Books matching: urban struggles
100 result(s)
Push by Sapphire is a raw and harrowing story following the life of Precious Jones, a teenage girl who has endured unimaginable abuse from both her parents. Illiterate and pregnant twice by her own father, Precious finds hope and strength through education and the support of a caring teacher. The book delves into themes of injustice, pain, and the resilience of the human spirit, painting a vivid picture of Precious's journey from a life of abuse and despair to one of determination and empowerment.
Sapphire's writing style in Push is characterized by its rawness and simplicity, effectively conveying the brutal realities faced by Precious. The novel's graphic language and vivid descriptions provide a stark portrayal of Precious's struggles, while also highlighting the importance of education and self-worth in overcoming adversity. Through Precious's narrative, readers are taken on a poignant and emotional journey that explores the darkest corners of human experience with a glimmer of hope shining through.
I was left back when I was twelve because I had a baby for my fahver. That was in 1983.1 was out of school for a year. This gonna be my second baby. My daughter got Down Sinder. She's retarded. I had ...- #2
Save:Hard Rain Falling by Don Carpenter is a gritty novel that follows the life of Jack Levitt, a troubled young man who grows up in Portland, Oregon, facing struggles and hardships from a young age. The story delves into Jack's journey from petty thefts and pool hall hustles to serious trouble and incarceration in county jail. Through Jack's experiences in prison and his life post-release, the author paints a vivid portrait of a man failed by society. The writing style of the book is described as spare and thoughtful, capturing the struggles of the characters as they try to navigate life and find a reason to live amidst harsh realities.
There were worse things than being broke, but for the moment Jack Levitt could not think of any of them. He stood on Fourth Avenue in downtown Portland looking into the window of a novelty store, his ... - #3
Save:'Taming the Beast' by Emily Maguire is a dark and intense novel that delves into the disturbing and obsessive relationship between a 38-year-old male school teacher, Daniel, and his 14-year-old female student, Sarah. The story revolves around Sarah's attempt to come to terms with this toxic relationship, exploring themes of loss, extreme codependency, and the consequences of living entirely at the whims of one's passions. The writing style is described as raw, heavy on sadomasochism, and exquisitely touching, providing vivid imagery that reflects the harsh reality of Sarah's story.
Sarah, the protagonist, is portrayed as a deeply damaged individual whose life is completely out of control, engaging in a series of sexually damaging relationships. The novel challenges societal norms and expectations, offering a unique perspective on love, sexuality, passion, and personal choice through Sarah's dark and twisted journey. Despite the disturbing nature of the plot, the book is praised for tackling difficult and mature themes that are often overlooked in literature, making it a thought-provoking and impactful read.
Sarah Clark felt like a freak for two and a half years. It started when she received a leather-bound copy of Othello for her twelfth birthday and ended when her English teacher showed her exactly what... - #4
Save:'Bad Behavior' by Mary Gaitskill is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships, particularly focusing on themes of sexuality, power dynamics, and emotional struggles. The stories are set in New York City, portraying a raw and candid exploration of urban life in the late 1980s. Gaitskill's writing style is described as haunting, gripping, and brutally honest, offering a glimpse into the lives of characters dealing with issues such as abusive relationships, unconventional sexual encounters, and challenging personal choices.
JOEY FELT THAT his romance with Daisy might ruin his life, but that didn’t stop him. He liked the idea in fact. It had been a long time since he’d felt his life was in danger of further ruin, and it w... - #5
Save:'Down London Road' in the 'On Dublin Street' series by Samantha Young follows the intertwining lives of Jo and Cam as secrets are revealed, truths shared, and a deep connection forms between them. Jo, portrayed as a money-hungry individual by some, is shown to be selfless and resilient in her decisions, while Cam evolves from being perceived as a jerk to a caring and understanding individual. The book delves into themes of personal growth, family dynamics, and the complexities of relationships, all while maintaining a captivating and emotional storyline.
