Books matching: political turbulence
60 result(s)
- #1
Save:'The Dogs of War' by Frederick Forsyth is a thrilling tale of mercenaries involved in a coup in the fictional African nation of Zangaro. The plot revolves around a ruthless tycoon hiring mercenaries to overthrow the government and install a puppet president to gain control of valuable mineral rights. The story is intricately detailed, offering insights into the world of mercenary work and the dangerous political landscape of 1970s Africa. The writing style is engaging, drawing readers in with its twists and turns, typical of Forsyth's storytelling.
There were no stars that night on the bush airstrip, nor any moon, just the West African darkness wrapping round the scattered groups like warm, wet velvet. The cloud cover was lying hardly off the to... - #2
Save:'The First Woman' by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi is a novel set in Uganda, following the life of Kirabo, a young woman on a journey of self-discovery. The book explores themes of womanhood, social structures, and feminism in Ugandan society, while also delving into the rich cultural heritage and history of the country. Through a mix of personal narratives and historical events, the story weaves together the lives of Kirabo, her grandmother, and her mother, offering a deep and engaging exploration of identity and empowerment.
The narrative style of 'The First Woman' is praised for its ability to seamlessly blend storytelling with complex themes like women's rights, friendship, and empowerment. The book takes readers on a journey from childhood to womanhood, touching on personal growth, societal expectations, and the impact of historical events on the characters' lives. Through vivid descriptions and well-drawn characters, the author paints a captivating picture of Uganda and its people, inviting readers to reflect on universal issues through the lens of a specific cultural context.
- #3
Save:'On Heroes and Tombs' by Ernesto Sabato is a complex and dense novel set in mid 20th century Buenos Aires. It delves into the lives of intriguing and sometimes nightmarish characters, exploring themes of existential terror, national identity, and historical context. The narrative weaves together Freudian, Jungian, and existentialist undertones in a surreal and multilayered manner, creating a labyrinthine tale that is both allegorical and critical of Argentina's past. The story unfolds in a decaying mansion occupied by eccentric individuals, offering a glimpse into the country's turbulent history through the lives of its inhabitants.
- #4
Save:'The Far Field' by Madhuri Vijay is a novel that follows the journey of Shalini as she travels to Kashmir in search of answers about her mother's past. The story explores the complexities of relationships, the impact of political conflicts in Kashmir, and the personal growth of the protagonist as she navigates through different cultures and experiences. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, the author delves into themes of privilege, naivety, and the search for understanding in a world filled with violence and uncertainty.
The narrative weaves between Shalini's childhood memories in Bangalore and her present-day quest in Kashmir, painting a picture of a young woman grappling with her own identity while uncovering the truths hidden in her family's past. The author's writing style captures the beauty of the Kashmiri landscape, the struggles of its people, and the emotional journey of the protagonist as she confronts the harsh realities of life and the impact of her actions on those around her.
I know what this sounds like, and I hesitate to begin with something so obvious, but let me say it anyway, at the risk of sounding naïve. And let it stand alongside this: six years ago, a man I knew v... - #5
Save:'The Initiate Brother' by Sean S. Thomas Russell is a fantasy fiction book that combines elements of Japan's samurai and China's world. The story is described as gripping with a good mixture of action and intrigue. The plot is set in an alternate Asia, with the emperor ruling over a kingdom reminiscent of ancient Japan and China. The book focuses on the aftermath of a Civil War, the threat of Barbarian hordes invading from the north, and the political intrigues of an empire. The writing style is praised for being superlative, lyrical, and clear, with fully fleshed out characters that undergo tremendous development.
The practice of condemning messengers, the Supreme Master thought, had not developed without reason. The old man looked down at the scroll he had received from the Floating City that very morning and ... - #6
Save:Adrian Goldsworthy's 'Caesar: Life of a Colossus' delves into the life of Julius Caesar, a man who shaped the course of history and politics in ancient Rome. The book explores Caesar's rise to power, his military campaigns, and his impact on the Roman Republic. Goldsworthy's writing style is detailed, well-researched, and thought-provoking, providing readers with a comprehensive biography of one of the most influential figures in ancient history.
‘For, when Rome was freed of the fear of Carthage, and her rival in empire was out of her way, the path of virtue was abandoned for that of corruption, not gradually, but in headlong course. The older... - #7
Save:Georges Bataille's 'Blue of Noon' is a dark and provocative novel that delves into themes of death, sex, violence, and decadence. Set against the backdrop of fascist-occupied France during World War II and the early years of the Nazi movement, the story follows the tormented narrator Henri Timmermann as he grapples with his pathological impulses and obsessions. The novel explores the intertwined aesthetics of eros and death, using them as symbols for political commentary, particularly against fascism. The narrative is filled with characters who embody decay, filth, and despair, reflecting the tumultuous and dark times in which the story is set.
The writing style in 'Blue of Noon' is described as provocative, unsettling, and at times shocking. Georges Bataille weaves a narrative that is both darkly atmospheric and thought-provoking, challenging readers with its exploration of taboo subjects and its unflinching portrayal of human depravity. The novel's setting in Paris in the 1930s and Spain during the Spanish Civil War adds depth to the story, providing a backdrop for the characters' descent into darkness and their struggles with inner demons.
Several days ago (not in any nightmare, but in fact), I came to a city that looked like the setting for a tragedy. One evening – I mention this only to laugh more cheerlessly – I was not alone as I dr... - #8
Save:"Claimed" by Tarah Scott is a historical romance set in Scotland during a time of political turmoil between England and Scotland. The story follows Sir Talbot St. Claire, a knight with Scottish heritage, who finds himself in a complicated situation when he is rewarded with a Scottish widow, Lady Rhoslyn, by King Edward of England. Despite their initial differences and the political tensions surrounding them, Talbot and Rhoslyn navigate their relationship while facing intrigue, battles, and unexpected twists. The writing style of the book captures the essence of the time period, providing a mix of humor, adventure, mystery, and realism that keeps readers engaged till the end.
'The Return: Fathers, Sons, and the Land in Between' by Hisham Matar is a poignant memoir detailing the author's relentless search for his father, a Libyan diplomat turned political dissident who disappeared under the Qaddafi regime. Matar's writing style beautifully captures the heartbreaking story of exile, hope, and despair, while also shedding light on the impact of loss and uncertainty on himself and his family. The book weaves together personal experiences with historical and political background, offering a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of family, grief, and the search for truth in the face of oppressive regimes.
Matar's memoir is structured more like a novel, drawing readers into a story that is both particular and universal. The book skillfully blends personal accounts with historical events, providing valuable insights into the political turmoil in Libya and the emotional journey of a son searching for his father over two decades. Through Matar's evocative writing, readers are taken on a compelling journey of resilience, courage, and the enduring power of hope amidst profound loss and uncertainty.
Early morning, March 2012. My mother, my wife Diana and I were sitting in a row of seats that were bolted to the tiled floor of a lounge in Cairo International Airport. Flight 835 for Benghazi, a voic...- #10
Save:The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri is a poignant and sweeping tale that follows the lives of two brothers, Subhash and Udayan, born and raised in Calcutta during turbulent times. The story moves between India and Rhode Island, exploring themes of family ties, political unrest, and the immigrant experience. Lahiri's writing effortlessly weaves together historical events, personal struggles, and emotional depth, creating a narrative that spans generations and continents.
After the monsoon the height of the ponds would rise so that the embankment built between them could not be seen. The lowland also filled with rain, three or four feet deep, the water remaining for a ...
