Books matching: pittsburgh setting
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- #1
Save:A witty, chaotic, and stylish portrait of creative and personal derailment - delightful if you love messy lives, clever prose, and a little literary mayhem.
Michael Chabon's 'Wonder Boys' follows the chaotic life of Grady Tripp, an aging writer and professor who is struggling with his own imperfections and failures. The story delves into Grady's relationships with his troubled student, James Leer, and his editor, Terry Crabtree, as they embark on a wild adventure over a weekend. The narrative is filled with humor, wit, and melancholy, depicting the complexities of male friendships, writer's block, and personal struggles, all while showcasing Chabon's eloquent writing style and ability to blend humor with poignant moments.
THE FIRST REAL WRITER I ever knew was a man who did all of his work under the name of August Van Zorn. He lived at the McClelland Hotel, which my grandmother owned, in the uppermost room of its turret...December 1995•395 pages - #2
Save:A bittersweet, deeply felt coming-of-age novel that’s a cult favorite for a reason - tender, raw, and relatable for anyone who’s ever felt a little different. Best for mature teens and the young at heart.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a coming-of-age novel that follows the life of Charlie, a high school freshman who navigates through the complexities of teenage life. The story is uniquely told through letters written by Charlie, allowing readers to delve into his inner thoughts and emotions as he grapples with issues such as friendship, love, loss, and self-discovery. The narrative captures the essence of being a teenager in the early 1990s, touching on themes of loneliness, mental health, and the challenges of growing up.
The book portrays Charlie's journey as he forms relationships with his peers, including the charismatic Patrick and enigmatic Sam, who help him navigate the ups and downs of adolescence. Through Charlie's introspective observations and poignant reflections, readers are drawn into a world of teenage struggles and triumphs, ultimately leading to a powerful and emotional exploration of identity, acceptance, and the complexities of youth.
I am writing to you because she said you listen and understand and didn’t try to sleep with that person at that party even though you could have. Please don’t try to figure out who she is because then...1999•229 pages - #3
Save:A fun, empowering urban fantasy packed with smart humor, genuine relationships, and an imaginative supernatural cast. Well worth picking up if you’re craving something a little different and a lot magical!
'If Wishes Were Curses' in the 'The Steel City Genie' series by Janeen Ippolito is an urban fantasy novel that follows the protagonist, Allis Evanenko, who is half human and half genie. Allis embarks on a journey filled with snark, magic, and otter shifters as she navigates a world where human and Fae relationships are complicated. The story revolves around Allis' struggles and growth, her unique abilities, and the challenges she faces, including a mysterious curse and a forbidden romance with Cendric Antalek, a vampire with a refreshing personality. The book is praised for its engaging writing style, vibrant characters, immersive worldbuilding, and a plot filled with twists and turns that keep the reader hooked until the satisfying ending.
February 2019•261 pages - #4
Save:In "Baden," the first book in the 'Pittsburgh Titans' series by author Sawyer Bennett, readers are introduced to Baden Oulett, a former Arizona Vengeance player who is rebuilding his life after a violent attack leaves him paralyzed. The story follows Baden's journey of healing and reconnecting with Sophie Winters, a woman he rescued during the attack, as they navigate their personal traumas and eventually fall in love. The book delves into themes of trauma, survival, and mutual healing, portraying the emotional and physical challenges faced by the characters with a touch of realism and depth. Despite some initial challenges in pacing and character development, the author's writing style shines through in capturing the emotional depth of the protagonists' journey towards recovery and love.
December 2021•363 pages A warm, heartfelt biography ideal for Mister Rogers fans and anyone seeking inspiration; just be ready for a gentle, in-depth, sometimes repetitive journey - nearly as soothing as Fred himself.
'The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers' by Maxwell King is a detailed biography that delves into the life of Fred Rogers, the beloved children's television host. The book explores Rogers' upbringing, his journey into television, and his dedication to creating quality programming for children. Through personal interviews and meticulous research, the author paints a picture of Rogers as a kind, humble, and dedicated individual who left a lasting impact on generations of viewers through his show, 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood'.
Nancy McFeely Rogers had come back to her parents’ house in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, forty miles southeast of Pittsburgh, just before Fred Rogers was born. She wanted to be sure that she would have as m...September 2018•519 pages- #6
Save:A quietly beautiful, deeply empathetic novel best suited for lovers of character studies and anyone wanting a touching, realistic look at the later chapters of life.
Emily Maxwell, an octogenarian living in Pittsburgh, navigates the challenges of aging, independence, and relationships. Following an incident with her best friend Arlene, Emily takes control of her life, buying a new car and planning her daily routines. The book delves into the intimate details of Emily's life, reflecting on her past, her flaws, her triumphs, and her preparations for the future, capturing the steady rhythms and everyday dialogues of people in their twilight years.
