Books matching: societal changes
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:E.L. Doctorow's "Homer and Langley" is a fictionalized account of the lives of the reclusive Collyer brothers, Homer and Langley, who turned their Fifth Avenue mansion into a hoarder's nest. The novel delves into their eccentricities, their bond as brothers, and their withdrawal from society, all set against the backdrop of major historical events of the 20th century. Doctorow narrates the story from the perspective of blind Homer, providing rich detail and vivid imagery of their lives and surroundings.
I’M HOMER, THE BLIND BROTHER. I didn’t lose my sight all at once, it was like the movies, a slow fade-out. When I was told what was happening I was interested to measure it, I was in my late teens the... - #2The Shadow KillerBook 2 in the series:Reykjavik Wartime Mystery/Flovent and Thorson Thrillers
Save:'The Shadow Killer' in the series 'Reykjavik Wartime Mystery/Flovent and Thorson Thrillers' by Arnaldur Indridason is set in WWII Iceland where the occupation by British and American forces brings societal changes and challenges. The story follows local policeman Flovent and Canadian military cop Thorson as they investigate a murder case that quickly unravels into a complex web involving both military and civilian players. The author vividly captures the historical setting of wartime Iceland, highlighting the internecine rivalries, societal norms, and the impact of the occupation on the local population.
The writing style of the book is described as capturing the essence of wartime Iceland, with richly drawn characters and a twisting plot that keeps readers guessing until the end. The story unfolds with a brisk pace, offering a blend of historical context and intriguing mysteries, while delving into the evolving relationships between the main characters, Flovent and Thorson.
(Also, see 26 recommendations for the series Reykjavik Wartime Mystery/Flovent and Thorson Thrillers ) - #3
Save:A Novel with Cocaine by M. Ageyev is a novel that delves into the lives of high school students in Russia on the brink of the Revolution. The story captures the atmosphere of nihilism and uncertainty that surrounds the characters as they face the vanishing world of tsarism. Amidst the turmoil, themes of love, friendship, and the struggle to find meaning in a senseless world are explored. The narrative follows the protagonist, Vadim Maslennikov, through various stages of his life, from school to a marred love affair to his introduction to cocaine, offering insights into the human condition and the complexities of existence.
The writing style in A Novel with Cocaine is described as stark and Russian, reminiscent of classic Russian literature. The plot unfolds gradually, with vivid details and unsettling descriptions that delve into the depths of human emotions and experiences. The author, M. Ageyev, is praised for his ability to capture the raw and sensitive aspects of life, presenting a narrative that is both honest and thought-provoking.
- #4
Save:'Cobra' by Timothy Zahn explores a society where cyborg super soldiers, known as Cobras, are created to win a war but face challenges and prejudices once demobilized. The story delves into the political implications of having super soldiers in society, focusing on the struggles and consequences faced by these enhanced individuals. Through the eyes of protagonist Jonny Moreau, readers witness the societal reactions, political maneuvering, and personal dilemmas that arise from the existence of the Cobras.
The narrative of 'Cobra' is a blend of military science fiction and speculative fiction, offering a unique perspective on the impact of superhuman individuals on society. While the book contains elements of action and intrigue, its primary focus lies on exploring the societal changes, political tensions, and personal struggles faced by the Cobras as they navigate a world that both reveres and fears them.
Deep in personal combat with the official bafflegab staring out at him from his reader, Governor Corwin Jame Moreau switched mental gears with an effort and turned his attention to his intercom. It ma... - #5
Save:Born to Magic by David Wind is a fantasy tale set in a post-apocalyptic world 3,000 years in the future, where the remnants of society have evolved to rely on magic instead of technology. The story follows Areenna, an 18-year-old with strong psychic abilities, and Mikaal, the first man with magical powers, as they embark on a perilous journey to save their world from evil forces. The plot is filled with action, intrigue, and a hint of romance, set against a backdrop of mutated creatures, magical powers, and the constant threat of annihilation.
