Books matching: self reference

100 result(s)

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  1. Gödel, Escher, Bach: an Eternal Golden Braid by Douglas R. Hofstadter is a monumental work that delves into the interconnectedness of mathematics, art, music, and philosophy. The book navigates through complex topics such as self-reference, formal systems, and consciousness, drawing analogies between different fields to explore the essence of human intellect and creativity. Through a series of dialogues, the author weaves together the works of Gödel, Escher, and Bach to create a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating narrative.

    Hofstadter's writing style is described as witty, erudite, and engaging, making even challenging subjects accessible to readers. The book is a fusion of various disciplines, offering a unique perspective on intelligence, patterns, and the nature of reality. With a blend of humor, deep insights, and intricate explorations, the book takes readers on a journey that challenges their thinking and perception of the world around them.

    Introduction: A Musico-Logical Offering. The book opens with the story of Bach's Musical Offering. Bach made an impromptu visit to King Frederick, the Great of Prussia, and was requested to improvise ...

  2. #2

    Supermarket by Bobby Hall
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    Supermarket by Bobby Hall, also known as Logic, is a novel that delves into mental health issues and creative exploration. The story follows Flynn, an aspiring writer struggling with depression, who takes up a job at Muldoon's Supermarket to find inspiration for his new novel. As Flynn's fiction and reality begin to blur, the plot takes a dark turn, exploring themes of madness, identity crisis, and the thin line between creativity and mental instability. The writing style of the book is described as being packed with cliches, predictable twists, and blatant foreshadowing, with some readers finding the resolution to mental illness and the tortured artist stereotype to be superficial and lacking in subtlety.

    I guess in that moment it was attempted murder. He was still desperately gasping for air. Sucking in his last breaths. But there was no doubt about it—he was dying a violent death and experiencing eve...

  3. #3

    Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James
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    'Practice Makes Perfect' by Julie James is a contemporary romance novel set in a law firm where two lawyers, Payton Kendall and J.D. Jameson, have been competing for a promotion for eight years. Despite their initial animosity towards each other, they are forced to work together on a case, leading to a shift in their relationship from hate to love. The book explores themes of competition, professional success, and personal growth, with a focus on the slow development of the romantic relationship between the main characters. Readers appreciate the believable and competitive personalities of the protagonists, the witty banter, and the well-developed supporting characters that enhance the overall story.

    Payton Kendall lifted a sleepy hand to her nightstand and fumbled around to silence the god-awful beeping. She lay there, snuggled in amongst her cozy down pillows, blinking, rousing. Allowing herself...

  4. #4

    The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
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    The Hating Game by Sally Thorne revolves around the workplace rivalry between Lucy and Josh, who despise each other but find themselves sharing an office after a merger. As they compete for the same promotion, their interactions are filled with witty banter, mind games, and emotional vulnerability. The story is a mix of romance, comedy, and tension, with a slow burn enemies-to-lovers plot that keeps readers engaged. Thorne's writing style is described as cute, light-hearted, and funny, making it an entertaining and enjoyable read for fans of contemporary romance and chick lit.

    Love and hate are visceral. Your stomach twists at the thought of that person. The heart in your chest beats heavy and bright, nearly visible through your flesh and clothes. Your appetite and sleep ar...

  5. #5

    Strange Wine by Harlan Ellison
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    'Strange Wine' by Harlan Ellison is a collection of fifteen short stories that delve into the realms of science fiction and fantasy. The book showcases Ellison's unique writing style and storytelling abilities, with tales ranging from didactic to entertaining to outstanding. Each story is accompanied by fascinating insights from Ellison himself, providing readers with a deeper understanding of his writing process and the 20th-century publishing industry. From thought-provoking narratives like 'The New York Review of Bird' to hard SF tributes like 'Seeing,' the stories in 'Strange Wine' offer readers a diverse and captivating literary experience.

    At 9:38 A.M. on July 15th, 1974, about eight minutes into Suncoast Digest, a variety show on WXLT-TV in Sarasota, Florida, anchorwoman Chris Chubbuck, 30, looked straight at the camera and said, “In k...

  6. #6

    Despair by Vladimir Nabokov
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    Despair by Vladimir Nabokov is a dark and strange murder tale that delves into the mind of an unreliable narrator named Hermann. The story follows Hermann, a Russian emigre businessman, who becomes obsessed with a tramp in Prague whom he believes to be his exact double. As Hermann hatches a plan to profit off their shared likeness, the narrative unfolds into a twisted plot of deception and madness. The book is narrated in a playful yet droll style, characteristic of Nabokov's intricate and dazzling prose.

