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Books matching: reality vs perception

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  1. #1

    The Invention of Morel by Adolfo Bioy Casares
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    'The Invention of Morel' by Adolfo Bioy Casares is a novella set on an imaginary, nameless island where a criminal fugitive hides from its inhabitants. The story unfolds as the narrator falls in love with a mysterious woman named Faustine and uncovers the eternal secret that binds all to the island. The book delves into themes of love, immortality, and the blurred lines between reality and unreality, all while maintaining a sense of mystery and suspense. The writing style is described as clever, eerie, and reminiscent of early science fiction, with flashes of inspiration that keep the reader engaged throughout the tale.

    ArOUND 1880 Stevenson noted that the adventure story was regarded as an object of scorn by the British reading public, who believed that the ability to write a novel without a plot, or with an infinit...

  2. #2

    The Book of Sand by Jorge Luis Borges, Norman Thomas di Giovanni
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    The Book of Sand by Jorge Luis Borges is a collection of surreal short stories that explore the concept of time and being. The stories delve into themes such as books and libraries, nameless strangers, intersections of the past and present, bards and skalds, Christianity's pagan roots, architecture, mathematics, and unreliable first-person narrators. Each story in the collection shares a reflective and somber tone, often leading to a sense of resignation in the face of the inscrutable universe. The title story, "The Book of Sand," tells the tale of a man who encounters a mysterious book with infinite pages, leading to a series of philosophical questions and a sense of being trapped by its endlessness.


  3. #3

    The New Weird by Jeff VanderMeer, Ann VanderMeer
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    The New Weird is an anthology exploring the genre movement known as the New Weird. It includes a variety of short stories from well-known authors like China Mieville, Clive Barker, and Michael Moorcock, mixed with critical essays and discussions on the definition and importance of the genre. The book delves into themes of horror, sci-fi, and fantasy, presenting a collection of stories that are dark, extreme, and often grotesque, appealing to readers interested in weird fiction.

    The anthology is divided into four segments: Stimuli, Evidence, Symposium, and Laboratory, each offering a unique perspective on the New Weird genre. The stories range from impressive to hit or miss, with some readers enjoying the vivid scenes and emotional resonance created by the authors. The book also includes non-fiction essays debating the existence and significance of the New Weird movement, adding depth and context to the stories presented.

    But Miéville wasn't alone. By the time Harrison posited his question "What is New Weird?" it had become clear that a number of other writers had developed at the same time as Miéville, using similar s...

  4. #4

    The Once Yellow House by Gemma Amor
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    The Once Yellow House by Gemma Amor is a disturbing and gripping novel that delves into themes of abuse, cults, cosmic horror, and the fine line between madness and reality. The story is told through a mix of diary entries, audio transcripts, letters to the editor, and footnotes, creating a unique and immersive reading experience. The book follows the story of a cult led by Thomas, known as The Great God Thomas, and the aftermath of a massacre that leaves Kate and Hope as survivors searching for answers.


  5. #5

    The Sea, The Sea by Iris Murdoch
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    'The Sea, The Sea' by Iris Murdoch follows the story of Charles Arrowby, a retired theatre director who moves to a secluded cottage by the sea to enjoy solitude. However, his past relationships and obsessions resurface, leading to a tangled web of love, obsession, and self-absorption. The narrative delves into Charles's narcissistic tendencies, his flawed interactions with others, and the impact of his past decisions on his present life. The writing style is described as vivid and detailed, with a focus on character development and introspection.

    In his portrait from the mid-1980s entitled “Dame Iris Murdoch” Tom Phillips painted the novelist looking out to her right toward the light that falls on her strong, pale face, high Mongol-looking che...

  6. #6

    Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
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    'Behind Closed Doors' by B.A. Paris is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark and twisted world of a seemingly perfect marriage between Jack and Grace. The story follows Grace as she realizes that her charming husband is actually a psychopath who controls her every move, trapping her in a nightmare of abuse and manipulation. Through alternating chapters of past and present, the plot unfolds to reveal the horrifying truth behind closed doors, keeping readers on edge with shocking twists and a suspenseful narrative.

    Taking my hand, he leads me to where our guests are waiting. As we go through the hall, I see the flowering lily Diane and Adam brought us for our garden. It’s such a beautiful pink that I hope Jack w...

  7. #7

    More Than This by Patrick Ness
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    In "More Than This" by Patrick Ness, the story follows Seth, who wakes up naked and alone in his childhood home after drowning. Confused and disoriented, Seth navigates a desolate world filled with mysteries and uncertainties. As he grapples with the meaning of life, the boundaries between reality and perception blur, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and survival. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers on edge and questioning the essence of existence, while the writing style captivates with its depth and emotional resonance.

    The first moments after the boy’s death pass for him in a confused and weighty blur. He is dimly aware of pain, but mostly of a tremendous fatigue, as if he has been covered in layer upon layer of imp...

  8. #8

    Going Wrong by Ruth Rendell
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    Going Wrong by Ruth Rendell is a psychological thriller that delves into the obsessive and delusional mind of Guy Curran, who is deeply in love with Leonora Chisholm. The story follows Guy's descent into paranoia and psychosis as he believes that Leonora's family and friends are conspiring against him. The narrative is primarily told from Guy's twisted point of view, showcasing his obsession, addiction, and manipulation as he spirals out of control. The book builds suspense as the reader is left wondering how the situation will be resolved, culminating in a surprising twist at the end that adds depth to the characters of both Guy and Leonora.

    She always had lunch with him on Saturdays. This always happened, was an absolute, unless one of them was away. It was as certain as that the sun would rise in the morning, sparks fly upward, and wate...

  9. #9

    Radio Free Albemuth by Philip K. Dick
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    Philip K. Dick's 'Radio Free Albemuth' delves into a world of parallel universes, paranoia, and a mix of underground politics, theology, and superior aliens. The story revolves around the premise of an alien satellite God broadcasting information to certain individuals on Earth in an attempt to overthrow a US President, drawing parallels to real-life political figures. The narrative explores themes of conspiracy theories, religion, science, and history, all based on Dick's personal experiences and hallucinations, creating a dystopian yet hopeful setting with a touch of autobiographical elements.

    My friend Nicholas Brady, who in his own mind helped save the world, was born in Chicago in 1928 but then moved right to California. Most of his life was spent in the Bay Area, especially in Berkeley....

  10. #10

    The Crying of Lot 49 by Thomas Pynchon
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    'The Crying of Lot 49' by Thomas Pynchon is a short yet complex novel that delves into the world of conspiracy theories and underground societies. The story follows Oedipa, who becomes entangled in a mysterious web of secrets and subversive postal systems after being named the executor of her ex-husband's will. The writing style is described as dense and intricate, with eccentric characters and a plot that keeps the reader guessing until the end, leaving them feeling both intrigued and confused.

    The book is praised for its fast-paced and witty narrative, offering a unique blend of humor, satire, and mystery within its concise 160 pages. Readers find the novel to be a good introduction to Pynchon's oeuvre, showcasing his ability to create a labyrinthine and addictive story that captures the essence of 1960s America. Despite its short length, 'The Crying of Lot 49' is commended for its ability to engage readers with its unconventional storytelling and thought-provoking themes.

    One summer afternoon Mrs Oedipa Maas came home from a Tupper-ware party whose hostess had put perhaps too much kirsch in the fondue to find that she, Oedipa, had been named executor, or she supposed e...

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