Books matching: poverty and survival
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- #1
Save:A bold, kaleidoscopic novel - gritty, stylish, and inventive. Garland’s storytelling shines even if the structure won’t suit everyone. Worth a try for lovers of edgy, unconventional fiction.
The Tesseract by Alex Garland is a novel that intricately weaves together the lives of disparate characters in the setting of Manila. Through clever storytelling, the author brings these characters together in a climax that is both original and intense, keeping the reader engaged throughout. The book follows three unique stories that eventually overlap with brilliant twists, showcasing Garland's writing expertise and ability to create a compelling narrative.
Outside there was plenty. Through the bars of his window, Sean could see sunlight on drifting litter and flashes of foliage in the narrow gaps between squatter shacks. But inside, nothing. Beige and k...1998•323 pages - #2
Save:Sex, Lies & Nikolai by R.J. Lewis is a powerful and emotional story that delves into the lives of Alina, a young girl struggling with poverty and desperation, and Nikolai, an ex-Mafia Russian with a mysterious and complex personality. The book explores the deep connection and chemistry between Alina and Nikolai, as well as the challenges and hardships they face in their respective lives. R.J. Lewis' writing style is described as raw, compelling, and descriptive, capturing the angst, lust, and emotions of the characters in a way that immerses the reader in the story from the very beginning.
I stand behind the counter of the convenience store and watch him enter. His blue eyes meet mine for a fraction of a second, enough to make my spine tingle and my cheeks heat, and then he looks away a...August 2016•282 pages - #3
Save:A sweet, quick-read holiday romance that's big on heart and family feels - perfect for when you want cozy comfort with a side of aliens.
In 'A Mother's Night Gift', Betani, a widowed mother of two, finds herself in a heartwarming story of struggle and support. Living in a poor neighborhood under the pressure of a demanding warder, Betani's life takes a turn when she encounters a triad of Ragoru males seeking help. As she nurses their leader back to health and is courted by the triad, Betani must navigate cultural differences, misunderstandings, and warder pressures to find a path towards a loving family. The story beautifully weaves together themes of hope, love, and devotion as Betani and the Ragoru triad come together to create a new family dynamic.
The plot of 'A Mother's Night Gift' unfolds with a mix of sweet romance, cultural exploration, and family dynamics. The author, S.J. Sanders, crafts a well-written narrative that delves into the struggles and triumphs of Betani and the Ragoru triad as they overcome challenges and misunderstandings to build a future together. The writing style allows for detailed characterization, world-building, and interactions that keep readers engaged throughout the story.
December 2020•149 pages - #4
Save:A sweet, comforting historical romance that plays it safe - great for series fans and western romance lovers, but not a standout if you’re craving something new and different.
Lucky Penny by Catherine Anderson is a historical Western romance where a woman, Brianna O'Keefe, pretends to be married to a man named David Paxton to protect herself and her niece. When the real David Paxton receives the letters meant for his fictional counterpart, he arrives to meet his supposed daughter, Daphne. The story unfolds with a mix of coincidence and distrust between the characters, leading to a romance set in the 1800s with an emotional and believable writing style that captures the readers' hearts.
A lock of Brianna’s curly auburn hair escaped its coronet to tickle her cheek, but she ignored the irritation and kept pushing the two pieces of rose taffeta forward, ever gauging the evenness and tig...January 2012•667 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Keegan/Paxton ) - #5
Save:A gut-wrenching, beautifully written coming-of-age novel that’s not for the faint of heart but impossible to forget - powerful, honest, and deeply moving.
'Bastard Out of Carolina' by Dorothy Allison is a powerful and emotional novel set in the rural South, narrated from the perspective of a young girl named Bone. The story delves into the harsh realities of abuse, poverty, and dysfunctional family dynamics, particularly focusing on Bone's struggles with her abusive stepfather and her mother's complicity in the abuse. The writing style is described as rich and vivid, offering a poignant portrayal of the characters and their experiences, drawing readers into the world of the Boatwright family and their tumultuous lives.
The book captures the raw and heartbreaking journey of Bone as she navigates through a childhood filled with trauma, violence, and neglect. Through Allison's skillful storytelling, readers are taken on a gripping coming-of-age journey that explores themes of resilience, survival, and the complexities of familial relationships. The narrative unfolds with a mix of dark and hopeful moments, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by the characters while also highlighting moments of strength and courage amidst adversity.
