Books matching: tragic event
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:"Homo Faber" by Max Frisch follows the story of Walter Faber, an engineer working for UNESCO, who embarks on a journey to Latin America for a work project. Through a series of coincidences and encounters, Walter's belief in a rational world is shaken, leading him to a young woman named Sabeth with whom he falls in love. The novel delves into themes of modern man's failure in a society driven by science and rationality, showcasing Walter's transformation and realization of the limitations of his worldview. The plot unfolds through a mix of stream of consciousness narrative and flashbacks, slowly revealing the consequences of Walter's choices.
We were leaving from La Guardia Airport, New York, three hours late because of snow storms. Our plane, as usual on this route, was a Super Constellation. Since it was night, I immediately prepared to ... - #2
Save:'A Thousand Lives: The Untold Story of Hope, Deception, and Survival at Jonestown' by Julia Scheeres is a deeply researched account of the tragic events that unfolded in Jonestown. The book delves into the charismatic leadership of Jim Jones and the gradual descent of the People's Temple into madness and tragedy. Scheeres uses a combination of recently released documents, survivor interviews, and public records to provide a comprehensive look at how Jones manipulated his followers, leading to the mass suicide of over 900 individuals in Guyana. The writing style is straightforward and engaging, offering a vivid portrayal of the individuals involved and the psychological manipulation they endured.
The journey up the coastline was choppy, the shrimp trawler too far out to get a good look at the muddy shore. While other passengers rested fitfully in sleeping bags spread out on the deck or in the ... - #3
Save:In 'Night of the Grizzlies' by Jack Olsen, the author recounts the horrifying events that took place in Glacier National Park in 1967, where two teenage girls were killed by different bears in separate incidents. The book delves into the details of the attacks, the victims' backgrounds, the companions' actions, and the subsequent investigations, autopsies, and bear hunts. Olsen's writing style vividly captures the intensity and tragedy of the bear attacks, while also shedding light on the human factors that contributed to the fatal encounters with the grizzlies.
- #4
Save:Murder in the Synagogue by T.V. LoCicero is a detailed and sympathetic case study of one man's descent into mental illness, focusing on the events surrounding the murder of Rabbi Morris Adler by Richard Wishnestsky. The book explores the internal and external influences that shaped Richard, portraying him as a brilliant yet troubled individual. The writing style is described as compassionate and matter-of-fact, delving into the complexities of Richard's world of sociology, philosophy, and higher education.
The book provides a richly detailed narrative of the circumstances leading up to the murder-suicide at Congregation Sharrey Zedek, offering a deep insight into the minds of the individuals involved. The author, T.V. LoCicero, skillfully presents the story with sensitivity and without judgment, allowing readers to understand the complexities of the characters and the tragic events that unfolded.
- #5
Save:Set in the 1950s, 'In the Unlikely Event' by Judy Blume revolves around the real-life events of three plane crashes in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The story follows Miri Ammerman and her friends and family as they navigate the aftermath of these tragedies, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience. Blume's writing style is described as evocative, with multiple characters' viewpoints providing a rich and engaging narrative that captures the essence of life during that time period.
Miri Ammerman and her best friend, Natalie Osner, were sprawled on their bellies on the thick, tweedy wall-to-wall carpet of Natalie’s den, waiting for the first-ever televised lighting of the famous ... - #6
Save:'She's Come Undone' by Wally Lamb is a compelling coming-of-age story that follows the life of Dolores Price, a young girl who faces heart-wrenching challenges from childhood to adulthood. The novel delves into themes of love, loss, trauma, and self-discovery as Dolores navigates through a series of painful events that shape her character. The writing style of the book is noted for its ability to capture the raw emotions and struggles of the protagonist, drawing readers into Dolores' tumultuous journey with its vivid storytelling.
The plot of 'She's Come Undone' unfolds through Dolores' experiences with abuse, trauma, and self-destructive behaviors, showcasing her resilience and growth amidst adversity. Wally Lamb's narrative skillfully portrays the complexities of Dolores' life, from her struggles with body image and relationships to her quest for self-acceptance and redemption. The book's exploration of dark themes is balanced with moments of humor and hope, offering a poignant depiction of a flawed yet relatable protagonist's evolution over time.
IN ONE OF MY EARLIEST MEMORIES, MY MOTHER AND I ARE ON the front porch of our rented Carter Avenue house watching two delivery men carry our brand-new television set up the steps. I'm excited because ... - #7
Save:'Bittersweet' by Nevada Barr is set in the 1870s American West and Pennsylvania and follows the story of two remarkable pioneer women, Imogene and Sarah Mary. Imogene, a school teacher haunted by her past, forms a deep bond with her student Sarah Mary after a tragic event. Together, they flee and support each other with fierce devotion, navigating the challenges faced by women in the 19th century. The novel explores themes of love, resilience, and the struggles of women during a time when marriage was often the only option.
A RAWBONED WOMAN NEARLY SIX FEET TALL PULLED ON THE BRASS handle; the door was wedged against the lintel and wouldn’t close-the fog that had lain over Philadelphia since late September had swelled the... - #8
Save:'The Pilot's Wife' by Anita Shreve revolves around the story of Kathryn, a pilot's wife, who faces the sudden death of her husband in a plane crash. As she navigates through her grief, she uncovers shocking secrets about her husband's hidden life, including another wife and family across the ocean. The novel delves into themes of betrayal, deception, and the complexities of marriage, keeping readers engaged with its suspenseful plot twists and emotional depth. Anita Shreve's writing style is described as emotionally gripping, hauntingly beautiful, and lyrical, capturing the essence of loss, love, and rediscovery.
SHE HEARD A KNOCKING, AND THEN A DOG BARKING. Her dream left her, skittering behind a closing door. It had been a good dream, warm and close, and she minded. She fought the waking. It was dark in the ... - #9
Save:In "Birds in Fall" by Brad Kessler, a plane crashes along the coast of Nova Scotia during the transition from fall to winter. The story revolves around a weary innkeeper, Kevin, who keeps his inn open for the relatives of the plane crash victims seeking closure. The novel explores the grief and mourning of the guests at the inn, weaving together individual tales into one narrative filled with themes of birds, flying, falling, and human connection in the face of tragedy.
The book is praised for its rich imagery, mythological connections, and the way it delves into the depths of human emotions and psychology. The characters, especially Kevin and Ana, the ornithologist, are highlighted for their depth and the connections they form with each other and the readers. The writing style is described as flowing, with layers of mythology and symbolism intertwined to create a moving and uplifting story.
- #10
Save:'The Woods' by Harlan Coben is a gripping murder mystery that delves into the unsolved murder of four campers at a summer day camp twenty years ago. The protagonist, Paul Copeland, a county prosecutor, finds himself entangled in a case that resurfaces the past, particularly the murder of his sister among the campers. The book is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Coben's writing style, with its conversational narration and skillful weaving of subplots, creates a suspenseful and engaging storyline that explores family secrets, guilt, and the impact of past events on present lives.
I WAS SITTING IN AN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GYMNASIUM, watching my six-year-old daughter, Cara, nervously navigate across a balance beam that hovered maybe four inches off the floor, but in less than an hou...
