Books matching: late 20th century setting
33 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
Witty, moving, and packed with insight, 'Born a Crime' is much more than a celebrity memoir - it's a heartfelt story of survival, identity, and the power of an unbreakable mother-son bond. Highly recommended for memoir fans, comedy lovers, and anyone curious about life on the other side of the world.
Trevor Noah's memoir, "Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood," offers a unique perspective on growing up during and after apartheid in South Africa. Through a series of vignettes, Noah intertwines seemingly unrelated stories to illuminate the forces that shaped his childhood. The book delves into the complexities of race and culture in South Africa, providing insights into the author's upbringing, his family dynamics, and the societal norms that influenced his life.
Sometimes in big Hollywood movies they’ll have these crazy chase scenes where somebody jumps or gets thrown from a moving car. The person hits the ground and rolls for a bit. Then they come to a stop...November 2016•310 pages- #2
Save:A thoughtful and accessible final collection from one of science’s great communicators - still relevant, deeply human, and worth it for both Sagan newcomers and longtime fans, though not his most groundbreaking work.
Billions & Billions: Thoughts on Life and Death at the Brink of the Millennium by Carl Sagan is a collection of essays that covers a wide range of topics, from science and environmental crises to ethics, nuclear war, and personal reflections. Sagan's writing style is described as accessible, informative, and thought-provoking, with a focus on making complex scientific concepts understandable to a general audience. The book includes a mix of personal anecdotes, philosophical reflections, and scientific insights that aim to inspire curiosity and interest in topics like astronomy, physics, and the importance of science in our lives.
Three hundred million years ago the Earth was covered by vast swamps. When the ferns, horsetails, and club mosses died, they were buried in muck. Ages passed; the remains were carried down underground...1997•296 pages - #3
Save:A moving, beautifully written romance that doesn’t shy away from tough history - heartfelt and highly recommended if you want real stakes with your swooning.
'Let It Shine' by Alyssa Cole is a historical romance novella set during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. The story follows Sofie and Ivan, childhood friends who reunite and become involved in nonviolent protests for civil rights. As they navigate their feelings for each other amidst societal expectations and challenges, the book explores themes of love, activism, racial injustice, and personal growth. The writing style is described as emotionally impactful, with a strong focus on character development and historical accuracy, immersing readers in the turbulent era of the civil rights struggle.
Sofie usually felt at peace after church—there was comfort in the rote liturgical acts, and in the familiarity of her fellow parishioners. She sorely needed that familiarity after almost two semesters...March 2016•134 pages - #4
Save:A classic angsty romance brimming with emotional turmoil - it's a beloved comfort read for some, but its flawed characters and slow pacing aren't for everyone.
'Separate Beds' by LaVyrle Spencer is a romance novel that follows the story of Catherine, a girl from a troubled background, and Clay, a wealthy young man. The two meet on a blind date and sparks fly, leading to a one-night stand that results in Catherine getting pregnant. The plot unfolds with family pressures, emotional baggage, and conflicts between the characters as they navigate the consequences of their actions. The writing style mixes descriptions of family dynamics, emotional turmoil, and societal expectations, creating a story that keeps readers engaged with its twists and turns.
Circumstances being what they were, it was ironic that Catherine Anderson knew little more of Clay Forrester than his name. He must be rich, she thought, scanning the foyer, which revealed quite clear...1984•434 pages - #5
Save:A solid, suspenseful thriller that showcases King's early strengths - great characters, parental bonds, and moral questions - though not his scariest or most groundbreaking work. Recommended for fans looking for a blend of psychic powers and conspiracy, but maybe not the best place to start for absolute King newbies.
Firestarter is a thrilling tale of a father, Andy McGee, and his young daughter, Charlie, who are on the run from a secret government agency called The Shop. Both Andy and Charlie possess supernatural abilities - Andy has mental domination powers, while Charlie has the ability to start fires with her mind. As they try to lead a normal life, The Shop relentlessly hunts them down, leading to a high-stakes and intense showdown. The book delves deep into the characters' emotions and struggles, creating a gripping narrative that keeps readers hooked till the end.
The plot of Firestarter unfolds with a fast-paced writing style that never feels bogged down or boring, even at 564 pages. King expertly weaves together a story of government experiments, supernatural powers, and the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters. The book explores themes of family, survival, and government conspiracy, making it a captivating read that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
While Cap discussed her future with Al Steinowitz in Longmont, Charlie McGee was sitting on the edge of the motel bed in Unit Sixteen of the Slumberland, yawning and stretching. Bright morning sunligh...January 1980•471 pages - #6
Save:A beautifully written, deeply thoughtful novel that's immersive if you enjoy literary fiction with a strong art and philosophy angle - but it’s not for those who want a breezy or conventional read.
