Books Like...

'The Bone Mother' by David Demchuk is a collection of interconnected short stories set in Eastern Europe, revolving around three unusual towns where real literal monsters coexist with human monstrosities found in conflict areas. The writing style is described as snappy and evocative, with an illusion of simplicity that delivers dark and oddly beautiful monsters. The stories are haunting, filled with a sense of melancholy and creepy horror, enriched by old black and white photos that set the mood effectively.

'The Wind in His Heart' by Charles de Lint is a captivating fantasy novel set in the American Southwest, blending Native American folklore with modern-day reality. The story follows a diverse group of characters, each on a personal journey of self-discovery and growth. As they navigate through the mystical Painted Lands and encounter magical elements, they are forced to confront their past, face their fears, and make life-altering decisions. De Lint weaves together multiple storylines, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives, mysteries, and unexpected alliances. The writing style is enchanting, with vivid descriptions of the landscape and a gentle tone that lulls readers into a world where magic and reality seamlessly coexist.

Conrad Richter's 'The Trees' is a historical fiction novel set in the late 1700s in Ohio, focusing on the Luckett family's struggles and triumphs as they settle in the uncharted wilderness of the Northwest Territory. The book portrays the harsh realities of pioneer life, including loneliness, fear, sickness, and despair, while also highlighting the settlers' resilience, kindness, and accomplishments. The narrative is told from the perspective of Sayward Luckett, a strong and practical young girl who leads her family through tragedies and challenges, ultimately becoming a key figure in the founding of the town of Americus.

Richter's writing style is praised for its authenticity, vivid descriptions, and use of colloquial language spoken by rustic pioneers. The book explores themes of family bonds, self-reliance, survival in the wilderness, and the human cost of settlement, offering a raw and realistic portrayal of early American frontier life.

"The Library of Legends" by Janie Chang is a historical fiction novel set in China during the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937. It follows a group of university students and faculty as they evacuate their school and embark on a dangerous journey to relocate the university to a safer location in the interior of China. The main focus is on a student named Lian, who is tasked with protecting the 'Library of Legends', a collection of Chinese myths and folklore, as they travel through wartorn China. The story incorporates elements of fantasy, with mystical guardian spirits and gods awakening along their journey.

The narrative weaves together historical events with fantastical elements, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience. explores themes of friendship, courage, and sacrifice against the backdrop of war, while also delving into Chinese mythology and cultural beliefs. The plot unfolds through the eyes of well-developed characters, particularly focusing on Lian's journey and her interactions with fellow students and the mystical beings they encounter along the way.

'Someplace to Be Flying' by Charles de Lint is an urban fantasy novel set in the Newford universe, featuring a diverse cast of characters including magical beings like the Crow Girls and Jack. The story is praised for its blend of fantasy, Native American mythology, and reality of the small city of Newford, creating a charming and immersive narrative. The writing style is noted for its multiplicity of textures achieved through different characters' points of view, with some readers finding it hard to follow initially but ultimately feeling enriched by the intricate storytelling.

The Wolf in the Whale by Jordanna Max Brodsky is a historical fantasy novel that beautifully blends Inuit and Norse mythology. The story follows Omat, an Inuit girl raised as a boy to become a shaman, as she embarks on a journey to save her family. Along the way, she encounters a Viking warrior and together, they set off a conflict involving both Inuit and Norse gods. The book intricately weaves together elements of both cultures, creating a detailed and engrossing narrative that explores themes of mythology, culture clash, and the supernatural.

Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier is a historical novel set during the American Civil War, following the journey of a wounded Confederate soldier named Inman as he deserts the army to make his way back to his beloved Ada Monroe. The book intertwines Inman's perilous journey with Ada's struggles to survive on her own in Cold Mountain, North Carolina. The writing style in Cold Mountain is described as poetic and lyrical, with rich descriptions of landscapes and characters, creating a vivid portrayal of the time period and the characters' emotional journeys.

'The Awakening Land: The Trees, The Fields, & The Town' by Conrad Richter is a trilogy that follows the life of a young girl living in the Ohio or Illinois territory in the late 1800s to early 1900s. The story begins with the protagonist living with her family in a cabin in the woods, where they clear land for fields and gradually attract more settlers to the area. As the town grows, the narrative spans generations, showcasing the protagonist's journey from adolescence to old age, along with the lives of her children and grandchildren. delves into themes of family, community building, tragedy, drama, interactions with Native Americans, and the challenges of frontier life.

Richter's writing style is praised for its vivid descriptions that transport readers to the forested landscapes and pioneer settlements. Readers mention being drawn into the scenes to the extent that they can almost smell the forest air, highlighting the immersive quality of the storytelling. The trilogy captures the hardships and joys experienced by the characters, offering a believable portrayal of early American life and emphasizing the resilience of the pioneers in overcoming challenges.

"The Outlander" by Gil Adamson is a tale set in 1903 Canada, following a young widow named Mary Boulton who is fleeing from her husband's vengeful brothers after she has murdered him. The book is praised for its detailed descriptions of the Rocky Mountains wilderness, the characters Mary encounters on her journey, and the slow revelation of her backstory through flashbacks. The writing style is noted for its lyrical prose, atmospheric depiction of life and times in the early 20th century, and the captivating narrative that unfolds as Mary navigates the rugged landscapes while being pursued.

'Manitous: The Spiritual World Of The Ojibway' by Basil Johnston is a collection of short stories that encapsulate the belief system of the Ojibwe Anishinabe people. The book is described as beautifully written, charming, and capable of instilling cultural values into readers of all ages. The stories are set in a family ambience, with realistic portrayals of rivalries and conflicts, even when themed on mythical creatures like mermaids and dwarves.

The book delves into Anishinaabe beliefs and traditions without unnecessary academic jargon, providing a fascinating look at their myths and moral teachings. It is praised for its humor, drama, heartbreak, and life lessons embedded within the stories, covering topics from biblical creation to monsters and mermaids. Johnston skillfully assembles stories from the oral traditions of his people, offering readers a valuable glimpse into a rich culture little recognized by mainstream society.