Books matching: xenophobia
100 result(s)
- #1
A chilling and unique horror graphic novel that uses its ghost story to explore real-world prejudice - atmospheric, relevant, and creepy, though not without its storytelling bumps. Recommended for horror fans who appreciate a little depth with their scares.
'Infidel' by Pornsak Pichetshote is a graphic novel that delves into the themes of social commentary and horror. The story revolves around a haunted house where pure emotions manifest in the physical world, particularly focusing on the impacts of racism and xenophobia. The plot is filled with layers of nuance and complexity, tackling hot-button issues in modern society while remaining true to the horror genre. The writing style is described as engaging, with a good balance between storytelling and conveying deep-cutting social commentary.
September 2018•172 pages - #2
A moody, atmospheric blend of historical drama and supernatural surprise, "The Uninvited" is a thoughtful read with a memorable twist, perfect for fans of ghostly mysteries and strong heroines.
'The Uninvited' by Cat Winters is a historical fiction novel set in America in 1918 during the time of the Great War and the Spanish Influenza outbreak. The story follows twenty-five-year-old piano teacher Ivy Rowan, who discovers a terrible crime committed by her father and brother in retaliation for the death of her older brother in the war. Filled with guilt and shock, Ivy leaves her home for the first time and navigates the panic and xenophobia in Buchanan, Illinois. The plot unfolds with a blend of historically accurate events, supernatural elements, and a strong female lead character, showcasing the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and resilience in the face of grief and struggles.
Cat Winters, the author, skillfully weaves together elements of historical accuracy with a touch of the paranormal, creating a story that not only educates readers about a lesser-known period in American history but also entertains with unexpected plot twists and a compelling narrative. The writing style of the book is described as cleverly crafted, beautifully haunting, and emotionally impactful, offering a unique perspective on the time period and engaging readers with its blend of mystery, love, and tragedy.
August 2015•368 pages - #3
Jewel Box by E. Lily Yu is a captivating collection of short stories that delves into various genres, primarily focusing on science fiction, fairy tales, and magical realism. The book features a range of tales, including poignant explorations of social justice, environmental concerns, and human emotions. Each story is intricately crafted, weaving together themes of xenophobia, racism, and the complexities of human relationships. Readers encounter rich narratives like 'The Wretched and the Beautiful,' which portrays alien refugees facing discrimination, and 'The Lamp at the Turning,' about a streetlight that observes the lives of those around it.
Yu's writing style is noted for its lyrical beauty and imaginative depth. She masterfully uses anthropomorphism and magical elements to bring the stories to life, creating vivid worlds where ordinary objects and beings experience profound emotions. The prose is described as exquisite, and the author's ability to blend humor with serious themes adds layers to her narratives. With a mix of whimsy and thought-provoking content, Jewel Box showcases Yu's versatility and imaginative storytelling, making it a treasure for readers interested in the magic of literature.
October 2023•306 pages - #4
'The Stranded' by Sarah Daniels is a dystopian YA science fiction novel set on a generation ship called Arcadia, populated by refugees fleeing wars. The story follows protagonist Esther as she navigates a world of rebellion, oppression, and political intrigue. Through Esther's journey of self-discovery and the challenges she faces, the narrative explores themes of xenophobia, coming of age, and the harsh realities of life aboard the ship. The writing style is described as clean, compelling, and action-packed, with a mix of character development, worldbuilding, and intrigue.
I shiver against the wind that threatens to take my homework over the ship’s rail and into the sea. That’s the last thing I need. I don’t want to pull an all-nighter, and this close to graduation I ca...2022•450 pages - #5
The Second Bell by Gabriela Houston is a stunning debut novel based on Slavic folklore, following the story of Salka, a striga born with two hearts. The narrative delves into themes of fear, power, and societal prejudices as Salka navigates her identity and struggles against the constraints imposed by her community. The book is set in a village with complex, conflicted characters and a richly rendered atmosphere that immerses the reader in a world where the characters must confront their inner demons and the external threats they face.
A slender hand hit the table, the iron rings on the fingers ringing out as they touched the wood. There were no words spoken after that. Everyone knew that Miriat had made her decision and no amount o...March 2021•321 pages - #6
A timely, empathetic YA read about family, identity, and breaking down prejudice, best suited for readers open to political themes and introspective character growth.
The Lines We Cross by Randa Abdel Fattah is a story that follows Michael, whose family is involved in an anti-immigration group, and Mina, a Muslim refugee who has faced tragedy. The two meet at an anti-immigration rally and realize they have more in common than they initially thought. The book delves into themes of family, friendship, racism, standing up for others, and the struggles faced by refugees and immigrants. The narrative alternates between the perspectives of Michael and Mina, providing a nuanced exploration of how a singular event impacts both characters and their development.
