Books matching: socio political upheaval
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- #1
Save:'Shame' by Salman Rushdie is a political novel set in an alternate universe loosely based on Pakistan. The story follows characters representing real-life figures like Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto, amidst events leading up to a military coup by Zia ul Haq. Written in Rushdie's signature magical realism style, the book is filled with satire, cynical intrigue, and black comedy, keeping the reader engaged till the last line. Despite being shorter in length compared to Rushdie's other works, 'Shame' touches on themes of shamelessness, guilt, and political turmoil, creating a vivid and allegorical narrative.
In the remote border town of Q., which when seen from the air resembles nothing so much as an ill-proportioned dumb-bell, there once lived three lovely, and loving, sisters. Their names … but their re... - #2
Save:Nemesis Games is the fifth installment in The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey. In this book, the crew of the Rocinante separates, each embarking on their own personal missions that delve into their pasts and individual struggles. The plot focuses on the consequences of opening the gates to the galaxy, with the belters launching a devastating attack on Earth in a bid to control the solar system and access to the gates. The narrative is fast-paced, character-driven, and explores heavy themes such as emotional intensity, character growth, and the complexities of human relationships.
Fred’s office was large for something on a space station, and smelled of old leather and good coffee. The captain’s safe on the wall was done in titanium and bruised steel, like a prop from an old mov...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Expanse ) - #3
Save:Elantris is a unique fantasy novel that follows the story of a country on the brink of destruction, where the city of Elantris and its god-like inhabitants have fallen from grace. The plot revolves around Prince Raoden, an Elantrian struggling to survive in the decaying city, a high priest named Hrathen seeking to convert and conquer Arelon, and Princess Sarene determined to thwart Hrathen's plans. The book combines elements of political intrigue, magical mysteries, and well-developed characters to create a captivating narrative that keeps readers on edge until the final chapter.
The writing style of Elantris is praised for its detailed world-building, multiple character points of view, and engaging plot progression. The intricate magic system, distinct characters, and well-imagined world of Elantris provide a refreshing take on the fantasy genre. Despite a slow start for some readers, the story gains momentum as it unfolds, offering a blend of mystery, political intrigue, and character development that keeps readers immersed in the narrative.
Prince Raoden of Arelon awoke early that morning, completely unaware that he had been damned for all eternity. Still drowsy, Raoden sat up, blinking in the soft morning light. Just outside his open ba... - #4
Save:'The Kingdom by the Sea' by Paul Theroux is a travel memoir that takes the reader on a journey around the coastline of Great Britain in 1982. Theroux explores various regions, including Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland, providing vivid descriptions of the places he visits and the people he encounters. The book captures the author's observations on the social, economic, and political landscape of Britain during that time, incorporating current events like the Falklands War and the birth of Prince William into his narrative. Theroux's writing style combines humor, sarcasm, and keen insight, offering a unique perspective on the culture and society of the British coastline.
EVERYONE seemed to be going to China that year, or else writing rude things about the Arabs, or being frank about Africa. I had other things on my mind. After eleven years in London I still had not be... - #5
Save:"The God That Failed" is a collection of six essays from disillusioned communists and sympathizers, including Arthur Koestler, Richard Crossman, Louis Fischer, Ignazio Silone, Stephen Spender, and Richard Wright. The essays recount the authors' initial attraction to communism in the 1920s and 1930s, their subsequent disillusionment, and eventual abandonment of party membership. The narratives highlight the allure of Marxist communist ideals and the Soviet Union during a time of economic hardship and political turmoil, shedding light on the transformation of these individuals from idealists to apostates. delves into the personal motivations, ideological conflicts, and historical events that led to the authors' rejection of communism and their enduring commitment to democratic socialism.
The essays in "The God That Failed" offer a profound exploration of the psychological, ideological, and historical dimensions of communism and its eventual collapse. Through vivid renderings of personal experiences and intellectual reflections, the authors provide insights into the allure of all-encompassing creeds, the realities of communist societies, and the complexities of ideological disillusionment. serves as a fundamental document for understanding the intellectual history of the twentieth century, examining the tensions between communist ideals and their flawed implementation, and offering a compelling narrative of ideological conversion and disillusionment.
