Books matching: cultural observation
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'The Piano Shop on the Left Bank: Discovering a Forgotten Passion in a Paris Atelier' by Thad Carhart is a memoir that beautifully intertwines the author's rekindled love for the piano with the enchanting backdrop of Paris. Through the lens of his experiences at a quaint piano shop in Paris, Carhart delves into the history, construction, and magic of pianos, while also exploring the quirks of Parisian life and the deep bonds formed through shared passions. The narrative not only reveals Carhart's personal journey of rediscovering the joys of piano playing but also invites readers into a world where music, craftsmanship, and human connections converge in a lyrical and engaging manner.
ALONG A NARROW street in the Paris neighborhood where I live sits a little store front with a simple sign stenciled on the window: “Desforges Pianos: outillage, fournitures.” On a small, red felt-cove... - #2
Save:'Almost French' by Sarah Turnbull is a memoir that follows the journey of a young Australian journalist who falls in love with a Frenchman and moves to Paris to be with him. The book explores the cultural differences between Australian and French attitudes, offering insights into the challenges of adapting to a new country and the nuances of French culture. Turnbull's writing style is described as honest, humorous, and insightful, providing a firsthand account of the expatriate experience in Paris.
The queue for passport inspection at Charles de Gaulle airport surges impatiently. My flight from Romania has coincided with one arriving from Mali and I curse the rotten timing because at this rate i... - #3
Save:'The Year of Living Danishly: My Twelve Months Unearthing the Secrets of the World's Happiest Country' by Helen Russell follows the author's journey as she moves to Denmark with her husband. Through a year of cultural immersion, Russell explores the reasons behind the Danes' reputation as the happiest people on Earth. delves into various aspects of Danish life, from traditions and government policies to social norms and daily routines, providing insights into what makes Danish society unique. Russell's writing style is described as humorous, engaging, and thought-provoking, offering a blend of personal experiences and research to paint a vivid picture of life in Denmark.
It all started simply enough. After a few days off work my husband and I were suffering from post-holiday blues and struggling to get back into the swing of things. A grey drizzle had descended on Lon... - #4
Save:'Girlfriend in a Coma' by Douglas Coupland is a novel that follows the story of Karen, a teenage girl who falls into a coma in 1979 and wakes up 17 years later, finding the world around her changed and dystopian. The book explores themes of loss, grief, friendship, loneliness, and the impact of tragedy on individuals. The writing style of the book has been described as a mix of teenage love story, middle-age crisis, dystopian fiction, and redemption, with a narrative that defies easy categorization and keeps readers engaged.
On Friday, October 14, 1978, I was playing football with my high school team, the Sentinel Spartans. It was an away-game at another school, Handsworth, in North Vancouver. Early on in the game I was t... 'Slow Days, Fast Company: The World, The Flesh, and L.A.' by Matthew Specktor and Eve Babitz is a collection of memoirs and stories capturing the essence of Los Angeles in the '60s and '70s. Through witty and sassy writing, Eve Babitz paints a vivid picture of the city, intertwining cultural observations, romantic entanglements, and personal experiences. offers a glimpse into the wilder days of L.A., exploring themes of feminism, youth, and societal expectations, all while showcasing the author's unique perspective on the city she grew up in.
Babitz's writing style is described as open, innocent, and captivating, with a touch of satire and self-deprecation. Readers are transported back in time to a different era, where the author's keen observations and sharp wit bring the stories to life, making the book a delightful and nostalgic journey through the vibrant and flashy world of 1970s Los Angeles.
IT’S WELL known that for something to be fiction it must move right along and not meander among the bushes gazing into the next county. Unfortunately, with L.A. it’s impossible. You can’t write a stor...- #6
Save:'Holidays in Hell' by P.J. O'Rourke is a collection of travel essays where the author, known for his irreverent and politically incorrect style, takes readers on a journey to various troubled spots around the globe. Through his satirical and humorous writing, O'Rourke covers a wide range of destinations including war zones, communist nations, evangelical Christian holiday camps, and more. The author's unique perspective and witty observations provide a blend of social commentary and comedic insight into the different cultures and political situations he encounters during his travels.
On Saturday, June 8, 1867, the steamship Quaker City left New York harbor. On board was a group of Americans making the world’s first package tour. Also on board was Mark Twain making the world’s firs... - #7
Save:Bringing Up Bebe: One American Mother Discovers the Wisdom of French Parenting by Pamela Druckerman explores the author's journey into discovering the French parenting style and implementing it in her own life. Through her observations and experiences, Druckerman compares and contrasts American and French parenting techniques, highlighting the differences in raising well-behaved and independent children. The book delves into various aspects of parenting, such as discipline, food education, sleep training, and the balance between motherhood and personal identity, offering insights and practical tips for readers.
Druckerman presents her findings in a light-hearted and humorous manner, making the book engaging and informative for parents seeking a fresh perspective on child-rearing. The narrative style is conversational and relatable, drawing readers into the world of French parenting while also reflecting on the challenges and joys of raising children in a multicultural context.
We have breakfast at the hotel. But we have to eat lunch and dinner at the little seafood restaurants around the old port. We quickly discover that two restaurant meals a day, with a toddler, deserve ... - #8
Save:Typee by Herman Melville is a novel based on the author's experiences when he jumped ship from an American whaling vessel and found himself in the Marquesas Islands. The book presents a narrative of being held by a cannibal tribe, the Typee, and offers a detailed look at island life through the eyes of the protagonist. Melville's writing style combines themes of peace, beauty, and sensuality with a critique of Western intruders, creating a nuanced portrayal of the earthly paradise that gradually turns into a tale of dread, loneliness, and fear.
Six months at sea! Yes, reader, as I live, six months out of sight of land; cruising after the sperm-whale beneath the scorching sun of the Line, and tossed on the billows of the wide-rolling Pacific—... Shibumi by Trevanian is a geopolitical thriller featuring one of the most blatant Gary Stu characters outside of James Bond. The story revolves around Nicholai Hel, a European with Asian consciousness, who is the world's most wanted man and an accomplished assassin. The plot delves into themes of international espionage, personal excellence, and the battle between ruthless power and corruption. The writing style includes well-researched and convincing details about post-war Japan, Go, caving, and the Basque Pyrenees, alongside offensive cultural stereotyping and elitist pontificating on living a worthwhile life.
Joke? It damn well better notbe a joke, I shit thee not! If anything has gone wrong, my ass will be grass. And if the slightest little thing iswrong, you can bet your danglees that Mr. Diamond and his...- #10
Save:"Holy Cow: An Indian Adventure" by Sarah Macdonald chronicles the author's journey through India, exploring the country's diverse cultures, religions, and spiritual experiences. Through her witty and honest writing style, Macdonald shares her encounters with the people, customs, and chaos of India, providing a vivid portrayal of the country's beauty and challenges. The book delves into her exploration of various religions, her personal growth, and the impact of her time in India on her relationship and perspective on life.
I have a dreadful long-term memory. I only remember two traumatic events of my childhood—my brother's near-death by drowning and my own near-death by humiliation when I was rescued by a lifeguard whil...
