Books matching: early 20th century
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- #1
Save:A Tree Grows in Brooklyn endures as a deeply moving, richly detailed coming-of-age classic - perfect for anyone who finds beauty in grit, resilience, and the quiet strength of ordinary people.
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...1943•522 pages - #2
Save:A devastating and sparely written classic of alienation - raw, unfiltered, and unforgettable. Approach with care, but if you connect with it, you won't soon forget it.
"No Longer Human" by Osamu Dazai is a bleak and introspective novel that delves into the life of Oba Yozo, a character struggling with feelings of alienation and disconnection from society. The book explores themes of loneliness, suicide, and existential dread through Yozo's eyes as he navigates a world where he feels like an outsider. The writing style is described as powerful and impactful, with a narrative that captures the protagonist's internal turmoil and despair in a poignant manner.
I can’t even guess myself what it must be to live the life of a human being. I was born in a village in the Northeast, and it wasn’t until I was quite big that I saw my first train. I climbed up and d...1948•176 pages Haunting, poetic, and achingly honest - a landmark of existential literature that shines in small doses. Best for reflective souls and literary wanderers; not recommended for plot-seekers or anyone needing a pick-me-up.
'The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition' by Fernando Pessoa is a collection of fragmented thoughts and musings of fictional Portugese bookkeeper Bernardo Soares, one of Pessoa's heteronyms. The book is a diary-like account of Soares' existential reflections on life, literature, poetry, sensibility, and metaphysics, with no plot or story arc. Pessoa's poetic prose is described as beautiful and profound, with virtually every sentence being a gem. The book is best experienced by dipping into it over a long period of time, rather than reading it cover to cover, as it offers insights into the depths of human emotions and existential ponderings.
The writing style of 'The Book of Disquiet' is characterized by its rich expressiveness, introspective nature, and melancholic tone. Pessoa weaves together observation and introspection, creating a deeply existential and existentialist work that challenges readers to contemplate the imperfections of life and the struggle of living authentically. The book is a blend of diary, fiction, autobiography, philosophy, and poetry in prose, offering a unique reading experience that invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human emotions and the futility of longing for the impossible.
Lisbon has a certain number of eating establishments in which, on top of a respectable-looking tavern, there’s a regular dining room with the solid and homey air of a restaurant in a small trainless t...1991•516 pages- #4
Save:A Month in the Country is a delicately written, heartfelt gem - short, poetic, and quietly profound. If you appreciate subtle, reflective fiction about healing, memory, and art, you shouldn't miss this modern classic.
A Month in the Country by J.L. Carr is a beautifully written novella set in the aftermath of World War I, following the protagonist Tom Birkin as he travels to Oxgodby to restore a medieval mural in a country church. The book delves into themes of healing, relationships, and self-discovery as Birkin navigates the tranquil countryside, forms connections with the locals, and finds solace in his work amidst the scars of war.
When the train stopped I stumbled out, nudging and kicking the kitbag before me. Back down the platform someone was calling despairingly, ‘Oxgodby … Oxgodby.’ No-one offered a hand, so I climbed back...1980•131 pages - #5
Save:An English classic: beautifully written, charmingly nostalgic, and best enjoyed if you adore rich prose and period coziness - just don’t come expecting non-stop action or modern sensibilities!
Cider With Rosie by Laurie Lee is a nostalgic memoir of the author's life growing up in the English countryside in the early 1900s. The book provides a glimpse into a world that has since disappeared, capturing village life in the Cotswolds between the two World Wars. Lee's childhood experiences straddle changing times, depicting a rural life that was becoming more mechanized while towns were expanding. The author's writing style is described as poetic, lyrical, and filled with humor and tragedy, portraying unforgettable characters and the shadow of the First World War.
The book is presented in a series of vignettes, offering a child's eye view of growing up in a remote village called Slad. The author's ability to draw vivid scenes and bring characters to life is highlighted, creating a charming and evocative portrayal of a lost way of life. Despite some readers finding the book rose-tinted and nostalgic, Lee's writing is praised for its beauty, honesty, and ability to provoke contemplation about life and human connections.
The June grass, amongst which I stood, was taller than I was, and I wept. I had never been so close to grass before. It towered above me and all around me, each blade tattooed with tiger-skins of sunl...1959•269 pages - #6
Save:A beautifully written, richly atmospheric novella that gently explores the transition from childhood to adolescence. Best for readers who enjoy immersive settings and reflective stories over high-octane plot twists.
