Books matching: personal stories of survival
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- #1
Save:'The Memoirs of a Survivor' by Doris Lessing is a dystopian novel set in a near-future Britain where society is collapsing, families are breaking down, and the government is retreating into an elite circle. The story follows an unnamed narrator who takes in a teenager named Emily as everything around them deteriorates. The narrative includes elements of surrealism, with the narrator experiencing another world beyond reality and witnessing Emily's struggles to navigate a world with no future. The writing style is described as dense, introspective, and observant, vividly depicting the quiet panic and waiting that people in such situations often experience.
We all remember that time. It was no different for me than for others. Yet we do tell each other over and over again the particularities of the events we shared, and the repetition, the listening, is ... - #2
Save:'When the Elephants Dance' by Tess Uriza Holthe is a poignant novel set during World War II in the Philippines. The story follows a Filipino family and their neighbors who hide in a basement to survive the devastating effects of the war. Through the perspectives of a 12-year-old boy, a 17-year-old girl, and a guerrilla leader, the reader is immersed in the horrors of war, the struggle for survival, and the resilience of the Filipino people. The narrative seamlessly weaves together past and present, offering insights into Philippine culture, history, and the everyday life of the characters.
The book also incorporates elements of magical realism as the elders tell stories to keep the younger ones distracted from the harsh reality outside. These stories not only provide a reprieve from the war but also offer lessons and introduce the reader to the myths and legends of the Filipino people. The writing style is engaging, with vivid descriptions that allow the reader to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Philippines during this tumultuous period.
~ PAPA EXPLAINS THE WAR LIKE THIS: “When the elephants dance, the chickens must be careful.” The great beasts, as they circle one another, shaking the trees and trumpeting loudly, are the Amerikanos a... - #3
Save:In "The Bronze Horseman" by Paullina Simons, readers are transported into Stalin's Soviet Union during World War II, specifically Leningrad, as they follow the gripping tale of love and loss between the main characters, Tatiana and Alexander. The book beautifully portrays Tatiana as a survivor against all odds, showcasing her love, hope, and perseverance amidst the horrors of war. Through vivid writing and detailed historical context, the author brings to life the challenges faced by the characters in the midst of the German invasion, creating a powerful and emotional narrative.
The novel is not just a love story, but a rich tapestry of historical fiction that delves into the complexities of war, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit. Paullina Simons' descriptive writing style immerses readers in the setting of wartime Russia, evoking a range of emotions from joy to sorrow, and creating well-drawn characters that resonate with authenticity and depth.
LIGHT came through the window, trickling morning all over the room. Tatiana Metanova slept the sleep of the innocent, the sleep of restless joy, of warm, white Leningrad nights, of jasmine June. But m... - #4
Save:Anne A. Johnson Davis's book, 'Hell Minus One', delves into the author's harrowing journey from a tormented childhood to a survivor of Satanic Ritual Abuse. The narrative follows her path of healing and integration after enduring the weight of a cult, showcasing themes of hope, love, and faith. Despite the triggering details, the book aims to bring hope to others and give a voice to abuse survivors.
Through vivid and revealing descriptions, Anne Davis exposes the taboo realm of Satanic ritual abuse, providing specific and graphic accounts of her traumatic experiences as a survivor. The author's writing style is poignant and genuine, capturing the reader's emotions with heart-wrenching moments that evoke tears and admiration for her resilience and forgiveness in the face of adversity.
- #5
Save:'Day Zero' by C. Robert Cargill is a gripping tale set in a far distant future where robots are common and play various roles in society. The story follows an eight-year-old boy named Ezra and his Zoo animal nanny tiger named Pounce as they navigate a world torn apart by a war between robots and humans. The book is praised for its edge-of-your-seat action, memorable characters, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers engaged. The writing style is described as clear and concise, painting vivid scenes without overwhelming the reader, and driving the plot forward seamlessly.
The first day of the end of the world started entirely without incident. The sun came up at precisely 6:34. Scattered clouds, sunny, and 72 degrees. Light traffic—entirely automated—on the 451, so no ... - #6
Save:Extreme Economies: Survival, Failure, Future ? Lessons from the World?s Limits by Richard Davies is a captivating exploration of unique parts of the world through personal stories of survival and perseverance within an economic context. The author takes the reader on a journey to nine extreme economies, delving into the challenges faced by individuals and societies in these regions. Davies skillfully weaves together historical context, economic assessment, and intuitive thinking to provide a comprehensive view of how different economies function under extreme circumstances. Through engaging storytelling, the book offers insights into how societies adapt and cope in unusual situations, shedding light on the complexities of economic systems in diverse corners of the world.
An enemy lays waste a country by fire and sword, and destroys or carries away nearly all the moveable wealth existing in it: all the inhabitants are ruined, and yet in a few years after, everything is... - #7
Save:'Don't Make Me Beautiful' by Elle Casey tells the story of Nicole, a woman trapped in an abusive relationship with her cruel husband, John. Her face is disfigured, and she feels like a prisoner in her own home until a chance encounter with a young boy named Liam and his father, Brian, changes everything. Brian becomes Nicole's protector and supporter, helping her to escape her abusive partner and start a new life. explores themes of domestic abuse, strength, love, and second chances, with a focus on the transformative power of kindness and courage.
The writing style of the book is described as emotionally gripping, with readers expressing how the story hooked them in and evoked strong emotions like laughter, tears, and sobbing. The plot unfolds quickly, with some readers finding the pacing to be too fast at times, but overall, the book is praised for its portrayal of complex characters and a powerful narrative that keeps readers engaged until the end.
SHE SITS ON THE COUCH, staring out the window as the late afternoon sun tries to make its way through the glass. Dark beige curtains frame the outside edges of her only access to the outside world, w... - #8
Save:'The Forgotten Soldier' by Guy Sajer is a harrowing first-hand account of a foot soldier's experience in one of Germany's defeated WWII armies, particularly focusing on the horrors of the Eastern Front. The book provides a brutal and personal narrative of the author's struggles to survive as a young Frenchman in the German army during World War II, shedding light on the realities of war beyond the glamorized versions often portrayed.
I had to shoulder a brutally heavy burden. Suddenly there were two flags for me to honor, and two lines of defense-the Siegfried and the Maginot-and powerful external enemies. I entered the service, d... - #9
Save:In 'The Dog Stars' by Peter Heller, the story is set nine years after a flu epidemic has devastated the world, leaving only a few survivors. The protagonist, Hig, is a pilot living in eastern Colorado with his dog Jasper and his survivalist partner Bangley. The narrative unfolds as Hig grapples with loss and loneliness, while also seeking hope and connection by investigating a mysterious signal he received years ago. The book's writing style, with a mix of fragmented prose and poetic language, captures the post-apocalyptic setting and the emotional depth of the characters' experiences.
I have a neighbor. One. Just us at a small country airport a few miles from the mountains. A training field where they built a bunch of houses for people who couldn’t sleep without their little planes... - #10
Save:'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...