'What I Loved' by Siri Hustvedt is a compelling novel set in the New York artistic academic scene, spanning the 1980s and 90s. The book delves into questions of identity, love, loss, and psychological health through the intimate portrayal of characters who navigate complex relationships and personal struggles. The plot unfolds as a blend of friendship, art, literature, and psychological thriller elements, keeping readers engaged as unexpected events shape the lives of the characters. The writing style is described as lyrical, engaging, and emotionally resonant, offering a multi-layered narrative that explores themes of family dynamics, artistic expression, and the intricacies of human connection.
YESTERDAY, I FOUND VIOLET’S LETTERS TO BILL. THEY WERE HIDDEN between the pages of one of his books and came tumbling out and fell to the floor. I had known about the letters for years, but neither Bi...2002•384 pages - #7
Save:'The Do-Right' by Lisa Sandlin is a mystery novel set in Beaumont, Texas in the 1970s, where Delpha Wade, a young woman just out of prison, teams up with Tom Phelan, a neophyte PI, to solve cases. The book explores Delpha's journey of redemption after a long prison stay and her partnership with Tom, as they delve into interconnected events leading to a thrilling conclusion. Sandlin's attention to detail in capturing the Texas coastal atmosphere of 40 years ago and the development of characters through specific nuances in language make this book a captivating read for fans of noir detective stories.
The novel is praised for its engaging characters, particularly Delpha, and the well-plotted storyline that keeps readers hooked till the end. Sandlin's writing style is described as beautiful, with vivid descriptions of the setting and compelling dialogue that enhances the overall reading experience. Readers are drawn in by the atmospheric storytelling and the slow burn pace of the narrative, making 'The Do-Right' a standout crime novel with a strong female lead and intricate plot twists.
The middle-aged cabinetmaker in the sawdusty apron who’d wiped off his hands to shake hers, who’d said, “I’m sorry, Miss,” while making eye contact—he was all right, he was more than tolerable. Truth...October 2015•300 pages - #8
Save:A quick, comforting read perfect for fans of low-stakes, historical romance - just don't expect lots of drama or character depth.
'Tommy Cabot Was Here' in the series 'The Cabots' by author Cat Sebastian is a short and sweet second chance romance set in the 1950s. The story follows Tommy, Peter, and Daniel, three main characters who present interesting and unexpected narratives that depart from traditional expectations. The book explores themes of secret love, painful yearning, and the complexities of rekindling a relationship after years apart. Despite its short length, the writing style is described as simple yet engaging, with a focus on historical accuracy and heartwarming character interactions.
Surely by now, after a full month at Greenfield, Everett ought to have gotten over the dizzying sense of unreality he experienced whenever he remembered that he wasn’t one of the uniform-clad students...April 2021•108 pages "The Good Spy: The Life and Death of Robert Ames" by Kai Bird is a biography that delves into the life of CIA officer Robert Ames, focusing on his expertise in the Middle East and his relationships in the region. The narrative portrays Ames as a complex figure who navigated the volatile political landscape of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, showcasing his dedication to understanding the cultural nuances and historical background of the area. Bird's writing style captures the intricacies of espionage, diplomacy, and personal relationships, offering a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and moral dilemmas faced by operatives like Ames.
Ames's story unfolds against the backdrop of key historical events in the Middle East, including the Embassy bombing in Beirut and the rise of fundamentalism in the region. Bird skillfully weaves together the personal and professional aspects of Ames's life, painting a vivid portrait of a man who strived to forge common ground amidst political tensions. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book sheds light on the complexities of Middle Eastern politics and the blurred lines between good and evil in the world of espionage.
Robert Clayton Ames was a very good spy. Everyone at the Central Intelligence Agency who knew him thought he was good at his work precisely because he was so very disarming and innocent. He was a clas...May 2014•496 pages- #10
Save:A lush, music-fueled love story for fans of nostalgic, romantic rock fiction - best enjoyed as a breezy, beachy escape rather than a gritty deep-dive into rock history.
'Songs in Ursa Major' by Emma Brodie follows the journey of Jane Quinn and Jesse Reid, a rock star couple struggling to make their relationship work amidst the challenges of the male-dominated music industry. Set in the backdrop of the 1960s music scene, the novel beautifully portrays how heartbreak transforms into music, creating Jane's own album 'Songs In Ursa Major.' With themes of love, music, and the harsh realities of the industry, the book offers a nostalgic glimpse into the rock 'n roll historical fiction world.
Brodie's writing style is described as lyrical and magical, with a compelling storytelling that immerses readers into the lives of the characters. The book delves into the complexities of relationships, music creation, and the struggles faced by artists in a time of changing musical trends, all while capturing the essence of the era and the challenges that come with fame and success.
As a stagehand cleared the dismantled pieces of Flower Moon’s drum set, the last shred of daylight formed a golden curve around the cymbal. It winked at the crowd; then the red sun slipped into the se...June 2021•336 pages