The River by Rumer Godden is a coming-of-age novel set in colonial India, focusing on the central character Harriet as she navigates the complexities of life and transitions from childhood to adolescence. The book beautifully captures the Indian landscape, daily life, and historical context of the British Empire's influence on the region. The writing style is brilliant and evocative, with descriptions of Indian life and the significance of the river being central to the narrative. The story delves into deeper themes such as the reality of death, growth, and the sacredness of life, all portrayed through the eyes of Harriet.
Harriet's experiences growing up in India, her interactions with Captain John, and the dynamics within her family provide a rich tapestry of storytelling. The book does not rely heavily on a traditional plot structure but rather focuses on the characters' emotional journeys and the nuances of their relationships. The River serves as a metaphor for the flow of life, taking the characters on a journey of self-discovery and transition from childhood innocence to the complexities of adulthood.
The river was in Bengal, India, but for the purpose of this book, these thoughts, it might as easily have been a river in America, in Europe, in England, France, New Zealand or Timbuctoo, though they...January 1946•172 pages - #7
Save:A breathtaking classic blending adventure, philosophy, and lyricism - essential for lovers of thoughtful memoirs, but may be too reflective for readers seeking fast-paced thrills.
'Wind, Sand and Stars' by Antoine de Saint-Exupery is a memoir that delves into the experiences of the author as a French aviator during the 1920s and 30s. The book not only narrates Saint-Exupery's adventures in the skies, including surviving a crash in the Libyan Desert, but also explores philosophical themes and musings on life, humanity, and war. Through beautifully crafted prose, the author shares insights on the human spirit and the importance of connectedness, while also reflecting on his involvement in the Spanish Civil War.
The writing style in 'Wind, Sand and Stars' is described as incredibly vivid and evocative, transporting readers to the vast open spaces of the desert and the deep night sky. The book blends descriptions of early aviation with existential questions, creating a narrative that is both gripping and thought-provoking. Despite some chapters that may not resonate with modern sensibilities, the book is praised for its exploration of human endurance, survival, and the timeless lessons it imparts.
In 1926 I was enrolled as student airline pilot by the Latécoère Company, the predecessors of Aéropostale (now Air France) in the operation of the line between Toulouse, in southwestern France, and Da...1939•261 pages - #8
Save:A challenging but rewarding modernist classic: dazzling for city-lovers, patient readers, and fans of literary experimentation - just be ready for a dense, character-packed journey.
'Manhattan Transfer' by John Dos Passos is a novel set in early twentieth century New York City, portraying a diverse cast of characters from different backgrounds and social standings trying to navigate the hustle and bustle of city life. The book jumps from character to character, showcasing their struggles and aspirations in a melting pot of city chaos. Dos Passos' writing style is described as rich and vivid, painting a harsh yet realistic picture of life in the squalid tenements of New York City during that period. The novel weaves together various storylines, culminating in a portrayal of the city immediately before, during, and after World War I.
THREE GULLS WHEEL above the broken boxes, orangerinds, spoiled cabbage heads that heave between the splintered plank walls, the green waves spume under the round bow as the ferry, skidding on the tide...January 1925•413 pages A fearless, thoroughly researched portrait of a legend who lived large and fought hard in and out of the ring. Imperfect formatting aside, it’s a powerful, eye-opening read for fans of biography, history, or stories of resistance.
'Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson' by Geoffrey C. Ward is a detailed biography of the iconic figure Jack Johnson, the first African American heavyweight boxing champion. delves into the challenges Johnson faced, including racism, prejudice, and legal persecution, as well as his bold and audacious personality that made him a trailblazer in the early 20th century. Through Ward's meticulous research and storytelling, readers are introduced to the incredible life of Jack Johnson, showcasing his courage, resilience, and impact on the world of boxing and beyond.
____________________________________________ THE PURE-BLOODED AMERICAN IN THE SPRING OF 1910, Halley’s comet returned to the heavens after an absence of seventy-five years. Some believed it a sign fro...2004•545 pages- #10
Save:A dazzling tour of longing, illusion, and the dark flip side of the American Dream - The Great Gatsby is short, stylish, endlessly discussed, and a classic for good reason. Worth reading at least once, especially if you like your stories with a splash of champagne and an undercurrent of heartbreak.
"The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a classic American novel set in the 1920s, depicting the excesses and struggles of the Jazz Age. The story follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby who transforms himself to win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan, showcasing themes of the corrupting influence of wealth and the elusive nature of the American Dream. Fitzgerald's writing style is praised for its clear, melodious prose with engaging rhythm, and the book is noted for its rich symbolism and portrayal of flawed and complex characters.
He didn’t say any more, but we’ve always been unusually communicative in a reserved way, and I understood that he meant a great deal more than that. In consequence, I’m inclined to reserve all judgmen...June 1920•201 pages
