Books matching: self reliance
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A thought-provoking classic best enjoyed in reflective doses - timeless wisdom for patient readers who love diving deep into philosophical waters.
'Self-Reliance and Other Essays' by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a collection of essays that delve into topics such as self-reliance, friendship, the nature of genius, and the interpretation of history. Emerson's writing style is described as profound, yet moribund, biased yet rational, and erudite. The essays are said to offer profound insights that need to be read multiple times to fully grasp their depth and meaning.
There is no great and no small To the Soul that maketh all: And where it cometh, all things are: And it cometh everywhere. I am owner of the sphere, Of the seven stars and the solar year, Of Cæsar’s h...1841•97 pages- #2
A quietly daring classic that captures the wild beauty of BC’s coast and the remarkable spirit of a pioneering mom. Highly recommended for armchair adventurers and Pacific Northwest daydreamers!
'The Curve of Time' by M. Wylie Blanchet is a memoir that follows the adventures of a widowed single mother and her five children as they explore the coastal waters of the Pacific Northwest in the 1920s and 1930s. The author, known as Capi, shares tales of their daring journeys through treacherous waters, encounters with wildlife, and interactions with the remote communities along the British Columbia coast. Through her spare, crisp, and factual writing style, Blanchet paints a vivid picture of a time when exploration meant relying on one's own skills and resourcefulness, without modern technology or conveniences.
Blanchet's storytelling not only captures the beauty of the landscape and waterways around Victoria Island but also delves into the emotional and physical challenges faced by a woman navigating the waters with her children. The book offers a glimpse into a bygone era where independence, bravery, and a deep connection to nature were essential for survival, making it a captivating read for those interested in real-life adventures and the spirit of exploration.
ON BOARD OUR BOAT ONE SUMMER WE HAD A BOOK BY Maurice Maeterlinck called The Fourth Dimension, the fourth dimension being Time—which, according to Dunne, doesn’t exist in itself, but is always relativ...1961•242 pages - #3
A timeless tale of survival and grit, Hatchet is a must-read adventure story that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking - perfect for anyone who loves stories about triumphing over the odds!
In this book, a 13-year-old boy named Brian finds himself stranded in the Canadian wilderness after a plane crash. With only a survival kit and a hatchet, Brian must learn to survive on his own. The story follows Brian's journey as he navigates the challenges of the wild, including finding food, shelter, and fire. The plot captures the essence of survival and coming of age, depicting Brian's resilience and determination to overcome the obstacles he faces.
The writing style of the book vividly portrays Brian's emotions and struggles, allowing readers to immerse themselves in his experiences. The author, Gary Paulsen, skillfully captures the essence of survival and perseverance, making the story engaging and relatable for readers, particularly those in the middle school age group. Through Brian's adventure, the book delves into themes of self-reliance, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
BRIAN ROBESON stared out the window of the small plane at the endless green northern wilderness below. It was a small plane, a Cessna 406—a bush-plane—and the engine was so loud, so roaring and consum...1986•208 pages - #4
A flowery, philosophical love letter to nature and humanity’s place in it - timeless for the dreamy and the contemplative, but not the easiest read for those who want clear, step-by-step reasoning.
Ralph Waldo Emerson's 'Nature' is a collection of essays that delve into the relationship between humanity and the natural world. Emerson presents nature as a fundamental part of human existence, emphasizing its importance in shaping our thoughts and actions. Through poetic prose, he explores the interconnectedness of nature with the mind, body, and soul, advocating for a deep appreciation of the natural world. The essays touch on various themes such as self-reliance, history, and the beauty of nature, showcasing Emerson's transcendentalist beliefs and his Pantheistic view of the world.
TO go into solitude, a man needs to retire as much from his chamber as from society. I am not solitary whilst I read and write, though nobody is with me. But if a man would be alone, let him look at t...1836•160 pages - #5
A slow-paced but thoughtful classic; "Walden" is best for patient readers seeking inspiration, perspective on living deliberately, and poetic ramblings about nature and society. Not for everyone, but a life-changer for some.
Walden by Henry David Thoreau describes his two years living in a cabin near Walden Pond in Massachusetts. The book is part personal reflection and part philosophical treatise on the value of simplicity and nature. Thoreau discusses the joy found in solitude and the beauty of the natural world. His writing style includes vivid descriptions and detailed observations about his surroundings, often merging practical details with contemplative insight. Through his experiences, Thoreau encourages readers to rethink their relationship with society, materialism, and the essence of a fulfilling life.
1854•344 pages - #6
A landmark meditation on simple living and personal freedom - thought-provoking, sometimes dense, occasionally preachy, but with moments of genuine brilliance. Worth picking up if you enjoy philosophy, nature, or classic literature, but be prepared for a slow and contemplative journey.
