Books matching: writing reference
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- #1
A thought-provoking and hopeful read that blends fantasy and philosophy, perfect for those who want a reflective, feel-good story (but haters of on-the-nose life lessons and predictability may want to skip it).
The Midnight Library follows the story of Nora Seed, a woman who, after attempting suicide, finds herself in a library between life and death. Each book in the library allows Nora to experience different lives she could have lived based on different decisions she could have made. Through this process, Nora learns valuable life lessons and explores themes of regret, happiness, and the power of choices. The book delves into the concept of parallel universes, showcasing the infinite possibilities of life and the impact of decisions on one's destiny.
Mrs Elm made her first move. A knight hopping over the neat row of white pawns. ‘Of course, you’re going to be worried about the exams. But you could be anything you want to be, Nora. Think of all tha...September 2020•308 pages A psychedelic sci-fi classic that will mess with your head - in a good way - if you’re up for a strange, thought-provoking trip into the unknown.
"The Three Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch" by Philip K. Dick is a mind-bending science fiction novel set in the late 21st century where Earth is plagued by extreme global warming. The story follows characters who escape their bleak reality through a hallucinogenic drug called Can-D, which transports them into a fantasy world centered around a game called Perky Pat. When a new, more addictive drug called Chew-Z is introduced by the mysterious Palmer Eldritch, the line between reality and fantasy becomes blurred, leading to a complex, reality-bending nightmare. Dick's writing style is described as rich in ideas, unnerving, and capable of delivering a wild ride that challenges the reader to question what is real and what is fantasy.
His head unnaturally aching, Barney Mayerson woke to find himself in an unfamiliar bedroom in an unfamiliar conapt building. Beside him, the covers up to her bare, smooth shoulders, an unfamiliar girl...1964•279 pages- #3
"Postcards from Summer" by Cynthia Platt follows seventeen-year-old Lexie as she embarks on a journey to Mackinac Island to uncover the mysteries surrounding her late mother, Emma. The narrative alternates between the present, where Lexie is determined to learn more about her mother despite her father's reluctance to talk about her, and the past, where Emma's own story unfolds during her teenage years on the island. As Lexie delves deeper into her mother's past, she discovers secrets, faces challenges, and unravels the truth about her family history. The dual timeline approach, slow-paced storytelling, and vivid descriptions of Mackinac Island create a captivating and heartfelt tale of self-discovery, family bonds, and the enduring power of memories.
The book's writing style intricately weaves together the perspectives of both Lexie and Emma, offering a compelling portrayal of their individual journeys and emotional complexities. Platt skillfully captures the essence of the characters, making them relatable and engaging for the readers. The exploration of themes such as loss, identity, and the search for truth resonates throughout the narrative, drawing readers into a world where past and present collide, leading to a poignant and fulfilling conclusion.
May 2022•576 pages Roy Peter Clark's book 'Writing Tools: 50 Essential Strategies for Every Writer' is a comprehensive guide that offers practical advice and strategies for writers of all levels. The book is structured into four parts, covering topics from the basics of grammar and sentence construction to more advanced techniques like structuring and developing useful writing habits. Clark uses examples from journalism and fiction to illustrate each writing tool, emphasizing the importance of practice and implementation. Readers appreciate the clear and concise writing style of the book, making it an accessible and valuable resource for improving writing skills.
Strunk & White's "The Elements of Style" advises the writer to "Place emphatic words in a sentence at the end," which offers an example of its own rule. The most emphatic word appears at "the end." Ap...September 2006•282 pages- #5
'Wicked Plants' by Amy Stewart delves into the world of dangerous and toxic plants, categorizing them in an alphabetical order and detailing their harmful effects. Stewart's writing style is described as informative, easy to read, and filled with humor, making the book an enjoyable and educational read for both plant enthusiasts and those less familiar with botany. The author's inclusion of human stories and plant details adds depth and interest to the narrative, making even the most sinister plants captivating to read about.
May 2009•267 pages - #6
A trippy, laugh-out-loud coming-of-age quest that's as touching as it is bizarre - perfect for readers who appreciate humor, heart, and a hefty dose of weird.
