Books matching: variable pacing
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- #1
Save:A meticulously researched and gripping true crime account, balancing courtroom drama with heartfelt respect for the victims - must-read for fans of the genre, but a heavy and sometimes detail-heavy ride.
'The Crime of the Century' by Dennis L. Breo and William J. Martin is a detailed and enthralling true crime account of the shocking murders committed by Richard Speck in 1966. The authors provide a precise and accurate retelling of the crime, investigation, trial, and aftermath while showing great sensitivity towards the victims and their families. The narrative delves into the background of Speck, the brutal deeds, the trial proceedings, and the impact of the crime on society, all while highlighting the resilience and bravery of the victims, especially the sole survivor, Corazon Amurao.
The Chicago thermometer hit 98 degrees on Sunday, July 10, 1966. It was the eleventh day in the past two weeks that the heat had been 90 degrees or higher, and the city was wilting from the oppressive...1993•577 pages - #2
Save:A mind-bending journey into the mysteries of language and meaning - difficult at times, but essential for anyone wanting to see philosophy (and everyday words) in a whole new light.
'Philosophical Investigations' by Ludwig Wittgenstein delves into the relationship between words, thoughts, and the world around us. Wittgenstein emphasizes the importance of understanding language based on its use in 'language games' and highlights how misunderstandings in language can lead to the invention of problems. Through his clear and bold quest for clarity, Wittgenstein challenges traditional philosophical concepts and presents a philosophy centered around language, knowledge, and understanding.
1953•461 pages - #3
Save:As full of humor and heart as Pratchett himself, this is an essential read for fans - bittersweet, wise, and laugh-out-loud funny, even in the face of life’s trickiest realities.
'A Slip of the Keyboard' by Terry Pratchett is a collection of nonfiction essays and speeches that offer insights into the author's thoughts on various topics such as writing, education, Alzheimer's disease, and assisted death. The book showcases Pratchett's wit, humor, and profound insights, covering a wide range of themes that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. The writing style is a blend of humor and gravity, with Pratchett expertly balancing light-hearted moments with poignant reflections on life and society.
Carry on staring at screen, but cock ear for sounds of postman. With any luck it will be large bag of post, leading to a busy morning’s work. Last novel just gone off to publisher. Got nothing to do....September 2014•338 pages - #4
Save:A vivid, magical, and deeply human portrait of Mexico and a legendary folk saint - perfect for fans of epic, character-driven stories. Just be prepared for a long, meandering, and richly detailed read.
The Hummingbird's Daughter by Luis Alberto Urrea is a gripping historical novel set in Mexico in the late 19th century. The story follows Teresita Urrea, a young girl with the power of healing, and her father Tomas as they navigate through life in Mexico and eventually flee to America. The book is based on the author's family history and is a rich blend of fact and fiction, showcasing the journey of Teresita as she develops her healing abilities and attracts a following of people seeking her help. The writing style is described as engaging, earthy, and reminiscent of Steinbeck, with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to the setting of Mexico.
ON THE COOL OCTOBER MORNING when Cayetana Chávez brought her baby to light, it was the start of that season in Sinaloa when the humid torments of summer finally gave way to breezes and falling leaves,...2005•522 pages - #5
Save:A beautifully written, time-bending romance full of historical grit and emotional depth - messy in places, but perfect for fans of sweeping love stories set against dramatic backdrops.
'Beyond the Moon' by Catherine Taylor is a time-travel romance novel that follows the intertwining lives of Louisa Casson in 2017 and 1st Lieutenant Robert Lovett in 1916 during World War I. Louisa, mistakenly admitted to a psychiatric hospital, discovers a way to travel back in time where she meets Robert, sparking a unique love story that transcends a century. The novel expertly weaves historical fiction, mystery, and romance, delving into the harsh realities of war and mental health care across different time periods.
There was a painful swell of yellow-grey light, and he felt his pupils contract. Ah, so he was definitely awake then. The light receded as the door closed behind whoever had come in. A doctor, by the...June 2019•495 pages - #6
Save:A striking, painfully honest memoir about beauty, identity, and resilience - poetically written and deeply human. A challenging but rewarding read for anyone interested in what it truly means to live with difference.
