Books matching: social unrest
79 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Blind Man with a Pistol' by Chester Himes is a part of the 'Harlem Cycle' series featuring Detectives Coffin Ed Johnson and Grave Digger Jones. The novel delves into the existentialist themes, capturing the essence of Harlem in the 1960s amidst social unrest and violent crimes. The writing style is described as a mix of magic realism and police procedural, presenting a vivid and gritty portrayal of Harlem through a series of incidents and unsolved mysteries. The plot unfolds with a murder investigation intertwined with riots, social unrest, and the complexities of race relationships in the North East.
On 119th Street there had been a sign for years in the front window of an old dilapidated three-storey brick house, announcing: FUNERALS PERFORMED. For five years past the house had been condemned as ...
(Also, see 65 recommendations for the series Harlem Cycle ) - #2
Save:The Dark Hours by Michael Connelly is the 36th novel in the Harry Bosch Universe, focusing on LAPD late shift detective Renée Ballard as she investigates two separate cases with the help of former LAPD detective Harry Bosch. The novel delves into the challenges faced by Ballard in a male-dominated LAPD, the intricate police procedural investigations, and the backdrop of social unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic in Los Angeles. The story unfolds with a mix of suspense, action, and character development, showcasing Connelly's expertise in crafting intricate crime mysteries within a richly developed universe.
It was supposed to rain for real and that would have put a damper on the annual rain of lead. But the forecast was wrong. The sky was blue-black and clear. And Renée Ballard braced for the onslaught, ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Harry Bosch Universe ) 'We Own This City: A True Story of Crime, Cops, and Corruption' by Justin Fenton delves into the harrowing account of police corruption within the Baltimore Police Department. The book focuses on the corrupt Gun Tracing Task Force (GTTF) led by Sgt. Wayne Jenkins, detailing their questionable tactics such as violating First Amendment rights, robbing drug dealers, and using excessive force. Fenton's writing style allows readers to delve into the minds of victims, perpetrators, and witnesses, providing a gripping and emotionally telling narrative of the corruption and malice within the BPD.
THE LETTER ARRIVED IN the chambers of a federal judge in Baltimore in the summer of 2017. It had been sent from the McDowell Federal Correctional Institution, which was nestled in the middle of nowher...- #4
Save:The novella "Gods of Risk" in 'The Expanse Short Stories/Novellas' series by James S.A. Corey delves into the life of Bobbie Draper on Mars during her short retirement, exploring her family dynamics and Martian society amidst the backdrop of interstellar events. The story primarily focuses on Bobbie's interactions with her nephew, David, a gifted sixteen-year-old who gets entangled in the darker side of life on Mars, showcasing themes of family, societal unrest, and adolescent angst within the well-crafted universe created by the author.
The narrative skillfully weaves together the personal struggles of the characters with larger events in the solar system, providing insight into Martian culture and the complexities of human relationships. James S.A. Corey's writing style shines through in this novella, offering a compelling blend of character-driven storytelling and world-building that adds depth to the overarching narrative of 'The Expanse' series.
- #5The Disappearance of Winter's DaughterBook 5 in the series:The Riyria Chronicles
Save:"The Disappearance of Winter's Daughter" in the series "The Riyria Chronicles" by Michael J. Sullivan follows the adventure of Royce and Hadrian as they are hired by a wealthy whisky baron, Gabriel Winter, to find his missing daughter. The duo is tasked with uncovering whether she is alive or dead and seeking revenge if necessary. As they delve into the mystery in Rochelle, they discover sinister events unfolding, including social strife and the involvement of mythical creatures like stone golems. The story is filled with suspense, banter between the characters, and multiple points of view, creating a complex narrative.
The writing style of the book is described as engaging, with a unique tone that is consistent with the rest of the Riyria series. The plot is fast-paced, with elements of danger, mystery, and tension that keep the reader hooked. The characters, particularly Royce and Hadrian, are well-developed and their interactions add depth to the story, making it an enjoyable and intriguing read.
