Books matching: northern life
30 result(s)
"The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration" by Isabel Wilkerson tells the story of the Great Migration of African Americans fleeing the Jim Crow South through the biographies of three representative participants. Wilkerson chronicles this decades-long migration from 1915 to 1970, highlighting the experiences of those who left the rural South for northern and western cities like LA, Chicago, and New York City. Through personal narratives, the book explores the racism and economic struggles faced by these individuals, shedding light on the impact of the migration on America's cities and society.
The writing style of "The Warmth of Other Suns" is described as fascinating, novel, and eminently readable. Wilkerson weaves together the personal stories of migrants with historical context, providing a compassionate and artfully empathetic account of the Great Migration. delves into the complexities of race relations in America, offering a detailed and inspiring exploration of the African American journey during the 20th century.
A MAN NAMED ROSCOE COLTON gave Lil George Starling a ride in his pickup truck to the train station in Wildwood through the fruit-bearing scrubland of central Florida. And Schoolboy, as the toothless o...- #2
In "Late Nights on Air" by Elizabeth Hay, readers are transported to Yellowknife in 1975, where a group of characters work at a local radio station. The novel delves into their personal journeys, relationships, and the challenges they face in the North, including the impact of the proposed Mackenzie Pipeline. Through a canoe trip that retraces a fatal expedition from 1921, the characters navigate themes of exploration, indigenous issues, and the complexities of northern life. Hay's writing style intricately weaves together unique personalities, complex storylines, and the backdrop of the Canadian wilderness, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.
The novel offers a glimpse into the lives of individuals grappling with lost love, missed opportunities, and the quest for redemption. With a lyrical prose style and sensory details that evoke the beauty and harshness of the Arctic landscape, "Late Nights on Air" explores themes of human connections, the impact of past decisions, and the potential for growth and reconciliation. Despite some readers' reservations about character depth and emotional engagement, the book resonates with its exploration of personal and environmental themes against the backdrop of the North.
HARRY WAS IN HIS LITTLE HOUSE on the edge of Back Bay when at half past twelve her voice came over the radio for the first time. A voice unusual in its sound and unusual in itself, since there were no... - #3
'Eureka Street' by Robert McLiam Wilson is a novel set in Belfast in 1994, portraying the lives of two friends, Chuckie and Jake, from different religious backgrounds navigating a city pulsating with life, violence, and political tensions. The book alternates between lighter moments capturing the energy and humor of Belfast and darker themes depicting the consequences of political hate and the struggle for peace. Wilson's writing style is described as direct yet poetic, with well-developed characters and insightful commentary on the societal divisions in Northern Ireland.
It was a late Friday night, six months ago, six months since Sarah had left. I was in a bar making talk with a waitress called Mary. She had short hair, a very round ass and the big eyes of a hapless ... - #4
'The Rider on the White Horse' by Theodor Storm is a novella set in the North Frisian coast, depicting the struggle of villagers against the forces of nature and superstition. The story revolves around a dike master's efforts to introduce new methods to protect the land against the sea, leading to tragic events during a violent storm. The narrative is described as a classic that portrays the plain, rough life of people living in northern Germany, where the sea constantly threatens to reclaim the land.
The writing style of the book is noted for its eerie and mysterious atmosphere, reminiscent of Edgar Allan Poe in parts. The dialogues are praised for their old German charm, and the story is commended for evoking great moods, especially during thunderstorms. The novella is lauded for its depiction of society on the northern German coast, offering a clear picture of life and struggles in the region.
What I am about to tell I learned nearly half a century ago in the house of my great-grand-mother, old Madame Fedderson, widow of the senator, while I was sitting beside her armchair, busy reading a m... - #5
'Call Me the Breeze' by Patrick McCabe follows the life of Joey Tallon, a complex and deluded character navigating through Northern Ireland in the 1970s and 80s. Joey's journey is marked by failed dreams, tragic schemes, and a constant search for meaning in a hostile world. The narrative style shifts between first and third person, offering glimpses into Joey's inner turmoil and his tumultuous relationships with figures like Mona and Jacy. As Joey's story unfolds, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster ride where reality blends with fantasy, success intertwines with tragedy, and enlightenment comes at a significant cost.
