Books matching: personal identity
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- #1
Save:A challenging but hugely influential work that rewards the patient and philosophically curious reader; probably best for those willing to dive deep into the ethics pool.
Reasons and Persons by Derek Parfit is a dense philosophical book that delves into moral and social questions, providing reasoning, examples, and arguments that challenge common beliefs about self-interest, ethics, personal identity, and obligations to future generations. Parfit's writing style is clear and airtight in its reasoning, exploring complex topics such as ethical behavior theories, personal identity, and population ethics. The book is divided into four sections, each building on the former, with the later sections discussing Reductionist views of personal identity and ethical implications of these views.
WHAT do we have most reason to do? Several theories answer this question. Some of these are moral theories; others are theories about rationality. When applied to some of our decisions, different theo...1984•554 pages - #2
Save:A beautifully written, quietly devastating portrait of life inside a convent school, best for readers who savor introspective, atmospheric, and character-driven novels.
"Frost in May" by Antonia White tells the story of Nanda Grey, a young girl who enters a Catholic convent school at the age of nine. The novel explores Nanda's experiences in the school, where she faces emotional abuse and strict rules imposed by the nuns. As Nanda navigates the challenges of the convent, she grapples with her faith, friendships, and the oppressive atmosphere of the school. The writing style captures the stifling environment of the convent and portrays Nanda's journey of self-discovery and resilience despite the hardships she faces.
1933•236 pages - #3
Save:A haunting, moving novel about forbidden love and resilience in the face of societal and religious oppression - tough but important reading that offers both heartbreak and hope.
Under the Udala Trees by Chinelo Okparanta is a coming-of-age novel set in Nigeria during the late 1960s civil war. The story follows Ijeoma, a young girl who faces the challenges of war, loss, love, and self-discovery in a society where being LGBTQ is heavily stigmatized. The novel delicately explores the struggles of Ijeoma as she navigates her desires and cultural expectations amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and societal intolerance. The writing style is described as simple, straightforward, and emotionally moving, offering a glimpse into the harsh realities of living in Nigeria during a tumultuous period.
MIDWAY BETWEEN Old Oba-Nnewi Road and New Oba-Nnewi Road, in that general area bound by the village church and the primary school, and where Mmiri John Road drops off only to begin again, stood our ho...September 2015•345 pages - #4
Save:A beautifully written, intellectually rich novel that’s as much about the power of art, obsession, and history as it is about its characters - challenging at times, but unforgettable for those willing to go deep.
The Volcano Lover by Susan Sontag is a historical novel set in the kingdom of Naples during the time of British Ambassador William Hamilton and his interest in volcanoes, geology, biology, and art of Roman antiquity. The book explores the lives of historical figures such as Lord Nelson, Napoleon, and the art collector Sir William Hamilton, focusing on themes of personal identity, individual obsessions, and the societal dynamics of the time. Through a narrative that vividly brings to life the city of Naples during the Baroque period, the author weaves a tale of love, passion, art collecting, and the raw power of Vesuvius.
His first leave home was over. The man to be known in polite Naples from now on as Il Cavaliere, the Chevalier, was starting the long journey back to his post, to “the kingdom of cinders.” So one of h...January 1992•432 pages - #5
Save:A warm and witty sapphic romance brimming with heart, small-town charm, and relatable characters - perfect for fans of slow-burn love stories and feel-good fiction.
Shifting Gears by Jazz Forrester follows Nora and Dani as they navigate life, love, and personal growth in the small town of Riverwalk. Nora, a hardworking CEO, is sent to revitalize a failed project, where she meets Dani, a mechanic. Their chemistry is immediate, but they take their time to build a friendship before diving into romance. The story beautifully explores themes of finding oneself, connection, and community, as well as the struggles of balancing personal desires with societal expectations.
Forrester's writing is crisp and engaging, immersing readers in the characters' emotional journeys. The book masterfully blends humor and emotional depth, making it both uplifting and relatable. With a focus on self-discovery, resilience, and the importance of genuine connections, Shifting Gears captures the essence of love and friendship in a way that leaves a lasting impression.
