Books matching: anti semitism rise
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- #1
Philip Roth's 'The Plot Against America' is an alternative history novel that explores a world where Charles Lindbergh, a Nazi sympathizer, defeats Franklin Roosevelt in the 1940 presidential election. The story follows a Jewish family living in Newark, primarily through the eyes of a young Philip Roth, as they navigate the rise of anti-Semitism and the consequences of Lindbergh's presidency. The writing style is described as compelling, with long but readable sentences that present an altered reality that is both familiar and chilling.
Fear presides over these memories, a perpetual fear. Of course no childhood is without its terrors, yet I wonder if I would have been a less frightened boy if Lindbergh hadn't been president or if I h... - #2
'In Another Time' by Jillian Cantor is a historical novel that follows the story of Max and Hanna, a young couple torn apart by circumstances leading up to World War II. Set in Germany, England, and the United States, the book spans decades and countries, exploring the power of love and survival during the devastating times of WWII. The narrative alternates between different time periods, capturing the essence of pre-war Berlin and the post-war cities of Europe, as Max and Hanna navigate their love amidst the obstacles placed in their paths.
The book intricately weaves together themes of love, music, and the impact of war on individuals, offering a poignant and emotional journey for the readers. The storyline unfolds with alternating viewpoints, providing insights into the characters' struggles, relationships, and resilience in the face of adversity. Through a blend of historical accuracy and compelling storytelling, 'In Another Time' delivers a captivating narrative that explores the complexities of human emotions and the enduring power of love.
Max heard Hanna before he saw her. Rather, he heard her violin as it pierced through the empty auditorium at the Lyceum: sharp and bright, passionate and enormous. He’d never heard a violin before oth... - #3
The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow is a captivating novel set in Berlin in the 1930s, just before WWII. The story follows Karl, a young Jewish boy who dreams of becoming a boxing champion in a time of rising Nazi influence. Despite the challenges he faces, including the enactment of discriminatory laws and the loss of family possessions, Karl's determination to prove himself shines through. The book masterfully intertwines historical events with the sport of boxing, offering a unique perspective on life in Nazi Germany. The writing style effectively conveys the atmosphere of fear and determination that characterized the time period, making the characters and their struggles feel realistic and relatable.
AS HERR BOCH FINISHED THE LAST LECTURE OF THE school year, I sketched one final caricature of him into the margins of my notebook. He had bushy gray hair, and long muttonchop sideburns framed his jowl... - #4
The Vertigo Years: Europe 1900-1914 by Philipp Blom is a deeply researched and engagingly written book that delves into the social climate of Europe during the tumultuous years leading up to World War I. Blom skillfully weaves together themes of technological innovation, social upheaval, and political tensions to paint a vivid picture of a society on the brink of significant change. Through a chronological approach, Blom explores how the traditional social hierarchies were crumbling, technological advancements were accelerating, and unsettling trends like anti-Semitism and racism were on the rise. The book offers a thought-provoking analysis of how these factors shaped the course of history and set the stage for the events that followed.
Blom's writing style is captivating, with a blend of historical facts, insightful analysis, and engaging storytelling that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. By incorporating personal anecdotes, detailed descriptions, and a keen eye for pertinent details, Blom brings to life the complexities of the era, offering a fresh perspective on a period often overshadowed by the war that followed.
The result was as calamitous as the official opening itself. The French president, Emile Loubert, had been forced to conduct the solemn ceremony uniting all the grandest beards and tailcoats in the Re... - #5
'The Ragman's Son' by Kirk Douglas is an autobiography that delves into the life of the legendary actor, from his poverty-stricken childhood to his rise to stardom in Hollywood. The book portrays Kirk Douglas as a complex and troubled individual, not shying away from discussing his mistakes and personal struggles. Through anecdotes, the author reveals his journey filled with ambition, success, love affairs, and conflicts with fellow actors, providing a candid and sometimes gossipy account of his life.
- #6
In "Two Brothers" by Ben Elton, the story follows the lives of two brothers born in Berlin in 1920, set against the backdrop of the rise of Nazism and the horrors of World War II. The narrative explores the challenges faced by the brothers as they navigate through a changing Germany, highlighting the impact of the Nazi Party on their lives. The book delves into the complexities of family, friendship, and love, while also providing a detailed portrayal of the historical events during that period, including the systematic persecution of the Jewish population.
