Books matching: narrative non fiction
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'Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World's Most Dangerous Weapon' by Steve Sheinkin is a historical non-fiction account that delves into the suspenseful and terrifying race to build the atomic bomb during World War II. Sheinkin narrates the development of the bomb, intertwined with espionage, moral dilemmas, and the impact on the world. The book captures the dangerous and secretive nature of the Manhattan Project, shedding light on the key figures involved and the espionage that shaped the outcome of the war.
The writing style of 'Bomb' is described as a mix of a spy novel and a thrilling action story, incorporating real-life events and interviews seamlessly. Sheinkin's storytelling is engaging, with short and informative chapters that end in cliffhangers, keeping readers hooked on the narrative. The book is praised for its educational value, presenting historical events in a narrative style that brings the history of the atomic bomb to life, making it an exciting and thought-provoking read.
HARRY GOLD WAS RIGHT: This is a big story. It’s the story of the creation—and theft—of the deadliest weapon ever invented. The scenes speed around the world, from secret labs to commando raids to stre...- #2
'When Hitler Took Cocaine and Lenin Lost His Brain: History's Unknown Chapters' by Giles Milton is a compilation of 50 short true stories covering a wide range of topics from forced cannibalism to bizarre murder trials, notorious jailbreaks, and the richest men in the world. The stories are full of wonder, murder, intrigue, and mayhem, making it an easy read that keeps the reader's interest. The writing style is described as lively, with the true stories reading like a gripping novel, making it a light reading option from history's forgotten chapters.
Unity Mitford was a plain-looking woman with bad teeth and a plump belly. But she had never been troubled by her strange looks and knew that she was more likely to catch the man of her dreams by speak... 'Ghettoside: A True Story of Murder in America' by Jill Leovy is a compelling non-fiction work that delves into the epidemic of murder in South Los Angeles, focusing on the killings of young black men in gang-related crimes. Through detailed storytelling and extensive research, the author sheds light on the challenges faced by law enforcement in solving these cases and the social underpinnings that contribute to the high crime rates in the area. Leovy weaves together narratives of detectives, families, and witnesses, providing a striking mix of facts, social commentary, and emotional truths of living in a war zone.
The box contained a pair of high-top sneakers that once belonged to a black teenage boy named Dovon Harris. Dovon, fifteen, had been murdered the previous June, and the shoes had been sitting in an ev...'Isaac's Storm: A Man, a Time, and the Deadliest Hurricane in History' by Erik Larson tells the story of the devastating Galveston hurricane of 1900. The narrative revolves around Isaac Cline, the chief meteorologist for Galveston, who failed to predict the severity of the hurricane, leading to a catastrophic loss of life. Larson skillfully weaves together the personal stories of individuals affected by the storm, the background of the weather service, and the city of Galveston itself, providing a detailed account of the events leading up to and following the disaster. Through meticulous research and vivid descriptions, the author brings to life the ignorance, arrogance, and tragic consequences of the deadliest hurricane in US history.
The writing style of the book combines historical facts with personal narratives, creating a compelling and informative read. Larson delves into the history of weather forecasting at the turn of the century, the political dynamics within the Weather Bureau, and the human aspects of the individuals involved in the events surrounding the Galveston hurricane. offers a gripping portrayal of the power and unpredictability of nature, highlighting the devastating impact of the storm on the city and its inhabitants.
Now chairman of the history department, Dodd had been a professor at the university since 1909, recognized nationally for his work on the American South and for a biography of Woodrow Wilson. He was s...- #5
A Night to Remember by Walter Lord is a non-fiction account of the sinking of the Titanic, providing a detailed and factual narrative of the events leading up to the tragedy. The book captures the perspectives of various individuals on board, from the richest to the poorest, portraying acts of heroism and cowardice amidst the chaos of the sinking ship. Walter Lord's writing style is described as concise, informative, and engaging, offering a minute-by-minute account of the final hours of the Titanic based on survivor testimonies.
