Books matching: struggles for identity
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- #1
Save:In 'Beyond the Veil' by Pippa DaCosta, readers are introduced to Muse, a half-demon character who struggles to navigate a world where she is considered a despicable creature by full-blood demons. The book follows Muse's journey as she tries to escape the torment and control of cruel demon owners and live freely on the human side of the Veil. The plot is filled with action, emotional depth, and a fantasy world that captivates readers from the first chapter. The writing style is described as fast-paced, funny at times, high on emotion, and engaging, making it a thrilling urban demon fantasy read.
I should have known he’d be trouble as soon as he walked into my workshop, but I couldn’t have known he’d be the death of me. He wore a three-quarter length red leather coat, had platinum blond hair l... - #2
Save:Set in a post-apocalyptic world, "The Gate to Women's Country" by Sheri S. Tepper explores a society where women and men live separately, with women ruling the Women's Country. The novel delves into gender roles, power dynamics, and the aftermath of a nuclear holocaust. Through the protagonist Stavia, the story navigates themes of feminism, violence, and societal structures, intertwined with elements of Greek literature. The narrative style jumps between past and present, gradually revealing the complexities of the world and its inhabitants.
STAVIA SAW HERSELF AS IN A PICTURE, FROM THE outside, a darkly cloaked figure moving along a cobbled street, the stones sheened with a soft, early spring rain. On either side the gutters ran with an i... - #3
Save:The Long Song by Andrea Levy is a gripping novel that delves into the harrowing realities of slavery in Jamaica, particularly focusing on the period around the Baptist War of Jamaica in 1831-1832. The narrative is centered around the life of July, a former slave who recounts her experiences from being born into servitude on a sugar cane plantation to witnessing the abolition of slavery and navigating life post-freedom. The book expertly weaves together themes of abuse, cruelty, hope, and resilience, offering a poignant and cinematic portrayal of the inhumanity and barbarism of the era.
Kitty, July’s mama, gave birth to her in her dwelling hut. For eight long hours Kitty did pace about that hut—first five steps in one direction, then a further five in the other. All the while with he... - #4
Save:'A Doll's House' by Henrik Ibsen is a play that delves into the complexities of marriage and societal expectations, especially regarding the role of women in the late 19th century. The protagonist, Nora, undergoes a journey of self-realization as she grapples with the realization that her marriage is not as she believed it to be, leading to a dramatic and controversial decision to leave her husband and children. The play is known for its exploration of gender roles, power dynamics, and the concept of individual identity within the constraints of societal norms.
The writing style of 'A Doll's House' is praised for its thought-provoking nature, engaging dialogue, and ability to raise moral questions for readers to contemplate. The play is noted for its realistic portrayal of characters and relationships, particularly in Nora's transformation from a submissive wife to a woman seeking independence and self-discovery. Through Nora's journey, Henrik Ibsen skillfully critiques the societal norms and expectations of his time, sparking discussions on women's rights and the nature of marriage.
[SCENE—A room furnished comfortably and tastefully, but not extravagantly. At the back, a door to the right leads to the entrance-hall, another to the left leads to Helmer’s study. Between the doors s... - #5
Save:'Under the Skin' by Michel Faber is a dark and disturbing novel that follows the story of Isserley, a female driver who cruises the Scottish Highlands looking for muscular male hitchhikers. The plot takes unexpected twists and turns, delving into themes of humanity, dehumanization, and the exploitation of the other. The writing style is described as beautifully imagined, thought-provoking, and suspenseful, keeping readers on edge as they uncover the mysteries within the narrative.
The book explores the concept of what it means to be human, the moral boundaries of slaughter, and the complexities of identity and mercy. It presents a unique perspective on modern life, turning societal norms upside down and challenging readers to contemplate deeper questions about equality, sacrifice, and the essence of humanity. Faber's narrative weaves together elements of science fiction, horror, and social commentary, creating a compelling and unsettling story that lingers in the minds of readers long after they have finished the book.
