Books matching: historical practices
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An enjoyable, nostalgia-filled look at Victorian farming - perfect for fans of the show, history buffs, and curious homesteaders, although not a step-by-step DIY manual.
'Victorian Farm: Rediscovering Forgotten Skills' by Alex Langlands, Ruth Goodman, and Peter Ginn is a companion to the television series of the same name. It provides detailed information and insights into the Victorian era, focusing on farming, rural life, and forgotten skills. Readers praised the book for containing a lot of information that didn't make it into the show, including recipes, historical accounts, and practical knowledge about farming and homesteading in the 19th century. is described as a wonderful read that expands on the experiences showcased in the TV series, offering a glimpse into the challenges and joys of Victorian farm life.
October 2008•304 pagesA fascinating, well-researched dive into one of history's strangest criminal cults - perfect for armchair historians and true crime buffs, but maybe too detailed for those looking for a fast-paced narrative.
Thug: The True Story Of India's Murderous Cult by Mike Dash is a meticulously researched and compelling account of the Thugs, a murderous cult that existed in India up to the 1800s. Dash delves into the history of the Thugs, exploring their modus operandi, their religious trappings, and the British efforts to eradicate them. Through detailed storytelling, Dash paints a vivid picture of the cult's practices and the societal conditions that allowed them to thrive, providing a fascinating insight into one of the most murderous cults the world has ever seen.
Dash's writing style in 'Thug' is praised for its good flow and balanced research from various sources. He skillfully weaves together historical facts and narratives, presenting a nuanced account of the Thugs and their activities. The book is commended for providing a thorough and engaging exploration of a lesser-known aspect of Indian history, shedding light on the complexities of the Thugee system and the British intervention to suppress it.
This book tells the story of the Thugs of India, from the earliest days described in their own oral histories to the final months of the last surviving members of their gangs. It is based on three yea...April 2005•356 pages- #3
Save:Powerful, challenging, and still relevant, 'Woman Hating' is a bracing feminist classic best approached with an open mind and a readiness to think - and disagree. It's not an easy read, but it's guaranteed to get you talking.
"Woman Hating" by Andrea Dworkin explores the deep-seated issues of sexism and the roles of women and men in society. Dworkin uses a mix of humor and serious analysis to break down the patriarchal structures that oppress women. She discusses historical practices like Chinese foot binding and how these moments in history reflect male violence and control over women. The book is not just an academic exploration; it calls for political action and community restructuring to empower individuals, especially women, and grant them dignity and freedom.
Dworkin's writing style is direct and unapologetic, pushing readers to confront uncomfortable truths. She articulates the pain and struggles women face through sharp observations, from fairy tales to societal expectations. Her forceful rhetoric compels readers to think critically about their own experiences and the narratives surrounding gender. Despite its controversial nature, the book is a profound call to challenge the status quo and advocate for change in the way society views women.
Death is our only remedy. We imagine heaven. There is no suffering there, we say. There is no sex there, we say. We mean, there is no culture there. We mean, there is no gender there. We dream that de...1974•224 pages - #4
Save:A lively, insightful intro to what truly matters in modern baseball stats - great for fans ready to understand the game beyond the box score, but less essential for stat pros or traditionalists unwilling to budge.
Smart Baseball by Keith Law is a comprehensive analysis of the shift in baseball analytics from traditional stats to more modern concepts. Law challenges old school baseball statistics like batting average, pitcher's wins, runs batted in, and saves, arguing that they are based more on luck than talent. He introduces readers to more relevant measurements of player ability such as on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and WAR, providing insights into the new world of baseball data analysis. The book delves into the practical operation of baseball, highlighting the flaws in outdated stats and the superior statistics that are replacing them.
The language of baseball is built around some of its most basic statistics. Batting average, the simple division of a hitter’s hits recorded by the number of at bats he had, is the foundation of baseb...April 2017•310 pages A thought-provoking, challenging re-examination of how we label and treat psychosis - perfect for readers who relish big questions and don’t mind a dense, critical style. Not for those seeking clear answers or a quick read, but rewarding for anyone fascinated by the complexities of the human mind.
