Meet New Books

Books matching: art and human relationships

7 result(s)

Page 1
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 
  1. #1

    The Map and the Territory by Michel Houellebecq
    Save:

    'The Map and the Territory' by Michel Houellebecq is a novel that delves into the life of artist Jed Martin, his relationships, and his encounters with various characters, including a reclusive author named Michel Houellebecq himself. The book explores themes of art, human relationships, and existentialism, presenting a unique blend of wit, intelligence, and insight into contemporary life. The narrative weaves together elements of creativity, despair, and philosophical reflections on the meaning of life, all while maintaining a captivating and sometimes unconventional writing style that keeps readers engaged.

    Jed no longer remembered when he had first begun to draw. No doubt all children draw, more or less, but as he didn’t know any children, he wasn’t sure. His only certainty was that he had begun by draw...
    2011
    291 pages

  2. #2

    Antkind by Charlie Kaufman
    Save:

    A brilliant, bizarre, and brain-melting comedy marathon - Antkind is dazzlingly original, sometimes infuriating, and absolutely not for everyone. If Kaufman’s films or wild surrealism are your thing, take the plunge!

    'Antkind' by Charlie Kaufman is a complex and surreal novel that revolves around a three-month-long film and the main character's attempts to remember and recreate it. The writing style is described as immersive and enjoyable, with moments of humor and absurdity. The plot includes false starts, tangents, and self-deprecating humor, all while exploring themes of life's meaning, validation, and the struggle to be seen and loved.

    My beard is a wonder. It is the beard of Whitman, of Rasputin, of Darwin, yet it is uniquely mine. It’s a salt-and-pepper, steel-wool, cotton-candy confection, much too long, wispy, and unruly to be f...
    July 2020
    720 pages

  3. #3

    Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney
    Save:

    Not everyone's flavor, but if you vibe with searching, flawed characters and dialogue-driven stories, Sally Rooney delivers another thoughtful and timely read.

    Sally Rooney's 'Beautiful World, Where Are You' delves into the lives and friendships of four protagonists in their late twenties and early thirties - Alice, Eileen, Felix, and Simon. Through alternating perspectives and inner dialogues, Rooney offers readers an intimate look into the minds of her characters, inviting us to share in their uncertainties, anxieties, and desires. The novel explores themes of love, friendship, mental health, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels chaotic. Rooney's thought-provoking prose invites readers to reflect on their own lives and relationships, with a focus on the intimate and contemplative exploration of human relationships.

    Rooney's characteristically unflinching examination of contemporary issues, such as climate change, political turmoil, and capitalism, shapes the inner lives of the characters against the backdrop of a world in crisis. The novel is a compelling work that captures the essence of the human experience, offering a deep and nuanced portrayal of the characters' inner worlds. Through conversations, emails, and introspective moments, 'Beautiful World, Where Are You' navigates the complexities of modern society while exploring the intricacies of human relationships and the pursuit of authenticity in an increasingly artificial world.

    A woman sat in a hotel bar, watching the door. Her appearance was neat and tidy: white blouse, fair hair tucked behind her ears. She glanced at the screen of her phone, on which was displayed a messag...
    September 2021
    351 pages

  4. #4

    Killing Commendatore - Kishidancho Goroshi by Haruki Murakami
    Save:

    Quintessential Murakami - dreamlike, weird, gorgeously written, but uneven and polarizing. A must for fans, but its quirks and indulgences mean it's not for everyone.

    'Killing Commendatore' by Haruki Murakami follows an unnamed narrator, a portrait painter, as he navigates through a series of strange supernatural events after his wife announces she wants a divorce. Renting a house in the mountains that once belonged to a famous old painter, he discovers a hidden painting in the attic called 'Killing Commendatore', setting off a chain of philosophical discussions and existential musings among the characters. The book weaves together elements of art, reality, and surrealism, creating a narrative that is both bright and cheerful yet leaves readers puzzled and intrigued.

