To stand on the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building in 1950 was to stand atop the world. From the world’s tallest building you could gaze down upon Wall Street, the world’s financial center. Or you could look uptown toward the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the world’s largest art museums. The ships […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/11/23/zoning-out-crack-up-capitalism-quinn-slobodian/
Nothing in a professional writer’s life more resembles the life of a traveling salesman than the literary book tour. The superficial difference between writers on tour and salesmen on the road is that writers are encouraged to imagine themselves prized personae whose pitch is eagerly awaited by the anonymous crowd, whereas salesmen know themselves to […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/11/23/camus-on-tour-travels-in-the-americas/
When the Paraguayan army invaded Mato Grosso in 1864, the Brazilian province was so remote that it took an entire month for the news to reach the government in Rio de Janeiro. “At the end of the world there exists a river,” wrote the nineteenth-century general and politician Floriano Peixoto; “at the end of this […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/11/23/the-cost-of-order-and-progress-candido-rondon/
The news that Louise Glück had died reached me an hour or so after I learned, from others in her large circle of friends, that she’d been diagnosed just weeks ago with untreatable cancer, and would soon enter hospice care. I was out walking, thinking of what I would say in an e-mail to her—since […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/11/23/louise-gluck-1943-2023-dan-chiasson/
In AD 82, when general Gnaeus Julius Agricola invaded Caledonia, the Roman army met fierce resistance from the local leader, Calgacus. Tacitus reports (or more likely imagines) his words, as blazing now as ever: “Robbery, butchery, rapine, these the liars call empire. They create desolation and call it peace” (solitudinem faciunt pacem appellant). In AD […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2023/11/23/no-freedom-to-move-the-edge-of-the-plain-crawford/
In The Middle Generation: A Novel of John Quincy Adams and the Monroe Doctrine, M. B. Zucker elegantly crafts a historical fiction narrative spotlighting the life and times of John Quincy Adams, one of the notable Presidents of the United States. Set against the backdrop of 1817, the tale plunges us into the heart of the White House, where Adams, serving as Secretary of State, aids President James Monroe in navigating the pressing diplomatic challenges of their era. Readers are introduced to eminent figures like Andrew Jackson, John Calhoun, and Henry Clay. Zucker also paints a compelling depiction of Adams’ wife, Louisa, highlighting the intricacies of balancing domestic responsibilities with public duty.
This meticulously researched novel not only provides a deep dive into history but also offers an engrossing portrayal of dialogues and deliberations involving European dignitaries like Lord Castlereagh, George Canning of Britain, and Metternich, the Austrian Foreign Minister. Taking information from Adams’ personal diaries, Zucker is able to immerse readers into the past and experience the conversations with these famous people from history. Themes such as the contentious issue of slavery are tackled with nuance, illuminating the diverse perspectives of that period.
While the novel is dialogue-rich and action-light, it offers a reflective experience that may resonate more with readers who appreciate a deep exploration of characters and their conversations. I yearned for a deeper insight into John Quincy Adams by the story’s conclusion.
The Middle Generation will undoubtedly resonate with enthusiasts of American political history, offering a fresh perspective on a crucial chapter of the nation’s past. This engaging work of biographical fiction provides readers a look at the life of this often-overlooked political figure.
Pages: 507 | ASIN : B0CKY9DKW3
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/11/02/the-middle-generation-a-novel-of-john-quincy-adams-and-the-monroe-doctrine/
Camino to Love by Yolanda Elso-Ponzo is a contemporary Romance set against the backdrop of the 2010 World Cup. While going through her deceased father’s belongings, twenty-five-year-old Lily Harrison discovers an envelope bursting with cash in his closet, alongside a heartfelt note asking her to take his dream trip to Spain. Hesitant at first, Lily decides to honor her father’s last wish and travels to Pamplona with her friend, Jade. As she steps into the vibrant tapestry of Pamplona’s festivities and the exhilarating fervor of the World Cup, she crosses paths with Miguel, a man whose complexity seems to both intrigue and repel her.
Yolanda Elso-Ponzo’s exceptional writing shines through in the vivid portrayal of the San Fermin festival and the charged ambiance of the World Cup football. Through her adept use of descriptive language, she captures the essence of these vibrant events by skillfully interweaving sensory details and dynamic imagery, enabling readers to immerse themselves in the pulsating energy and cultural richness of the setting.
Camino to Love offers a leisurely-paced narrative that provides a refreshing break from typical suspenseful stories and the traditional tropes of Insta Love romance novels. It allows readers to immerse themselves at a gentle pace, making it a unique reading experience.
The characters leave an impact and pass along valuable lessons on love, family, friendship, culture, and sacrifices. Despite the exasperating nature of Miguel and Lily’s tumultuous push-and-pull dynamic, the provided context allows for a deeper understanding of their emotional journey, fostering empathy and a more profound connection with the intricacies of their relationship. It is a captivating read that caters to enthusiasts of contemporary romance novels with a cultural backdrop and those interested in the nuanced development of slow-burn romances.