'Autobiography of a Face' by Lucy Grealy is a powerful memoir chronicling the author's childhood battle with Ewing's Sarcoma, a rare cancer that resulted in the removal of a large part of her jaw. Grealy candidly shares her emotional and physical struggles, detailing the trauma of her cancer treatments and reconstructive surgeries. Through her lyrical and honest writing style, she explores themes of beauty, self-acceptance, and the societal pressures placed on appearance. The narrative follows Grealy's journey from childhood through her early adult years, offering insights into her experiences of pain, loneliness, and the search for identity.
I was knocked into the present, the unmistakable now, by Joni Friedman's head as it collided with the right side of my jaw. Up until that moment my body had been running around within the confines of...September 1994•257 pages - #7
Save:Dazzling, gritty, and unforgettable - Sour Heart is a bold, emotionally charged collection best suited for those who appreciate unvarnished storytelling and voices that refuse to be muted.
Sour Heart by Jenny Zhang is a collection of interconnected short stories that focus on the lives of Chinese American immigrant families in New York City. The stories delve into the complexities of family relationships, particularly between parents and children, and explore themes of cultural identity, immigration, and the immigrant experience. Zhang's writing style is described as raw, personal, and poignant, capturing the voices of angsty kids and pre-teens as they navigate the challenges of growing up in a new country while holding onto their old traditions.
The stories in Sour Heart are characterized by their visceral and sometimes disturbing nature, offering a unique perspective on the Chinese American experience. The narratives are rich in detail, depicting the struggles and triumphs of immigrant families in a way that feels both authentic and emotionally resonant. Through the varied tones and voices of the characters, Zhang weaves a tapestry of interconnected stories that highlight the complexities of familial relationships and the search for belonging in a new land.
Back when my parents and I lived in Bushwick in a building sandwiched between a drug house and another drug house, the only difference being that the dealers in the one drug house were also the users...August 2017•320 pages - #8
Save:A sharp, funny, and mind-opening guide to hacking your own consciousness - best for adventurous readers eager to question everything and try new mental experiments.
Prometheus Rising by Robert Anton Wilson delves into the realms of psychology, consciousness, and human behavior through the lens of the 8 circuit model. The book introduces readers to a mind-altering journey that challenges conventional thinking and offers a fresh perspective on self-awareness and societal structures. Wilson's writing style, characterized by humor and thought-provoking exercises, guides readers through the exploration of neurological circuits, brainwashing techniques, and predictions for the future, all while encouraging a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.
Like most of my books, this text emerged only partly from my conscious design and partly from suspicious accidents. It actually began as a Ph.D. dissertation called “The Evolution of Neuro-Sociologica...1983•305 pages - #9
Save:A dazzling, brain-bending tapestry of weird fiction with a city as the main character - uniquely immersive but not for the faint of heart. If the idea of fungi, squid, and footnotes excites you and you love beautifully bizarre storytelling, this is a must-read. Otherwise, approach with curiosity and patience!
City of Saints and Madmen by Jeff VanderMeer is a collection of novellas, essays, faux bibliographies, and other miscellanea that revolve around the fantastical and bizarre city of Ambergris. The book delves into the strange and mysterious aspects of Ambergris, where mushroom people lurk in dark corners, King Squid hold positions of great importance, and composers' deaths lead to civil unrest. VanderMeer's writing style is described as dense and varied, with stories that range from history to prose, including footnotes, illustrations, interviews, bibliographies, and more, creating a richly textured and imaginative world that captivates readers.
Finch, at the apartment door, breathing heavy from five flights of stairs, taken fast. The message that’d brought him from the station was already dying in his hand. Red smear on a limp circle of gree...1997•704 pages - #10
Save:A bold but bleak detour from the first Bobby Dollar outing: imaginative world-building and snarky character work shine, but a heavy, drawn-out Hell can feel punishing. Worth the trip for fans of dark urban fantasy who don’t mind a slow burn.
Bobby Dollar, an imperfect angel, embarks on a harrowing journey to Hell to rescue his demon lover, Caz. The book delves into a dark and imaginative exploration of Hell, filled with vivid descriptions and a plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story not only focuses on Bobby's quest in Hell but also uncovers political intrigues and religious movements, adding depth to the narrative.
A MOMENT COMES in pretty much everyone’s life, or afterlife in my case, where they can’t help but wonder, What the fuck am I doing here? I have more of those than most people (a couple a week, on aver...
