Books Like...
'The Kites' by Romain Gary is a beautifully written novel that offers a unique perspective on France during World War II. The story revolves around a young man in Normandy who falls in love with Lila amidst the backdrop of the French Resistance. The book delves into the complexities of human emotions and responses during wartime, portraying a vivid picture of ordinary people becoming heroes and the sacrifices made for the greater good. The theme of kites serves as a metaphor for the uplifting of the human spirit in the face of darkness and despair.
The author, Romain Gary, skillfully weaves together historical events and personal narratives, creating a captivating tale that explores themes of idealism, love, and morality. Through a cast of charming and touching characters, Gary manages to make a serious period of history playful, human, and imbued with the gravity it deserves. The book not only honors the bravery of individuals during wartime but also reflects on the need for something greater than ourselves to strive for, emphasizing the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
If you liked The Kites, here are the top 3 books to read next:
- #1
Save:Residents of the fictional island of Nollop revere the author of the pangram, "The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog," even naming their island after him and erecting a statue in his honor. When letters begin to fall from the statue, the Island Council decides to outlaw the use of the fallen letters. As more and more letters fall, it creates chaos for the Nollopians, and it is up to Ella to restore the use of the letters. Written in an epistolary style, this book is a real charmer, but it also has substance and depth. It is brilliant and celebrates language with exquisite vocabulary, showing the strength of the English language is not just its magnitude but also its specificity.
Much has happened during your one-month sojourn off-island. Perhaps your Village neighbors have apprised you. Or you may have glanced at one of the editions of The Island Tribune that have, no doubt, ... - #2
Save:'A Prayer for Owen Meany' by John Irving is a novel that follows the story of two young boys, Owen Meany and John Wheelwright, growing up in Gravesend, New Hampshire. The pivotal moment in the story occurs when a foul ball hit by one of the boys during a Little League baseball game results in the death of the other boy's mother. This event sets off a chain of extraordinary occurrences, with Owen Meany believing himself to be an instrument of God and having unwavering faith in his destiny. The novel beautifully portrays their friendship, the mysteries surrounding Owen Meany's fate and John Wheelwright's paternity, and delves into themes of faith, God, fate, and predestination.
John Irving's writing style in 'A Prayer for Owen Meany' is described as roomy, intelligent, exhilarating, and darkly comic, reminiscent of Dickensian scope. The novel features unforgettable characters, such as the titular character Owen Meany, who is small in stature but full of confidence and foresight. The story weaves together powerful themes of predestination and faith with compelling characters and a rare sense of humor, making it a deeply moving and thought-provoking read.
I AM DOOMED to remember a boy with a wrecked voice-not because of his voice, or because he was the smallest person I ever knew, or even because he was the instrument of my mother's death, but because ... - #3
Save:'A Gentleman in Moscow' by Amor Towles is a captivating tale following the life of Count Alexander Rostov, a Russian aristocrat placed under house arrest in a luxurious hotel in Moscow following the Russian Revolution. Despite his confinement, Rostov forms deep friendships, navigates the changing political landscape, and finds meaning and purpose within the confines of the hotel. The book spans several decades, offering a glimpse into Russian history from the revolution to the early 1950s, all seen through the eyes of the charismatic and resilient Count.
Within the hour, he would be in the warm spring air striding along Tverskaya Street, his moustaches at full sail. En route, he would purchase the Herald from the stand on Gazetny Lane, he would pass F...