Emily, Alone is a quiet and honest portrayal of an elderly woman's life, focusing on the mundane aspects and the ordinary details that fill her days. The book offers a lovely meditation on aging, life, and the poignant moments that come with growing older, without the need for complex storylines or major plot twists. Stewart O'Nan's skill lies in infusing heart and soul into his characters, creating a simple yet impactful narrative of an elderly widow's daily life.
Tuesdays, Emily Maxwell put what precious little remained of her life in God’s and her sister-in-law Arlene’s shaky hands and they drove together to Edgewood for Eat ’n Park’s two-for-one breakfast bu...March 2011•296 pages - #7
Save:Steamy, angsty, and packed with drama, this is a solid pick for fans of passionate, high-heat romance - just be prepared for a hero who can be a little too ruthless and a plot that’s wild at times.
'Her Ruthless Tycoon: 50 Loving States, Pennsylvania' by Theodora Taylor follows the story of Layla, who returns to Pittsburgh after the death of her father to uncover the mystery of a missing year in her life. Encountering Nathan Sinclair, a CEO with a hardened heart towards her, sparks a passionate love affair despite their rocky past. The plot is filled with twists involving death threats, debts, family rivalry, and a deep-seated animosity between the main characters, creating an intriguing dynamic that keeps readers engaged. The writing style captures the intense chemistry between Layla and Nathan, blending elements of mystery, romance, and drama to create a captivating narrative that delves into themes of love, memory loss, and redemption.
2011•203 pages - #8Pride and Prejudice and PittsburghBook 1 in the series:Pride and Prejudice and Pittsburgh
Save:This is a fast, fun, and fiercely cute sapphic time-travel rom-com - perfect for fans of lighthearted YA romances and regency mashups. Not a strict Austen retelling, but still utterly charming!
Pride and Prejudice and Pittsburgh by Rachael Lippincott is a charming YA sapphic romance that combines time travel with historical intrigue. The story follows Audrey, a high school senior in 2023, who, after experiencing a bad breakup and facing rejection from her dream school, finds herself unexpectedly transported back to 1812 England. There, she meets Lucy, a young woman caught in a dire situation with an unwanted suitor. The two girls forge a friendship that blossoms into romance as they navigate societal constraints and their own feelings.
Lippincott's writing style is engaging and light-hearted, making it an easy read with snappy dialogue and relatable characters. The dual perspectives of Audrey and Lucy allow readers to connect with both their modern and historical experiences. While the plot embraces some romantic clichés, it also offers emotional depth, touching on self-discovery and queer love. Overall, this book captures the whimsy of time travel while delivering a heartfelt story about finding love against the odds.
August 2023•333 pages - #9
Save:An unforgettable, unflinching look at three generations of Slovak immigrants, Out of This Furnace is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, labor struggles, or the stories that shaped a nation.
"Out of This Furnace" by Thomas Bell spans from the late 19th century through the depression era and is set in the Pittsburgh area, focusing on multiple generations dealing closely with immigration and labor organizing. The story humanizes the men and women who lived between difficult choices, highlighting the struggles and experiences of a Slovak family who immigrated to America for a better life. The plot follows characters like George Kracha, Mike Dobrejcak, Mary Dobrejcak, and Johnny Dobie Dobrejcak, illustrating their journey from hope to disillusionment as they face harsh work conditions and mistreatment in the steel industry.
EORGE KRACHA came to America in the fall of 1881, by way of Budapest and Bremen. He left behind him in a Hungarian village a young wife, a sister and a widowed mother; it may be that he hoped he was H...March 1941•428 pages - #10
Save:A compelling, easy-to-read historical novel with a strong (if not always believable) heroine, exploring how one woman might have inspired one of America’s greatest philanthropists. Best for historical fiction fans who like what-if stories, strong women, and a little romance.
Carnegie's Maid by Marie Benedict is a historical fiction novel set in the late 19th century, focusing on Clara Kelley, an Irish immigrant who assumes the role of a lady's maid to the mother of Andrew Carnegie due to a case of mistaken identity. The story delves into the challenges faced by immigrants, the disparities between the rich and the poor, and the relationships between servants and their employers. Through Clara's journey, the book explores the life of Andrew Carnegie and speculates on what may have influenced him to become one of the greatest philanthropists in history.
The narrative is told in diary format, following Clara's experiences as she navigates her new role, develops relationships with the Carnegie family, and ultimately influences Andrew Carnegie's philanthropic endeavors. The book blends historical facts with fiction to provide insights into the social classes, immigrant experiences, and the dynamics of power and wealth during the industrial age, offering a unique perspective on a renowned historical figure.
I shouldn’t be here. Cecelia or Eliza could have been swaying on this stinking vessel instead of me. It was their right—Eliza’s duty anyway, as the eldest daughter—to make the voyage and take the chan...January 2018•369 pages
