes and insights, Steinem shares stories of her encounters with various people, highlighting the impact of her travels on her personal growth and activism. The book covers themes of feminism, social justice, and the experiences of a woman who has witnessed significant changes in society over the years.
I board a plane for Rapid City, South Dakota, and see a lot of people in black leather, chains, and tattoos. Airline passengers usually look like where they’re going—business suits to Washington, D.C.... "Tales of a Female Nomad: Living at Large in the World" by Rita Golden Gelman follows the author's journey as she travels the world, immerses herself in different cultures, and learns to relax, trust herself, and shed some of her western modesty. Gelman's memoir documents her life-altering decision to leave her old world behind after a devastating divorce, selling everything she owns to embark on a nomadic lifestyle in her late 40s. provides a fascinating insight into the lives of people from various cultures, showcasing common humanity and the transformative power of travel.
I am living someone else’s life. It’s a good life, filled with elegant restaurants, interesting people, and events like the Academy Awards and the Grammies. My husband of twenty-four years and I dine ...- #7
'Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind' by Suzanne Fisher Staples follows the story of Shabanu, a young girl growing up in a desert tribal family in Pakistan. The narrative is from a young eleven-year-old girl's perspective as she matures over a period of one to two years. The story delves into the nomadic lifestyle of the desert people in the region, showcasing the cultural differences and challenges faced by Shabanu as she transitions into womanhood amidst family dynamics and societal expectations. The author's writing style is praised for its vivid descriptions, excellent foreshadowing, and ability to immerse the reader in the setting and experiences of the characters.
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No One Writes Back is a captivating novel that follows a young man and his extraordinary dog, Wajo, as they embark on a journey, meeting various characters along the way. The story unfolds through letters written by the narrator to the people he encounters, assigning them numbers instead of names. The narrative explores themes of connection, writing, and relationships, as the man and a woman novelist, 751, share their thoughts and experiences while traveling together. The book offers a unique and engaging plot, with a mix of emotional depth and unexpected perspectives on life.
The book delves into the lives of the characters, revealing their inner struggles, desires, and the complexities of human connections. Through the letters and interactions, the reader gains insight into the narrator's family dynamics, his journey of self-discovery, and the woman's creative endeavors. No One Writes Back is not just a story about a physical journey but also a journey of introspection, writing, and the search for meaning in relationships and experiences.
According to a motel proprietor, most people use a motel as a “place of rest,” or in other words, a place in which to have sex, and think of it as such. I used to think so too, though I’ve never been ... - #9
In "In the Long Run" by Haley Cass, the story follows the journey of childhood friends Brooke and Taylor as they navigate their complex past and present feelings for each other. Taylor, a traveler who left home at nineteen, returns to her small hometown where Brooke, the dedicated City Manager, has always harbored a crush on her. As they reconnect, the book delves into their deep emotional baggage, slow-burn romance, and exploration of familial relationships and past traumas. The writing style of Haley Cass is praised for bringing the characters to life, creating a realistic and engaging narrative that keeps readers invested until the satisfying conclusion.
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The End of Drum-Time by Hanna Pylväinen is a compelling novel set in mid-19th century Scandinavia, focusing on the Sami reindeer herders of Sapmi. The story captures the disintegration of their rich, traditional way of life due to the encroaching forces of civilization, including farming and Christianity. As settlers and ministers impose their beliefs, the story explores themes of love, addiction, and cultural conflict. Central is a love tale involving Ivaar, a Sami youth, and Willa, the daughter of a minister, which unfolds amidst the challenges presented by alcohol dependence and religious conversions.
Pylväinen's writing immerses readers in the Sami culture, showcasing the beauty and struggle of a marginalized people. The narrative is rich with character development and emotional depth, giving a vivid sense of place. However, some readers noted a need for more detail about the original Sami religion and a clear glossary for cultural terms. Despite its pedestrian plot and unresolved endings, the book invites reflection on love, influence, and the relentless clash of cultures.