Books matching: political turmoil
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- #11
Save:The Immortals of Tehran by Ali Araghi is a multigenerational saga that follows the life journey of Ahmad, a mute poet, through the years before and during the Iranian revolution. The book seamlessly weaves together family dynamics with larger political events such as the reign of the Shah, the Islamic Revolution, and the Iran-Iraq war. The writing style incorporates elements of magical realism, creating a world where mystical tales and historical events converge to shape the destiny of the characters.
In the midst of political turmoil, the story delves into Ahmad's experiences as a worker in a metal forge, a poet, a lover, an activist, a politician, and a teacher. The narrative explores the interplay of family life with large-scale politics, infused with an element of magic and myth that adds depth to the author's debut novel. The book is characterized by a rich cultural backdrop, engaging character relationships, and a plot that evokes a range of emotions from laughter to tears, making it a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on Iran's history and culture.
Rick Perlstein's 'The Invisible Bridge: The Fall of Nixon and the Rise of Reagan' is a detailed account of the political and social climate of the United States in the 1970s. The book covers the tumultuous years between Nixon's reelection and the 1976 Republican convention, focusing on the fall of Nixon and the rise of Ronald Reagan. Perlstein skillfully intertwines political events with cultural contexts, providing a lively narrative that delves into the complexities of American conservatism during this era. The book offers insight into the political decadence and ideological shifts that shaped the landscape of American politics in the mid-1970s.
Perlstein's writing style is described as witty, engaging, and entertaining, reminiscent of a historical narrative. The book not only chronicles the key political events of the time but also delves into the cultural influences, pop culture references, and personal anecdotes that provide a comprehensive understanding of the era. Through meticulous research and storytelling, Perlstein offers a deep dive into the rise of right-wing conservatism, the personalities of key political figures, and the societal changes that marked this transformative period in American history.
ONCE UPON A TIME WE had a Civil War. More than six hundred thousand Americans were slaughtered or wounded. Soon afterward, the two sides began carrying out sentimental rituals of reconciliation. Confe...- #13
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... - #14
Save:'In the Country of Men' by Hisham Matar is a poignant and vividly told story set in late 1970s Libya, following the experiences of a nine-year-old boy named Suleiman. Caught up in a world beyond his understanding, Suleiman witnesses the political intrigue and turmoil that threatens his family, including his father's disappearance and his mother's struggles. The narrative captures the confusion and turmoil of a child unable to comprehend the brutality and betrayal that permeate his life, all set against the backdrop of Gaddafi's repressive regime.
Matar skillfully portrays the oppressive atmosphere of Qaddafi's Libya through the eyes of a child narrator, highlighting the sense of menace that suffuses ordinary life. The story delves into themes of betrayal, family ties, and the impact of living under a dictatorial regime, offering a profound exploration of the complexities of loyalty and survival in a totalitarian society.
I was woken up in the middle of the night by the sound of glass shattering. A light was on in the kitchen. Mama was on her knees, talking to herself and collecting pieces of glass from the floor. She ... - #15
Save:'This Child Will Be Great: Memoir of a Remarkable Life by Africa's First Woman President' by Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is a captivating memoir that delves into the history of Liberia and Africa, providing a detailed account of the country's founding, turbulent past, and hopeful future. President Sirleaf's narrative skillfully intertwines personal anecdotes with political insights, offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by both herself and her nation. The book portrays her journey from an abused teenage wife to becoming the first female President of Liberia, highlighting her courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her country's progress.
President Sirleaf's memoir not only sheds light on Liberia's complex history but also serves as an inspirational narrative of a remarkable woman who navigated through adversity with grace and determination. The writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, drawing readers into a world of political turmoil, personal triumphs, and the relentless pursuit of a better future for Liberia and its people. Through her memoir, President Sirleaf shares valuable insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of perseverance in the face of daunting challenges.
- #16
Save:"Give the Dark My Love" by Beth Revis follows the story of Nedra, a young girl with a passion for healing who attends an alchemy school to study medical alchemy. When a deadly plague strikes the island, Nedra delves into the forbidden alchemy of necromancy to find a cure, leading her down a dark path of desperation and sacrifice. The plot is filled with dark elements, complex characters, and intricate world-building, creating a unique and gripping story that explores themes of choice, power, and the consequences of one's actions.
- #17
Save:'Macbeth the King' by Nigel Tranter delves into the historical figure of King Macbeth, portraying him in a different light than the one famously depicted by Shakespeare. Tranter weaves a compelling and insightful novel based on the little surviving historical evidence of Macbeth's reign. follows Macbeth's life as a good king who prefers peace and prosperity for the realm, despite facing wars and tragedies that ultimately shape his legacy. Through rich descriptions and detailed events, Tranter recreates 11th-century Scotland and presents a story that challenges popular perceptions of Macbeth and his wife.
'The Storm Before the Storm: The Beginning of the End of the Roman Republic' by Mike Duncan delves into the generation of politics preceding the collapse of the Roman Republic. Through a well-researched narrative, the author explores the intricacies of Roman history, specifically focusing on the period leading up to the transition from a republic to an empire. Duncan's writing style is praised for being accessible to a broad audience, making the historical content engaging and understandable even for readers unfamiliar with the fall of the Roman Republic.
'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...- #20
Save:The Last of the Wine by Mary Renault is a historical fiction novel set in ancient Athens during the Peloponnesian War. The story follows the life of Alexias, a young Athenian aristocrat, from his early years during the plague of Athens to his involvement in the war and his struggles to keep his family alive. The novel provides a detailed portrayal of Athenian society, political intrigue, military conflicts, and philosophical discussions, with a focus on the relationships between characters like Socrates, Plato, and historical figures. The writing style includes rich prose, vivid descriptions of ancient Athens, and a first-person narrative that immerses the reader in the historical setting.
You will say there is nothing out of the way in this. Yet I daresay it is less common than you might suppose; for as a rule, when a father decides to expose an infant, it is done and there the matter ...
