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The River Between
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Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o | Heinemann

The River Between

$9.64 $3.90 60% off

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$9.64 $3.90 60% off

84% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of cultural dynamics, "The River Between" could be your next immersive read. Ngugi Thiong'o beautifully captures the tension between tradition and change, providing insight not just into Kenyan history, but the universal human condition. Waiyaki's quest will resonate with anyone who has ever stood at the crossroads of progress and heritage, making you ponder where you stand too.
Night for Day
Patrick Flanery | July 4, 2019

Night for Day

$12.90 $6.90 47% off

Goodreads rating: 3.29

$12.90 $6.90 47% off

79% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the murky intersection of politics and art, "Night for Day" might resonate with you deeply. It's not just a historical exploration of the Red Scare's impact on Hollywood—it's a rich tapestry that evokes the paranoia and intensity of the era. Through its blend of real tension and allusions to both classic American and mythic literature, you'd experience a consuming narrative that mirrors the fear of complicity and the pain of exile, making it not just a novel but a cinematic journey through one of America's darker chapters.
Jerusalem Commands
Michael Moorcock | Phoenix

Jerusalem Commands

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$15.90 $4.90 69% off

If you're after an adventure through the tumultuous early decades of the 20th century, embodied by a protagonist who’s as flawed as he is fascinating, "Jerusalem Commands" could be just what you're looking for. Pyat's picaresque journey through the interwar years is a blend of historical insight and pure escapism, offering a front-row seat to the era's defining moments through the eyes of an undeniably charismatic anti-hero.
One Man's Bible - Thryft
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Gao Xingjian | Perennial

One Man's Bible

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

If you're intrigued by the resilience of the human spirit amidst political turmoil, Gao Xingjian's "One Man's Bible" could be a compelling read for you. It's not just historical context or a personal memoir; it's a crafted narrative that immerses you in the psychological and emotional landscape of a man caught in the whirlwind of China's Cultural Revolution and its aftermath. This book could provide a profound understanding of the intersection between the personal and the political, delivered with a literary grace that earned Gao a Nobel Prize.
The Gnome's Eye - Thryft
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Anna Kerz | Orca Book Publishers

The Gnome's Eye

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

75% off est. retail
The Gnome's Eye by Anna Kerz is a heartwarming story that follows the life of a young refugee named Theresa. The book beautifully captures the emotional journey of leaving one's homeland and settling in a foreign land. The most distinctive feature of the book is the magical stone called the Gnome's Eye that Theresa's friend gives her as a protective charm. This book is a must-read for those who enjoy coming-of-age stories with a touch of magical realism. The book has received positive reviews and is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.
I Am Homeless If This Is Not My Home
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Lorrie Moore | Faber

I Am Homeless If This Is Not My Home

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.31

$11.90

54% off est. retail
If you've ever felt torn between places and people, or if you've ever had to find your footing amid national chaos and personal turmoil, this book speaks volumes. It's a story that unflinchingly explores themes of loss, love, and what it means to truly be home. Lorrie Moore's narrative captures the raw essence of human connections, woven into the tapestry of a country's frenzy, which might resonate deeply with your own experiences.
Journey to the End of the Night - Thryft
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Louis-Ferdinand Céline | New Directions

Journey to the End of the Night

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

If you're drawn to literary works that challenge the status quo with scathing wit, "Journey to the End of the Night" could be your next great read. Céline's influential antihero, Bardamu, invites you into a world where dark humor dances with nihilism. It's a journey not just across geographies but through the extremes of human experience, crafted with a prose that's as poetically explosive as the events it recounts.
Darkness at Noon
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Arthur Koestler, Daphne Hardy  | Scribner

Darkness at Noon

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.90 $7.90 20% off

68% off est. retail
"Darkness at Noon" dives deep into the chilling reality of living under a totalitarian regime and how it can betray even its most loyal servants. As you navigate through the protagonist's psychological torture, the book forces you to confront the complex layers of political idealism and its often devastating personal cost. It's a poignant exploration for anyone fascinated by political ideologies or the psychological depth of human belief systems, challenging you in ways that go far beyond a simple historical narrative.
The Three Kingdoms. Luo Guanzhong - Thryft
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Shirley Chiang, Luo Guanzhong, Christine Sun  | Real Reads

The Three Kingdoms. Luo Guanzhong

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$5.90

This book could be a good read for you if you are captivated by epic historical sagas filled with war, betrayal, and honor. The Three Kingdoms takes you on a thrilling journey through the turbulent era of ancient China, where cunning strategists, charismatic leaders, and loyal warriors vie for power. It will immerse you in a world of epic battles, elaborate strategies, and intense emotions, teaching you the timeless lessons of history along the way. Get ready to be swept away by this saga of intrigue, valor, and brotherhood.
The Spectator Bird
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Wallace Stegner, Jane Smiley  | Penguin Classics