Henry David Thoreau's 'Walden and Civil Disobedience' is a collection of writings that delve into themes of nature, self-reliance, contemplation, and individual responsibility. The book follows Thoreau's experiment in simple living at Walden Pond, where he reflects on the wonders of nature, the ways of man, and the human condition. Through his observations of the changing seasons and wildlife, Thoreau invites readers to contemplate their own place in the world and the universe. In 'Civil Disobedience', Thoreau presents a classic protest against government interference with individual liberty, advocating for passive resistance and influencing non-violent resistance movements worldwide.
1823 The Thoreau family returns to Concord, where Henry’s father takes over the family pencil-making business. Henry enters the Concord Center School. Continued financial strain forces his mother to t...1854•331 pages A motivating, straight-shooting reminder to toughen up and take charge of your own life - a must-read if you want a pep talk on resilience and mental strength, but fair warning: it’s not shy about its opinions.
'Fortitude: American Resilience in the Era of Outrage' by Dan Crenshaw delves into the current state of America, highlighting the 'outrage culture' prevalent in society. The author provides insights into the reasons behind this behavior and the polarization in mainstream media. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on his SEAL training, Crenshaw emphasizes the importance of fortitude, self-reliance, and discipline in navigating a world filled with differing opinions and adversities. The book offers lessons on developing mental resilience, responding to adversity with composure, and taking responsibility for personal growth in the face of societal challenges.
Crenshaw's narrative weaves together elements of American history, personal experiences, and societal observations to shed light on the cultural shifts towards comfort and outrage. He emphasizes the importance of individual accountability, the dangers of succumbing to emotional manipulation, and the need to cultivate a mindset of fortitude and self-improvement. Through chapters like 'The Stories We Tell Ourselves' and 'American ethos,' the author encourages readers to examine their beliefs, confront challenges, and strive towards becoming mentally stronger individuals capable of contributing positively to society.
The bomb—a homemade fertilizer-based compound wrapped in plastic—was mere feet away, buried about a foot below the hard surface. A rudimentary pressure plate—two panels of wood and some wire and a bat...April 2020•257 pages- #8
A quietly powerful modern western - less about gunslingers, more about grit. If you love realistic, character-driven stories set in the heart of rural America, Kelton’s classic won’t disappoint.
'The Time It Never Rained' by Elmer Kelton is a poignant and authentic portrayal of life as a Texas rancher during a severe drought in the 1950s. The story revolves around the lead character, Charlie Flagg, a stubborn and resilient rancher determined to endure the drought without relying on government assistance. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, Kelton brings to life the challenges faced by ranchers, the theme of self-reliance, and the complex relationships between different ethnic groups in West Texas.
Kelton's writing style is described as masterful, with rich and understated prose that captures the essence of West Texas. The author's careful characterization and slow narrative build-up create a truthful and honest depiction of natural events taking control and the characters' reactions to these situations. is praised for its believable fiction, immersive storytelling, and the depth of its protagonist, Charlie Flagg, who embodies the values of determination, self-reliance, and a strong moral code.
RIO SECO WAS TOO SMALL TO AFFORD A PROFESSIONAL manager for its one-room Chamber of Commerce. The part-time volunteer, elected because no one else wanted the job, made his living selling an independen...1973•415 pages - #9
A beautifully written survival adventure with heart and depth - Nhamo's resilience and African setting make this novel a timeless read for brave dreamers of all ages.
'A Girl Named Disaster' by Nancy Farmer is a compelling story about a young girl named Nhamo who embarks on a journey through the wilderness, facing supernatural experiences and realistic challenges along the way. The book offers a mix of adventure, self-discovery, and cultural exploration, set in tribal Africa. The writing style is described as straightforward and simple, with vivid descriptions of Nhamo's daily activities and her inner struggles. The plot follows Nhamo's hero's journey away from her home, through various adventures, and towards a new place in the world, all while grappling with issues of identity, grief, and self-reliance.
It’s always my turn, thought Nhamo. She watched Aunt Chipo disappear behind some bushes. She much preferred to sit in the shade and gather figs. Almost without thinking, she observed the dusty path be...1996•326 pages - #10
'Northwind' by Gary Paulsen is a powerful and intense story that follows a young orphan named Leif on a soulful journey of survival and self-discovery as he escapes a village plagued by a life-threatening disease. Set in the Northern Pacific ocean, the vivid descriptions of the fjord riven shorelines, playful interactions with wildlife, and the theme of wilderness and self-reliance paint a captivating picture of Leif's growth from a boy to a man. The author, Gary Paulsen, expertly combines his wilderness lore and knowledge of the sea to create a memorable adventure of resilience and courage against the backdrop of the unforgiving sea.
January 2022•251 pages










