Books matching: political turmoil
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:"The Stationery Shop" by Marjan Kamali is a touching novel that spans over 60 years, capturing the essence of young love, heartbreak, and romance amidst the backdrop of political turmoil in Iran and the United States. The story revolves around Roya, a teenager in Tehran who falls in love with Bahman amidst the upheaval of the 1950s, only to be separated and reunited six decades later. Through detailed characters and a slower-paced narrative, the book delves into themes of cultural expectations, identity, and the complexities of relationships, offering a compelling exploration of love, loss, and the impact of political conflict on personal lives.
He came around and opened the car door because he was Walter, because he had been raised by a mother (Alice: kind, sweet, smelled of potato salad) who had taught him how to treat a lady. Because he wa... - #2
Save:'Ripley Bogle' by Robert McLiam Wilson is a darkly humorous and twisting tale that follows the life of the title character, Ripley Bogle, a quick-witted and borderline genius individual. The story explores Bogle's journey from being a precocious Cambridge student to a homeless wanderer, delving into themes of deprivation, missed opportunities, and a brilliant character study. The writing style is described as innovative, immediate, and honest, with a Dickensian attention to detail that captivates the reader.
The novel presents a deep exploration of Ireland through the eyes of Bogle, showcasing a world filled with violence, political turmoil, and a sense of numbness towards the constant chaos. Wilson's ability to intertwine poetry, wit, and humor into even the most disturbing events, such as betrayal and death, adds layers of complexity to the narrative. The book is praised for its beautiful writing, thought-provoking plot, and the way it leaves readers contemplating the author's skill in crafting such a mesmerizing story.
- #3
Save:Set against the political turmoil of the dissolution of former Yugoslavia, "Dark Mother Earth" by Kristian Novak reflects the isolation of a rural community confined by two rivers, where the emotional needs and physical safety of children are often neglected. The story delves into deep themes of grief, loss, sadness, and isolation, portraying a dark and disturbing narrative that challenges societal norms and explores the impact of childhood trauma on a man's adulthood.
The novel intricately weaves together a series of dark events, revealing the realities of people oppressed by changing forces and the uncertainty of looming war. Through a child's perspective, the book captures the confusion of childhood while shedding light on the harsh realities faced by individuals struggling with their past traumas and inner demons.
Gita knew she was being harsh, so after a pause she reminded him how great the book he’d already written was. As far as he was concerned, she may as well have unscrewed his head and spat down his gull... - #4
Save:The Immortals of Tehran by Ali Araghi is a multigenerational saga that follows the life journey of Ahmad, a mute poet, through the years before and during the Iranian revolution. The book seamlessly weaves together family dynamics with larger political events such as the reign of the Shah, the Islamic Revolution, and the Iran-Iraq war. The writing style incorporates elements of magical realism, creating a world where mystical tales and historical events converge to shape the destiny of the characters.
In the midst of political turmoil, the story delves into Ahmad's experiences as a worker in a metal forge, a poet, a lover, an activist, a politician, and a teacher. The narrative explores the interplay of family life with large-scale politics, infused with an element of magic and myth that adds depth to the author's debut novel. The book is characterized by a rich cultural backdrop, engaging character relationships, and a plot that evokes a range of emotions from laughter to tears, making it a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on Iran's history and culture.
- #5
Save:Set in a newly independent and still unstable Central African country, the story follows an Indian man who uproots his existence and becomes a shop owner in a remote African village situated at the bend in the river. Through his eyes, readers witness the changes the country undergoes during post-colonial times, depicting a life filled with exotic, dangerous, and corrupt elements. The novel provides a vivid portrayal of the struggles faced by individuals trying to survive in an ever-changing and unfamiliar world, all narrated by a character who sits at the center of events without having much impact on them.
The book delves into themes of uprootedness, the constant jockeying for security, and the generalized fear that settles over the residents of the community. It offers a reflection on the existential dilemmas faced by the characters, the tension between family acceptance and alienation, and the transient nature of human experience amidst political upheaval and turmoil in Africa.