I’ve been cal ed Bone al my life, but my name’s Ruth Anne. I was named for and by my oldest aunt—Aunt Ruth. My mama didn’t have much to say about it, since strictly speaking, she wasn’t there. Mama an...1992•344 pages - #6
Save:Bleak, beautiful, and unforgettable - Fourth of July Creek is literary fiction at its rawest: tough but rewarding for readers who can handle the darkness.
'Fourth of July Creek' by Smith Henderson is a dark and gritty novel set in rural Montana during the Reagan era. The story follows Pete Snow, a social worker who tries to help individuals living in poverty and facing various challenges, including survivalists, dysfunctional families, and troubled teenagers. The book delves into themes of violence, anarchy, freedom, and the complexities of human relationships, painting a vivid and realistic picture of the characters and their struggles. The writing style is described as beautifully crafted, compelling, and filled with rich imagery that captures the reader's attention.
The cop flicked his cigarette to the dirt-and-gravel road in front of the house, and touched back his hat over his hairline as the social worker drove up in a dusty Toyota Corolla. Through the dirty w...May 2014•480 pages - #7
Save:A beautifully-written, immersive novel that lingers in your mind - perfect for lovers of historical fiction and poetic, character-driven stories.
Corrag by Susan Fletcher is a beautifully written historical fiction novel set in 17th century Scotland. The story follows Corrag, a young woman accused of witchcraft, as she embarks on a journey to Glencoe. Through alternating perspectives, the book delves into themes of persecution, love, forgiveness, and the beauty of nature. The writing style is described as lyrical, haunting, and insightful, painting a vivid picture of the Scottish Highlands and the characters' emotional journeys.
When they come for me, I will think of the end of the northern ridge, for that’s where I was happiest—with the skies and wind, and the mountains being dark with moss, or dark with the shadow of a clou...March 2010•372 pages - #8
Save:Brutal, darkly funny, and brutally honest, "Ham on Rye" is not for everyone - but it's essential Bukowski and a must for fans of raw, confessional fiction.
Ham on Rye by Charles Bukowski is a raw and honest semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the unruly and depressing youth and young adulthood of Henry Chinaski. The story follows Chinaski's struggles with an abusive father, sexual frustration, schoolyard beatings, and the discovery of alcohol, all set against the backdrop of the Great Depression. Bukowski's writing style is described as dark, humorous, and brutally funny, capturing the difficulties of growing up for young outsiders in a transgressive and at times disgusting narrative.
The novel explores themes of alienation, disillusionment, survival, and the impact of a traumatic childhood on shaping one's adulthood. Through vivid recollections, frank statements, and a fast-paced narrative, Bukowski paints a poignant picture of Chinaski's journey from birth to late adolescence, showcasing his resilience in the face of adversity and his struggle to find his place in a hypocritical and false society.
The first thing I remember is being under something. It was a table, I saw a table leg, I saw the legs of the people, and a portion of the tablecloth hanging down. It was dark under there, I liked bei...1982•321 pages - #9
Save:A powerfully written, emotionally gutting novel that will stay with you long after the last page - utterly beautiful but definitely not for the faint of heart.
Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart is a heart-wrenching novel set in the impoverished neighborhoods of Glasgow in the 1980s. The story follows young Shuggie as he navigates life with his alcoholic mother, Agnes, and his dysfunctional family. The book delves into themes of addiction, poverty, courage, and love, painting a vivid and raw portrait of life in the slums of Glasgow. Through Stuart's poignant writing, readers are taken on a journey filled with despair, hope, and the unwavering love between a son and his troubled mother.
The day was flat. That morning his mind had abandoned him and left his body wandering down below. The empty body went listlessly through its routine, pale and vacant-eyed under the fluorescent strip l...February 2020•447 pages - #10
Save:A gritty, imaginative adventure that's equal parts action and food for thought - a modern classic for middle grade and up, though the unique setting might challenge some readers.
'The Last Book in the Universe' by Rodman Philbrick is a futuristic novel following the journey of a boy named Spaz who sets out on a quest to save his dying sister in a post-apocalyptic world where books are non-existent. The story touches on themes of family, friendship, and the importance of written word as institutional memory, all while delivering high-paced action and unexpected plot twists.
Spaz, the main character, navigates a world divided between genetically altered individuals and those struggling to survive, highlighting the contrast between two distinct societies. As Spaz embarks on his adventure with a group of friends, he learns about the true meaning of family and confronts challenges that test his courage and resilience, ultimately shaping his own narrative in a world devoid of books and traditional education.
IF YOU’RE READING this, it must be a thousand years from now. Because nobody around here reads anymore. Why bother, when you can just probe it? Put all the images and excitement right inside your brai...2000•239 pages
