Books matching: political fiction
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- #1
Save:'The Last King of Scotland' by Giles Foden is a novel that chronicles the rise and fall of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin through the eyes of a naive Scottish doctor named Nicholas Garrigan. The book delves into politics, history, and the consequences of rulers' actions, providing an interesting view on Amin and his character. Foden's writing style immerses the reader in the atmosphere and culture of Uganda, with detailed descriptions that set the stage for the unfolding story. The narrative explores Garrigan's fascination with Amin, his personal physician, and the moral dilemmas he faces as he navigates life under a dictator.
The story progresses as Garrigan finds himself entangled in Amin's world, grappling with the dictator's charisma and brutality. The second half of the book picks up the pace with wars erupting between Uganda and neighboring countries, leading to suspense-filled chapters that showcase Garrigan's growth and decision-making. Despite the slow start, the novel gains momentum as it delves deeper into the complexities of Amin's regime and Garrigan's evolving perceptions.
I did almost nothing on my first day as Idi Amin’s doctor. I had just come in from one of the western provinces, where I’d worked in a bush surgery. Kampala, the city, seemed like paradise after all t... - #2
Save:Hari Kunzru's 'Red Pill' follows an unnamed protagonist, a writer facing a mid-life crisis, who embarks on a fellowship in Germany, hoping to reboot. However, he finds himself immersed in a disturbing reality that challenges his beliefs and sanity, leading to a crisis of paranoia. The novel delves into themes of political polarization, existential crises, and the resurgence of far-right ideologies, drawing parallels between the protagonist's breakdown and the state of Trump's America.
Kunzru's writing style in 'Red Pill' is described as overflowing with ideas, witty, and intelligent, capturing the unsettling feeling of a world veering towards insanity. The narrative is complex, with a mix of cultural references, psychological exploration, and timely social commentary, creating a multi-layered story that blurs the lines between paranoia and reality.
TIRED AND PREOCCUPIED, I arrived in Berlin the next day to begin a three-month residency at the Deuter Center, out in the far western suburb of Wannsee. It was just after New Year, and the wheels of t... - #3
Save:'1984' by George Orwell is a dystopian novel set in a totalitarian society where the government controls every aspect of its citizens' lives. The protagonist, Winston Smith, rebels against the oppressive regime and falls in love with Julia, leading to dire consequences. explores themes of government surveillance, loss of freedom, and the manipulation of truth, creating a haunting and thought-provoking narrative that reflects on the dangers of unchecked power. Orwell's writing style is sharp and impactful, evoking a sense of hopelessness and entrapment that resonates with readers.
It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen. Winston Smith, his chin nuzzled into his breast in an effort to escape the vile wind, slipped quickly through the glass doors ... - #4
Save:The Queue by Basma Abdel Aziz is a dystopian novel set in an unnamed Middle East country under a totalitarian regime where everyday life revolves around waiting in a long queue for permits and approvals from a mysterious gate. The story follows Yehya, a man wounded during an uprising, who must navigate the bureaucratic nightmare of obtaining permission for medical treatment in a society where rules and restrictions are stronger than the ruler himself.
The novel delves into ethical dilemmas, government oppression, and the powerlessness of individuals in a society where freedoms are eroded. Through rich details and haunting realism, Aziz presents a thought-provoking narrative that questions the limits of human resistance against an authoritarian regime that controls every aspect of its citizens' lives.
In the fierce heat, Yehya stood in a long queue that extended from the end of the wide street all the way to the Gate. A whole hour and he’d moved no more than two steps forward, and that wasn’t becau... - #5
Save:'Anthills of the Savannah' by Chinua Achebe is a postcolonial novel set in the fictional African country of Kangan, focusing on the lives of three childhood friends who hold significant political positions in the new government. The story delves into the challenges of newfound independence, power struggles, and the consequences of political corruption. Achebe weaves a narrative that explores themes of dictatorship, rebellion, and the complexities of leadership in a postcolonial society, providing a thought-provoking commentary on African politics.
The book presents a dark and introspective look at the impact of power and corruption on individuals and society, transitioning from satire to a serious examination of political turmoil. Through multiple narrators, Achebe paints a vivid picture of the confusion and struggles faced by the nation and its leaders, offering insights into the dynamics of postcolonial Africa and the human condition.
