Books matching: disaster response

86 result(s)

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  1. 'A Paradise Built in Hell' by Rebecca Solnit explores the idea that in times of disaster, ordinary people come together to form communities of hope and altruism, contrary to the popular belief of chaos and violence. Solnit delves into various historical disasters like the San Francisco Earthquake, Hurricane Katrina, and 9/11, highlighting the resilience and cooperation exhibited by individuals during these crises. Through a mix of research, personal stories, and sociological analysis, Solnit challenges the notion of elite panic and government mismanagement during disasters, emphasizing the positive aspects of human nature in times of crisis.

    Solnit's writing style in 'A Paradise Built in Hell' has been described as a mix of theoretical analysis, personal narratives, and historical accounts. While some readers found the book to be a bit theoretical and opinion-driven, others appreciated the in-depth exploration of disasters and the grassroots efforts that emerge in response. offers a critical examination of how communities react to disasters, shedding light on the resilience and altruism that often arise in the face of adversity.

    Who are you? Who are we? In times of crisis, these are life-and-death questions. Thousands of people survived Hurricane Katrina because grandsons or aunts or neighbors or complete strangers reached ou...

  2. 'Five Days at Memorial: Life and Death in a Storm-Ravaged Hospital' by Sheri Fink provides a harrowing and detailed account of the events at Memorial Hospital in New Orleans during and after Hurricane Katrina. The author meticulously reconstructs the choices made by doctors, nurses, and patients in the face of overwhelming stress and hardship, resulting in questionable decisions, legal proceedings, and an exploration of ethical dilemmas in extreme circumstances. Fink's writing style immerses readers in the hospital setting, portraying the stark realities, split-second life-and-death decisions, and the aftermath of the tragic events that unfolded during those five days.

    FOR CERTAIN NEW ORLEANIANS, Memorial Medical Center was the place you went to ride out each hurricane that the loop current of the Gulf of Mexico launched like a pinball at the city. But chances are y...

  3. 'Isaac's Storm: A Man, a Time, and the Deadliest Hurricane in History' by Erik Larson tells the story of the devastating Galveston hurricane of 1900. The narrative revolves around Isaac Cline, the chief meteorologist for Galveston, who failed to predict the severity of the hurricane, leading to a catastrophic loss of life. Larson skillfully weaves together the personal stories of individuals affected by the storm, the background of the weather service, and the city of Galveston itself, providing a detailed account of the events leading up to and following the disaster. Through meticulous research and vivid descriptions, the author brings to life the ignorance, arrogance, and tragic consequences of the deadliest hurricane in US history.

    The writing style of the book combines historical facts with personal narratives, creating a compelling and informative read. Larson delves into the history of weather forecasting at the turn of the century, the political dynamics within the Weather Bureau, and the human aspects of the individuals involved in the events surrounding the Galveston hurricane. offers a gripping portrayal of the power and unpredictability of nature, highlighting the devastating impact of the storm on the city and its inhabitants.

    Now chairman of the history department, Dodd had been a professor at the university since 1909, recognized nationally for his work on the American South and for a biography of Woodrow Wilson. He was s...

  4. #4

    Bending Adversity: Japan and the Art of Survival by David Pilling
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    "Bending Adversity: Japan and the Art of Survival" by David Pilling delves into various aspects of Japan's history, culture, and socio-economic landscape. Pilling explores the country's resilience in facing adversities like the 2011 tsunami and nuclear disaster, while also examining its economic challenges, political landscape, and relations with neighboring countries. Through a blend of historical accounts, personal anecdotes, and interviews with prominent figures, Pilling paints a comprehensive picture of Japan, highlighting its ability to adapt and thrive in the face of challenges.

    Pilling's writing style in "Bending Adversity" is described as accessible, engaging, and well-researched. Readers appreciate the author's balanced approach to portraying Japan, avoiding both glorification and vilification, and providing a nuanced understanding of the country's strengths and weaknesses. offers a mix of factual information, insightful analysis, and cultural observations, making it a compelling read for those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Japan's past, present, and future.

    It was in 1666 that the local potentate, a former engineer by the name of Heitazaemon Yamazaki, ordered the wealthy merchants of what became Rikuzentakata to plant pine trees. The sturdy black pines w...

  5. #5

    Shaken to the Core by Jae
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    'Shaken to the Core' by Jae is a historical novel set in San Francisco in 1906, focusing on the aftermath of the devastating earthquake. The author skillfully weaves a sweet love story between Kate, a society girl, and Guiliana, a Sicilian immigrant, amidst the chaos of the earthquake and ensuing fires. Readers praise the vivid descriptions that transport them to the time period, the depth of the characters, and the historical accuracy portrayed in the book.