Pages: 138 | ASIN : B0CHBD3L6V
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/11/02/camino-to-love/
In Robert A. Walker’s Six Moons, Seven Gods, loyalty and treachery entwine, friendships are tested, and dangerous secrets are held close to the heart. As deadly schemes unfold, an assassin’s life takes unexpected turns. At the same time, old acquaintances are revived from oblivion, and cryptic messages are delivered in this powerful plot that’s filled with many uncertainties. Additionally, rumors of murder spread about the land and threaten all who dwell within its borders. In this mystical world, chaos is propagated by the one sworn to the people, a daring assassination is set in motion, and the fate of a powerful captive is left yet to be decided. Six Moons, Seven Gods is a political tale that involves an intriguing mix of characters, including lovers, assassins, rulers, thieves, and a dreamer.
Robert A. Walker weaves themes of action, power, friendship, and love to create a brilliant, compelling narrative that hooks the reader from start to finish. I found myself turning the pages quickly as I couldn’t wait to unravel the next part of the plot. I especially enjoyed the author’s depiction of caramadie and friendship, as the characters are seen joking and teasing one another with statements like “You couldn’t rob a blind man if he left his doors unlocked.” Furthermore, the vivid descriptions make it a joy to picture the characters. For example, one character is described as having “chiseled facial features, skin browned by the sun, and thick crown of black curly hair.”
Six Moons, Seven Gods is told through multiple perspectives and involves various characters from different walks of life. I especially like Mari, as she blacks out and has visions that make her seem mysterious and intriguing. This is also the first book in the Legends of Baelon series, so keep in mind that this novel is setting up the whole series.
Fans of books set in a medieval, magical world will be captivated by this book. Amidst assassination plots and arrow attacks, visionary characters and mystical incidents leave you with suspense and deep questions that keep you turning the pages for more. Readers will find themselves laughing, their hearts racing, and their minds engaged with its intricate plot.
Pages: 307 | ASIN : B0CJ5ZG487
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/11/02/six-moons-seven-gods/
In the throes of college recruitment, basketball prodigy T.R. Ward finds himself at the center of intense scrutiny. Alongside him, his journalist friend and peer, Patrick Kiernan, enjoys a unique vantage point, chronicling the escalating pressures that come with being an emerging athlete in America. Though T.R. benefits from a supportive entourage—including his coach, mother, and Patrick—there remains an underlying tension: will this support be enough to guide him as he determines his collegiate destiny?
Ken Hogarty’s Recruiting Blue Chip Prospects deftly captures this tension. Contrary to what its title might suggest, which hints at a corporate how-to guide, the novel immerses readers in an evocative and introspective journey through the world of high school athletics. Hogarty’s narrative not only delves deep into the intricacies of college sports recruitment but also extrapolates its themes to broader life scenarios, suggesting that many of us, at some point, grapple with the pressures akin to those faced by elite athletes.
Hogarty’s prose is rich in character development, fostering a connection between readers and protagonists. By tracing their trials, tribulations, and victories, he underscores the humanity of these young athletes, reminding us that they are multifaceted individuals and not solely defined by their athletic prowess.
Vividly painting the tapestry of high school life—with its boundless energy, naivete, idealism, romance, and the inevitable missteps—the narrative resonates with a sense of nostalgia, punctuated with moments that feel universally relatable.
Hogarty’s authentic and witty dialogue adds vibrancy to the narrative. He embraces the “show, don’t tell” adage, using dialogue to subtly illuminate the characters’ perspectives and motivations. This technique ensures a dynamic and immersive reading experience.
Engaging, humorous, and poignant, Recruiting Blue Chip Prospects is not merely a story about sports; it’s a reflection on youth, aspiration, and the challenges we face in our journey to find our place in the world.
Pages: 300 | ISBN : 1639889760
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/11/02/recruiting-blue-chip-prospects/
SQL Quest: A Journey Through Data by Neha Saini is a brilliantly crafted guide that delves deep into the realm of databases. Seamlessly blending fictional narratives with educative content, the book invites readers to join Data, Query the Princesses, and a diverse cast of characters on thrilling adventures. These adventures not only entertain but also illustrate complex SQL concepts in a manner that’s both engaging and comprehensible.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its interactive format. Saini employs a mix of challenges, riddles, and puzzles to ensure that readers are not just passive observers but active participants in the learning journey. This hands-on approach is complemented by clear, step-by-step instructions that demystify SQL for readers of all ages.
What’s commendable is Saini’s ability to cater to a younger audience without compromising on depth. By introducing concepts using kid-friendly terms and relatable scenarios, she ensures that even young children can grasp the intricacies of SQL without feeling overwhelmed.
The inclusion of characters like Data and Query adds a delightful layer to the guide. These characters, along with their companions, serve as relatable conduits, making the abstract world of databases tangible and accessible.
SQL Quest: A Journey Through Data is more than just a book; it’s an immersive experience. Whether you’re a novice looking to explore databases or someone seeking a refreshing approach to SQL, this book is a must-read.
Pages: 186 | ASIN : B0CJ5WKTNN
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/11/02/sql-quest-a-journey-through-data/