Books matching: coming of age story
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- #1
Save:'The Tooth Fairy' by Graham Joyce is a coming-of-age story set in the 1960s, following the protagonist Sam from childhood into young adulthood. The narrative revolves around Sam's encounters with a malevolent and unpredictable tooth fairy, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. The book explores themes of adolescence, friendship, loss of innocence, and the dark side of growing up, all while maintaining a haunting and eerie atmosphere that keeps readers engaged.
Clive was on the far side of the green pond, torturing a king-crested newt. Sam and Terry languished under a vast oak, offering their chubby white feet to the dark water. The sprawling oak leaned out ... - #2
Save:In the book 'A Year Down Yonder,' Mary Alice, a young girl, is sent to live with her grandmother in rural Illinois during the Great Depression. Initially unsure about her eccentric grandmother, Mary Alice soon forms a deep bond with her through various adventures and challenges they face together, ultimately leading to a year filled with growth, humor, and love. The story is a charming and funny portrayal of their relationship, set against the backdrop of a small town in the late 1930s.
Mary Alice's experiences with her grandmother, Grandma Dowdel, unfold through a series of connected vignettes highlighting the quirky characters in the town and the historical snippets of the era, such as Armistice Day and the W.P.A. Despite the challenges of the Depression, the book offers a light and heartwarming narrative that showcases the strong bond between Mary Alice and her grandmother, making it a delightful read for both children and adults.
Oh, didn’t I feel sorry for myself when the Wabash Railroad’s Blue Bird train steamed into Grandma’s town. The sandwich was still crumbs in my throat because I didn’t have the dime for a bottle of pop...
(Also, see 78 recommendations for the series A Long Way from Chicago ) - #3
Save:'Shaman' by Kim Stanley Robinson is a novel set during the Ice Age, following the journey of Loon, a young man destined to become the tribe's Shaman. The story delves into the harsh realities of survival in a primitive era, detailing Loon's initiation rites, his struggles, relationships, and the challenges he faces in a world where Neanderthals are not just enemies but fellow travelers. The narrative provides insights into the daily life, rituals, and beliefs of early humans, while also exploring themes of human resilience, survival, and the importance of stories and myths in shaping our history.
The writing style of 'Shaman' is described as detailed and immersive, with a focus on the protagonist's perspective that shifts occasionally to other entities like the wind or animals, providing a magical sense to the world. The novel captures the essence of prehistoric life through vivid descriptions of the environment, social interactions, and the characters' experiences, offering a realistic portrayal of survival in a challenging and unforgiving era.
This is what Thorn would say whenever he was doing something bad himself. Object to whatever it was and he would pull up his long gray braids to show the mangled red nubbins surrounding his earholes. ... - #4
Save:Villette by Charlotte Bronte is a semi-autobiographical novel following the life of Lucy Snowe, a woman ahead of her time, who moves to Villette i.e., Brussels, to become a schoolteacher. The story delves into Lucy's relationships, romances, and her experiences at Mme. Beck's school, with elements of gothic and mysterious occurrences adding depth to the narrative. The novel explores themes of loneliness, inner torment, and the struggles of women in the 19th century society, all portrayed through the lens of Lucy's introspective and emotionally complex character.
My godmother lived in a handsome house in the clean and ancient town of Bretton. Her husband’s family had been residents there for generations, and bore, indeed, the name of their birthplace—Bretton o... - #5
Save:'Time of the Twins' in the 'Dragonlance: Legends' series by Margaret Weis is a continuation of the story of the Majere twins, Raistlin the wizard, and Caramon the fighter, following the War of the Lance. Raistlin, now wearing black robes and delving into dark magic, embarks on a journey to become a god, while his brother Caramon struggles with his own demons. The plot unfolds with a mix of good versus evil, intricate character dynamics, and time travel elements, all woven together in a captivating narrative style.
The writing style of the book delves deep into the characters' complexities, especially focusing on Raistlin's internal struggles and moral ambiguity. The plot is filled with twists and turns, exploring themes of power, compassion, and redemption, set against the backdrop of the Dragonlance universe.