The novel is praised for its rich historical setting, particularly the vivid descriptions of 1920s Berlin, the Jazz clubs, and the night club scene, which effectively set the stage for the rise of Nazism. The storyline is compelling, focusing on the brothers' journey as they try to beat the system and survive the tumultuous times. Despite being a lengthy read, the book is described as well-constructed and beautifully realized, offering an important perspective on the gradual degradation inflicted on various groups in Germany during that era.
It was past dawn but the coming of day had done little to relieve the darkness and gloom of the long freezing night that had preceded it. Her breath hung heavily in the dull light as she shook her hus... - #7
The Tobacconist by Robert Seethaler is a historical novel set in Vienna just before WWII. The story follows Franz, a young apprentice tobacconist, who navigates the complexities of life in the city amidst the looming threat of the Nazi regime. Through his relationships with his mentor Otto Trsnyek, the enigmatic Bohemian dancer Anezka, and the renowned Dr. Sigmund Freud, Franz undergoes a coming-of-age journey filled with love, loss, and self-discovery. The narrative expertly weaves together themes of innocence, friendship, and defiance against the backdrop of a changing and tumultuous political landscape.
One Sunday, in the late summer of 1937, an unusually violent thunderstorm swept over the mountains of the Salzkammergut. Until then, Franz Huchel’s life had trickled along fairly uneventfully, but thi... - #8
'A Nervous Splendour' by Frederic Morton is a captivating exploration of Vienna in the late 1800s, focusing primarily on the events leading up to the tragic suicide of Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria at Mayerling. The book intricately weaves together the lives of prominent cultural figures such as Klimt, Freud, and Mahler, providing a detailed look into the societal and political landscape of the time. Morton's writing style beautifully captures the essence of the era, offering a mix of historical narrative and insightful character portrayals that bring the past to life for readers.
The narrative delves into the complexities of Viennese society, showcasing a city torn between its cultural brilliance and underlying tensions of anti-Semitism and political unrest. Through the lens of Crown Prince Rudolf's story, Morton paints a vivid picture of a city on the brink of change, blending elements of tragedy, intrigue, and historical significance to create a compelling and thought-provoking read.
- #9
'The Passenger' by Ulrich Alexander Boschwitz follows the story of Otto Silbermann, a Jewish businessman in Nazi Germany, who escapes arrest during Kristallnacht and embarks on a desperate journey across Germany by train. The narrative delves into Otto's internal struggles, his encounters with various individuals, and the constant fear and desperation he faces as he tries to evade capture and find a sense of safety in a country that has turned against him. The writing style is described as sophomoric yet deeply philosophic, depicting the daily terror faced by ordinary people during a tumultuous time in history.
As Otto navigates through the train routes and encounters both allies and adversaries, the book provides a poignant and immersive portrayal of the tightening grip of persecution on Jewish individuals in Nazi Germany. The narrative captures the growing nightmare and psychological horror faced by Otto, illustrating the pervasive systematic racism and the societal ostracism experienced by the Jewish minority. The author's ability to convey the sense of hopelessness, desperation, and the insidious nature of discrimination during that period is highlighted as a compelling aspect of the book.
Becker stood up, stubbed his cigar in the ashtray, buttoned his jacket, and placed his right hand reassuringly on Silbermann’s shoulder. “So then take care, Otto. I think I’ll be back in Berlin by tom... - #10
Derek B. Miller's "How to Find Your Way in the Dark" is a captivating coming-of-age story that follows the journey of Sheldon Horowitz, a 12-year-old American Jew living in the U.S. during the Interwar period and Second World War. The novel delves into Sheldon's quest for revenge after his father's tragic death, showcasing his growth, intellect, and resilience as he navigates a world filled with racial prejudice and challenges. Through Sheldon's interactions with his family, particularly his cousins Abe and Mirabelle, readers witness a tale of tragedy, humor, and determination set against the backdrop of historical events.
Miller's writing style is described as beautiful, simple, and direct, reminiscent of literary giants like Hemingway and Heller. Readers praise the author's ability to transport them back in time, vividly portraying the socio-political context of the era and the struggles faced by Jewish characters. The narrative unfolds over nine years, revealing Sheldon's evolution into a complex and dynamic character, while exploring themes of discrimination, resilience, and the power of family bonds.