The novel explores themes of intellectual curiosity, writing as a coping mechanism, and the blurred lines between delusion and reality. Through Joey's character, McCabe delves into the struggles of a tormented protagonist trying to make sense of his tumultuous surroundings while grappling with his own inner demons. The narrative weaves together elements of Irish history, personal introspection, and existential questioning, creating a compelling yet challenging read that forces the reader to confront the complexities of human nature and the pursuit of self-discovery.
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'The River' by Peter Heller is a suspenseful novel about two young friends on a wilderness canoe trip facing natural disasters and human frailties, leading to a tragic outcome. The plot is a slow-burn thriller set on the rivers of northern America, focusing on the characters' survival in the face of extreme pressure and strained relationships. The writing style is a mix of suspenseful, literary, and beautiful, with a focus on character development and atmospheric descriptions.
The two of them loved paddling in storm. With the spray deck sealing the canoe they felt safe as long as they did not broach sideways, and they struck out away from the shadows and sounds of shore. Th... - #7
An Irish Country Doctor by Patrick Taylor follows the journey of young doctor Barry Laverty as he embarks on his first job as an assistant to the irascible Dr. Fingal O'Reilly in the quaint village of Ballybucklebo in Northern Ireland. Through a series of humorous and heartwarming encounters with the colorful characters of the village, Laverty learns valuable lessons about practicing medicine, love, and life in a small community. The novel captures the essence of rural Irish life in the 1960s, blending humor, warmth, and a touch of eccentricity in its portrayal of village dynamics and the interactions between the two doctors and their patients.
Barry Laverty—Doctor Barry Laverty—his houseman’s year just finished, ink barely dry on his degree, pulled his beat-up Volkswagen Beetle to the side of the road and peered at a map lying on the passen... - #8
Keeper'n Me by Richard Wagamese is a poignant and insightful novel that follows the life of Garnet Raven, a young Ojibway man who was taken from his family at a young age and raised in non-native foster homes. The story delves into Garnet's search for identity and belonging as he navigates through a dysfunctional life that ultimately leads him to prison. Upon his release, Garnet reconnects with his Ojibway family on the remote White Dog reserve in northern Ontario, where he is introduced to the rich culture and spirituality of his ancestors by an elder known as Keeper. The narrative beautifully portrays Garnet's journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and reconciliation with his roots, highlighting the importance of family, community, and connection to nature.
Richard Wagamese's writing style in Keeper'n Me is described as lyrical, evocative, and emotionally engaging. The novel skillfully weaves together themes of family, tradition, resilience, and the power of mentorship, capturing the reader's attention with its heartfelt storytelling and profound insights into Ojibway culture and spirituality. Wagamese's ability to evoke strong emotions and paint vivid imagery of the landscapes and characters adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Get a lotta tourists this way now. Never used to be. When I was a boy this here country was still Ojibway land. Anishanabe we called ourselves. Lotsa huntin’ and trappin’, fishin’ still good in the ri... - #9
'Voices From The Grave' by Ed Moloney delves deep into the personal experiences of two key figures, Brendan Hughes and David Ervine, who were actively involved in the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Through a series of interviews conducted at Boston College, the book offers a unique oral history perspective on the conflict, shedding light on the motivations, decisions, and actions of those who were on the front lines during a tumultuous period. Moloney's writing style effectively weaves together the interviews with historical background information, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics at play.
Brendan Hughes was there at the very beginning, at one of the places where the Provisional IRA first saw the light of day. Republican mythology has it that there was only one birthplace, Bombay Street... - #10
'English Creek' by Ivan Doig is a coming-of-age story set in rural Montana during the 1930s. The narrative follows Jick McCaskill, a teenage boy, as he navigates through a pivotal summer in 1939, facing family tensions and various challenges, including forest fires and personal growth. Through vivid descriptions of the landscape, outdoor adventures, family dynamics, and historical context of the Great Depression, the author immerses the reader in a rich and detailed portrayal of life in northern Montana.
This time of year, the report from the dust counties in the northeastern part of the state customarily has it that Lady Godiva could ride through the streets there without even the horse seeing her. B...