Books matching: pursuit of a better life
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- #1
Save:A realistic, beautifully written, and at times messy portrait of a mother-daughter relationship - compelling for fans of literary family dramas, but may feel too raw or unresolved for some tastes.
We fought. When my mother and I crossed state lines in the stolen car, I’d sit against the window and wouldn’t talk. I wouldn’t even look at her. The fights came when I thought she broke a promise. Sh... - #2
Save:A moving, well-researched true story packed with heart and hardship; perfect for historical fiction lovers seeking hope and inspiration, though the pacing and repetition may not suit everyone.
Twenty-eight-year-old Adeline Martel struggled out the back door of her kitchen in heavy winter clothes, carrying a crate full of cooking utensils toward a covered wagon harnessed to two dray horses i... - #3
Save:'Lawn Boy' by Jonathan Evison is a coming-of-age story following the life of Mike Munoz, a young Chicano landscaper in his early twenties living in suburban Washington state. The novel delves into themes of race, class inequalities, life with a special needs sibling, sexual orientation, and non-traditional family structures, all while portraying authentic emotions. Mike goes through various struggles such as financial difficulties, taking care of his disabled brother, finding work, and navigating relationships, all while striving to find a sense of purpose on his own terms. The book offers a realistic portrayal of poverty, showing how minor setbacks can have devastating effects and how difficult it can be to escape such circumstances.
The narrative unfolds with Mike's journey of self-discovery, exploring his identity, friendships, family dynamics, and societal challenges. Evison's writing style is described as bighearted, thoughtful, and pretentious, mirroring the voice of the narrator, Mike. The story captures the reader's attention with its blend of humor, poignancy, and relatable characters, making it a compelling read that delves into deep themes while maintaining a light and engaging tone.
When I was five years old, back when my old man was still sort of around, I watched a promotional video for Disneyland that my mom got in the free box of VHS tapes at the library. Basically, the video... - #4
Save:'An American Beauty' by Shana Abe is a historical fiction novel set in America's Gilded Age, following the life of Arabella Yarrington. Arabella, a determined and smart young woman, fights her way out of poverty to become the richest woman in the country. The novel takes readers through Arabella's journey of reinvention, resilience, and perseverance as she navigates the opulent lifestyle and judgmental society of the time. With detailed descriptions of the era's lavish settings and personal relationships, the author weaves a captivating tale of ambition and survival.
The story is narrated from the perspective of multiple women, adding depth to the novel and showcasing the intricacies of their lives during a time of extreme wealth and struggle. Through Arabella's experiences, the author explores themes of family, wealth, societal judgment, and the pursuit of one's dreams in a beautifully written and emotionally engaging narrative.
- #5
Save:Not as raw or heartbreaking as 'Angela's Ashes,' but still a worthy, honest, and at times wryly funny account of forging a new life in America. A solid pick for memoir fans and those invested in McCourt's story.
When the MS Irish Oak sailed from Cork in October 1949, we expected to be in New York City in a week. Instead, after two days at sea, we were told we were going to Montreal in Canada. I told the first...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Frank McCourt ) - #6
Save:In "Hope and Other Dangerous Pursuits" by Laila Lalami, the novel explores the lives of four Moroccan immigrants attempting to cross the Strait of Gibraltar into Spain. The book delves into the reasons behind their risky decision, portraying the desperation and hope that drive their actions. Through a series of short stories, Lalami paints a vivid picture of the characters' lives in Morocco, their motivations, and the aftermath of their journey. The writing style is captivating, with a focus on the immigrant experience and the challenges faced by those seeking a better life in a foreign land.
LARBI AMRANI DIDN’T consider himself a superstitious man, but when the prayer beads that hung on his rearview mirror broke, he found himself worrying that this could be an omen. His mother had given h...
