Books matching: socio economic transformation
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A haunting, well-researched look at the unraveling of small-town America, Glass House packs an emotional punch and brings the hidden consequences of economic shifts into sharp focus. It's dense at times but absolutely worth it if you want to understand why the American Dream can seem so out of reach.
"Glass House: The 1% Economy and the Shattering of the All-American Town" by Brian Alexander is a compelling account of the economic collapse of Lancaster, Ohio, a small industrial town in America. The author weaves together the story of the Anchor Hocking Glass Company and the lives of the people dependent on it, showcasing the impact of corporatization, private equity, and the decline of manufacturing on the town. Through a mix of nostalgia, sadness, and rage, the book takes readers on a journey through the town's history, from its industrial heyday to its struggles in the face of globalization and the opioid epidemic.
Brian Gossett worked the late shift, running an H-28 job: football-size vases, about the most difficult ware he made. A 2,400-degree lava-like ribbon of glass flowed out of Tank 3, a refractory furnac...February 2017•332 pagesA monumental, challenging, but deeply rewarding work that’s essential for anyone who wants to understand how social movements shape history - just make sure you bring your curiosity (and maybe a timeline for reference)!
'The Making of the English Working Class' by E.P. Thompson delves into the formative years of artisan and working-class society from 1780 to 1832. It explores how the working class actively participated in shaping their own destiny, despite facing loss of status and freedom. The author vividly recreates the life experiences of individuals who endured degradation but managed to create a culture and political consciousness marked by vitality. is praised for shedding light on how the working class contributed to the societal changes of the 19th century.
1963•856 pagesA genuine and uplifting true story that reminds us how small acts can have a huge impact. Highly recommended for anyone needing hope or inspiration.
"I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two Lives" by Martin Ganda and Caitlin Alifirenka tells the inspiring true story of two friends who started out as pen pals. The plot revolves around a simple school project that ended up changing the lives of multiple families, neighbors, and even governments. The writing style of the book is described as heartwarming, uplifting, and tear-inducing, with a focus on themes of kindness, resilience, friendship, and the power of small acts to make a big difference in the world.
I’D NEVER HEARD OF ZIMBABWE. But something about the way the name looked up on the blackboard intrigued me. It was exotic, and difficult to pronounce. It was also the last country in a long list that...April 2015•398 pages- #4
Save:A magisterial, exhaustive, and insightful account of Europe's transformation after WWII - absolutely worthwhile for serious history buffs, though not a breezy read.
'Postwar: A History of Europe Since 1945' by Tony Judt is a comprehensive historical synthesis covering the period after World War II up to the early 2000s. The book delves into political, cultural, and historical events across Europe, detailing the aftermath of the war, the Cold War era, and the socio-economic developments in the continent. Judt's writing style is described as educational and detailed, without unnecessary fluff, providing a vast amount of information while jumping between different countries and years.
The Nazis lived for as long as they could off the wealth of their victims—so successfully in fact that it was not until 1944 that German civilians themselves began to feel the impact of wartime restri... - #5
Save:A heartfelt, quietly powerful classic that’s all about resilience, redefining success, and noticing the beauty in everyday life. Worth picking up for its inspiring heroine and timeless message.
'So Big' by Edna Ferber is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that follows the life of Selina Peake DeJong, an orphaned young woman in the late 1800s who chooses a path of independence and adventure. Selina becomes a teacher in a rural Illinois community, marries a Dutch farmer named Pervus DeJong, and raises her son Dirk with a strong focus on beauty and education. The story spans several decades, showcasing Selina's resilience, determination, and unwavering pursuit of beauty amidst life's challenges, including transforming a struggling farm into a prosperous enterprise and guiding Dirk's journey towards finding his own definition of success and happiness.
UNTIL he was almost ten the name stuck to him. He had literally to fight his way free of it. From So Big (of fond and infantile derivation) it had been condensed into Sobig. And Sobig Dejong, in all i...January 1920•339 pages - #6
Save:A detailed, sympathetic portrait of Calvin Coolidge that shines light on an underrated president - perfect for history enthusiasts, but perhaps too detail-heavy and partisan for some casual readers.
'Coolidge' by Amity Shlaes is a detailed biography of the 30th President of the United States, Calvin Coolidge. The book delves into Coolidge's reserved personality, his determination to maintain fiscal responsibility, and his efforts to restore trust in government after the Teapot Dome affair. It explores his presidency, his principles of individual responsibility and character, and his strong belief in the importance of assimilation for immigrants.
February 2013•593 pages A poignant, magical, and moving read that’s perfect for fans of historical fiction and fantasy - just keep a box of tissues handy!
'Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster' by Jonathan Auxier is a heartwarming tale set in Victorian England, following the journey of Nan Sparrow, a young chimney sweep who forms an unlikely bond with a golem named Charlie. The book beautifully weaves together elements of history, magic, and mysticism as Nan and Charlie navigate the challenges of their harsh reality while also taking a stand against injustice. Through well-defined characters and a captivating plot, Auxier delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and the power of saving others.
The narrative unfolds with Nan's growth from a vulnerable chimney sweep to a strong-willed protagonist who, with the help of Charlie and supportive characters like Toby and Miss Bloom, embarks on a transformative journey. The story seamlessly combines elements of classic children's literature with a touch of magical realism, offering a poignant exploration of themes such as child labor, friendship, and the enduring spirit of hope. Auxier's storytelling skillfully captures the essence of Nan's world, inviting readers on a compelling adventure filled with both heartbreak and moments of joy.
There are all sorts of wonderful things a person might see very early in the morning. You might see your parents sleeping. You might see an ambitious bird catching a worm. You might see an unclaimed p...September 2018•370 pages- #8
Save:A well-loved romance with a dash of history and transformation - perfect for those who love character growth and classic love stories, but might feel a bit too familiar for others.
'The Awakening' by Jude Deveraux is a historical romance novel that delves into the time of migrant unions in California. It sheds light on the horrendous working conditions of itinerant pickers and the lack of empathy towards the workers. The story follows Amanda Caulden, a sheltered young woman, who meets Hank Montgomery, a union organizer, and their journey of awakening to love, passion, and social justice. The writing style of the book vividly brings to life the characters and the historical context, making the readers emotionally involved in the storyline.
1988•353 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Montgomery/Taggert )