'The Family Romanov: Murder, Rebellion, and the Fall of Imperial Russia' by Candace Fleming delves into the tragic story of the Romanov family, particularly focusing on Tsar Nicholas II, Empress Alexandra, and their five children. It explores the internal struggles within the royal family, the impact of Rasputin's influence, and the deteriorating conditions faced by the Russian peasants under Nicholas's reign. The narrative skillfully weaves together personal accounts, historical events like WWI, and the eventual downfall of the Russian Empire, providing a detailed insight into the lives of the Romanovs amidst a backdrop of political unrest and social upheaval.
Fleming's writing style captivates readers by offering a character-driven approach to history, portraying the Romanov children as individuals with distinct personalities rather than mere victims of circumstances. effectively utilizes suspense to foreshadow the tragic fate of the imperial family, while also shedding light on the harsh realities faced by Russian peasants during a tumultuous period marked by revolution and war.
On a frosty March day in 1881, the boy who would become Russia’s last ruler glimpsed his future. That morning, Nicholas’s grandfather, Tsar Alexander II, was riding through the streets of St. Petersbu...- #7
Save:Beginning in Paris on the eve of the Nazi occupation in 1940, 'Suite Francaise' by Irene Nemirovsky tells the remarkable story of men and women thrown together in circumstances beyond their control. As Parisians flee the city, human folly surfaces in every imaginable way - a wealthy mother searches for sweets in a town without food, a couple is terrified about their jobs as their world begins to fall apart. Moving on to a provincial village now occupied by German soldiers, the locals must learn to coexist with the enemy in their town, their homes, and even in their hearts. The first part of the book recounts the flight of Parisians as they leave the city, while the second part depicts life in a small French village under German occupation.
Nemirovsky's characters are vividly drawn and complex as they try to come to terms with their changing situation. The author's writing style is praised for its masterful portrayal of individuals dealing with the war and the occupation of France. The book weaves together a variety of perspectives, including the interactions between the French and German characters, showcasing the conflicting humanity given to the German soldiers during the occupation.
Hot, thought the Parisians. The warm air of spring. It was night, they were at war and there was an air raid. But dawn was near and the war far away. The first to hear the hum of the siren were those ... - #8
Save:'The Global Cold War: Third World Interventions and the Making of Our Times' by Odd Arne Westad explores the impact of the Cold War on the Third World, focusing on interventions and confrontations that took place in countries like Korea, Cuba, Chile, and Vietnam. Westad argues that the superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union, played a significant role in shaping the ideologies and movements in these regions, ultimately leading to devastating consequences for the people and countries involved. Through detailed historical analysis, Westad sheds light on how the Cold War rivalry between the superpowers influenced global politics and the development of the Third World.
The writing style of the book is described as compelling, controversial, and well-documented, offering a different perspective on the Cold War that challenges the traditional Eurocentric view. Westad's narrative delves into the complexities of Cold War dynamics in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, highlighting the lasting legacy of interventionism and ideological conflicts that continue to impact international affairs today. is praised for its detailed analysis of U.S. and Soviet policies in the Third World, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the historical events that unfolded during the Cold War era.
- #9
Save:'The Dark Valley' by Piers Brendon is a comprehensive narrative covering the tumultuous decade of the 1930s, focusing on major world powers and the events leading up to World War II. The author delves into the political landscapes of countries like Italy, Germany, the Soviet Union, and the United States, providing detailed accounts of the rise of dictators like Mussolini, Hitler, and Stalin. Through a mix of historical facts and engaging storytelling, Brendon weaves together a panorama of human suffering, social folly, and political turmoil that characterized the era.
Brendon's writing style in 'The Dark Valley' is described as intelligent, comprehensive, and thoughtful, offering readers a chilling yet enlightening perspective on the events that shaped the prelude to WWII. is praised for its well-reasoned analysis, readable prose, and seamless integration of anecdotes, events, and personalities, making it an informative and engaging read for those interested in the interwar period.
WELL before dawn on 21 February 1916, when powdery snow lightened the darkness shrouding the lines of trenches gashed across the face of northern France, a 15-inch Krupp naval gun fired the first shot... - #10
Save:Stefan Zweig's 'The World of Yesterday' is a memoir that vividly captures the author's experiences from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing Europe. Zweig's narrative is a poignant reflection on the cultural and intellectual life of the time, intertwined with personal anecdotes and encounters with key figures like Freud, Mann, and Rilke. The book paints a nostalgic yet sobering picture of a world torn apart by war and political upheaval, ultimately serving as an obituary for the Europe that was lost.
“Three Lives” was Stefan Zweig’s working title for his autobiography in which he took one last, long, nostalgic look at the world of yesterday to whose culture he had made a significant contribution. ...