HIGH IN THE CROW’S nest of the New White Star Liner Titanic, Lookout Frederick Fleet peered into a dazzling night. It was calm, clear and bitterly cold. There was no moon, but the cloudless sky blazed... - #6
'The Worst Hard Time: The Untold Story of Those Who Survived the Great American Dust Bowl' by author Timothy Egan is a gripping narrative that delves into the harrowing experiences of families and communities during the Dust Bowl era in America. Egan brilliantly captures the catastrophic events of blinding black dust blizzards, crop failures, and the struggles of individuals to survive through the darkest years of the Depression. Through vivid storytelling, the author sheds light on the resilience and hardships faced by the stoic men and women who braved the relentless dust storms and economic turmoil, painting a poignant picture of a devastating environmental and human tragedy.
Egan's writing style in 'The Worst Hard Time' has been praised for its meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and the ability to humanize the characters who lived through the Dust Bowl. not only provides a historical account of the era but also offers insights into the political, environmental, and societal factors that contributed to the disaster. By focusing on personal narratives and intimate details, Egan brings to life the struggles, sacrifices, and courage of those who endured the unimaginable challenges of the Dust Bowl, making it a compelling and informative read for anyone interested in American history.
THEY HAD BEEN on the road for six days, a clan of five bouncing along in a tired wagon, when Bam White woke to some bad news. One of his horses was dead. It was the nineteenth-century equivalent of a ... - #7
"The Girls of Atomic City" by Denise Kiernan delves into the untold story of the women who played a crucial role in the Manhattan Project during World War II, specifically at the secret facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The narrative follows the lives of these young women who worked at Site X, unaware of the exact nature of their work on developing the Uranium for the atomic bombs. Despite the secrecy surrounding their tasks, the book sheds light on the personal experiences of these women, intertwining their stories with the historical events of the time. The writing style combines detailed accounts of the scientific aspects of the project with the individual narratives of the women, providing a comprehensive look at their contributions to the war effort.
Celia sat in her berth, the delicate folds of her brand-new dress draping over her knees as she gazed out the window of the train. Southbound. That much she knew, and that she had a sleeping berth bec... - #8
Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard is a gripping narrative that delves into the assassination of President James Garfield and the medical mishaps that ultimately led to his demise. Millard skillfully weaves together the stories of key historical figures like Alexander Graham Bell, Joseph Lister, and Charles Guiteau, providing a comprehensive look at the era and the events surrounding Garfield's presidency. Through detailed accounts of the medical practices of the time and the political climate of the late 19th century, the book offers a fascinating exploration of a lesser-known chapter in American history.
Even severed as it was from the rest of the body, the hand was majestic. Sixteen feet tall, with long, tapered fingers holding aloft a twenty-nine-foot torch, it sat on the banks of a small lake in Ph... - #9
'Astoria' by Peter Stark narrates the ambitious endeavor of John Jacob Astor to establish a fur empire in the Pacific Northwest, near the mouth of the Columbia River. The story follows the hardships faced by the expedition members, including treacherous journeys by sea and land, conflicts with nature and Native Americans, and the ultimate failure of Astor's grand vision. Through vivid details and captivating storytelling, Stark brings to life the characters, decisions, and mishaps that doomed this early attempt to claim the Northwest Pacific coast of America for the United States.
Stark's narrative weaves together a tale of exploration, hardship, heroism, and conflict, showcasing the raw hubris of Astor's vision and the personal courage and stubbornness of those involved in the venture. sheds light on a forgotten chapter in American history, where a group of diverse individuals embarked on a journey that would shape the course of American empire, paving the way for the Oregon Trail and opening up the Oregon country for white settlement.
AFTER AN EARLY DINNER, JOHN JACOB ASTOR LIKED TO play a game of solitaire in the outdoor portico—or in winter, in front of the fire in one of the sitting rooms—of his brick row house on New York City’... - #10
'Fall and Rise: The Story of 9/11' by Mitchell Zuckoff is a detailed and comprehensive account of the tragic events of September 11th, told through the stories of victims, witnesses, and heroes. The book covers the events leading up to, during, and after the attacks, offering a minute-by-minute history of that fateful day. Zuckoff's writing style is described as narrative nonfiction at its best, providing a personal perspective on the day's events and evoking a range of emotions from readers. The book delves into the human stories behind the tragedy, highlighting the impact on individuals and communities.
Fifty years old, six feet tall and country-boy handsome, John gazed at his wife and sixteen-year-old daughter. His smile etched deep crinkles in the ruddy skin around his blue eyes. Dinner hour was ne...