Books matching: early 20th century
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- #1
Save: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... - #2
Save: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 ... - #3
Save:"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... '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...'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.
- #6
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... - #7
Save: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 ... - #8
Save:'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... - #9
Save:'In the Skin of a Lion' by Michael Ondaatje is a historical fiction novel set in Toronto in the early 20th century, focusing on the lives of immigrant workers involved in building the city's infrastructure. The book weaves together diverse characters and their intertwined paths, exploring themes of love, survival, adaptation, and the immigrant experience. Ondaatje's writing style is described as poetic, dreamlike, and vividly descriptive, with a narrative that jumps through time and characters, creating a rich tapestry of stories.
IF HE IS AWAKE early enough the boy sees the men walk past the farmhouse down First Lake Road. Then he stands at the bedroom window and watches: he can see two or three lanterns between the soft maple... - #10
Save:Girl Waits with Gun is a historical fiction novel set in 1914 New Jersey, following the story of Constance Kopp and her two younger sisters. After a car accident with a wealthy factory owner, Constance takes matters into her own hands by investigating him and uncovering potential connections to other crimes. The novel is based on the real-life Constance Kopp, who becomes a deputy sheriff and fights to defend her family against threats and intimidation.
OUR TROUBLES BEGAN in the summer of 1914, the year I turned thirty-five. The Archduke of Austria had just been assassinated, the Mexicans were revolting, and absolutely nothing was happening at our ho...