    The novel delves into themes of dislocation, metaphysics, and existentialism as the protagonist grapples with the breakdown of his marriage, encounters unfriendly spirits, and uncovers mysterious elements like a pit and a bell in the forest. Murakami's writing style, characterized by vivid descriptions, intertwines the impossible with the real, exploring interpersonal relationships, self-discovery, and the blurred boundaries between reality and fantasy in a narrative that is both poetic and thought-provoking.

    From May until early the following year, I lived on top of a mountain near the entrance to a narrow valley. Deep in the valley it rained constantly in the summer, but outside the valley it was usually...
    2017
    717 pages

  5. #5

    AITA? by Cassie Alexander
    Save:

    A witty and heartfelt fantasy romance that’s equal parts steamy and sweet. Perfect for fans of queer love stories and coming-of-age journeys, as long as you’re okay with a dash of relationship messiness. A fun, touching standout in sapphic fantasy romance!

    In 'AITA?' by Cassie Alexander, Becky finds herself in a complicated situation when her fiance's request for a prenuptial summoning of a sex demon takes an unexpected turn. Instead of the succubus they were expecting, a strong female demon named Quenalith appears and forms an instant connection with Becky. As the story unfolds, Becky navigates her feelings towards her fiance, her career, and the newfound attraction she has towards Quenalith. The book delves into themes of self-discovery, love, and acceptance, all set in a fantasy world with elements of romance and paranormal.

    The narrative of 'AITA?' is told from the perspectives of the two main protagonists, Becky and Quenalith, offering readers a deep dive into their characters and emotions. The writing style is described as sensitive, engaging, and joyous, with a mix of humor and heartfelt moments that explore vulnerability, trust, and the complexities of relationships.

    October 2021
    189 pages

  6. #6
    Moonlight and Vines
    Book 10 in the series:Newford

    Moonlight and Vines - Newford by Charles de Lint
    Save:

    A beautifully crafted set of urban fantasy tales with a bittersweet, magical edge - a must for Newford fans and those drawn to the shadows and hope within everyday magic, but not the best pick if you’re seeking lighter, more escapist fantasy.

    Moonlight and Vines by Charles de Lint is a collection of short stories set in the fictional town of Newford, showcasing the author's talent for blending old world myths with new world myths in an urban fantasy setting. The book delves into the lives of diverse characters, exploring themes of magic, myth, and the supernatural. Each story weaves together elements of reality and possibility, inviting readers to open their minds to the magic that lies within everyday life.

    I see them walking hand in hand, standing close to each other in a queue at a theater or subway station, heads touching while they sit on a park bench, and I ache to hear the song that plays between t...
    1998
    400 pages

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Newford )

  7. #7

    Zoya by Danielle Steel
    Save:

    Emotional, dramatic, and inspiring – "Zoya" is a classic Danielle Steel saga about resilience and hope through dark times. Expect tears and triumphs! If you love historical romance, this one's a gem.

    "Zoya" by Danielle Steel follows the life of the main character Zoya, a Russian Countess, amidst the backdrop of the Russian Revolution and World War I Europe. Zoya flees St. Petersburg to Paris for safety, facing hard times and eventually joining the Ballet Russe. Her journey continues as she moves to New York, experiencing brief moments of ease before the Great Depression strikes, leading her to rebuild her life through the war years and beyond. The story captures Zoya's resilience, love, ambition, and family dynamics, portraying her as a rare and spirited woman whose legacy perseveres through the decades.

    is described as a rollercoaster of emotions, evoking feelings of heartbreak, loss, disappointment, and trials alongside moments of triumph, love, ambition, and joy. Despite the challenges faced by the characters, particularly Zoya, readers find themselves engrossed in the story, shedding tears over the hardships yet unable to put the book down. The writing style is noted for its ability to inspire readers to make the best out of difficult situations, with Zoya being portrayed as an extremely strong character with a talent for perseverance.

    Zoya closed her eyes again as the troika flew across the icy ground, the soft mist of snow leaving tiny damp kisses on her cheeks, and turning her eyelashes to lace as she listened to the horses’ bell...
    January 1980
    487 pages

Page 1 of 1