Books matching: elderly women
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- #1
Save:A gripping, unique, and sometimes brutal exploration of survival, tradition, and rebellion - Dendera is a dark, compelling read that sticks with you long after the final page.
Dendera is a dark and gruesome novel that follows the story of Dendera, a village of elderly women left on a mountain by their relatives to die and enter Paradise. The main character, Kayu Saitoh, struggles with anger and fear after being rescued by the women of Dendera, feeling robbed of her place in Paradise. As the story unfolds, secrets are unearthed, leading to confrontations and unexpected developments. The book also delves into the perspective of a bear, giving it a voice and exploring its struggles during a harsh winter. The plot intertwines the narratives of the women of Dendera and the bear, showcasing themes of survival, revenge, and tradition.
Once upon a time, Kayu Saitoh was abandoned on top of the Mountain. This was only natural. She felt fine about being abandoned. This too was only natural. In fact Kayu Saitoh had been looking forward...2009•372 pages - #2
Save:A thoughtful, unique take on aging and immortality with a sci-fi twist - perfect if you like books that make you think, but be ready for a slower pace and a few unresolved threads.
'Turnabout' by Margaret Peterson Haddix revolves around a group of nursing home patients in Kentucky who are given a trial drug that reverses the aging process, causing them to stop aging and start growing younger. The story follows two patients, Melly and Anny Beth, as they un-age into the year 2085, facing challenges such as unwanted exposure and the threat of a Government program catching up to them. The novel explores themes of second chances, the consequences of reversing aging, and the struggle for privacy in a publicity-driven society.
My sixteenth birthday. Sad, sad day. What I mind most—what I’ve been dreading most—is losing my license. I could still pass for being older for at least another year or two, but the agency won’t let m...2000•241 pages - #3
Save:Dazzlingly original, sometimes perplexing, always ambitious - Baba Yaga Laid an Egg is a must for fans of literary risk-taking, modern myth, and fierce, funny feminism.
"Baba Yaga Laid an Egg" by Dubravka Ugresic is a modern take on the myth of Baba Yaga, focusing on aging women and challenging stereotypes associated with them. The novel is divided into three parts, with the first part narrated by a prickly and impatient character exploring the theme of folklore and women's treatment in society. The second part presents a lighter tone, set in a spa casino where three old women, including the narrator's mother, embark on a holiday filled with humor and lacerating observations on female old age. The final part delves into the mythology of Baba Yaga, providing a comprehensive overview of the character's lore across different mythologies.
The air in the New Zagreb neighbourhood where my mother lives smells of bird droppings in summer. In the leaves of the trees out in front of her apartment building jostle thousands and thousands of bi...2007•332 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Canongate's The Myths ) A beautifully odd, meditative literary mystery that’s less about the whodunit and more about pondering life, nature, and what it means to be heard. Perfect for readers looking for something unique and memorable.
In "Drive Your Plow over the Bones of the Dead" by Olga Tokarczuk, the story revolves around Janina Duszejko, an elderly woman living in a rural Polish village near the Czech border. The novel combines elements of a murder mystery with philosophical musings, astrology, and a deep connection to nature. Janina, an eccentric and opinionated character, becomes convinced that the deaths of hunters in her town are the result of animals seeking revenge, leading to a unique exploration of justice, grief, and the human condition. The writing style is described as quirky, reflective, and lyrical, with a touch of dark humor and elements of magical realism woven into the narrative.
Had I examined the Ephemerides that evening to see what was happening in the sky, I wouldn’t have gone to bed at all. Meanwhile I had fallen very fast asleep; I had helped myself with an infusion of h...2018•287 pages- #5
Save:A fast, quirky, and entertaining thriller with a memorable older protagonist - expect twists, laughs, and a bit of chaos. Suspend your disbelief and enjoy the ride!
'What Rose Forgot' by Nevada Barr is a mystery novel that follows the protagonist, Rose, a woman in her seventies who finds herself drugged and confined to an elderly care facility for people with dementia. Despite not having dementia, she breaks out and embarks on a journey to uncover the mystery of who drugged her, navigating a plot filled with suspense, action, and unexpected twists. Readers praised Barr's characterization of Rose's journey out of a drug stupor as poetic and accurate, highlighting the unique premise and engaging storytelling style of the book.
The book delves into serious topics while maintaining a light and enjoyable reading experience, with readers appreciating the complex and believable characters, the intriguing plot development, and the surprising elements woven into the narrative. Nevada Barr's ability to create a dynamic and versatile mystery, blending elements of ageism, family connections, and philosophical themes, adds depth to the story and keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Rose’s head drops, jerks, and she’s awake. I’ve fallen asleep meditating, she thinks. It’s been a while since she’s done that. Over the years, an ease of concentration has incrementally developed. Sta...September 2019•311 pages - #6
Save:A cozy, witty, and thoroughly enjoyable romp - with a lovable senior spy - that’s perfect for anyone needing a pick-me-up or a fun escape. Suspend disbelief and enjoy the ride!
