Books matching: historical nonfiction
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A masterfully told, unforgettable account of disaster and survival - read it if you want history that leaves you breathless.
'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...May 2006•302 pagesFascinating and provocative, but don’t take it as gospel - enjoy it for the questions it raises, not the answers it claims to provide.
'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.
2002•650 pagesCompelling and inspiring - Fly Girls brings overlooked aviation pioneers and their jaw-dropping feats back into the spotlight. Highly recommended for fans of untold histories and strong women defying the odds.
'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...August 2018•341 pages- #4
Save:A deeply researched, eye-opening look at the genesis of the Mafia in America - essential reading for crime buffs and history fans, but a dense, academic journey that’s less suited to those craving pulpy page-turners.
'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...July 2009•418 pages A fascinating, entertaining, and deeply researched journey into what makes New Orleans so unique - just make sure you get a decent edition! Highly recommended for anyone curious about the city’s multicultural history and lasting magic.
'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...January 2008•368 pages- #6
Save:A classic, entertaining deep-dive into the Nile's history and the wild tales of those who mapped and fought over it. An engaging read, especially if you like your history with a sense of adventure.
'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.
THE BLUE NILE pours very quietly and uneventfully out of Lake Tana in the northern highlands of Ethiopia. There is no waterfall or cataract, no definite current, nothing in fact to indicate that a par...January 1962•368 pages - #7
Save:A classic, engaging history of the Civil War’s pivotal years - thoughtful, readable, and still essential for anyone wanting to understand America’s greatest conflict.
'Terrible Swift Sword: The Centennial History of the Civil War Series, Volume 2' by Bruce Catton is a detailed account of the American Civil War, focusing on the political landscape, military strategies, and key figures of the era. The book covers significant events from the First Battle of Bull Run to the aftermath of the Battle of Antietam, highlighting the transformation of Union and Confederate forces and the societal changes brought about by the war. Catton's writing style is described as rich, detailed, and informative, offering a comprehensive view of the war that includes battles, politics, and social developments.
On the Monday after the Battle of Bull Run the Congress of the United States went about its duties in a dignified and abstracted calm. Human fragments of the routed army drifted up and down the street...1956•594 pages - #8
Save:A fascinating and overdue tribute to America’s WWII code breakers - especially for fans of hidden history and powerful women, though the detail-heavy writing may feel dense for some.
"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.
The United States began beefing up its code-breaking operations months before the attack on Pearl Harbor. By September 1940, Germany had defeated Poland and Czechoslovakia. The Nazi war machine had ov...October 2017•464 pages - #9
Save:Unflinching and moving - this is a classic memoir of survival and humanity in the darkest times. Highly recommended for readers who want to understand the Gulag experience through a brilliantly written personal lens.
Journey into the Whirlwind by Evgenia Ginzburg is a poignant memoir detailing her arrest and years spent in the Soviet Gulag during Stalin's reign of terror. The narrative chronicles her experiences as a loyal communist turned prisoner, her time in various prisons, and her eventual transfer to a Siberian labor camp. Ginzburg captures the overwhelming sadness and horror of the purges while also emphasizing moments of human grace and resilience. Her vivid storytelling reveals the similar trials faced by countless others and shows her will to survive despite the brutal circumstances.
Ginzburg's writing style is clear and insightful, allowing readers to connect with her personal journey and the lives of her fellow prisoners. She describes the importance of literature and culture as a source of hope and comfort in the bleakest conditions. Her reflections are marked by a lack of bitterness, highlighting her inner strength and the profound wisdom gained through suffering. This memoir not only educates readers about the historical context of the Stalinist regime but also showcases the indomitable human spirit.
1967•432 pages A harrowing, deeply detailed, and definitive account of one of the darkest chapters in American pioneer history. It's not light reading, but it's a must for anyone fascinated by survival, the American West, or true stories that test the limits of human endurance.
'Ordeal by Hunger: The Story of the Donner Party' by George R. Stewart is a comprehensive and detailed account of the harrowing journey undertaken by the Donner Party in 1846. The book vividly portrays the struggles, privations, and hardships faced by the emigrants as they attempted to travel to California, including incidents of selfishness, heroism, and unimaginable acts of survival such as resorting to cannibalism. Stewart's writing style, although from a different era, effectively brings to life the personalities and character traits of the individuals involved, making the reader feel deeply immersed in the tragic story of the Donner Party.
TAMSEN DONNER was gloomy and dispirited as the wagons pulled aside; Mr. Thornton noted it in his diary. The others were in high spirits at the prospect of the new route ahead, but she felt they were r...1936•405 pages