The Spectator Bird

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$8.90

If you've ever felt like life is passing you by or you're watching from the sidelines, "The Spectator Bird" by Wallace Stegner could speak directly to you. Stegner's prose weaves through past and present, offering a profound look at the search for meaning in a seemingly disconnected life. It's for anyone who appreciates introspective journeys and the elegance of contemplative storytelling.
A Storm of Swords: Part 1 Steel and Snow - Thryft
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George R.R. Martin | Harper Voyager

A Storm of Swords: Part 1 Steel and Snow

$8.56

Goodreads rating: 4.46

$8.56

Reasons to read: - This book takes the epic fantasy genre to a whole new level with its intricate plot and well-developed characters. - The political intrigue and power struggles will keep you on the edge of your seat. - The intense battles and conflicts will leave you breathless and craving for more. - George R.R. Martin's storytelling is captivating, making it hard to put the book down.
Abraham's Promise - Thryft
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Philip Jeyaretnam | University Of Hawaii Press

Abraham's Promise

$4.47

Goodreads rating: 3.41

$4.47

76% off est. retail
"Abraham's Promise" takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery and nostalgia as Abraham, the protagonist, reflects on his life and how the culture and society of Singapore have changed over the years. It is a well-written and thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of idealism, cynicism, and maturation. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with historical and cultural insights.
Daughter Of The Tigris - Thryft
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محسن الرملي, Luke Leafgren, Muhsin Al-Ramli  | Maclehose Press

Daughter Of The Tigris

$3.88 $2.72 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$3.88 $2.72 30% off

Daughter of the Tigris explores the human cost of war and how violence can twist people beyond recognition. Muhsin Al-Ramli pens a gripping portrait of Qisma as she makes her way through the chaos of war-torn Iraq to find her father's remains. This novel teaches us that even in the midst of violence, love and mercy can still survive.
The Reader
Bernhard Schlink, Carol Brown Janeway  | Phoenix

The Reader

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$9.90

57% off est. retail
"The Reader" resonates deeply with anyone interested in the complexities of human emotions against the backdrop of history. It's more than a tale of love; it's a profound reflection on intergenerational legacy and the weight of collective guilt. Bernhard Schlink offers a narrative that is both intimate and monumental, exploring how history's darkest times infiltrate personal lives and relationships. If you're drawn to stories that grapple with moral ambiguity and the power of redemption, this is a book that will linger with you.
The Association of Small Bombs - Thryft
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Karan Mahajan | Vintage

The Association of Small Bombs

$10.86 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$10.86 $4.90 55% off

81% off est. retail
This book could be a gem for you if the human side of tragic events intrigues you. Karan Mahajan delves deep into the psyche of terrorism's aftermath, not just on victims, but on the perpetrators as well. The narrative is fearless and empathetic, making "The Association of Small Bombs" a profound read that addresses the complexities of political violence and its far-reaching consequences. It could change the way you perceive the news, empathy, and justice.
Narcissus and Goldmund
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Hermann Hesse | Penguin Classics

Narcissus and Goldmund

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$8.90

51% off est. retail
Imagine walking two roads diverged in a medieval wood and finding a novel that twists the tale: a resonating quest for meaning that knows no time. "Narcissus and Goldmund" doesn't just paint history; it delves deep into the psyche of two contrasting characters, inviting you to ponder life's extremes and the pursuit of purpose. Hermann Hesse's lyrical prose transforms an old world into a timeless reflection of human nature, making it a read as enriching as it is introspective.
Masked Dolls - Thryft
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Chiung-Yu Shih, Poppy Toland, Xinlin Wang  | Balestier Press