ISSERLEY ALWAYS DROVE straight past a hitch-hiker when she first saw him, to give herself time to size him up. She was looking for big muscles: a hunk on legs. Puny, scrawny specimens were no use to h... - #6
Save:Nada by Carmen Laforet is a coming-of-age story set in post Civil War Barcelona, following 18-year-old orphan Andrea as she navigates life with her hyper-religious aunt, abusive uncles, and confused grandmother in a decaying house. The novel vividly portrays the struggles of youth, family dynamics, and the atmosphere of post-war Barcelona, with a narrative that is described as cool, detached, and somewhat distant but making the dark situation more bearable.
It was the first time I had travelled alone, but I wasn’t frightened; on the contrary, this profound freedom at night seemed like an agreeable and exciting adventure to me. Blood was beginning to circ... - #7
Save:'Of Human Bondage' by W. Somerset Maugham is a coming-of-age novel that follows the life of Philip Carey, an orphan with a clubfoot, as he navigates through various stages of his life. The book covers his struggles, relationships, career choices, and philosophical reflections. The narrative spans from his childhood through his adulthood, exploring themes of love, purpose, and the complexities of human existence. Maugham's writing style intricately weaves together the personal growth of the protagonist with vivid descriptions of the settings and characters he encounters along his journey.
When they reached the house Mrs. Carey had died in – it was in a dreary, respectable street between Notting Hill Gate and High Street, Kensington – Emma led Philip into the drawing-room. His uncle was... The novel "Voodoo Dreams: A Novel of Marie Laveau" by Jewell Parker Rhodes delves into the dark and mysterious life of Marie Laveau, an infamous New Orleans voodooienne. Set in the 1800s, the book portrays the brutality of slavery and the oppression in Louisiana, intertwined with the mysticism of voodoo rituals. The story revolves around Marie Laveau, a powerful Voodoo priestess, and her journey to uncover her past, navigate her destiny, and battle the forces of evil, particularly the manipulative John. The author's writing style captures the essence of old New Orleans, blending elements of voodoo, Christianity, faith, and hope against a historical backdrop, making the characters and settings come alive for the readers.
- #9
Save:'Sister Mine' by Nalo Hopkinson is a modern fantasy novel that delves into the lives of conjoined twin sisters, Makeda and Abbey, born from a mortal and a god. The story explores their struggles for individual identities within a complex family dynamic that includes deities, paranormal occurrences, and a blend of Caribbean culture in Toronto. The narrative weaves together themes of love, family, identity, and the balance between enmeshment and individuation, all set in a magical and unconventional universe that challenges the characters to navigate their reality.
The writing style in 'Sister Mine' is described as vivid, colorful, and entertaining, offering readers an immersive experience in a world where the line between reality and fantasy is blurred. The author, Nalo Hopkinson, skillfully incorporates elements of Caribbean mythology and folklore, creating a unique and exotic perspective that adds depth to the characters and the storyline. Despite its complex plot and magical elements, the book addresses universal themes of family relationships, personal growth, and the search for one's place in the world.
I double-checked the scrap of paper I’d torn out of the Classifieds section of the Toronto Star. Yup, this was the place that was looking for tenants. It didn’t look like much, sitting there on a down... - #10
Save:'Being Jazz' by Jazz Jennings is a touching nonfiction book that follows Jazz's transition from male to female as a child in the public eye. The book provides insights into Jazz's struggles to be accepted, to play soccer, make friends, and become a figurehead for transgender advocacy groups. Jazz shares her experiences growing up transgender, her family's support, and her journey to becoming an LGBTQ advocate. The writing style is described as conversational, engaging, and at times humorous, offering a mix of eye-opening experiences and routine teenage life.
No matter how hard I fought, my parents weren’t ready for me to socially transition in public yet. It was infuriating to me at the time, but I can appreciate now what they were going through. There wa...