Nazruddin, who had sold me the shop cheap, didn’t think I would have it easy when I took over. The country, like others in Africa, had had its troubles after independence. The town in the interior, at... - #6
Save:Who Is Vera Kelly? by Rosalie Knecht is a spy novel that follows the story of Vera Kelly, a CIA agent undercover in Buenos Aires during the 1960s. The book delves into Vera's past, including her youth in the 1950s, her struggles with her sexuality, and her journey to becoming a spy. The narrative switches between different timelines seamlessly, exploring Vera's character development and her experiences as a lone spy in a politically turbulent environment.
The writing style of Rosalie Knecht in Who Is Vera Kelly? is described as nuanced, unpretentious, and clear. The author skillfully portrays Vera's isolation, her emotional struggles, and her undercover mission in Buenos Aires. Through Vera's narrative, the readers get a glimpse into her complex inner world, her experiences with love and fear, and her constant need to hide her true self while navigating dangerous situations as a spy.
On a Tuesday I came home from school to an empty house, watched the evening news, and then took two Equanil caplets lifted from my mother. Nothing happened, so after an hour I took three more, and the... - #7
Save:"Russka: the Novel of Russia" by Edward Rutherfurd is a sweeping historical novel that spans 1800 years of Russian history, following the lives of multiple families through different eras. The book starts with the people of the Steppes, then delves into the periods of the Tatars, Ivan the Terrible, the Cossacks, Peter the Great, Catherine the Great, Tsar Nicholas, and the Revolution. The narrative weaves together personal stories with major historical events, offering a vivid portrayal of Russia's past and the resilience of its people.
The book is structured as a saga of six families, providing a comprehensive view of Russian history from ancient times until the 1990s. Readers are taken on a journey through the turbulent events that shaped Russia, from the early periods of history to the developments leading up to the collapse of the Soviet Union. With lifelike characters and intricate period details, Edward Rutherfurd brings the history of Russia to life in a captivating and engaging manner, offering a rich tapestry of passion, loss, and the enduring spirit of the Russian people.
Like horsemen they came from the east with their billowing white canopies, from who knew what endless steppes – sweeping majestically over the little collection of huts by the river’s edge and continu... - #8
Save:Set in India during the years leading up to independence and Partition, "What the Body Remembers" by Shauna Singh Baldwin follows the story of Roop, a young girl forced into a marriage as a second wife. The novel intricately weaves together personal struggles and political tensions, showcasing Roop's journey towards independence and maturity amidst the backdrop of India's historical turmoil. The writing style is described as steady, graceful, and compelling, capturing the attention of readers with its subtle yet engaging narrative.
SATYA’S HEART is black and dense as a stone within her. She tells herself she pities Roop, but hears laughter answering her—how difficult it is to deceive yourself when you have known yourself a full ... - #9
Save:'A Book of Common Prayer' by Joan Didion revolves around the life of Grace, who is married into a wealthy and corrupt ruling family in a fictional Central American country called Boca Grande. The story unfolds as Grace reports on the death of Charlotte, a wealthy California woman who has had multiple relationships, including one with Grace's son. The narrative explores themes of revolution, coups d'état, and the complexities of relationships. Didion's writing style is characterized by short declarative sentences that carry emotional weight, making the reader ponder whether revolutions are driven by personalities or social realities.
The plot of the book is centered around the character of Charlotte, an American woman who arrives in Boca Grande seeking to escape her past. Through the eyes of the narrator, the story delves into Charlotte's seemingly oblivious nature and her interactions with the ruling classes in Boca Grande. The narrative gradually reveals layers of the characters, particularly Charlotte, as the story progresses, creating a sense of intrigue and depth within the storytelling.
Here is what happened: she left one man, she left a second man, she traveled again with the first; she let him die alone. She lost one child to “history” and another to “complications” (I offer in eac... - #10
Save:'A Golden Age' by Tahmima Anam is a novel set during the 1971 Bangladesh war of independence from Pakistan. The story follows Rehana Haque, a widowed mother of two, as she navigates her children's involvement in the revolution. The book delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and strength, set against the backdrop of a country fighting for its independence. Anam's writing style is described as evocative, with a focus on relationships and the emotional journey of the characters.
Outside the courthouse Rehana bought two kites, one red and one blue, from Khan Brothers Variety Store and Confectioners. The man behind the counter wrapped them up in brown paper and jute ribbon. Reh...
