Books matching: historical nonfiction
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'Under a Flaming Sky: The Great Hinckley Firestorm of 1894' by author Daniel James Brown is a comprehensive account of the horrors of The Great Hinckley Fire. The author skillfully transports the reader back to the same day and time as those experiencing the tragedy firsthand, highlighting the heroism shown by a few individuals amidst the disastrous fire. Through vivid storytelling and great detail, the book explores the emotional impact of the firestorm, shedding light on the unbelievable weather patterns and sheer power contained within a firestorm.
On a starred night Prince Lucifer uprose. Tired of his dark dominion, swung the fiend Above the rolling ball in cloud part screened, Where sinners hugged their spectre of repose. Poor prey to his hot ...'1421: The Year China Discovered America' by Gavin Menzies explores a new theory backed by compelling evidence that challenges current historical thinking. It delves into the voyages of Chinese explorers, the great tribute fleets of China, and the possible connections between Chinese and Western explorations. The writing style presents historical narratives and explanations, with detailed research and reasoning that captivates readers and provides a fresh perspective on world exploration.
The Gate of Heavenly Purity, the Forbidden City, Beijing, early 15th century. Werner Forman Archive; the Hall of Harvest Prayer, the Temple of Heaven, early 15th century. Getty Images/Image Bank; the ...'Fly Girls: How Five Daring Women Defied All Odds and Made Aviation History' by Keith O'Brien is a nonfiction account that focuses on the lives of female aviators in the 1920s and 30s. The book delves into the struggles and triumphs of women such as Florence Klingensmith, Ruth Elder, Ruth Nichols, and Louise Thaden, alongside the more well-known figure of Amelia Earhart. It highlights the camaraderie, sportsmanship, and friendships that developed among these pioneering women as they fought against prejudice and discrimination in the male-dominated world of aviation. The narrative captures the bravery, perseverance, and determination of these aviators as they challenged societal norms and pushed the boundaries of what women were deemed capable of achieving.
THE COAL PEDDLERS west of town, on the banks of the Arkansas River, took note of the new saleswoman from the moment she appeared outside the plate-glass window. It was hard not to notice Louise McPhet...'The World That Made New Orleans: From Spanish Silver to Congo Square' by Ned Sublette is a well-researched and beautifully written account that delves into the unique history and culture of New Orleans. Sublette skillfully intertwines the influences of France, Cuba, Spain, and Haiti to explain why New Orleans has always been a city like no other. Readers are taken on a journey through the Creole population, the Mardi Gras Indians, and even the origins of street names, providing a comprehensive understanding of the city's rich tapestry. Despite some minor criticisms of the author's tangential discussions, the book is praised for its accessibility, entertainment value, and informative content.
When the United States took possession of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the city was an urban crossroads of languages, both spoken and musical, with a complex Afro-Louisianan culture already in exis...- #5
Save:'The First Family' by Mike Dash is a meticulously researched book that delves into the early days of the Mafia in the USA, focusing on the Morello Terranova family. The narrative takes the reader back to the 1890s, tracing the roots of this criminal organization from Sicily to New York. The author paints a vivid picture of the crime-infested streets of Manhattan, portraying the rise of the first Sicilian mafia led by Giuseppe Morello. From extortion to murder, the book explores the dark underbelly of the Mafia's operations, detailing their methods of intimidation and control in a new land with new opportunities.
The writing style of the book is praised for its attention to detail and historical accuracy. Dash skillfully weaves together a narrative that shifts seamlessly between Sicily, Louisiana, and New York, capturing the essence of early 20th-century America. The book not only provides a compelling account of the Mafia's origins but also sheds light on the law enforcement efforts to combat organized crime, showcasing the courage and dedication of individuals like Detective Flynn and NY Police Detective Petrosino in the face of a growing criminal menace.
Outside, on Prince Street in the heart of Little Italy, a fine drizzle slanted down to puddle amid the piles of rotting garbage strewn along the edges of the street, leaving the cobbles treacherous an... - #6
Save:'The Blue Nile' by Alan Moorehead is a historical account of the Western exploration of Northeast Africa and Egypt. It narrates the efforts of three colonial powers - the French invading Egypt, the Ottoman Turks in Sudan, and a British expedition in Ethiopia. also explores the exploration of the Blue Nile, focusing on European expeditions from James Bruce to Kitchener at Khartoum. Moorehead's writing style is described as well-written, entertaining, informative, and very readable.
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Save:"Code Girls: The Untold Story of the American Women Code Breakers of World War II" by Liza Mundy delves into the hidden history of the women code breakers during WWII. It explores the recruitment, training, and secret work these women undertook to aid in the war effort. The narrative style of the book combines personal anecdotes, historical context, and technical details of the code breaking process, shedding light on the significant but often overlooked role women played in cryptography during the war.
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Save:"The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson delves into two parallel stories set during the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. One storyline follows the ambitious architect Daniel Burnham as he strives to create the greatest World's Fair ever seen, while the other narrative focuses on Dr. H.H. Holmes, who becomes the first mass murderer in U.S. history. intricately weaves together the challenges of organizing the fair with the chilling crimes committed by Holmes, creating a captivating blend of history and true crime. Readers are taken on a journey through the bustling city of Chicago, where the grandeur of the fair contrasts with the darkness of Holmes' actions, all presented in a narrative that reads like a suspense novel.
THE DATE WAS APRIL 14, 1912, a sinister day in maritime history, but of course the man in suite 63–65, shelter deck C, did not yet know it. What he did know was that his foot hurt badly, more than he ... 'Wounded: The Long Journey Home From the Great War' by Emily Mayhew provides a detailed account of the experiences of various individuals directly involved in the recovery, initial care, transportation, and formal medical treatment of soldiers during World War I. The narrative unfolds through a series of vignettes, offering a poignant look at the unprecedented and gruesome injuries sustained during the war. is structured topically, with chapters dedicated to different roles within the WWI medical system, shedding light on the bravery and hard work of stretcher bearers and other medical personnel.
The author, Emily Mayhew, skillfully weaves together war diaries, correspondence, and first-person accounts to create a compelling narrative that transports readers to the chaotic and challenging environments of field hospitals and battlefields. Through the stories of surgeons, nurses, chaplains, and orderlies, 'Wounded' delves into the resilience and fortitude displayed by those who worked tirelessly to save and rebuild lives amidst the horrors of war.
I’m not one of those adventurous sportsmen who are always up for this kind of thing but I am convinced that it is the plain duty of every man who can, to go out if one is called upon … I am sure it wo...Men to Match My Mountains by Irving Stone is a comprehensive and engaging account of the opening of the Far West from 1840 to 1900. The book delves into the captivating history of the American West, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of settlers, explorers, and pioneers. Through a wide range of characters and locations, Stone weaves a colorful narrative that immerses readers in the economic, political, and societal landscapes of the time. The book captures the essence of the westward movement, showcasing the determination and resilience of individuals who shaped the region's history.