January 2025•272 pages - #6
Save:An action-packed, snarky urban fantasy with a fresh twist on supernatural lore and a powerhouse heroine - flaws and all. Not perfect, but a solid launch to a series that genre fans tend to adore.
'Skinwalker' by Faith Hunter is an urban fantasy novel featuring Jane Yellowrock, a complex and kickass protagonist who is a skinwalker that hunts vampires in New Orleans. The story follows Jane as she navigates through a world filled with witches, vampires, and other supernatural creatures while trying to solve a mystery involving rogue vampires. The book is praised for its strong world-building, intriguing storyline, and the unique perspective provided by the shifting between Jane and Beast, offering readers a fresh take on the urban fantasy genre.
I’d need to put the vamp-hunting tools out of sight for my interview. My hostess might be offended. Not a good thing when said hostess held my next paycheck in her hands and possessed a set of fangs o...2009•339 pages - #7
Save:'The Condition' by Jennifer Haigh is a family drama that revolves around the McKotch family and their struggles, particularly focusing on their daughter Gwen who is born with Turner Syndrome. The story spans over several years, showcasing the complexities within the family dynamics, individual character flaws, and the challenges they face. Set against the backdrop of traditional family values and societal expectations, the novel delves into themes of relationships, identity, and acceptance.
July 2008•413 pages - #8
Save:A thoughtful, slow-burn dive into the messy complexities of love, identity, and growing up - brilliant, but not for readers who need a punchy pace or easily lovable characters.
Like Happiness by Ursula Villarreal-Moura is a compelling exploration of a complicated relationship between Tatum Vega and a famous author, Mateo Dominguez. Tatum, a book-lover in her 20s, finds solace in Mateo's writing while navigating her college life in Massachusetts away from her Texas roots. The story unfolds through Tatum's letters to Mateo, detailing their decade-long entanglement and the emotional turmoil that follows when a reporter approaches her about Mateo's troubling past. As Tatum reflects on her relationship, readers witness her struggle with feelings of isolation, ambition, and her quest for personal identity.
The writing style is engaging and often uses an epistolary format told in the second person, offering a deeply personal touch. Villarreal-Moura skillfully juxtaposes Tatum's present life in Chile with her memories of Matteo, immersing readers in different cultural settings. The author delves into significant themes such as the power dynamics in relationships, personal growth, and the nuances of cultural and sexual identity. Overall, while some readers may find the pacing slow or feel a need for more resolution, the book offers an evocative look at love, growth, and the complexities of human connections.
March 2024 - #9
Save:Uplifting and heartfelt, "No Matter the Wreckage" is a poetry collection that feels both timeless and refreshingly new - perfect for newcomers and seasoned poetry lovers alike.
"No Matter the Wreckage" by Sarah Kay is a collection of poetry that offers a refreshing and insightful perspective in a sea of mundane and superficial writing. The poems delve into various themes such as personal experiences, relationships, gender stereotypes, and self-discovery, all delivered with a sense of sincerity and depth. Sarah Kay's writing style is described as vibrant, exciting, and bursting with life, capturing the reader's imagination and emotions with stunning imagery and emotion.
It was somewhere in between the last day of school and the first, somewhere in between morning and nightfall, somewhere in between New York City and the very tip of Long Island—there was a nine-year-o...March 2014•134 pages - #10
Save:'Me (Moth)' by Amber McBride is a novel in verse that tells the story of Moth, a girl who has lost her family in an accident and has stopped dancing. Living with her aunt, Moth feels invisible in her new surroundings until she meets Sani, a boy struggling with his own identity. Together, they embark on a road trip that not only changes their lives but also challenges their perceptions of themselves and each other. The book seamlessly weaves together themes of grief, spirituality, family bonds, and self-discovery, creating a hauntingly beautiful narrative that captures the reader's heart and mind.
The writing style of 'Me (Moth)' is described as lyrical, haunting, and wise, with strong imagery and emotional depth that immerses the reader in the story. The novel in verse format allows for a unique and impactful storytelling experience, where each page is filled with powerful images and themes that resonate long after the book is finished. The combination of poetry, indigenous spirituality, and Black culture adds layers of richness to the narrative, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read for both young adult and adult readers.
August 2021•258 pages
