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Everybody by Olivia Laing is a captivating exploration of freedom, drawing on the experiences of various historical figures like Nina Simone, Susan Sontag, and Wilhelm Reich. Laing weaves together history, biography, memoir, and social criticism to delve into the pursuit of freedom in its different forms, from bodily freedom to freedom from oppression. The book navigates through interconnected vignettes that circle around the central idea of freedom, both within and without, ultimately culminating in a powerful and urgent final chapter that crystallizes the essence of the narrative.
Laing's writing style is described as clear, succinct, and profound, with the ability to evoke deep emotions in readers. Through her exploration of topics like health, trauma, sexuality, and civil rights, she creates a rich tapestry of stories that highlight the struggles and triumphs of individuals fighting for personal freedoms in the face of societal constraints.
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How to Hide an Empire: A History of the Greater United States by Daniel Immerwahr delves into the history of US imperialism, shedding light on often overlooked aspects of American history such as territories, military bases abroad, and the impact of US expansionism on various populations. Immerwahr's narrative prose and structure make the book highly engaging and informative, offering a detailed exploration of how the United States came to control a significant portion of global affairs while avoiding the creation of traditional colonies.
The thirteen colonies that would make up the United States declared independence from Britain in 1776. Freedom, however, takes many forms. Just a year earlier, the hunter Daniel Boone and thirty or so...
