Books matching: social class critique
50 result(s)
- #1
Save:The Belly of Paris by Emile Zola is a novel set in the bustling central market of Les Halles in 19th century Paris, focusing on the life of Florent, an escaped political prisoner trying to navigate the abundance of food and the poverty surrounding him. The book vividly describes the sights, sounds, and smells of the market, portraying a contrast between the opulence of the market's offerings and the struggles of the lower classes. Through intricate details of food and market life, Zola weaves a story of revolution, family dynamics, and societal disparities in the backdrop of a changing Paris.
In the silence of a deserted avenue, wagons stuffed with produce made their way toward Paris, their thudding wheels rhythmically echoing off the houses sleeping behind the rows of elm trees meandering...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Les Rougon-Macquart ) A Traveler from Altruria is a utopian novel by William Dean Howells that challenges the traditional narrative of the genre by having an Altrurian visitor, Mr. Homos, explore the archaic ways of American society. The novel is set in rural America and follows the interactions between the narrator, Mr. Twelvemough, and the idealistic visitor, highlighting the stark contrasts between the altruistic society of Altruria and the class-divided, capitalistic society of America. Howells' writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, presenting a critical examination of social class, wealth disparity, and human nature through the lens of a foreign perspective.
I CONFESS that with all my curiosity to meet an Altrurian, I was in no hospitable mood towards the traveler when he finally presented himself, pursuant to the letter of advice sent me by the friend wh...- #3Smokeby:
Save:In an alternate Victorian England, people emit black smoke when they commit any minor transgression, leading to a society where controlling one's smoke is crucial to avoid a life of poverty or eternal damnation. The story follows three upper-class teenagers as they try to unravel the mystery surrounding Smoke, its origins, and its impact on society, blending genres of alternate history, mystery, and horror. The novel is set in a richly imagined world where the concept of sin and evil is manifested physically through smoke, creating a dark and atmospheric setting that explores themes of morality and class divide.
The first thing he does upon waking is to search his nightshirt, his bedding for soiling. He does so quickly, mechanically, still more than half asleep: runs a palm over his skin feeling for the tellt... - #4
Save:'The Prince and the Pauper' by Mark Twain is a classic tale set in 16th century England where the crown prince, Edward VI, and a poor beggar boy, Tom Canty, accidentally switch places, leading to a series of adventures and challenges for both characters. The story delves into themes of identity, social class, and morality, showcasing the different lives and experiences of individuals from varying backgrounds. Twain's writing style is described as a mix of historical fiction and social commentary, with elements of humor and wit sprinkled throughout the narrative.
1850 Sam’s brother Orion, ten years his senior, returns to Hannibal and establishes the Journal ; he hires Sam as a compositor. Steamboats become the primary means of transport on the Mississippi Rive... 'Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters' is a unique twist on the classic Jane Austen novel, 'Sense and Sensibility', where the original storyline is completely rewritten to incorporate sea monster attacks, underwater cities, and supernatural elements. The author, Ben H. Winters, seamlessly weaves these fantastical elements into Austen's precise style and grammar, creating a humorous and engaging science fiction sub-plot within the familiar Austen narrative. The book retains the essence of the original characters and plot while adding a fresh and entertaining twist that keeps readers engrossed in the story.
- #6
Save:'Expensive People' by Joyce Carol Oates is a novel that delves into the life of adolescent Richard Everett, who narrates his troubled childhood leading up to committing a murder. The story is set in the 1960s American suburbs, portraying the dynamics within a dysfunctional family, the struggles of affluent parents, and the awakening of a troubled youth from a privileged background. Oates uses a first-person narrative style to explore themes of social class, family dysfunction, and the psychological complexities of the characters, creating a darkly humorous and satirical commentary on suburban life.
Joyce Carol Oates, one of America's most versatile and prolific contemporary writers, was born in the small town of Lockport, New York, on June 16, 1938. She grew up on a farm in nearby Erie County an... - #7
Save:'Dragon Springs Road' by Janie Chang is a historical fiction novel set in early 20th century Shanghai, following the life of Jialing, a Eurasian girl abandoned by her mother at a young age. The story explores Jialing's struggles as she navigates a society that looks down upon her mixed heritage, her journey of self-discovery, and the relationships she forms along the way. With elements of fantasy intertwined seamlessly into the narrative, the book delves into themes of identity, social class, and resilience, painting a vivid picture of the turbulent political and cultural landscape of China during that era.
The plot of 'Dragon Springs Road' unfolds through the eyes of Jialing, offering a coming-of-age tale filled with intrigue, mystery, and personal growth. The writing style is described as beautifully crafted, with luminous descriptions, well-drawn characters, and a seamless integration of fantasy elements that add depth and uniqueness to the story.
The emperor Guangxu and the dowager empress had both died that week. My mother told me our new emperor was a little boy of almost three called Puyi. A child less than half my age now ruled China and s... - #8
Save:The Woodcutter by Reginald Hill follows the protagonist Wolf Hadda, a complex character imprisoned for fraud and paedophilia, as his world falls apart when he is accused of unforgivable crimes. The book intricately weaves twists and turns, spanning from 2008 to 2018, and delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and revenge. Hill's writing style is described as wordy yet poetic, with beautiful language that colors the setting of the book and keeps readers engaged.
- #9
Save:The 'Mysteries of Winterthurn' by Joyce Carol Oates is a twisty trio of mysteries that turns the entire genre on its head, offering a fascinating and intricate plot that keeps the reader guessing. The protagonist, Xavier Kilgarvan, a young detective, is tasked with solving three cases: The Virgin in the Rose Bower, The Devil's Half Acre, and The Blood Stained Gown. The book is described as being in the Gothic tradition, characterized by its dark and macabre elements, intertwined with supernatural occurrences and a hint of romance. The writing style is noted for its archaic language, which adds to the atmospheric setting of Winterthurn in the 1880s, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.
(Also, see 52 recommendations for the series The Gothic Saga ) - #10
Save:'Party Going' by Henry Green is a plotless novel that delves into the states of mind of a group of upper-class London socialites stuck at a train station due to fog. The book focuses heavily on the conversations and thoughts of the characters, exploring themes of money, class, gender, and age. The writing style is described as incisive, wry, and merciless, offering a biting and amusing critique of the moneyed classes in England before World War II.
The characters in 'Party Going' are portrayed as bright young things with no aims beyond staving off anything that could hinder sensation. The book captures their emptiness and selfishness through their conversations and thoughts, emphasizing their need to avoid tedium and loneliness. The author, Henry Green, like Samuel Beckett, explores the minutiae of life and the characters' basic needs, particularly the need for conversation to avoid boredom.
