Books matching: societal issues 1980s
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- #1
Save:A witty, propulsive satire and a pitch-perfect snapshot of 1980s New York - brilliant for its humor and insight, but it’s also a long, cynical parade of egos, so buckle up!
'The Bonfire of the Vanities' by Tom Wolfe is a novel set in New York City during the 1980s, portraying the lives of wealthy individuals, legal professionals, and journalists intertwined by a hit-and-run incident. The story delves into themes of privilege, justice, morality, and the societal issues prevalent in the era, offering a satirical and critical perspective on the materialism and betrayals within investment banking. Through a cast of flawed and multi-faceted characters, the book explores the downfall of a Wall Street elite, Sherman McCoy, and the repercussions that follow in a racially tense environment.
The writing style of Tom Wolfe in 'The Bonfire of the Vanities' is characterized by sharp humor, detailed insights, and a keen observation of societal practices. Wolfe's ability to capture the essence of 1980s New York City, with its excesses, ego, and crassness, is praised by readers. The novel's portrayal of the legal system, press, and various societal strata as depicted through unsympathetic characters and satirical elements adds depth to the story, making it a compelling and insightful read.
At that very moment, in the very sort of Park Avenue co-op apartment that so obsessed the Mayor…twelve-foot ceilings…two wings, one for the white Anglo-Saxon Protestants who own the place and one for...1987•702 pages - #2
Save:A harrowing, meticulously detailed true crime story that's as disturbing as it is compelling - recommended only for seasoned fans of the genre.
'RITES OF BURIAL' by Troy Cole and Tom Jackman is a gripping true crime book that delves into the horrifying crimes of serial killer Robert Berdella. The book provides a detailed account of Berdella's sadistic behavior towards his victims, including the torture they endured before their murders. The writing style is described as graphic and detailed, taking the reader through Berdella's arrest, interrogation, confession, and trial at a quick pace, while not shying away from the gruesome details of his crimes.
The narrative of 'RITES OF BURIAL' is structured to show the unglamorous reality of police work and the impact of serial killers on victims, their families, and even law enforcement. The book explores the psychological games played during interrogations and provides insight into the behavioral patterns of sexual sadists like Berdella. It also contextualizes the case within the Satanic hysteria of the late 1980s, adding depth to the story and highlighting the broader societal implications of Berdella's crimes.
June 1992•368 pages A thoughtful, well-researched, and important look at the ’80s Satanic Panic and the dangers of collective fear. Essential reading for anyone interested in moral panics, social psychology, or American legal history.
'We Believe the Children: The Story of a Moral Panic' by Richard Beck delves into the phenomenon of the Satanic Panic that swept through the United States in the 1980s. It explores how societal changes, quack psychology, and sensationalism led to a widespread belief in Satanic cults conducting ritual abuse, particularly in daycare centers. Beck meticulously recounts prominent court cases, highlighting the devastating impact on all involved. provides a historical overview intertwined with sociological context, showcasing how the panic emerged from a complex interplay of factors, ultimately serving as a substitute for societal issues that were overlooked.
In the years following the end of World War II, American doctors, psychiatrists, and social workers discovered that young children were sometimes beaten by the people who cared for them. For decades t...August 2015•352 pages- #4
Save:A gripping, deeply unsettling read that's hard to put down and even harder to forget. Come for the gripping suspense - stay if you can handle some darkness and don't mind a few lingering questions at the end.
Unspeakable Things by Jess Lourey is a dark and intense thriller based on a true crime story. The book follows Cassie McDowell, a young teenage girl living in a dysfunctional family in a small Minnesota town during the 1980s. As boys in the town start getting kidnapped and returning changed, Cassie navigates the dangers both outside and inside her home, dealing with her alcoholic father, swinging parties hosted by her parents, and the mystery of the abductions. The story is narrated from Cassie's perspective, offering a raw and emotional insight into her experiences and fears.
I laughed and dug into the popcorn. Mom had made a huge batch, super salty and doused in brewer’s yeast. That had been an hour earlier, when we’d started game night. The bowl was getting down to the o...December 2019•300 pages - #5
Save:A cult classic of complex, uncompromising sci-fi with unforgettable worldbuilding - brilliant if you've got a strong stomach and a curious mind.
Courtship Rite by Donald Kingsbury is a science fiction novel set on the human colony world of Geta. The story follows a family of three half brothers and their wives as they navigate the societal norms of a world where cannibalism is common and accepted. The plot revolves around the brothers' participation in the Courtship Rite, where they attempt to marry a woman from a coastal clan who challenges traditional beliefs. The book delves into themes of religion, politics, social engineering, and philosophy, all woven together by the author's skillful writing style.
PRIME PREDICTOR TAE RAN-KAIEL was long dead but he lived in the bellies of his aggressive progeny. Even the youngest of them had shared his flesh at a Funeral Feast still remembered in clan chant arou...July 1982•447 pages