The novel explores dark issues like alcoholism, child abuse, and domestic violence with sensitivity and depth. Jo's journey towards self-acceptance and finding true love amidst her struggles is intertwined with heartwarming relationships, intense romance, and well-developed characters. Samantha Young's writing style is described as addictive, emotional, and filled with palpable tension and passion, creating a story that is both romantic and angsty, leaving readers engaged and invested in the characters' lives.
I looked upon the piece of art and wondered what the heck I was looking at. To me it was just a bunch of lines and squares in different colours with some shading here and there. It looked familiar. In...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series On Dublin Street ) - #6
Save:In "The Witness for the Dead," set in the world of "The Goblin Emperor," readers follow Thara Celehar, a spirit medium, as he navigates the city of Amalo, dealing with mysteries like a serial poisoner, a forged will, and a murdered opera singer. The book combines elements of fantasy and murder mystery, with Celehar using his ability to communicate with the dead to unravel the truth behind various deaths. The writing style is praised for its intricate world-building, atmospheric descriptions, and the engaging storyline that follows Celehar's investigations and interactions with the city's residents.
In the jumbled darkness of the catacombs beneath the city of Amalo, there was a shrine to Ulis in his aspect as god of the moon. It was thousands of years old, and the carving of the four phases of th...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Goblin Emperor ) - #7
Save:'Reykjavik Nights' by Arnaldur Indridason is a prequel to the Erlendur novels, focusing on the early career of Inspector Erlendur as a traffic cop in Reykjavik. The story revolves around Erlendur's personal investigation into the death of a homeless man named Hannibal, intertwining with a missing woman case. Through meticulous investigation and flashbacks to Erlendur's past encounters with Hannibal, readers get a glimpse of Erlendur's motivations, dedication, and his evolving character as a detective. The writing style of the book is subtle, patient, and compelling, with twists and turns that keep readers engaged in Erlendur's journey towards becoming the inspector they already know.
(Also, see 34 recommendations for the series Inspector Erlendur ) - #8
Save:'Keeping Denver' by Crystal Daniels, Sandy Alvarez is a heartwarming story about a young woman named Denver who, despite facing hardships and homelessness, finds hope and love in unexpected places. The book follows Denver's journey as she navigates through challenges, betrayal, and self-discovery while building connections with the people around her, including a powerful attorney named Callan. The writing style captures the emotional depth of the characters, portraying themes of trust, forgiveness, and resilience in a realistic and relatable manner.
- #9
Save:Buck: A Memoir by M.K. Asante is a riveting and empowering story that follows the journey of a young black man through the challenges and triumphs of growing up in a tough environment. The book weaves together moments of sadness, joy, and evolution, offering a rare glimpse into the life and emotions of a youth who defies stereotypes and overcomes adversity. Through a mix of prose and poetry, the protagonist confronts the street as an antagonist, ultimately uncovering his passion and soul to conquer the obstacles in his path.
The writing style of 'Buck: A Memoir' is rich and layered, featuring authentic voices of both the protagonist and his mother. The narrative delves into universal human experiences, highlighting themes of cultural identity, literacy, and the power of language. The book addresses issues faced by the historically marginalized Black community, shedding light on mental health, poverty, and the impact of societal discourse on urban youth.
- #10
Save:Studs Terkel's 'Division Street: America' delves into the complexities of Chicago through a series of interviews with a diverse range of individuals, offering a candid portrayal of the city in the 1960s. Through the oral history style, Terkel captures the essence of Chicago's social fabric, exploring topics such as race relations, urban upheaval, and the evolving demographics of neighborhoods. The book provides a deep insight into the lives and experiences of ordinary people, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of working-class individuals during that era.
One of the standout aspects of 'Division Street' is the raw honesty with which the interview subjects share their stories. Terkel's skill in getting his interviewees to open up allows readers to connect with the characters on a profound level, offering a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of personalities that make up urban America. The book presents a mosaic of voices, each contributing to a richer understanding of the social dynamics and historical context of Chicago in the 1960s.