For a full minute or so the fury of his eyes lay on me. Briefly our eyes had been locked in combat. Then I had lowered mine to the shiny table-top in ceremonial capitulation. Long silence. But he was ... - #6
Save:A Dry White Season is a compelling story set in South Africa in the 1970s, following the journey of an ordinary man, Ben Du Toit, who gets entangled in the fight for justice after the mysterious death of his black friend's son, Jonathan, during the Apartheid era. The plot unfolds as Ben, a simple Johannesburg schoolteacher, navigates through the corrupt justice system and oppressive regime, determined to uncover the truth behind the injustices he witnesses. The book employs a thriller-like narrative style, delving into the complexities of societal issues and personal struggles, offering a thought-provoking and intense reading experience.
It all really began, as far as Ben was concerned, with the death of Gordon Ngubene. But from the notes he made subsequently, and from newspaper cuttings, it is obvious that the matter went back much f... - #7
Save:"The Red-Haired Woman" by Orhan Pamuk is a tale set in Turkey over a span of 30 years, starting around 1986. The story follows the main character, Cem, a teenager who serves as an apprentice to a well digger named Master Mahmut. After a tragic accident, Cem flees the town and years later, becomes a geological engineer and builds a successful construction company. The novel explores themes of father-son relationships, filial and paternal love, and the impact of ancient myths and tales on individuals' lives.
The narrative is divided into three parts, each with a distinct style and focus. The first part immerses readers in Cem's coming-of-age story in 1980's Turkey, while the second part delves into his adult life as he builds a business empire with his wife. The third part shifts perspective to Cem's first love, offering insights into their relationship and adding depth to the storyline. Throughout the book, Pamuk weaves together elements of ancient stories like Oedipus and Rustam and Sohrab, exploring how these tales resonate with Cem's experiences and shape his worldview.
I HAD WANTED TO BE A WRITER. But after the events I am about to describe, I studied engineering geology and became a building contractor. Even so, readers shouldn’t conclude from my telling the story ... - #8
Save:'The Man' by Irving Wallace is a work of fiction that portrays the challenges faced by the first Black president of the United States. Set in the 1960s, the story delves into the struggles of a Black male who unexpectedly becomes the President and his journey towards self-realization and transformation. The narrative sheds light on the prejudices within and outside the White House, highlighting the complexities of race and power dynamics during a time when the Civil Rights Movement was still evolving. Through intricate storytelling, the author paints a vivid picture of political intrigue, personal growth, and societal reflections that resonate with readers across different eras.
Standing there in the cold office, at this ungodly hour, no longer night, not yet day, she felt apprehensive and nervous. She wondered why, but instantly her memory had traced the source of worry, and... - #9
Save:'Night Prayers' by Santiago Gamboa is a gripping story that follows a Colombian philosophy student falsely accused of drug trafficking in Bangkok, who seeks to be reunited with his sister before his impending death. The narrative unfolds through multiple viewpoints, including the characters of Manuel, Juana, a member of the Colombian embassy in India, and a fourth source, providing a sweeping sense of place and cultures across various countries such as Bogota, Bangkok, India, Iran, and Japan. The story delves into themes of politics, philosophy, religion, and human nature, offering a unique and intricate portrayal of the characters and their journey through a complex and often dark world.
The writing style of 'Night Prayers' is highly praised for its depth, complexity, and the author's ability to weave together a compelling narrative that explores the intersections of Latino culture in a global setting. is commended for its exquisitely told story, timely themes, historical references, and the author's skill in incorporating literary references seamlessly into the plot. Despite some graphic descriptions, the book is lauded for its captivating storytelling, unique characters, and the clever use of multiple perspectives to present a rich and engaging narrative.
All cities have a fairly definite smell, but for most of the day the smell of Bangkok is covered by a dense blanket of smog that conceals it, making it hard to perceive. When it finally appears, well ... - #10
Save:Christopher Buckley's 'Little Green Men' is a satirical novel that follows the story of John O. Banion, a pompous political talk show host who gets abducted by aliens and embarks on a quest to legitimize the UFO community. The book delves into government conspiracies, alien abductions, and the absurd circumstances surrounding the protagonist, all while maintaining a lighthearted and humorous writing style.
Buckley's writing style in 'Little Green Men' is described as imaginative, delightful, and skillfully crafted. The book combines elements of satire, wit, and clever commentary on Washington insiders, government agencies, and media personalities, creating a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
John O. Banion stared unblinkingly into the TV camera’s cyclops eye, keeping his famous cool under the baking glare of the Videssence lights. It pleased him that he was more at ease than the person se...
