Books matching: futility of war
72 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:Brutal, unflinching, and darkly witty, "Goshawk Squadron" is not your grandfather’s WWI flying adventure - come for the raw reality, stay for the outstanding writing.
Set during the height of World War I in January 1918, 'Goshawk Squadron' follows the misfortunes of a British flight squadron on the Western Front. Major Stanley Woolley, the commanding officer of Goshawk Squadron, believes the whole squadron will be dead within three months. The book provides snapshots of young pilots' dogfights, their recreational time, and the brutal realities of aerial warfare during the final months of the war in 1918. The writing style is described as wry, brutal, cynical, and hilarious, portraying the men of Robinson's squadron as a refined troop of British gentlemen as well as a viscous band of brothers hell-bent on staying alive and winning the war.
'Goshawk Squadron' depicts the futility of the encounters in the air during World War I, where pilots are introduced only to be sacrificed minutes later. Major Wooley teaches his men that war is not chivalrous, luck is not their friend, and survival is the only goal. The book portrays the harsh realities of aerial combat, the sacrifices made by inexperienced pilots, and the intense atmosphere of the squadron's missions.
January 15th, 1918, was a cold, sparkling, sunny day. Not much happened in the Great War that day. As usual, about two thousand men (of the millions along the Western Front) died; some because they st...1971•265 pages - #2
Save:'White Death' by Robbie Morrison and Charlie Adlard is a graphic novel that brings attention to the horrific tactics used in World War I, particularly the deliberate creation of avalanches to bury troops. The story follows young Austro-Hungarian soldiers facing their last moments alive in the Italian Alps, as they navigate the horrors of war, the friendships tested by conflict, and the emotional toll of the battlefield. The artwork, sketched in white, gray, and black, effectively captures the moody contrast of snow and death, portraying the haunting facial expressions of men in the midst of war.
The book vividly depicts the despair, heartbreak, and tragedy of war, using the avalanche as a metaphor for the terrifying force that consumes everything without mercy. It explores themes of brother against brother, PTSD, and the futility of war, providing a raw and emotional portrayal of the harsh realities faced by soldiers during World War I.
1998•99 pages A haunting, beautifully written anti-war classic that rips away romantic notions of battle. Not an easy read, but an essential one - if you've ever wondered what war really does to those who fight in it, this book is a must.
"All Quiet on the Western Front" by Erich Maria Remarque is a powerful anti-war novel that follows the story of Paul Baumer and his classmates who enlist in the German Army during World War I. The book vividly portrays the horrors of trench warfare, the camaraderie among soldiers, and the wasted youth in a meaningless war. Through Remarque's descriptive writing style, readers are transported to the front lines of the war, experiencing the futility and brutality of battle alongside the characters.
The novel provides a poignant depiction of the impact of war on young soldiers, exploring themes of camaraderie, the dehumanizing effects of war, and the loss of innocence. Remarque's narrative offers a unique perspective on World War I, highlighting the psychological toll of combat, the senselessness of violence, and the struggles faced by soldiers on the front lines.
We are at rest five miles behind the front. Yesterday we were relieved, and now our bellies are full of beef and haricot beans. We are satisfied and at peace. Each man has another mess-tin full for th...January 1929•294 pages- #4
Save:A dark, thoughtful blend of murder mystery and WWI drama that's great for history lovers and those seeking a crime novel with depth - even if it doesn't pack as many surprises as you'd like.
Ben Elton's 'The First Casualty' is a historical fiction novel set during World War I, focusing on the investigation of a murder behind the front lines. The book delves into the horrors of war, the futility of investigating a single murder amidst mass slaughter, and the blurred lines between legal and illegal killings. Through the protagonist, Douglas Kingsley, the story explores themes of justice, truth, and the impact of war on individuals.
Douglas Kingsley was an unlikely candidate to join the ranks of conscientious objectors, in that he had killed more men than most soldiers were ever likely to do. Not directly, of course; he had not p...December 2005•446 pages - #5
Save:A brilliantly surreal, darkly funny, and thought-provoking classic - equal parts hilarious and horrifying. Stick with the chaos and you’ll see why it’s called one of the greatest novels of the 20th century.
'Catch-22' by Joseph Heller is a satirical novel set during World War II, focusing on the experiences of a bombardier named Yossarian. The story delves into the absurdity and insanity of military life, highlighting the struggles of individuals trying to navigate through a world where life is cheap and the rules seem designed to ensure no escape from the horrors of war. Through a fragmented narrative style, the author weaves a darkly humorous tale that provides insights into the futility of war and the importance of self-preservation amidst chaos.