Cameron, a disaffected youth, is diagnosed with Mad Cow disease and is given a quest by an angel to save the world by finding Dr. X for a cure. He embarks on a surreal road trip with an agoraphobic dwarf and a talking garden gnome, encountering various adventures and life lessons along the way. The book combines humor, philosophical wanderings, and a modern take on Don Quixote, offering a unique and thought-provoking journey through the teenage mind.
The writing style of "Going Bovine" by Libba Bray is described as surreal, edgy, and humorous, with elements of fantasy, satire, and dark humor. The plot follows Cameron's journey of self-discovery and acceptance in the face of a terminal illness, blending elements of reality and hallucination to create a compelling and engaging narrative.
Like Career Day? Really? Do we need to devote an entire six hours out of the high school year to having “life counselors” tell you all the jobs you could potentially blow at? Is there a reason for dod...September 2009•498 pages A literary, smart, and timely read that’s both dazzlingly original and emotionally resonant - but its experimental style and urgency may not be to everyone’s taste.
Spring by Ali Smith is the third installment in the Seasonal Quartet series. The novel follows Richard Lease, a filmmaker grieving the loss of his colleague Paddy, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery in Scotland. The narrative also introduces Brit, a security guard at an Immigration Removal Center, and Florence, a young girl with a unique ability to influence people. Through non-linear storytelling and interconnected narratives, the book explores themes of grief, hope, contemporary British life, immigration detention, and the power of art.
Now what we don’t want is Facts. What we want is bewilderment. What we want is repetition. What we want is repetition. What we want is people in power saying the truth is not the truth. What we want i...- #8
A clever, character-driven crime novel with a philosophical edge; not your typical mob story - more interested in what makes people tick than in shootouts. Worth picking up if you like your mysteries with heart and humor.
'Citizen Vince' by Jess Walter follows the story of Vince Camden, a former mobster in the federal witness protection program living in Spokane, WA. Vince leads a double life as a baker by day and a credit card crook by night. As his criminal activities begin to unravel, a mobster from New York threatens his new life. The plot is intertwined with the 1980 Presidential election between Jimmie Carter and Ronald Reagan, reflecting Vince's internal struggle of making choices and facing the consequences of his actions. The writing style includes vivid and memorable characters, dry-witted humor, and philosophical musings on morality and redemption.
The thought greets Vince Camden as he sits up in bed, frantic, casting around a dark bedroom for proof of his existence and finding only props: nightstand, dresser, ashtray, clock. Vince breathes heav...2004•319 pages - #9
A quick, chilling dose of Neil Gaiman at his best - short, smart, and shiver-inducing. Ideal for horror lovers looking to add a memorable jolt to their night!
Click-Clack the Rattlebag is a short story by Neil Gaiman that tells a chilling tale. It begins with a simple setup: a little boy asks an adult to tell him a scary story. As they transition from a warm kitchen to a dark staircase leading to the boy's bedroom, the atmosphere shifts from comforting to sinister.
Gaiman's writing style is engaging and effective, using simple yet evocative language. He builds tension masterfully, weaving an eerie narrative that creeps under the skin. The story's conclusion leaves readers with a sense of shivery delight, even if it's somewhat predictable. Gaiman's narration enhances the experience, making the brief tale a memorable encounter with the uncanny.
The ultimate food science reference - an essential on your kitchen shelf if you want to understand the 'why' behind cooking. Not for recipe hunters, but a treasure for the curious and passionate about food.
'On Food and Cooking: The Science and Lore of the Kitchen' by Harold McGee is an extensive reference book that delves into the science, history, and sociology of food and cooking. The book explores a wide range of topics, from the chemistry of ingredients to the physics of cooking techniques, providing detailed explanations and fascinating insights into the world of culinary arts. McGee's writing style combines scientific explanations with historical anecdotes and practical information, making the book both educational and enjoyable to read for anyone interested in food and cooking.
What better subject for the first chapter than the food with which we all begin our lives? Humans are mammals, a word that means “creatures of the breast,” and the first food that any mammal tastes is...1984•896 pages