'Madness Explained: Psychosis and Human Nature' by Aaron T. Beck and Richard P. Bentall delves into the exploration of mental illness, particularly psychosis, challenging conventional ideas and classifications in psychiatry. Bentall proposes individualistic treatment specific to the distressing symptoms of patients, advocating for a more nuanced approach that focuses on understanding and explaining mental symptoms rather than relying on rigid diagnostic frameworks. presents a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms of mental illness, debunking traditional labels and emphasizing the continuum of human psychology from normal to abnormal functioning.
June 2003•658 pages- #6
Save:In the late 1880s in a small mining community in Colorado, Gracy Brookens, the only midwife for miles around, is accused of murdering a newborn. The town becomes divided on her guilt or innocence, with whispers following her everywhere she goes. Gracy, with her husband Daniel and son Jeff, must navigate the secrets surrounding them to prove her innocence. Sandra Dallas expertly weaves a tale of mystery and intrigue, set against the backdrop of a hardscrabble life in the mountains, with vivid descriptions of the era's beauty, colors, and hardships.
September 2015•373 pages - #7
Save:Richly researched and deeply moving, Lady Tan’s Circle of Women offers an unforgettable glimpse into the lives and bonds of women in Ming dynasty China. It’s perfect for readers who crave strong heroines and atmospheric period pieces.
In "Lady Tan's Circle of Women" by Lisa See, readers are transported to the Ming dynasty in China, following the remarkable story of Tan Yunxian, one of China's first recorded female doctors. The novel beautifully portrays Yunxian's journey from a young, obedient wife to a powerful healer who defied societal norms to pursue her passion for medicine. Through intricate detailing of characters and emotions, the book offers a captivating glimpse into ancient Chinese medicine and customs, highlighting the resilience of women throughout history. Lisa See skillfully weaves history and fiction to provide readers with a vivid understanding of the challenges and triumphs of women in a patriarchal society, emphasizing the importance of female solidarity.
The plot unfolds around Lady Tan and her circle of friends, concubines, servants, and nobility, showcasing the complexities of their lives in a circumscribed society. As the story progresses, China's culture and history are intricately intertwined with Tan's life milestones, offering a well-researched and engaging narrative that leaves readers with a deeper appreciation for the strength and bonds among women during that time period.
June 2023•398 pages A refreshing, thought-provoking read that reassures parents there’s more than one way to raise a happy, healthy baby - and that it’s okay to trust your gut.
'Our Babies, Ourselves: How Biology and Culture Shape the Way We Parent' by Meredith Small delves into the intersection of biology and culture in shaping parenting practices around the world. Readers found the book to be an interesting exploration of different parenting styles, supported by scientific research and anthropological studies. The author discusses various aspects of baby care such as crying, sleeping, and eating, providing insights into different cultural approaches and challenging Western parenting norms.
1998•320 pages- #9
Save:A fascinating mix of history and magic, "Lammas Night" is a must-read for fans of occult thrillers and alternate histories - just be prepared for a dash of melodrama on your mystical journey.
"Lammas Night" by Katherine Kurtz is a historical novel set during World War II, where British occultists come together to defend Britain against Hitler's planned invasion using magical means. The plot unfolds with a mix of historical events and fictional characters, intertwined with elements of the Old Religion of the British Isles. The writing style is praised for its detailed descriptions of psychic workings, character development, and the respectful portrayal of various faiths represented in the story.
November 1983•459 pages - #10
Save:An entertaining, immersive guide to Victorian life that’s packed with hands-on insights and historical tidbits - ideal for the insatiably curious, history buffs, and writers, but maybe too detailed or broad for those craving focused academic analysis or coverage of every social angle.
'How to Be a Victorian' by Ruth Goodman is a comprehensive exploration of daily life during the Victorian era in England. The author, known for her hands-on approach, delves into various aspects of Victorian society, including work, leisure, hygiene, clothing, and even intimate details like sex and marriage. By immersing herself in the world of the Victorians, Goodman provides readers with a vivid and detailed account of what it was like to live during this period, offering a unique perspective that blends historical research with personal experience.
Once you were up, to add warmth and comfort to an otherwise chilled start, at any hour, you would hope to step out on to a mat rather than the bare wooden floor. Aristocratic homes had handsome woven...2013•476 pages