The plot of the book revolves around Michael's journey of self-discovery as he questions the beliefs instilled by his parents and begins to challenge the anti-immigration stance he grew up with. Through his relationship with Mina, a strong and intelligent Afghan refugee, Michael starts to unpack his privilege and internalized biases. The book touches on complex topics such as racism, xenophobia, and Islamophobia, offering insightful commentary on these issues while portraying the characters' growth and understanding of each other's backgrounds and struggles.
I scan the area and see my dad, draped in the Australian flag, talking to Li Chee, who’s wearing a flag top hat and holding up a Turn Back the Boats banner. I negotiate my way through the crowd of peo...2016•399 pages - #7
A richly atmospheric, women-led supernatural thriller with social bite - perfect for readers who like their history weird and their heroines fierce, but less ideal for those seeking strict historical accuracy or subtle villains.
Creatures of Want and Ruin by Molly Tanzer is a historical supernatural fiction set in the Prohibition era Long Island, focusing on a young baywoman named Ellie West who gets involved in a sinister plot orchestrated by a cult of diabolists. The book explores themes of xenophobia, racism, religious prejudice, and misogyny, all intertwined with eldritch horror elements. Tanzer's writing style vividly evokes the early 20th-century rural maritime Long Island, creating a rich and immersive world that captivates readers.
The story follows Ellie's journey as she navigates through the supernatural and sinister occurrences around her, delving into the power dynamics fueled by prejudices and vices that everyday people supply to demons. Alongside Ellie, the book features diverse and complex characters like Fin, who undergoes significant growth and transformation throughout the narrative. Tanzer skillfully weaves together historical settings, intriguing characters, and relevant social commentary to create a compelling and haunting tale.
The wind was east and the tide was running high by the time Ellie West finished jamming all the crates of moonshine liquor into the smuggler’s hold of her skiff. Leaden bands of clouds were thickening...November 2018•353 pages
(Also, see 11 recommendations for the series Diabolist's Library ) - #8
A clever, engaging fantasy sequel that builds on the first book with more depth and new challenges. Not flawless, but if you enjoyed "Oath of Swords," you’ll have fun with this one!
"The War God's Own" is a fantasy novel that follows the adventures of Bahzell Bahnakson, the Champion of War God Tomanak. The plot revolves around Bahzell's mission to stop the dark god Sharna from gaining power among the Hradnai people. The story is filled with political intrigue, battles, and exploration of themes like privilege and prejudice. The writing style is described as fast-paced, with elements of sword and sorcery fantasy, and a focus on military strategy.
The question came in a gently sardonic voice, and the golden-haired young man standing before the mirror in the chapter house's entry vestibule turned quickly. A faint flush touched his cheeks as he r... - #9
A heady, truly alien deep dive into culture and communication - fascinating but not always easy to follow. Worth the journey for patient and curious readers!
'Becoming Alien' in the series 'Saga of Tom Red-Clay' by author Rebecca Ore follows the story of Tom, a 16-year-old who gets involved in his brother's drug-making operation. When a spaceship crashes near their home, Tom befriends the sole surviving alien, Alpha, leading to a series of events where Tom becomes the first earthling accepted as a Federation cadet. delves into themes of alien societies, interactions, and issues, showcasing a complex and awe-inspiring portrayal of different alien races. Despite initial challenges and editing flaws, the story progresses to explore Tom's transformation from an observer to an active participant in a multi-species political entity.
Cap down to his black brows, Warren leaned on his truck, hearing out two men slouched in a junker car—the kind of car those men leave in a ditch after they’ve done their business. As I came up, Warren...January 1988•313 pages - #10
A bold and necessary essay collection that’s eye-opening, thought-provoking, and at times delightfully witty - a great first step to understanding modern Britain from the inside out.
The Good Immigrant is a collection of 21 essays that delve into the British immigrant experience, offering varied perspectives from immigrants and people of color living in Britain. The essays cover topics such as representation, cultural appropriation, day-to-day life, and the challenges faced by individuals perceived as immigrants in the UK. The writing styles range from poetic to journalistic, academic, and personal, providing a comprehensive look at what it means to be BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) in Britain today.
The essays in The Good Immigrant tackle the complexities of living in a country where trust and acceptance are not readily extended to immigrants and people of color. The collection sheds light on the nuances of the immigrant experience, addressing issues like anglicization of names, treatment of Muslims at airports, lack of representation, and the impact of historical colonization on contemporary identities. Through personal stories and reflections, the book highlights the importance of representation and the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities in modern-day Britain.
Begin by writing about anything else. Go to the public library in your Los Angeles suburb and ask for all the great books people in New York City read, please. Wonder if the reference librarian knows...2016•336 pages










