Books matching: soviet occupation
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- #1
Save:'German Boy: A Child in War' by Wolfgang W.E. Samuel tells the untold story of what WWII was like for ordinary Germans in the last days and immediate aftermath of the war. Through the eyes of a young boy named Wolfgang, readers witness the struggles of a German family as they flee the advancing Russians, survive hunger and poverty, and eventually find hope in the American Zone of Berlin. The narrative vividly portrays the impact of war on children and families, showcasing the resilience and determination of individuals in unimaginable circumstances.
A Woman in Berlin: Eight Weeks in the Conquered City: A Diary by Marta Hillers is a harrowing account of a woman's survival during the end of World War II in Berlin. The anonymous author documents the atrocities faced by women in the city, including hunger, rape, abuse, and mistrust, while highlighting the breakdown of societal norms and the struggle for survival in a decimated city overrun by the Russians. The diary provides a raw and factual depiction of life in Berlin during the post-war occupation, shedding light on the unimaginable suffering experienced by German women during the war.
The book captures the stark reality of the collapse of society and the lengths individuals go to in order to survive in a war-torn environment. Through meticulous observation and clear-eyed storytelling, the author paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by women in Berlin, showcasing the resilience and adaptability required to navigate through the chaos and devastation of the aftermath of World War II.
It's true: the war is rolling towards Berlin. What was yesterday a distant rumble has now become a constant roar. We breathe the din; our ears are deafened to all but the heaviest guns. We've long giv...- #3
Save:Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys is a historical fiction novel that tells the harrowing story of a Lithuanian family, particularly focusing on teenage girl Lina, who are deported to forced labor camps in Siberia during World War II. The book explores the brutal conditions, struggles, and resilience of the characters as they endure unimaginable hardships under Stalin's reign.
Thinking back, the signs were there—family photos burned in the fireplace, Mother sewing her best silver and jewelry into the lining of her coat late at night, and Papa not returning from work. My you... - #4
Save:'Ghost Wars: The Secret History of the CIA, Afghanistan, and Bin Laden from the Soviet Invasion to September 10, 2001' by Steve Coll is a detailed and exhaustive account of the CIA's involvement in Afghanistan from the Soviet invasion to the lead up to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. It chronicles the rise of the jihadist movement, the support for Afghan fighters, the birth of radical ideals, the Taliban's emergence, and the conditions that allowed Osama bin Laden to establish his power base in the country. The narrative explores the intricate relationships between the CIA, Pakistan's ISI, and Saudi Arabia, shedding light on how these connections led to the events that shaped the War on Terror.
The writing style of the book is journalistic and well-researched, providing a clear and thorough examination of the historical events leading up to 9/11. It offers an eye-opening perspective on American foreign policy in the Middle East, detailing the complexities of U.S. involvement in Pakistan and Afghanistan, the rise of Al Qaeda, and the consequences of the decisions made by intelligence agencies. Through a meticulous exploration of the CIA's operations and the geopolitical landscape, 'Ghost Wars' delivers an essential overview of the challenges and intricacies faced by the U.S. in the region.
1. The account in this chapter of Schroen's visit to Kabul, the details of his discussions with Massoud, and the history between them more than five years earlier is drawn from multiple interviews wit... - #5
Save:'Forty Autumns: A Family's Story of Courage and Survival on Both Sides of the Berlin Wall' by Nina Willner is a compelling narrative that delves into the experiences of one family living in East Germany during the Cold War era. The book provides a detailed account of the challenges faced by the family under the oppressive regime, from the post-WWII Soviet occupation to the construction and eventual fall of the Berlin Wall. Through the author's poignant storytelling, readers gain insight into the personal struggles, sacrifices, and resilience of the family members as they navigate through a tumultuous period in history.
The writing style of 'Forty Autumns' has been praised for its ability to captivate readers, offering a blend of personal anecdotes and historical context that paints a vivid picture of life behind the Iron Curtain. The book not only educates readers about the political landscape of East Germany but also evokes emotions, sparking empathy and admiration for the courage displayed by the author's family in the face of adversity.
The day World War II ended, my grandmother, Oma, was one of the first in the village to emerge from the underground cellar and step out into the still and desolate landscape of rural Schwaneberg. At f... - #6
Save:Purge by Sofi Oksanen is a gripping and intense story set in Estonia, spanning several decades from the Second World War to the early 1990s. The novel revolves around the lives of two women, Aliide and Zara, who are connected through a shared history filled with oppression, occupation, betrayal, and survival. Through detailed flashbacks and intertwining storylines, the author skillfully weaves a narrative that explores themes of sexual violence, secrets, treachery, and the impact of war on human emotions. The book delves into the complex history of Estonia, addressing the horrors of Nazi and Soviet occupations, as well as the modern-day issue of sex trafficking in Eastern Europe.
I have to try to write a few words to keep some sense in my head and not let my mind break down. I’ll hide my notebook here under the floor so no one will find it, even if they do find me. This is no ... - #7
Save:The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov is a novel that delves into a mix of fantastical elements and historical allegories. The story follows the devil's arrival in Moscow, causing chaos and mischief among the characters. Intertwined with this modern-day narrative is the retelling of the crucifixion from Pontius Pilate's perspective, adding depth and complexity to the plot. The writing style is described as rich, vivid, and at times meandering, blending satire with magical realism to create a unique reading experience.
At the hour of sunset, on a hot spring day, two citizens appeared in the Patriarchs’ Ponds Park. One, about forty, in a gray summer suit, was short, plump, dark-haired and partly bald. He carried his ... - #8
Save:The Shadow Land by Elizabeth Kostova is a novel set in Bulgaria, following an American woman who accidentally picks up a bag containing an urn of ashes and embarks on a journey to find its rightful owner. The plot interweaves post-communist political themes, corruption, flashbacks to WWII, gulags, classical musicians, and a whodunnit caper vibe, while exploring themes of loss, mystery, brutality, music, art, loyalty, and love. The writing style is described as vivid, descriptive, and evocative of both the Blue Ridge Mountains and Bulgaria, with well-developed characters and a narrative that shifts between timelines.
Sofia, the year 2008. The month of May, impeccable spring weather, and the goddess Capitalism sitting on her long-since-tawdry throne. On the top step outside Hotel Forest hovered a young woman, more ... - #9
Save:The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich A. Hayek is a profound defense of commercial society and limited government. Hayek argues that socialism and planning eventually lead to totalitarianism, emphasizing the importance of individual liberty for economic growth and opportunities. The book explores the consequences of socialism on hard work and free markets, drawing parallels between socialism and fascism. Hayek's writing style is characterized as non-technical and easy to read, although some opinions mention that the argument emerges slowly with repeated points made throughout the book.
When the course of civilization takes an unexpected turn—when, instead of the continuous progress which we have come to expect, we find ourselves threatened by evils associated by us with past ages of... - #10
Save:"The Bridge at Andau" by James A. Michener is a historical account of the Hungarian Revolution in 1956 and the subsequent events that led to the fall of the Soviet Union. The book vividly portrays the courage and sacrifice of the Hungarian people as they fought for freedom against the oppressive communist regime. Michener's storytelling style, a mix of detail and personality, brings to life the real struggles of individuals fleeing Hungary and seeking refuge in Austria.
On Tuesday evening, October 23, 1956—a day which the world will be slow to forget—a boy of eighteen interrupted his work on the early-evening shift and entered the foreman’s office in the locomotive f...
