Books matching: oppression and occupation
12 result(s)
- #1
Save:Purge by Sofi Oksanen is a gripping and intense story set in Estonia, spanning several decades from the Second World War to the early 1990s. The novel revolves around the lives of two women, Aliide and Zara, who are connected through a shared history filled with oppression, occupation, betrayal, and survival. Through detailed flashbacks and intertwining storylines, the author skillfully weaves a narrative that explores themes of sexual violence, secrets, treachery, and the impact of war on human emotions. The book delves into the complex history of Estonia, addressing the horrors of Nazi and Soviet occupations, as well as the modern-day issue of sex trafficking in Eastern Europe.
I have to try to write a few words to keep some sense in my head and not let my mind break down. I’ll hide my notebook here under the floor so no one will find it, even if they do find me. This is no ... - #2
Save:'Voices' in the series 'Annals of the Western Shore' by Ursula K. Le Guin follows the story of Memer, a young girl living in the city of Ansul which has been conquered by the Alds. The Alds, who ban writing and books, have burned all books except for those in a secret library in the Waylord's house where Memer resides. When travelers Gry and Orrec arrive, the city begins to change, and a story unfolds about learning to read, empowerment through literacy, and the preservation of written words in a society oppressed by invaders.
Le Guin's writing style in 'Voices' is described as thought-provoking, engaging, with deep and powerfully expressed concepts. explores themes of friendship, family, community, freedom, invasion, occupation, and the importance of books, libraries, reading, oral storytelling, and history. The story is set in a world filled with political intrigue, magic, and strong characters, offering a mix of excitement, danger, heroism, and fantasy while addressing relevant themes of war, peace, religion, and tolerance.
I am so small I have to reach my arm up to make the signs in the right place on the wall of the corridor. The wall is coated with thick grey plaster, cracked and crumbling in places so the stone shows...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Annals of the Western Shore ) - #3
Save:In "Sixth Column" by Robert A. Heinlein, the United States has been invaded and conquered by the 'PanAsians', leading to a story of rebellion and resistance. The plot revolves around a small group of military personnel who, after the military is wiped out, work on scientific projects and develop advanced technology to fight back against the invaders. The book delves into themes of racism, technology, and the creation of a new religion as a means of resistance, set in a future America under occupation by the 'slant eyed', 'flat faced' Pan Asia.
They ignored his remark as they had ignored his arrival. The man at the television receiver said, “Shut up. We’re listening,” and turned up the volume. The announcer’s voice blared out: “—Washington d... - #4
Save:In 'The Baker's Secret' by Stephen P. Kiernan, the story unfolds in a small village in Normandy during the Nazi occupation in World War II. The protagonist, Emma, a young baker, becomes an unlikely heroine as she navigates the challenges of survival, deception, and resistance in a time of desperation and danger. Through Emma's courageous acts, the villagers find hope amidst the brutality of war, showcasing themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of humanity.
For as long as their nation had possessed a history, the residents of Vergers village had been a people of pleasure, devoted to the senses without shame, and none savored more unapologetically than th... - #5
Save:The Moon Is Down, written by John Steinbeck, is a short novel set in an unnamed European country during World War II, where the country is invaded and conquered by an unnamed enemy. The story revolves around the occupation of a small town, the struggles faced by the townspeople under oppression, and their resistance against the invaders. The writing style is described as simple yet powerful, with vivid characters and a subtle sense of humor that balances the drama of the situation, making it an enjoyable and touching read.
By ten-forty-five it was all over. The town was occupied, the defenders defeated, and the war finished. The invader had prepared for this campaign as carefully as he had for larger ones. On this Sunda... - #6
Save:In "The Yellow Bird Sings" by Jennifer Rosner, a Jewish mother, Roza, and her daughter, Shira, find themselves hiding in a neighbor's barn in Poland to escape the Nazis during World War II. As they struggle to survive the horrors of the Holocaust, the story unfolds with themes of love, music, and sacrifice. The narrative beautifully intertwines the mother's journey with the partisans and the daughter's evolution into a violin virtuoso while separated by the war, leading to a poignant and ambiguous ending set in 1965.
The book explores the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter, the power of music to provide solace in times of despair, and the unimaginable challenges faced by those hiding from persecution during WWII. Through intricate storytelling, Rosner touches on themes of resilience, family bonds, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
A brooding heat permeates the tight space of the barn loft, no larger than three strides by four. The boards are rough-hewn and splintery and the rafters run at sharp slants, making the pitch too low ... - #7
Save:'The Pianist' is a heart-wrenching account of Wladyslaw Szpilman's survival during the Nazi occupation of Poland from 1939 to 1945. The book details his struggles as a Jewish man facing persecution, loss of family, and the horrors of the Warsaw Ghetto. Despite the bleak circumstances, Szpilman's resilience and luck help him evade death multiple times, including a fateful encounter with a compassionate German officer, Wilm Hosenfeld. The writing style is described as matter-of-fact, yet deeply moving, capturing the unimaginable hardships faced by Szpilman with poignant simplicity.
- #8
Save:Assignment in Brittany by Helen MacInnes is a spy thriller set in occupied France during World War II. The story follows a British agent who assumes the identity of a captured Breton in order to infiltrate the French underground and gather crucial information for the Allies. The book is praised for its detailed setting, well-defined characters, and intricate plot that revolves around espionage, danger, and moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist.
Helen MacInnes's writing style is characterized by her ability to transport readers back to the tumultuous times of France in WWII. Through vivid descriptions and well-researched historical details, she weaves a gripping narrative that combines elements of suspense, intrigue, and human drama. The book offers a glimpse into the complexities of wartime espionage and the challenges faced by individuals caught in the midst of a high-stakes mission.
It should be almost time now. Hearne glanced again at the watch on his wrist, and fingered his kit. Everything was ready. Underneath his flying suit, in the inside pocket of the torn, shabby jacket, w... - #9
Save:In the book 'Carnal Gift' by Pamela Clare, the story follows the hardships faced by Brighid and her brothers, Irish peasants struggling to survive under English occupation in the mid-eighteenth century. After their father is sold as a slave in Barbados for teaching reading and writing, Brighid catches the eye of an English earl who gives her to his friend Jamie Blackwell as a gift. The plot involves a passionate romance between Brighid and Jamie, set against the backdrop of historical details cleverly integrated into the narrative. The book explores themes of honor, loyalty, and the challenges faced by the Irish during that time.
Brighid of Maelsechnaill put the bacon and oatcakes on the table, her heart humming with excitement. Her father stepped out of the back room, dressed, and washed for the day. His gaze met hers, a spec...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Blakewell/Kenleigh Family ) Babi Yar: A Document in the Form of a Novel by Anatoly Kuznetsov is a harrowing portrayal of the mass executions that occurred at the Babi Yar ravine, shedding light on the dehumanizing impact of Soviet and German rule. The book is a testimony of the author's personal sacrifice in defecting to share this testimony, leaving his family behind. Through the eyes of a young Ukrainian boy, the narrative delves into the horrors of war, survival, and the struggle to find humanity amidst the atrocities of Babi Yar and the political turmoil of the time.
The book provides a poignant perspective on the historical events surrounding the German occupation of Ukraine, including the Babyn Yar massacre of over 33,000 Jews. It offers a detailed account of the author's life during this tumultuous period, highlighting the resilience of individuals amidst the brutality of war and the atrocities committed by various regimes.
