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Suswatibasu (1703 KP) rated Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis in Books

Oct 22, 2017

An untold story of white working-class poverty in the US

J. D. Vance's homage to his poverty-stricken, working class roots in America is essential reading for those attempting to understand how a person like Trump can end up in power.

Without attributing the 2016 election results to Vance and his family himself, the author paints a picture of a total disconnect between establishments and white working class voters. From education, to opportunities in climbing the social ladder, Vance can be seen as an exception due to the lack of outreach from these institutions.

His story can appear both depressing and uplifting at the same time. From experiencing trauma through a broken home, poverty, and an abusive addict mother, to having supportive grandparents who are able to push him into believing in himself. Vance breaks the mould eventually studying at Yale and becoming a venture capitalist. But his doubts in himself are ever present.

Vance, however, also blames 'hillbilly' culture and it's encouragement of social rot. Likewise, he recounts stories about lack of work ethic, and the notion of blaming others for their own misfortune. It highlights the need for stability in families in order for upward mobility.

It is a raw, emotional portrait of growing up in and eventually out of a poor rural community riddled by drug addiction and volatility.

Kudos

Jonathan Baker (2 KP) rated Cthulhu Wars in Tabletop Games

Apr 5, 2018

Cthulhu Wars

2015 | Fantasy, Fighting, Horror, Miniatures

8.7

(3 Ratings)

Tabletop Game Rating

Well balanced (2 more)

Fantastic models

Interesting mechanics

Takes a while to get going (1 more)

Not to be taken lightly

Risk, but with outer planer beings and more death

So,
This game is pretty epic to play.
A basic knowledge of Lovecraftian lore definitely helps, however not essential.

You need a bit a patience whilst setting up and the first few rounds. You also really need to read a good chunk of the instruction book.
HOWEVER.

There has been a lot of tweeking with this game before putting it out, as I've played a few games now and found that anything odd or "broken" is easily explained in the FAQ's that you don't need to read on set up.

The models and artwork are pure horrifying beauty. Probably the best artwork I have seen in a table top game.

The game is easy to set up, but a working brain does help when playing, as you have to keep an eye on EVERYTHING.

All of the factions have been balanced wonderfully, some have raw strength but is countered by intelligent play.

If you like anything Lovecraft, this game is definitely for your.
War/strategy game fans. It's great with an interesting twist on the traditional war games.
Model lovers... great models. My DM has used them in some D&D/ Pathfinder sessions.

Kudos

Rachel King (13 KP) rated Morning in the Burned House in Books

Feb 11, 2019

Though I really cannot remember the last time I read a book of poetry, when I spotted this library discard by the well-respected Canadian author, Margaret Atwood, I could not resist. I was hooked with the first poem, as I felt that these words could have echoed from my own thoughts -- a feeling that continued with many more poems in this book. I also loved that she did not feel the need to make her poems rhyme or follow any specific rhythm. I believe the technical term is free verse. At any rate, it was much more freeing to read than the typical poetry I remember from my school days. I find myself also growing in respect for the author, as I think it is rather courageous to publish a book of poetry, even for an established author like Margaret Atwood. Poetry somehow feels more raw and closer to the heart of the author than a lengthy work of fiction. Though I have jotted down bits of poetry in private moments, I would not dare share most of it with anyone. Some of my favorites are "A Sad Child", "Red Fox", and "Helen of Try Does Counter Dancing", but I found something to like in every poem. I highly recommend this very enjoyable read, even if poetry is not your cup of tea.