Books Like...
'Kohinoor: The Story of the World's Most Infamous Diamond' by William Dalrymple is a meticulously researched and captivating account of the legendary Koh i Noor diamond's journey through history. The narrative delves into the origins of the diamond, tracing its passage from the Mughal Dynasty in India to various rulers in Afghanistan, Iran, and ultimately to the British monarchy. Through detailed storytelling, the authors shed light on the controversies, myths, and historical events surrounding the Koh i Noor, making it a compelling read for history enthusiasts.
not only explores the physical journey of the Koh i Noor diamond but also delves into the intricate stories of the rulers who possessed it, such as Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Mughals, and the British monarchy. The writing style seamlessly weaves together historical facts, legends, and personal anecdotes, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the significance and impact of this iconic gemstone across different cultures and time periods.
If you liked Kohinoor: The Story of the World’s Most Infamous Diamond, here are the top 11 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'Nemesis' in the Harry Hole series by Jo Nesbø follows Inspector Harry Hole, a flawed Norwegian detective, as he investigates a senseless execution during a bank robbery while facing accusations of murder involving a former girlfriend. The plot unfolds with multiple mysteries intertwined, including a serial bank robber killer, threats to frame Harry for a murder case, and a complex web of deceit and misdirection. Nesbø's writing style is described as dark, fast-paced, and intricate, with unexpected plot twists and a focus on character development, particularly that of Harry Hole and his colleagues.
THE OLD MAN REMINDED HARRY OF AN ASTRONAUT. THE comical short steps, the stiff movements, the dead, black eyes and the shoes shuffling along the parquet floor. As if he were frightened to lose contact...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Harry Hole ) - #2
Save:Maude by Donna Foley Mabry is a touching account of the life of Maude, as narrated by her granddaughter. The book delves into Maude's journey through some of the toughest times in American history, including the Dust Bowl, the Great Depression, and World War II. Despite enduring immense personal heartache and tragedy, Maude's resilience and unwavering determination to keep moving forward serve as the central theme of the narrative. Readers are taken on a poignant exploration of Maude's life, filled with hardships and challenges, yet infused with moments of love and inspiration.
I came into this world as Nola Maude Clayborn in 1892, in Perkinsville, in the northwest corner of Tennessee, a few miles west of Dyersburg. Pinned to the ground by a church spire at each end of the r... 'Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World' by Mark Kurlansky delves into the history, impact, and significance of cod fishing on various cultures and societies throughout the centuries. Through a mix of historical facts, cultural anecdotes, and personal reflections, the author explores the role of cod in shaping trade routes, technological advancements, and political landscapes. not only covers the rise of cod as a valuable resource but also sheds light on the environmental consequences of overfishing and depletion of cod populations.
Kurlansky's writing style in 'Cod' is described as engaging, informative, and well-researched. Readers appreciate the author's ability to present complex historical and scientific information in a readable and entertaining manner. is praised for its blend of storytelling, historical insights, and culinary references, making it an intriguing exploration of how a seemingly mundane subject like cod can have far-reaching implications on human history and society.
Amedieval fisherman is said to have hauled up a three-foot-long cod, which was common enough at the time. And the fact that the cod could talk was not especially surprising. But what was astonishing w...Mary Roach's 'Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void' is a humorous and informative exploration of the lesser-known aspects of space travel. Through anecdotes and science lessons, Roach delves into topics like how astronauts cope with bodily functions, the challenges of space food, and the human side of space exploration. Her conversational writing style and witty humor make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for readers.
First you remove your shoes, as you would upon entering a Japanese home. You are given a pair of special isolation chamber slippers, light blue vinyl imprinted with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Age...- #5
Save:'Salt: A World History' by Mark Kurlansky delves into the fascinating history of salt and its impact on humanity throughout the ages. The book explores how salt has influenced world events, shaped civilizations, and played a crucial role in various aspects of human life. Kurlansky's narrative style weaves together historical facts, anecdotes, and cultural insights to provide a comprehensive view of the significance of salt in different societies. From the ancient uses of salt as currency to its role in wars, trade, and food preservation, the book offers a unique perspective on a seemingly ordinary substance.
Kurlansky's writing style in 'Salt: A World History' has been described as engaging, informative, and well-researched. The book covers a wide range of topics related to salt, including its production methods, historical contexts, and cultural significance. Readers have praised the author for his ability to make a seemingly mundane subject like salt captivating and thought-provoking, highlighting the intricate connections between salt and human history in a compelling manner.
ON THE EASTERN end of North Africa’s almost unimaginably vast desert, the Nile River provides a fertile green passage only a few miles wide down both banks. Egyptian civilization has always been cramm... - #6
Save:'The Bat' in the Harry Hole series by Jo Nesbø follows the Norwegian detective Harry Hole as he investigates a murder in Sydney, Australia. The plot unfolds slowly, revealing Harry's struggles with alcoholism, his damaged past, and his interactions with the Australian police and local culture. The narrative combines elements of Australian mythology, dark crime thriller, and a touch of eeriness, culminating in a captivating final pursuit that keeps the reader engaged until the end.
“I’m fine,” Harry Hole had lied. It was more than thirty hours since he had taken off from Oslo via London, and after the change of planes in Bahrain he had sat in the same bloody seat by the emergenc... Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach is an exploration into the history and uses of human cadavers, delving into emblematic activities like cremation and research. The author takes readers on a journey through the world of cadavers, from cosmetic surgery to embalming, addressing questions about what happens to bodies after death with a blend of hard science and humor. Roach's writing style is described as quirky, humorous, and respectful, providing a balance between factual information and entertainment value while discussing various options for the body after death.
The way I see it, being dead is not terribly far off from being on a cruise ship. Most of your time is spent lying on your back. The brain has shut down. The flesh begins to soften. Nothing much new h...During WWI and WWII, young women worked in factories painting clock dials with radium, unaware of the dangers. As they fell ill, facing bone deterioration and tumors, they fought for justice against the corporations that denied blame. The book outlines their struggles, the development of worker protection laws, and the lasting impact on medical knowledge.
Katherine Schaub had a jaunty spring in her step as she walked the brief four blocks to work. It was 1 February 1917, but the cold didn’t bother her one bit; she had always loved the winter snows of h..."Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption" by Laura Hillenbrand is a gripping historical account that follows the incredible life of Louis Zamperini, a former Olympic athlete who becomes a prisoner of war in Japanese camps during World War II. The writing style is described as engaging, addicting, and moving, with detailed research and a focus on presenting the harsh realities of war and human nature.
IN THE PREDAWN DARKNESS OF AUGUST 26, 1929, IN THE back bedroom of a small house in Torrance, California, a twelve-year-old boy sat up in bed, listening. There was a sound coming from outside, growing...- #10
Save:'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' by Rebecca Skloot delves into the story of Henrietta Lacks, a poor black woman whose cells were taken without her knowledge and became the basis for groundbreaking medical research. The narrative alternates between the scientific advancements made using her cells and the struggles faced by her family who were unaware of her contribution to science. Skloot's writing style combines history, science, and ethics seamlessly, providing a comprehensive account of Henrietta Lacks' life and the impact of her cells on modern medicine.
On January 29, 1951, David Lacks sat behind the wheel of his old Buick, watching the rain fall. He was parked under a towering oak tree outside Johns Hopkins Hospital with three of his children—two st...