The narrative style of Born to Magic is primarily told from a third-person omniscient point of view, which some readers found challenging to connect with the characters on a deeper level. Despite this, the book presents a fast-paced and exciting story, with intricate world-building and well-developed secondary characters. The author weaves a tale of survival, growth, and facing evil, as Areenna and Mikaal navigate through haunted wastelands, battle dark forces, and discover the true extent of their powers.
'A Death in White Bear Lake' by Barry Siegel is a chronicle of a heinous crime committed by an adoptive mother, Lois Jurgens, and her husband, shedding light on the dark reality of child abuse within a seemingly idyllic town. The narrative delves into the chilling details of the abuse suffered by a young boy named Dennis, the lack of intervention from bystanders, and the eventual trial that exposes the community's shocking indifference towards the abuse. Through a mix of personal interviews, research, and court records, the author paints a vivid picture of the tragic events that unfolded, leaving readers with a sense of disbelief and outrage at the horrors faced by the innocent victim.
Months later, in the airless cubicles of the solitary police station where White Bear Lake detectives do their business, there was confusion among some of them about just what they truly recalled of t...- #7
Save:'Moths' by Jane Hennigan is a unique dystopian novel set in a world where a pandemic caused by toxic moths devastates the male population. The story follows Mary, an elderly woman who works as a carer for men in British facilities, as she navigates a society where women hold the power and men are either infected or living in sequestered institutions. Through a mix of flashbacks and present-day narrative, the book explores themes of gender roles, societal patriarchy, and the impact of a catastrophic event that changed the world forty years ago.
The writing style of 'Moths' is described as gripping and captivating, with a perfect blend of dystopian elements and horror. The author's ability to create a world where gender roles are swapped, and women are in control is lauded for its realism and relevance, especially in addressing transgender issues without being preachy. The novel's plot is fast-paced, keeping readers engaged until the end, with realistic characters and a narrative that delves into ethical questions about personal freedom and societal norms.
- #8
Save:"The Loom of Youth" by Alec Waugh is a semi-autobiographical novel that offers a glimpse into life at a British public school in the early 20th century. The book delves into the challenges faced by students, the dynamics of school life, and the impact of societal changes on education. It also touches upon controversial topics such as homosexuality and the struggles of adolescents navigating the rigid school system.
The writing style of the book is described as well-crafted and engaging, providing readers with a vivid and detailed account of the characters and their experiences at the school. The narrative explores themes of friendship, rivalry, and self-discovery, offering a unique perspective on the British education system during a transformative period in history.
There comes some time an end to all things, to the good and to the bad. And at last Gordon Caruthers’ first day at school, which had so combined excitement and depression as to make it unforgettable, ... - #9
Save:The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker is a coming-of-age tale intertwined with a post-apocalyptic story, following the life of an 11-year-old girl named Julia as she navigates the challenges of middle school amidst the Earth's rotation slowing down. The book delves into Julia's personal struggles with friendships, family dynamics, first love, and societal changes, all set against the backdrop of a world facing catastrophic alterations due to the slowing of the Earth's rotation. The narrative style, through Julia's perspective, captures the blend of normal adolescent experiences and the extraordinary events unfolding in the world.
We were distracted back then by weather and war. We had no interest in the turning of the earth. Bombs continued to explode on the streets of distant countries. Hurricanes came and went. Summer ended.... - #10
Save:"Salvation" by Peter F. Hamilton is a science fiction novel that follows a complex story structure involving multiple timelines and characters. Readers found the book challenging due to its format, which includes flashbacks and flash-forwards that can be difficult to track, especially when listening to it as an audiobook. Despite the intricate plotlines, the book explores interesting concepts such as alien encounters, advanced technology, and societal developments in a near-future setting.
Drifting through interstellar space, three light-years out from the star 31 Aquilae, the Neána abode cluster picked up a series of short, faint electromagnetic pulses that lasted intermittently for ei...
