Books matching: serious issues
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Weetzie Bat' by Francesca Lia Block is a modern-day fairy tale set in Los Angeles, following the whimsical adventures of Weetzie and her friends as they navigate love, unconventional family dynamics, and serious issues such as AIDS and nontraditional relationships. The book is described as a fantasy-colored, glittering tale with heavy and important topics woven into the narrative, creating a unique blend of magical realism and gritty realism. The characters, including Weetzie and her best friend Dirk, form their own family through love and acceptance, facing challenges with a positive outlook and belief in the power of love.
The writing style of 'Weetzie Bat' is often likened to a beautiful, sad, and gritty fairy tale, with elements of magical realism and poetic hipster language that add depth to the story. The book touches on serious and controversial issues like homosexuality, AIDS, and nontraditional family structures in a matter-of-fact tone, shedding light on these topics in a thought-provoking manner while maintaining a bright and magical setting in Los Angeles.
- #2
Save:The Mystery of Mercy Close by Marian Keyes follows the story of Helen Walsh, a private investigator hired to find a missing boy band member. The book delves into themes of depression, relationships, and family dynamics, all wrapped in a light mystery plot. Readers praised the well-developed characters, sarcastic humor, and the author's skill in blending serious issues with comedic elements.
I was thinking about food. Stuck in traffic, it’s what I do. What any normal person does, of course, but now that I thought about it, I hadn’t had anything to eat since seven o’clock this morning, abo...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Walsh Family ) - #3
Save:In the book "Orientation" by Gregory Ashe, readers are introduced to Shaw and North, best friends since college and partners in a P.I. business. They take on a case to help a young gay man named Matty who is being blackmailed. The story unfolds with twists and turns as the duo navigates through a complex mystery involving blackmail, drag queens, and violence. The book delves into the characters' pasts, unrequited love for each other, and the challenges they face in their personal and professional lives.
- #4
Save:Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams follows the story of a 26-year-old Jamaican British woman named Queenie, who is navigating through a quarter-life crisis. The book delves into Queenie's struggles with her job, dating life, and coping with past and current trauma, including mental health issues and racial discrimination. The novel has been described as a mix of contemporary adult fiction and coming-of-age story, set in multicultural London, offering a raw and sometimes humorous look at Queenie's challenges and growth.
“Deep breath, please!” she said a bit too cheerfully, and with no further warning inserted what felt like the world’s least ergonomic dildo into me and moved it around like a joystick. She placed a co... - #5
Save:Monstrous Regiment by Terry Pratchett is a satirical fantasy novel set in a world where Polly Perks disguises herself as a boy to join the army and find her missing brother. The story unfolds in a war-torn nation, Borogravia, where young women start taking the place of depleted young men in the military. Through humor and clever twists, Pratchett explores themes of gender roles, war, and nationalism, all while delivering a fast-paced and engaging narrative that keeps readers entertained and enthralled.
The book is praised for its witty writing style that subverts traditional fantasy tropes and offers a fresh take on familiar themes. Pratchett's humor shines through as he weaves a tale of strong female characters, biting satire on societal norms, and thought-provoking commentary on the absurdities of war and gender expectations. Monstrous Regiment stands out as a standalone Discworld novel that combines humor, social commentary, and compelling storytelling in a way that captivates readers from start to finish.
Polly cut off her hair in front of the mirror, feeling slightly guilty about not feeling very guilty about doing so. It was supposed to be her crowning glory, and everyone said it was beautiful, but s...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld ) - #6
Save:'The Pretty One' by Keah Brown is a collection of personal essays that delves into the author's life experiences as a Black and disabled woman. Brown takes a critical approach to dissecting overlapping marginalizations and how they can intersect to oppress individuals. Through her raw and relatable storytelling, she addresses topics ranging from disability rights activism to self-love and acceptance, providing insights into her journey of finding joy amidst struggles. The book offers a poignant exploration of identity, vulnerability, and the quest for self-empowerment in a society that often overlooks marginalized voices.
Keah Brown's writing style is characterized by humor, clarity, and candidness, making the book both engaging and enlightening. She applies a disability lens to everyday situations, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. By sharing her personal anecdotes and reflections, Brown invites readers to empathize with her experiences and gain a deeper understanding of issues such as accessibility, discrimination, and the complexities of intersectionality.
My longest relationship has been with chairs. We are very happy together, committed and strong, in sickness and health till death do us part, etc. There are arguments and disagreements as in any other... - #7
Save:Whitethorn Woods by Maeve Binchy is a collection of interconnected short stories set in a small town in Ireland. The stories revolve around the lives of various characters, from teenagers to retired folks, all linked by a shrine to St. Ann. The book explores themes of community, spirituality, and the impact of modernization on traditional beliefs, as the town faces the possibility of a bypass being built near the sacred shrine.
The narrative weaves together individual character profiles with storytelling, offering a glimpse into the diverse lives of the townspeople and their connections to Whitethorn Woods and St. Ann's Well. The book portrays a rich tapestry of humanity, with characters facing personal challenges, relationships, and decisions amidst the backdrop of a changing landscape and the preservation of their town's traditions.
Father Brian Flynn, the curate in St Augustine’s, Rossmore, hated the Feast Day of St Ann with a passion that was unusual for a Catholic priest. But then as far as he knew he was the only priest in th... - #8
Save:'The Break' by Marian Keyes is a contemporary novel that follows Amy, a woman in her forties, who faces a crisis when her husband, Hugh, unexpectedly announces that he wants a six-month break from their marriage to travel. The book delves into Amy's struggles as she navigates her busy PR career, caring for her daughters, dealing with family dynamics, and confronting her own emotional turmoil. The story is filled with cultural references, realistic characters, and explores themes of relationships, self-discovery, and resilience. The writing style is characterized by humor, depth in character development, and a blend of light-hearted moments with more profound reflections.
‘Not twenty-two.’ It’s imperative to shut her down before she utters my age. I don’t know how I got to be forty-four. Clearly I’d my eye off the ball but, a bit late to the party, I’m trying to airbru... - #9
Save:'One Big Damn Puzzler' by John Harding is a humorous and insightful story set on a small Pacific Island, exploring themes of cultural clash, globalization, mental disorders, and gender issues. The narrative follows William, an American lawyer seeking compensation for the islanders affected by land mines left behind by Americans. As William immerses himself in the indigenous culture, we see the island through his eyes and learn about the struggles of the native people against the influences of the outside world. cleverly weaves in elements of Shakespeare, particularly through a character translating Hamlet into pidgin English, adding depth and humor to the storyline.
- #10
Save:'The Real' by Kate Stewart is a heart-wrenching and poignant love story that unfolds between Abbie and Cameron, two individuals with complex pasts and vulnerabilities. The book follows their slow-building relationship, starting with their unique communication style through Airdrop messages in a coffee shop. As their feelings deepen, the story delves into themes of trust, vulnerability, and overcoming past traumas, while also incorporating elements of suspense and romance. Kate Stewart's writing style expertly weaves together intense emotions, raw passion, and moments of hope, creating a narrative that is both realistic and captivating.
He nodded, eyeing the money and I opened the door to my favorite café with a jingle of the bells. Though downtown Chicago had plenty to offer, I was perfectly happy spending half of my Saturday mornin...
