Smashbomb

Search

Search results

All (2773)

Content

Three Novels by Cesar Aira

Cesar Aira

(0 Ratings) Rate It

Book

Three novels by Cesar Aira combines three short novels by the cult Argentinian writer in one...

Suswatibasu (1701 KP) rated The Poisonwood Bible in Books

Jul 24, 2017

The Poisonwood Bible

Barbara Kingsolver | 2013 | Fiction & Poetry

7.9

(15 Ratings)

Book Rating

Detailed look into colonialism in Congo

Barbara Kingsolver's epic novel about missionaries and colonialism in the Congo through the eyes of the women in a Christian American family is decadent and detailed. While many will complain about the hard hitting truths of complicity of western nations in destroying the country, it is extremely important and brings to light many historically overlooked issues.

Keeping in mind that this is fictional, the various narratives are well researched to the point where at times it seems plausible and factual. The four main voices are completely different from one another and sometimes the anti-communist voice seemed like a mockery of that type of rhetoric. Leah's voice seemed more realistic than the others. Overall, a well written piece of literary fiction.

Kudos

Enyeh (71 KP) rated The War of the Worlds in Books

Aug 9, 2017

The War of the Worlds

H.G. Wells | 2012 | Fiction & Poetry, Science Fiction/Fantasy

7.7

(22 Ratings)

Book Rating

Through the first 2/3 of this book, I thought I was going to be disappointed - in fact, given how far I'd gotten without feeling particularly engaged, I think I can say I was in fact disappointed. But in the end, Wells makes up for it: not with any extreme plot twists or cheap literary tricks, but with a sense of profundity, with a moral. War of the Worlds isn't the Hollywood movie that came after it, or even the notorious radio show that caused the panic of a nation - instead, it's a novel about a man and his thoughts in the face of the worst disaster. It's a discussion of humanity, psychology, and morality, disguised as an alien adventure.

Kudos

Kirsten Myra Edwards (303 KP) rated The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society in Books

Feb 2, 2020

I love love love this book. The story follows a writer in the aftermath of war torn London. She needs inspiration for her latest article or novel when the answer lands on her doorstep in the shape of a letter from Guernsey. She follows the tale of their literary society and how it got them through the war. The only question is why hasn't Elizabeth come home.

What an amazing story and really highlights the horrible life people had to live through during the occupation. Rightfully this was made into a film which is still good but when you read the book your find out so much more about the characters and their lives.

A must read for anyone who likes history.