    Giuliana squinted against the brisk sea breeze and looked out across the bay. The fog was lifting, revealing glimpses of Alcatraz Island, but still there was no sign of the Bon Viaggiu’s brown, triang...

  6. #6

    Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
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    'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir is a science fiction novel that follows the story of Ryland Grace, a man who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of who he is or why he is there. He soon discovers that he is on a mission to save humanity from an alien infestation that is consuming the sun. The book combines elements of suspense, science, and adventure as Ryland navigates challenges, solves scientific problems, and forms unexpected alliances with alien lifeforms to unravel the mystery and find a solution to save Earth.

    The writing style of 'Project Hail Mary' is described as fast-paced, humorous, and engaging. The author, Andy Weir, expertly weaves scientific details into the narrative, making complex concepts accessible and adding credibility to the mind-bending events in the story. The book alternates between present-time events on the spaceship and flashbacks that provide background information, creating a well-balanced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    What’s going on? I want to find out, but I don’t have much to work with. I can’t see. I can’t hear anything other than the computer. I can’t even feel. No, that’s not true. I feel something. I’m lying...

  7. #7

    Perihelion Summer by Greg Egan
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    Perihelion Summer by Greg Egan is a science fiction novella that presents a climate change disaster scenario caused by a pair of small black holes disrupting Earth's orbit. The story follows the protagonist, Matt, as he navigates through the challenges of impending high tides and the need to lead a group of refugees to survivable conditions in Antarctica. Egan's writing style is characterized by a commitment to hard science fiction, rational characters, and a focus on exploring urgent adaptation without assigning blame or denial typically associated with climate change narratives.

    Matt’s parents threw a party for New Year’s Eve, filling the house and garden with people and food, music and liquor. His mother had sent invitations to the rest of the crew, but Matt knew that on the...

  8. #8

    Alas, Babylon by Pat Frank
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    'Alas, Babylon' by Pat Frank is a post-apocalyptic novel set in a small Florida town following a nuclear war. The story focuses on the survival of the community members as they face the challenges of living without modern amenities like electricity, running water, and readily available food. The book portrays a vivid picture of how the characters learn to adapt, barter for their existence, and work together to navigate a world that has regressed hundreds of years due to the devastating effects of the nuclear war. The writing style is described as engaging, down-to-earth, and surprisingly contemporary, reminiscent of Stephen King's style but without the adolescent humor and bad endings.

    Randy was having a pleasant, recurrent, Before-The-Day dream. He was awaking in a hotel in Miami Beach and a waitress in a white cap was bringing his morning coffee on a rolling table. Sometimes the w...

  9. 'The Day the World Came to Town: 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland' by Jim DeFede tells a heartwarming and inspiring story about the town of Gander, Newfoundland, which showed incredible generosity and compassion towards thousands of stranded passengers on 9/11. portrays the events from various perspectives, including that of a chairman of Hugo Boss, Werner Baldessarini, who was traveling to NYC for Fashion Week. Readers are taken through a journey of tears, grief, joy, and laughter as they witness the touching and compassionate spirit of the people of Newfoundland during a difficult time of tragedy.

    The narrative style of the book is described as detailed, engaging, and emotional, capturing the reader's attention from the very beginning. It offers a unique perspective on the aftermath of 9/11, focusing on the unexpected visitors who found refuge in a small Canadian town and the extraordinary kindness and care shown by the residents of Gander towards their temporary guests. not only highlights the tragic events of that day but also showcases the resilience, strength, and generosity of human nature in the face of adversity.

    Nearly three weeks had passed since they left their ranch outside the small Texas town of Alto and embarked on a journey to adopt a two-year-old girl in the former Soviet republic of Kazakhstan. It wa...

  10. #10

    The Last Centurion by John Ringo
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    The Last Centurion by John Ringo paints a chilling picture of a world plunged into chaos by global cooling, pandemics, and societal collapse. Bandit Six, an infantry officer, finds himself in the midst of this turmoil, navigating through a landscape where infrastructure is crumbling, civilization is disintegrating, and survival is a daily struggle. Ringo weaves a narrative that combines elements of political commentary, military strategy, and environmental disaster, creating a dystopian scenario that feels eerily plausible in today's world.

    Ringo's writing style in The Last Centurion is characterized by a blend of detailed world-building, rich historical references, and sharp political observations. Through the eyes of Bandit Six, the reader is taken on a journey that explores themes of resilience, survival, and the human capacity to adapt in the face of overwhelming challenges. The book delves into complex issues such as climate change, geopolitics, and the fragility of modern society, offering a thought-provoking and gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

    People started calling it the Hell Times after some pundit was spouting about it on TV. I mean, The Great Depression was taken and they didn't have the Plague or the Freeze thrown on top. I know, it w...

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