Masked Dolls

$3.57

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$3.57

An Australian woman, burdened by the original sin of her Caucasian ancestors, and a Taiwanese woman, haunted by the memories of 100 years of conflict in her homeland, meet as backpackers while travelling in South Korea. As they live and travel together, two women in flight, one from the East and the other from the West, struggle to find a way out of their personal dilemmas. * * * Shortly after the dawn of the new millennium, Judy and Jiaying are thrown together in a youth hostel in Seoul, both having escaped long-term relationships. Their arrival in Seoul in the first year of the 21st century coincides with passionate anti-American demonstrations on the streets of the city, as South Koreans protest against US troops being stationed in their country, western hegemony and the manipulations of arms dealers. Anti-American sentiment spreads like wildfire. Judy’s parents hail from Britain and France, meet in Paris during a volatile period in French history – the student movement of 1968 – and later migrate to Australia to begin a new life. After her parents part, Judy abandons racial and cultural prejudice and, while studying in Tokyo, falls in love with Zhou, a Chinese student from Beijing. But this stormy relationship eventually culminates in violence and Judy, fleeing its demise, escapes to Seoul. Jiaying’s family are from war-torn China, which, in the 19th century had suffered invasion and colonisation by the British and French; in the 20th century had been occupied by the Japanese, under the pretext of liberating Asia from Western imperialists; and was then convulsed by a Communist revolution propped up by the Russians. Having both fought in and sought to escape the wars, Jiaying’s grandparents and parents eventually settle in Taiwan, carrying with them the scars of a century of conflict. Attempting to begin a new life on this island of exiles, they struggle to come to terms with the humiliation that generations of Chinese people had suffered. Jiaying, twelve years older than Judy, becomes her only confidante, as the younger woman pours out her frustrations. Judy still loves her Chinese boyfriend, but could never really understand him. In Judy’s painful struggle to come to terms with the past, Jiaying is reminded of her own history, from which she still seeks an escape. Nationalism that has wounded and distorted history time and again over the last hundred years; violence as a consequence of sexuality repressed by Confucianism … as Jiaying began her relationship with a European man, these things had begun to seep into her life. Judy’s story gives Jiaying a channel to sort out her own thoughts and gradually begin the healing process. And yet, even as the women forge new paths through the emotional jungle of their lives, violence once again shatters the potential for peace of mind. * * * " Masked Dolls is an unusual look at how the metaphorical shrinking of the world affects people at an individual level. It considers a number of consequences, particularly for the novel never fails to remind us that we live in a patriarchal society which will not tolerate interracial relationships. Masked Dolls is one of those rare books which after reading reveals itself to be greater than the sum of its parts. Brutal, intense, fascinating."--- The Writes of Woman .
In A Far Country - Thryft
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K.S. Maniam | Skoob Books Pub Ltd

In A Far Country

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 3.21

$6.34

In A Far Country is a remarkable novel for its experiment. It moves beyond early Malayan writing in English which sought to establish a local literary imagination in opposition to an imposed colonial one. In A Far Country seeks to free itself from this literary ghetto by addressing national issues and departing from realism to do so.
Abraham's Promise - Thryft
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Philip Jeyaretnam | Times Books International

Abraham's Promise

$3.28

Goodreads rating: 3.41

$3.28

Abraham Isaac, teacher of Latin, philosopher and father, has, after many years, a young pupil. Teaching pulls him back into his memories: of Rose, his first love; Mercy, his stubborn sister; and most of all of Rani, his beloved wife. Of days of youth and promise, when he threw himself into the politics of Singapore in the 50s and 60s. Days when temperance and restraint gave way to action and desire. Days when the culture and society of Singapore were defined and molded. Days when he believed he had a valuable role to play as a proud citizen of a new country. Now he is old, and the burden of his years weighs on him heavily. Distanced from a present devoid of idealism and obsessed with power and money, Abraham is estranged from his strong, successful son. Descending into the past, Abraham is led from the promise of youth, through cynicism born of experience, to an understanding and reconciliation of his life and times hard-won in maturity. Prizewinning author Philip Jeyaretnam was declared Young Artist of the Year for 1993 by the Singapore National Arts Council. Abraham's Promise is his second novel.
Another Man
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Leslie Croxford | Paper + Ink

Another Man

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$8.90

56% off est. retail
"Another Man" could be a fascinating read if you're drawn to stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships and self-discovery. Leslie Croxford's writing could transport you into the depths of character introspection, making you ponder your own life and the people in it. It's a book that might stay with you long after you turn the last page, as it touches on universal themes with a personal touch.
One Man's Bible
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Gao Xingjian | Harper

One Man's Bible

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$8.90

If you're drawn to narratives that blend personal history with larger historical events, "One Man's Bible" may resonate with you. Gao Xingjian's steady prose will guide you through a poignant exploration of memory, suffering under Mao's regime, and the redemptive power of storytelling. This novel is particularly suited for those interested in the psychological impact of political turmoil and how it shapes a life in self-imposed exile.
Joseph Conrad: the Eastern Sto : The Eastern Sto - Thryft
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Joseph Conrad | Penguin

Joseph Conrad: the Eastern Sto : The Eastern Sto

$4.69

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$4.69

68% off est. retail
This collection brings together Conrad's most representative stories from South-East Asia, set in Java, Borneo, Singapore and Sumatra. They portray life during a period of rapid colonial expansion when society was changing dramatically. The characters are captured in moments of confrontation, often tragic, between differing ways of life, as European culture comes into conflict with indigenous Malay traditions. Included " A Narrative", " A Memory", "The End of the Tether", "The Lagoon", "Because of the Dollars" and "The Secret Sharer".
Burning Sapphires - Thryft
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Suresh K. Goswami | Partridgeindia