The coachman must have assumed an emergency, halting the carriage so abruptly that Devon flew against the opposite bench. The moment the wheels stopped, even a bit before, the duchess launched herself...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Riyria Chronicles ) 'Red Summer: The Summer of 1919 and the Awakening of Black America' by Cameron McWhirter delves into the turbulent events of 1919, known as the Red Summer. It explores the racial tensions, violence, and activism that swept across the United States during this period, shedding light on the injustices faced by African Americans. Through detailed accounts of race riots, lynchings, and the emergence of new forms of activism, the book paints a vivid picture of a pivotal moment in American history. McWhirter's narrative style weaves together historical facts and personal stories to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and resilience of African Americans during the Red Summer.
April 13, 1919, was perfect for a celebration. As Joe Ruffin set out to do his morning chores that Sunday, the sky was cloudless and blue. The temperature was in the high 70s—normal for spring in east...- #7
Save:'The Trouble with Peace' by Joe Abercrombie continues the saga in 'The Age of Madness' series, delving into a world where the Union is torn apart by threats from within and without. The characters, including Savine, Leo, Orso, Clover, Rikke, and Vick, find themselves entangled in games of intrigue and war, forced to pick sides as events spiral out of control. Abercrombie's writing style expertly weaves together rebellion, battles, struggles, winners, losers, twists, and turns, creating a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The book is praised for its well-fleshed-out characters, realistic portrayals, and the author's ability to create an expansive and immersive world.
The prose in 'The Trouble with Peace' is described as elegant, concise, and masterful, with Abercrombie showcasing his skills as a storyteller and wordsmith. The book is commended for its intricate plots, intelligent twists, and unpredictable narrative, offering a satisfying and immersive reading experience for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
“I hope no one minds if we dispense with this for now?” Orso tossed his circlet down, gold twinkling in a dusty shaft of spring sunlight as it spun around and around. “Damn thing chafes rather.” He ru...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Age of Madness ) - #8Trulyby:
Save:'Truly' by Mary Balogh is a historical romance novel set in Wales during the 1800s, focusing on the social unrest and oppression faced by the Welsh people. The story follows Geraint Penderyn, the Earl of Wyvern, as he navigates his return to Wales after years in England, grappling with his dual identities and trying to find his place among his Welsh people. The plot also delves into the historical context of the Rebecca Riots, where the Welsh rebel against English toll roads that are impoverishing the countrymen. Balogh's writing style in this book is described as different from her usual novels, with a focus on both romance and historical elements, showcasing her love for the Welsh people and their homeland.
- #9
Save:In Kei Miller's novel, 'Augustown', readers are taken on a journey through a poor suburb of Kingston, Jamaica, where social unrest and marvels coexist. The book delves into themes of colonialism, cultural heritage, and the struggle for identity within the Jamaican community. Through a blend of reality, history, legend, and magic, the author weaves a tale that explores the consequences of a young Rastafarian boy being forcibly shorn of his dreadlocks, highlighting the clash between tradition and modernity. Miller's writing style effortlessly transitions between standard English and Jamaican patois, creating an atmospheric and poignant narrative that captures the essence of Augustown.
Blind people hear and taste and smell what other people cannot, and what Ma Taffy smells on this early afternoon makes her sit up straight. She smells it high and ripe and stink on the air, like a bri... - #10
Save:In a crumbling, isolated house at the foot of Mount Kanchenjunga in the Himalayas lives an embittered judge who wants only to retire in peace, when his orphaned granddaughter, Sai, arrives on his doorstep. The judge's cook watches over her distractedly, for his thoughts are often on his son, Biju, who is in New York working in one gritty restaurant after another. Kiran Desai's brilliant novel, published to huge acclaim, is a story of joy and despair. Her characters face numerous choices that majestically illuminate the consequences of colonialism as it collides with the modern world. The novel is set in a crumbling grand house in the hills below Kangchenjunga, covering poverty, wealth, and inequality in both India and the US, where the cook's son emigrates illegally to and has exploitative jobs, illustrating constant loss of dignity, love, possessions, and freedom in India.
All day, the colors had been those of dusk, mist moving like a water creature across the great flanks of mountains possessed of ocean shadows and depths. Briefly visible above the vapor, Kanchenjunga ...