The writing style of 'Catch-22' is characterized by its witty banter, dark humor, and satirical take on the bureaucracy and illogical reasoning prevalent in wartime. The narrative jumps between characters, time periods, and locations, creating a chaotic yet engaging reading experience. Heller's exploration of the themes of insanity, morality, and the absurdity of life is delivered through a mix of laugh-out-loud moments and poignant reflections on the human condition.
Yossarian was in the hospital with a pain in his liver that fell just short of being jaundice. The doctors were puzzled by the fact that it wasn’t quite jaundice. If it became jaundice they could trea...January 1961•534 pages - #6
Save:'Now It Can Be Told' by Philip Gibbs is a poignant and grim recounting of the events witnessed and experienced during World War I. The book delves into the human tragedy, filth, and futility of the war, describing the ground warfare in the trenches of France where British and British empire troops fought alongside French, American, and German soldiers. Gibbs, a sensitive and eloquent observer, provides detailed accounts of the suffering endured by common soldiers, the inept leadership leading to needless waste of life, and the new and innovative methods of massacre tried out for the first time during the war. He also touches on the impact of the war on civilians, the brutality of the task faced by soldiers, and the aftermath of the war, highlighting the pain and despair felt by those involved.
When Germany threw down her challenge to Russia and France, and England knew that her Imperial power would be one of the prizes of German victory (the common people did not think this, at first, but s...January 1920•475 pages - #7
Save:Germline by T.C. McCarthy is a military science fiction novel set in a near future where the U.S. is engaged in a brutal underground war in Kazakhstan over scarce resources. The story follows Oscar Wendell, a journalist embedded with the troops, who undergoes a transformation as he navigates the horrors of war, struggles with addiction, and forms unexpected relationships with genetically engineered soldiers. The writing style is described as intense, gritty, and fast-paced, with a dark mood that keeps readers engaged and emotionally invested in the characters' experiences.
He laughed as if I had made a joke. “The first civilian reporter wiped on the front line. Nobody from the press has ever been allowed up here, not even you guys. We got plenty of armor, rube. Draw som...August 2011•384 pages - #8
Save:A beautifully written, tear-jerking journey through WWI seen through a horse’s eyes - powerful, compassionate, and perfect for anyone who appreciates emotionally resonant historical fiction.
'War Horse' by Michael Morpurgo is a heart-wrenching and poignant story that follows the journey of a farm horse named Joey who gets drafted into the British army during WWI. The narrative style of the book, primarily told from Joey's perspective, offers a unique and captivating way to explore the themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of war. Through the bond between Joey and his owner, Albert, the book delves into the emotional impact of war on both humans and animals, providing a thought-provoking insight into the horrors of trench warfare and the love that transcends through difficult times.
The book's writing style is praised for its ability to engage both young and adult readers, presenting a powerful anti-war message in a format that is accessible and relatable. By using Joey as the narrator, the story effectively conveys the brutality of war, the importance of friendship, kindness, and the resilience of the human-animal bond, making it a compelling read that sparks conversations about history, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love.
MY EARLIEST MEMORIES are a confusion of hilly fields and dark, damp stables, and rats that scampered along the beams above my head. But I remember well enough the day of the horse sale. The terror of...1982•194 pages - #9
Save:A beloved classic of dark, absurdist war satire - hilarious, biting, and still relevant - but be ready for a marathon of digressions and an abrupt ending. The ultimate anti-war, anti-bureaucracy novel for the patient reader.
"The Good Soldier Svejk" by Jaroslav Hasek is a satirical novel set during World War I, following the antics of a Czech soldier named Svejk who is portrayed as an idiot but may actually be a clever conman. The book humorously critiques the military, war, and authority figures through Svejk's absurd and farcical situations, showcasing the futility and absurdity of war. Hasek's writing style is described as witty, biting, and at times repetitive, with a focus on highlighting the stupidity of those around Svejk.
"So they've killed Ferdinand," said the charwoman to Mr. Schweik who, having left the army many years before, when a military medical board had declared him to be chronically feebleminded, earned a li...1921•780 pages - #10
Save:A challenging, immersive read for those who appreciate nuance over action - messy, thought-provoking, and unlike any "chosen one" story you've read before. It's a love-it-or-hate-it modern fantasy classic.
'A Heroine of the World' by Tanith Lee is a unique tale that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality. The story follows a young woman who navigates through war, loss, and personal struggles, ultimately discovering her inner strength and resilience. The book is not your typical fantasy novel, as it delves into themes of powerlessness, victimhood, and the complexities of human relationships. Tanith Lee's writing style immerses readers in a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly, with lyrical descriptions and intricate character development that keep readers engaged from start to finish.
August 1989•459 pages