Burning Sapphires

$8.23 $5.76 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.66

$8.23 $5.76 30% off

81% off est. retail
Burning Sapphires could be a good read for someone interested in inspiring stories about leadership, resilience, and community building. The book takes you on a journey of a young girl who is thrusted into challenging situations, but emerges as a strong leader, taking charge of her community. Set in the beautiful village of Machail, Kashmir, the book offers a unique perspective of the region, and highlights the plight of millions of Kashmiri Muslims and refugees who are trapped in a terror-stricken valley. The book inspires readers to believe in themselves, trust their abilities, and work towards creating a life of contentment, dignity, and pride.
Waterland
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Graham Swift | Vintage International

Waterland

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$7.90

76% off est. retail
Waterland could be a great read for someone looking to explore the intersection of personal and collective history. Swift's vivid imagery and intimate storytelling put the reader on the banks of the Fen, while grappling with questions of knowledge, loss, and storytelling itself. This book is a must-read for fans of the historical fiction genre.
Human Traces
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Sebastian Faulks | Hutchinson

Human Traces

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$7.90 $5.90 25% off

77% off est. retail
"Human Traces" takes you on a thoughtful journey back in time, where you'll traverse the evolving landscape of psychiatric understanding alongside richly drawn characters. For anyone fascinated by the intricacies of the human mind and the bonds that tie us together through the ages, Sebastian Faulks' blend of historical detail and psychological exploration makes this book a nuanced read that's both informative and deeply human.
The Judgment of Marvell
Christine Rees | Unkno

The Judgment of Marvell

$32.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$32.90

If you have a penchant for literary criticism and the works of Andrew Marvell, "The Judgment of Marvell" by Christine Rees is a treasure trove. It delves deep into the historical contexts and lasting impacts of Marvell's poetry, offering insights that might reshuffle your understanding of this canonical writer. Whether you're a student, a scholar, or simply an enthusiast of nuanced literary analysis, this book could deepen your appreciation of Marvell's craft.
A Terrible Country - Thryft
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Keith Gessen | Viking

A Terrible Country

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$13.90 $9.90 29% off

"A Terrible Country" isn't just a vivid travelogue into the heart of modern Russia; it's a deeply personal tale that resonates with anyone who's ever grappled with their place between cultures. It draws you in with relatable humor but doesn't shy away from the poignant realities of caring for a loved one, all set against a backdrop of a nation's turbulent change. If you're intrigued by the personal stories etched within larger historical landscapes, Keith Gessen's novel could be a meaningful addition to your shelf.
三国演义
Luo Guanzhong | Fujian Children's Press

三国演义

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.90

46% off est. retail
For fans of rich historical narratives and complex characters, "三国演义" (Romance of the Three Kingdoms) is a treasure trove that takes you on a gripping journey through the chaotic era of the Three Kingdoms. Its combination of legendary battles, strategic genius, and moral quandaries framed in a context of colorful illustrations and innovative multimedia components, like QR code audio, makes ancient Chinese history enthralling for both young readers and adults alike. This classic is not just a window into the past; it's a timeless exploration of power, loyalty, and human resilience.
East of Eden
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John Steinbeck | Penguin

East of Eden

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.44

$8.90

61% off est. retail
If you're drawn to sprawling family epics filled with philosophical musings on good and evil, "East of Eden" might captivate you. Steinbeck weaves the personal stories of the Trask and Hamilton families with grander themes, much like a modern take on a biblical parable. It's a book that's often considered Steinbeck's crowning achievement, with complex characters and an exploration of fate versus free will that could keep you pondering long after the last page.
The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories
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David McDuff, Leo Tolstoy, Anthony Briggs  | Penguin Classics

The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$7.90

66% off est. retail
If you've ever felt daunted by Tolstoy's larger works, these stories serve as an accessible entry point into his literary world. They encapsulate his preoccupation with life's depth, mortality, and moral complexities in bite-sized, equally powerful narratives. Diving into these, you'll not only get a taste of Tolstoy's genius but also encounter stories that echo with relevance, even to a modern reader.
The Kite Runner
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Khaled Hosseini | Anchor Canada

The Kite Runner

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$9.90

60% off est. retail
This is the kind of novel that stays with you because it makes personal betrayal feel painfully real against the sweep of a changing Afghanistan. If you like emotional stories about friendship, regret, and second chances, this one hits hard without feeling hollow. Readers often remember how intimate and human it feels, even as it carries the weight of history and loss.
War and Peace
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Leo Tolstoy | Arcturus

War and Peace

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$9.90

This is the kind of book people finish feeling like they have lived alongside its characters. It moves from battlefields to ballrooms to private doubts with a sweep that feels immense, yet deeply human. If you like novels that wrestle with love, purpose, history, and the chaos of real life, this one offers a rich, unforgettable world to sink into.