    If I were not perfectly sure of my power to write and of my marvelous ability to express ideas with the utmost grace and vividness … So, more or less, I had thought of beginning my tale. Further, I sh...

  7. #7

    The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
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    "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" by C.S. Lewis is a classic fantasy tale about four siblings who discover a magical land, Narnia, through a wardrobe in an old professor's house. In Narnia, they find themselves entangled in a battle against the evil White Witch, with the help of the noble lion Aslan. The story is filled with themes of good versus evil, friendship, and bravery, making it an engaging and imaginative read for readers of all ages.

    The narrative is captivating, with a mix of suspense, adventure, and fantasy elements that keep the readers hooked from beginning to end. The character development, particularly of the four siblings, is central to the plot, as they learn important life lessons and face challenges that test their courage and loyalty. The vivid imagery and detailed storytelling style of C.S. Lewis transport readers to the enchanting world of Narnia, making it a memorable and magical reading experience.

    And really it was a wonderful tea. There was a nice brown egg, lightly boiled, for each of them, and then sardines on toast, and then buttered toast, and then toast with honey, and then a sugar-topped...

  8. #8
    The Robots of Dawn
    Book 5 in the series:Robot

    The Robots of Dawn - Robot by Isaac Asimov
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    'The Robots of Dawn' by Isaac Asimov is the third installment in the Robot series, following the adventures of Earth detective Elijah Baley as he investigates a murder involving a humanoid robot on the planet Aurora. The book delves into themes of robot vs human exploration of space, societal contrasts between Earth and Spacer planets, and the implications of artificial intelligence. Asimov's writing style is described as a blend of classic science fiction with progressive elements, featuring engaging dialogue, rational conclusions, and masterful transitions of exposition.

    The plot revolves around a complex mystery that challenges Baley's investigative skills, aided by robot companions R. Daneel and R. Giskard. The book explores societal issues, the concept of roboticide, and the application of Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics in a futuristic setting. Despite some readers finding elements of the book verbose or contrived, 'The Robots of Dawn' is praised for its engaging storyline, thought-provoking ideas, and the seamless integration of science fiction with detective elements.

    One never perspired (unless one wished to, of course) in the City, where temperature and humidity were absolutely controlled and where it was never absolutely necessary for the body to perform in ways...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Robot )

  9. #9
    Deja Dead
    Book 1 in the series:Temperance Brennan

    Deja Dead - Temperance Brennan by Kathy Reichs
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    "Deja Dead" by Kathy Reichs follows the story of forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennan as she investigates a series of gruesome murders in Montreal, Canada. Despite facing skepticism from the police, Brennan believes the cases are connected and that a serial killer is on the loose. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she not only puts herself in danger but also risks the lives of her loved ones. The writing style of the book is described as detailed, with a mix of forensic science, regionalisms specific to Quebec, and a fast-paced plot that keeps readers on edge.

    IWASN’T THINKING ABOUT THE MAN WHO’D BLOWN HIMSELF UP. Earlier I had. Now I was putting him together. Two sections of skull lay in front of me, and a third jutted from a sand-filled stainless steel bo...

  10. #10

    The Fellowship of the Ring - The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
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    'The Fellowship of the Ring' is the first book in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien. The story follows Frodo, a hobbit, as he embarks on a perilous journey to destroy the Ring of Power in the barren wasteland of Mordor. Along the way, a fellowship is formed to aid him in this dangerous quest, facing epic battles, evil forces, and the ultimate test of friendship and courage. The book is known for its intricate world-building, detailed narrative, and themes of good vs evil, duty, perseverance, and doing what is right. Despite a slow start, the book picks up pace as the action unfolds, captivating readers with its rich storytelling and complex characters.

    'The Fellowship of the Ring' is a classic masterpiece of fantasy literature that introduces readers to the vast and enchanting world of Middle Earth. Tolkien's writing style, characterized by detailed descriptions and deep world-building, immerses the reader in a tale of adventure, friendship, and dedication to the greater good. The book sets the standard for all fantasy stories, painting a vivid picture of a world where courage and loyalty are tested against the forces of darkness, making it a timeless and captivating read for fans of the genre.

    Bilbo was very rich and very peculiar, and had been the wonder of the Shire for sixty years, ever since his remarkable disappearance and unexpected return. The riches he had brought back from his trav...

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