In "The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax," readers are introduced to Emily Pollifax, a widowed woman who, feeling bored and unfulfilled, decides to follow her childhood dream of becoming a spy by volunteering for the CIA. Through a case of mistaken identity, Mrs. Pollifax embarks on a courier mission that takes her on an unexpected and thrilling adventure filled with humor, charm, and suspense. The book, set during the Cold War era, offers a light and entertaining read, showcasing Mrs. Pollifax's resourcefulness, wit, and determination as she navigates through various challenges and encounters a range of intriguing characters.
The narrative of "The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax" unfolds in a fun and engaging manner, blending elements of cozy mystery with espionage, creating a delightful and humorous story that keeps readers entertained. Dorothy Gilman's writing style captures the essence of Mrs. Pollifax's character, portraying her as a likable and unconventional protagonist who defies expectations and embarks on a series of improbable yet enjoyable adventures that make for an enjoyable and light-hearted read.
He smiled and returned his glasses to his nose. “Which brings me to the fact that, although I find you in excellent health physically, I do note certain signs of depression. You’re not quite the same...1966•214 pages - #7
Save:A charming, quintessential Christie cozy mystery with heaps of village intrigue and clever misdirection - the perfect introduction to Miss Marple and a delight for classic mystery fans, even if she doesn't steal the show just yet.
"Murder at the Vicarage" by Agatha Christie is the first in the Miss Marple series, introducing the beloved character of Miss Jane Marple. Set in the village of St. Mary Mead, the story revolves around the murder of Colonel Protheroe in the vicar's study, leading to a plethora of suspects with motives to kill him. Miss Marple, an elderly and astute observer of human nature, takes it upon herself to uncover the truth behind the murder, despite facing resistance from the police and village residents.
Narrated by the vicar, the plot unfolds with intricate details, red herrings, and a cleverly laid out mystery that keeps readers engaged. The story showcases the village life, social dynamics, and the sharp wit of Miss Marple as she navigates through the suspects and clues to ultimately solve the murder, highlighting Agatha Christie's masterful storytelling and suspenseful writing style.
It is difficult to know quite where to begin this story, but I have fixed my choice on a certain Wednesday at luncheon at the Vicarage. The conversation, though in the main irrelevant to the matter in...1930•280 pages - #8
Save:Cozy, witty, and quietly moving - a comfort read about friendship, community, and the quirks of small-town life. Not much happens, but you won't want to leave Cranford.
'Cranford' by Elizabeth Gaskell is a collection of stories that portray the dear ladies 'of a certain age' in a 19th century English village of the same name. It beautifully showcases Gaskell's ability to bring fictional characters to life despite how many generations removed they now are and how rigid their social conventions seem to be. The book follows the eccentric inhabitants of Cranford, primarily women living lives of gentile poverty, and explores their everyday events in terms of the dramatic significance they attach to them.
The stories in 'Cranford' revolve around the life of elderly Miss Matty, an elderly, dimwitted but kind spinster, and her interactions with the quirky residents of the village. The book captures the wit, humor, and affectionate observations of the foibles, follies, and endearing eccentricities of the residents of Cranford as they navigate through their lives in a quiet English village of the early nineteenth century.
In the first place, Cranford is in possession of the Amazons; all the holders of houses, above a certain rent, are women. If a married couple come to settle in the town, somehow the gentleman disappea...1853•256 pages - #9
Save:A gentle, quietly powerful sci-fi about finding yourself at any age - come for the fresh perspective and lingering sense of wonder, but be ready for a slow and thoughtful pace.
In "Remnant Population" by Elizabeth Moon, the story follows Ofelia, an elderly woman who decides to stay behind when the colony is evacuated from a newly settled planet. Living alone, she enjoys her solitude until she discovers the existence of indigenous life forms on the planet. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, independence, and first contact as Ofelia navigates this new and unexpected situation. The writing style is praised for its character-driven narrative, focusing on Ofelia's journey and her interactions with the alien species.
Between her toes the damp earth felt cool, but already sweat crept between the roots of her hair. It would be hotter today than yesterday, and by noon the lovely spice-scented red flowers of the dayvi...1996•338 pages - #10
Save:'The Female of the Species' by Joyce Carol Oates delves into tales of serious psychosis and sociopathic behaviors, exploring the capacity of women to do evil. The stories revolve around protagonists of varying ages and circumstances, all facing desperate personal situations that lead them down dark and disturbing paths. Oates skillfully weaves narratives that touch on highly interesting and sometimes perverse topical areas, such as a kiddie prostitution scheme and a psychopathic boy's obsession with a woman he believes he has a connection to.
Oates' writing style in this collection is noted for its plain language and focus on character development. While some opinions mention that the plots and endings lack poignancy and that some stories are lacking in development, the overall theme of exploring the exploitation and marginalization of women in society through horror and suspense shines through in this book.
2005•288 pages
