Books matching: traditional versus modern values
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- #1
Save:In The Heart of Redness, Zakes Mda crafts a compelling narrative that seamlessly weaves together the historical struggles of the Xhosa people in South Africa with the modern-day dilemmas faced by the descendants of those original factions. The novel delves into the tensions between tradition and modernity, belief and skepticism, as characters grapple with the legacy of past prophecies and the implications for their present and future. Mda's writing style is described as poetic yet forceful, hinting at magical realism while grounding the narrative in the realities of South African history and society.
And he cries often. Sometimes just a sniffle. Or a single tear down his cheek. As a result he carries a white handkerchief all the time, especially these days when peace has returned to the land and t... - #2
Save:In "The Fifth Elephant," Commander Vimes from the Discworld City Watch is sent as an ambassador to Uberwald for the coronation of the new Low King of the dwarves, but things quickly spiral out of control with the theft of the sacred Scone of Stone and complex political plots involving werewolves, vampires, and dwarves. The book is praised for its mix of fun, drama, and literary jokes, as well as the development of characters like Sybil Vimes and the exploration of themes like race relations and diplomacy in a fantastical setting.
The narrative of "The Fifth Elephant" is filled with exciting action, world-building, and memorable character moments, even though it is meant to be a parody with a rare touch of seriousness. While some readers appreciate the humor and fully realized setting of Discworld, others find certain elements like the B story focusing on Sgt. Colon to be less successful, questioning whether Pratchett's writing could have been even better without the pressure to maintain constant levity.
No one actually saw it land, which raised the interesting philosophical point: When millions of tons of angry elephant come spinning through the sky, but there is no one to hear it, does it—philosophi...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld ) - #3
Save:Some Prefer Nettles by Jun'ichiro Tanizaki is a novel set in pre-World War II Japan, exploring the cultural conflict between Eastern and Western influences through the lens of a disintegrating marriage between Kaname and Misako. The story delves into themes of indecision, traditional Japanese values, modernity, and the struggle between stability and excitement. Tanizaki's writing style is described as dreamy, detached, and loaded with subtext, reflecting the complexities of the characters' relationships and the societal changes happening around them.
Kaname as usual was evasive, however, and Misako found it impossible to make up her own mind. The morning passed. At about one o'clock she took a bath and dressed, and, ready for either eventuality, s... - #4
Save:'Eternally Bound' in the series 'The Alliance' by Brenda K. Davies is a vampire paranormal romance that introduces readers to an alliance between vampires and hunters. The story follows the unlikely pairing of Ronan, a powerful pureblood vampire, and Kadence, a fierce vampire hunter. As they navigate their forbidden love, they must confront centuries-old traditions and hatred while facing a common enemy that threatens mankind. The plot is filled with action, steamy romance, and intricate world-building, offering a fresh take on vampire lore with engaging characters and a compelling storyline.
- #5
Save:'Stand on the Sky' by Erin Bow follows the story of Aisulu, a young girl living in a nomadic tribe in Mongolia. Aisulu defies tradition by training an eagle, a task usually reserved for men, and forms a deep bond with the bird. When her brother falls ill, Aisulu must navigate family dynamics and societal expectations to save him and protect her nomadic way of life. The story beautifully weaves together themes of family, courage, and the unique bond between humans and animals, set against the backdrop of Mongolia's hunter-gatherer culture.
- #6
Save:Three ambitious Muslim women, Malak, Jenna, and Balquis, navigate their friendship and individual pursuits while facing challenges that test their values and traditions. The book delves into the intricacies of female relationships, exploring themes like love, faith, family, and the pursuit of happiness. The writing style is described as beautifully written, emotionally impactful, and a powerful narrative that immerses readers into the lives of the characters.
- #7
Save:"Buns" by Alice Clayton is the third book in the Hudson Valley series, following the story of Clara, a resort rebranding genius, and Archie, the widowed owner of Bryant Mountain House. Clara is independent and career-driven, while Archie is traditional and resistant to change. As Clara tries to revamp the hotel, she clashes with Archie but also finds herself drawn to him. Their relationship evolves from bumpy encounters to undeniable chemistry, leading to a sweet and sexy romance set against the backdrop of Hudson Valley.
The book is praised for its engaging plot, witty dialogue, and well-developed characters. Clara and Archie's dynamic, from initial sparring to mutual attraction, is highlighted as a strong point, along with the realistic portrayal of their personal struggles and eventual connection. The writing style is described as humorous, romantic, and filled with emotional depth, offering a blend of lighthearted moments and heartfelt revelations that keep readers invested in the story.
A partner should also know better than to take a sports car on twisty, windy roads still crusted with salt and ice and potholes. This is why I rarely if ever made spur-of-the-moment decisions, rarely ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Hudson Valley ) - #8
Save:The Makioka Sisters by Jun'ichiro Tanizaki is a novel set in the 1930s and '40s Japan, focusing on the lives of the four Makioka sisters as they navigate through marriage, family dynamics, and societal expectations. The book delves into the daily minutiae of the sisters' lives, showcasing distinctively Japanese culture and events amidst the backdrop of the looming WWII. Tanizaki's writing captures the intimate everyday moments of the once powerful Makioka family, highlighting the complexities of family dynamics and the struggles of a declining aristocracy in a rapidly changing society.
Seeing in the mirror that Taeko had come up behind her, Sachiko stopped powdering her back and held out the puff to her sister. Her eyes were still on the mirror, appraising the face as if it belonged... - #9
Save:Born Confused is a coming-of-age story centered around Dimple Lala, a 17-year-old American Born Confused Desi (ABCD) living in New Jersey. The plot follows Dimple's journey of self-discovery, as she navigates her dual identity as an Indian-American, struggles with feelings of not belonging, and explores themes of cultural appropriation and identity. The writing style of the book is described as witty, insightful, and filled with beautiful prose that delves into the complexities of adolescence and the immigrant experience.
This was going to be the first day of the rest of my life, Gwyn had announced to me on the way to school. After today: long hot months ahead, in which anything could — and would — happen. She said it ... - #10
Save:"Iza's Ballad" by Magda Szabo is a poignant exploration of the generational differences and misunderstandings between Etty, an old country woman, and her daughter Iza, a city doctor. The story delves into the tragic consequences of over-caring as Iza takes charge of her mother's welfare following the death of Etty's husband, Vince. The novel beautifully captures the themes of love, loss, and the struggles of adjusting to new circumstances, set against the backdrop of rural Hungary and modern Budapest.
The narrative skillfully portrays the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, traditional versus modern values, and the contrast between rural and city existences. Through Szabo's subtle storytelling, readers are drawn into a world where ordinary people grapple with profound emotions, memories, and the challenges of adapting to changing times. "Iza's Ballad" weaves together multiple perspectives and backstories, highlighting the deep-seated desires, aspirations, and conflicts that shape the characters' lives.
Three years earlier Iza had sent them a clever little machine that plugged into the wall and made the bread come out a pale pink; she’d turned the contraption this way and that, examined it for a whil...
