Books matching: personal tragedy
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:Ball Lightning by Liu Cixin revolves around the study of the mysterious phenomenon of ball lightning, impacting the life of the protagonist from an early age. The story delves into the protagonist's lifelong dedication to understanding ball lightning, leading him into military applications of his scientific research and raising questions about the moral responsibility of scientists. The narrative explores themes of science, morality, and the consequences of scientific discoveries when used for destructive purposes. The book combines elements of renegade scientists, quantum physics, and military intrigue, with a touch of speculative fiction involving aliens watching from afar.
The plot unfolds through the lens of atmospheric scientists, military personnel, and researchers entwined in the quest to harness ball lightning's power for warfare. Characters with personal connections to tragedies involving advanced weaponry and the protagonist's journey to unravel the mysteries of ball lightning drive the narrative forward. The book explores complex questions about the ethical dilemmas faced by scientists, the blurred lines between knowledge and its applications, and the unforeseen consequences of scientific advancements when manipulated for destructive purposes.
Major courses: Higher Mathematics, Theoretical Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics, Principles and Applications of Computers, Languages and Programming, Dynamic Meteorology, Principles of Synoptic Meteorology,... - #2
Save:"My Dark Places" by James Ellroy is a memoir that delves into the author's own childhood, focusing on his mother's unsolved murder and his quest to find the true culprit many years later. Ellroy intricately weaves a narrative that reads like fiction, revealing haunting truths about his past in a brutally honest fashion. The book combines elements of a true crime investigation with a personal confession, offering insights into the dark and violent art that shapes Ellroy's literary obsessions.
He called the Temple City Sheriff’s Office and told the desk sergeant he’d discovered a body. It was right there on that road beside the playing field at Arroyo High School. The sergeant said stay the... - #3
Save:'Pieces of My Heart' by Robert J. Wagner is a memoir that delves into the personal life and career of the actor. The book recounts Wagner's relationships with Hollywood icons, his marriages, and the tragic death of his second wife, Natalie Wood. Through a mix of personal anecdotes and reflections, the author provides insights into his experiences in the entertainment industry and his enduring love for his family.
The narrative in 'Pieces of My Heart' is a blend of heartfelt recollections and candid storytelling, capturing Wagner's journey from a young actor to a seasoned Hollywood veteran. Readers are taken on a nostalgic trip through the golden era of cinema, filled with encounters with legendary stars and the highs and lows of Wagner's personal life. The writing style is engaging, offering a mix of emotional depth, humor, and wisdom that makes the memoir both entertaining and poignant.
I was twelve years old when my future passed in front of me. My father had moved our family from Michigan to California in 1937, when I was seven years old, and I began working at the Bel-Air Stables ... - #4
Save:Time and Time Again by Ben Elton is a time travel novel that follows the story of Hugh Stanton, a former soldier recruited to travel back in time to 1914 with the mission of preventing the assassination of Franz Ferdinand and averting the outbreak of World War I. The book explores the complexities of time travel, unintended consequences, and the ethical dilemmas of altering historical events. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, engaging the reader until the final page, and the writing style effectively combines historical research with a suspenseful narrative.
IN CONSTANTINOPLE, ON a bright, chill early morning in June 1914, Hugh Stanton, retired British army captain and professional adventurer, leant against the railings of the Galata Bridge and stared int... - #5
Save:In Memoir from Antproof Case by Mark Helprin, readers are taken on a journey through the life of an 80-year-old American man, sharing his unconventional and larger-than-life story. From being forced into adulthood early due to a tragic event related to his intense hatred of coffee to becoming an ace fighter pilot in WWII, the protagonist's adventures are filled with fantastical elements and emotional revelations. The writing style shifts between lyrical descriptions and absurd obsessions, creating a narrative that transports readers into a world of whimsy and reflection.
The book is a comprehensive satire and send-up of the American century, with the nameless narrator embodying bravado and hyperbole that characterize the country's recent history. Through non-chronological tall tales and moments of self-reflection, readers are invited to ponder the complexities of the protagonist's life and the overarching themes of duty, parental love, and the inevitability of change. Helprin's writing style astounds with its ability to seamlessly blend the absurd with the sublime, urging readers to contemplate the beauty of the world and the pursuit of self-betterment.
CALL ME OSCAR Progresso. Or, for that matter, call me anything you want, as Oscar Progresso is not my name. Nor are Baby Supine, Euclid Cherry, Franklyn Nuts, or any of the other aliases that, now and... - #6
Save:'Lindbergh' by A. Scott Berg delves into the life of Charles Lindbergh, exploring his achievements as an aviation pioneer, medical researcher, author, and humanitarian. The author provides a detailed account of Lindbergh's involvement in various fields such as space research, organ transplant development, and conservation work. Berg also sheds light on Lindbergh's controversial wartime views, his personal life, and his dynamic relationships, particularly with his wife Anne.
Through a balanced narrative, Berg portrays Lindbergh as a complex and multifaceted individual, showcasing his strengths, flaws, and the impact of external influences on his life choices. The biography captures Lindbergh's journey from a young pilot who made history with his solo transatlantic flight to a globally renowned figure whose legacy was shaped by his accomplishments, personal tragedies, and public controversies.
- #7
Save:"Light Years" by James Salter is a novel that delves into the intricacies of marriage and human relationships. The story revolves around Viri and Nedra, a couple living outside New York City with their two daughters. The narrative spans over decades, exploring the evolution of their marriage, including infidelity, divorce, and new relationships. Salter's writing style has been described as poetic, evocative, and deeply moving, capturing the complexities of love and loss with exquisite detail and profound insight.
WE DASH THE BLACK RIVER, ITS flats smooth as stone. Not a ship, not a dinghy, not one cry of white. The water lies broken, cracked from the wind. This great estuary is wide, endless. The river is brac... - #8
Save:Through a Glass Darkly by Karleen Koen is a historical fiction novel set during the early 18th century in England and France, following the lives of the Alderley family. The plot is filled with drama, love, betrayal, and political intrigue, as the characters navigate the complexities of their time. The writing style is described as rich and detailed, with a strong command of the English language that effectively conveys emotions and weaves a compelling story.
Two voices, raised in anger, carried through the half-opened window of the library. Recognizing them, Barbara stopped and looked for a place to hide, a place where she might listen but not be seen. Se... - #9
Save:'The House at Sunset' by Norah Lofts is the final book in a trilogy that spans centuries, focusing on the life and evolution of an old English home. The book delves into the stories of various inhabitants throughout different time periods, intertwining their lives with the history of the house itself. The narrative is rich in detail, depicting the house as a central character that witnesses the joys and sorrows of those who reside within its walls. The writing style immerses readers in the lives of the characters and the changing social landscape, creating a compelling and engaging read.
(Also, see 24 recommendations for the series House ) - #10
Save:"Into the Darkness" by Barbara Michaels tells the story of Meg Venturi, who unexpectedly inherits her grandfather's antique jewelry business upon his death. She must share ownership with a man named Riley, who is rumored to have a dark past and has been accused of murder. As Meg navigates the complexities of her newfound inheritance and relationships, she uncovers long-held secrets and mysteries that have haunted her family for years. The book is a blend of romance and mystery, with a focus on the history of jewelcrafting, and is set in a small town where rumors and suspicions run rampant.