Behind her, she could hear the sound of clawed feet, scrapping through the leaves of the forest. Tika tensed,, but tried to act as if she didn’t hear, luring the creature on. Firmly, she gripped her s... - #6
Save:Ninja at First Sight is a prequel novella in the Knitting in the City series by Penny Reid, focusing on the developing relationship between Fiona and Greg. The story follows Fiona, a quiet and smart college student, as she meets Greg, a former US Marine with a blunt yet charming personality. Their banter, wit, and undeniable chemistry lead to a slow-burn romance filled with humor and heartwarming moments. The writing style is engaging, intelligent, and funny, capturing the essence of a unique and adorable love story.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Knitting in the City ) - #7
Save:Set in Tokyo during the late 1960s, "Norwegian Wood" by Haruki Murakami tells the story of Toru, a college student navigating the aftermath of his best friend's suicide and the mental health struggles of his friend's girlfriend, Naoko. As Toru meets Midori, a progressive fellow student, he is faced with the challenge of letting go of the past to embrace the future. The novel delves into themes of mental health, suicide, relationships, and personal growth in a realistic and reflective manner, all set against the backdrop of late 1960s Tokyo.
Murakami's writing style in "Norwegian Wood" is described as poignant, reflective, and touching. The novel unfolds at a walking pace, punctuated by small moments of loss and heartbreak, devoid of the magical realism present in his other works. The characters, particularly Toru, Naoko, and Midori, are portrayed with depth and complexity as they navigate the complexities of life, love, and personal struggles.
I WAS THIRTY-SEVEN THEN, STRAPPED IN MY SEAT AS THE HUGE 747 plunged through dense cloud cover on approach to the Hamburg airport. Cold November rains drenched the earth and lent everything the gloomy... - #8
Save:A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith is a heartwarming coming-of-age story set in the early 20th century Brooklyn, following the life of young Francie Nolan as she navigates poverty, family dynamics, and the pursuit of education. Through vivid descriptions and deep emotional connections, readers are immersed in the struggles and triumphs of Francie and her family, painting a rich picture of life in Brooklyn during that era.
SERENE WAS A WORD YOU COULD PUT TO BROOKLYN, NEW YORK. Especially in the summer of 1912. Somber, as a word, was better. But it did not apply to Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Prairie was lovely and Shenandoa... - #9
Save:Black Swan Green by David Mitchell is a coming-of-age novel that follows the tumultuous thirteenth year in the life of Jason Taylor, a stammering 13-year-old boy living in a small English village in the early 1980s. The story delves into Jason's struggles with his speech impediment, his secret passion for poetry, and his battles with bullying schoolmates. The narrative captures the essence of adolescence, exploring themes of self-discovery, family dynamics, and the challenges of growing up through the eyes of a young protagonist.
The novel is structured in 13 chapters, each representing a month in Jason's life, providing a detailed and nostalgic portrayal of his experiences and interactions. David Mitchell's writing style expertly immerses the reader in Jason's world, blending humor, poignancy, and vivid storytelling to create a compelling and relatable narrative that resonates with readers of all ages.
Any duh-brain could work that out, so I put up my hand. Miss Throckmorton said, ‘Yes, Jason?’ and that was when my life divided itself into Before Hangman and After Hangman. The word ‘nightingale’ kab... - #10
Save:"Looking for Alaska" by John Green is a coming-of-age novel that follows Miles Halter as he leaves Florida to attend Culver Creek Preparatory School in Alabama, seeking the Great Perhaps. Miles befriends a group of students, including the enigmatic Alaska Young, and becomes entangled in pranks and love triangles. The story is split between the days before and after a tragic event involving Alaska, exploring themes of friendship, love, loss, and the search for meaning. Green's writing style is praised for its realistic depiction of teenage life, with well-developed characters like Miles, Alaska, and the Colonel, and a unique structure that keeps readers engaged.
The novel is lauded for its powerful storytelling, thought-provoking themes, and emotional impact. It delves into issues like mortality, friendship, love, and self-discovery, offering a moving narrative that resonates with readers. The book's structure, alternating between the days before and after Alaska's death, adds depth to the plot and highlights the characters' growth and complexities. Green's exploration of life and death through memorable quotes, teenage experiences, and philosophical discussions in a boarding school setting creates a compelling and relatable story.
FLORIDA WAS PLENTY HOT, certainly, and humid, too. Hot enough that your clothes stuck to you like Scotch tape, and sweat dripped like tears from your forehead into your eyes. But it was only hot outsi...
