Bestselling Fiction
Browse popular, highly rated secondhand fiction books at affordable prices, starting from just S$3.90! Titles in this collection boast above 4 stars on Goodreads, with over 1000 ratings.
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Sara Nović
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Random
House
Trade
Paperbacks
Girl at War: A Novel
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Goodreads rating: 4.01
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"Girl at War" doesn't simply acquaint you with the tragedies of conflict, it envelops you in the life of Ana Jurić, whose youthful innocence is shattered by war. This narrative captures a deeply personal account that resonates with universal truths about loss, identity, and the quest for peace. It's both profoundly intimate and staggeringly grand, ensuring you’ll carry Ana's story with you long after the last page.
P.G. Wodehouse
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Arrow
Aunts Aren't Gentlemen - A Jeeves and Wooster Novel
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Goodreads rating: 4.18
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If you're in need of a literary palate cleanser, "Aunts Aren't Gentlemen" can serve as the perfect comedic interlude to your reading list. The quirky dynamics between endearing characters like Bertie Wooster and his sagacious valet, Jeeves, are bound to bring a smile to your face. The delightful English countryside setting, coupled with P.G. Wodehouse's timeless wit, forms a story that's as refreshing as it is amusing. This is a light-hearted romp through the trials of upper-class life that seem to be handled effortlessly by the ever-impeccable Jeeves.
Elizabeth Taylor
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Virago
Mrs Palfrey at the Claremont
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Goodreads rating: 3.98
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Think of "Mrs Palfrey at the Claremont" as a bridge connecting generations with gentle humor and acute observation of human nature. It’s a treat for those who appreciate characters that leap off the page and into your heart, wrapped in a story that’s both heartwarming and bittersweet. Elizabeth Taylor's fine-tuned prose weaves this unlikely friendship into a testament to human connection, making it a profoundly touching read for anyone who has ever found friendship in the most unexpected places.
David Macleod Black, Robert Pogue Harrison, Dante Alighieri |
New
York
Review
Books
Purgatorio
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Goodreads rating: 4.05
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If you've ever felt lost in life's journey and sought a story of hope and redemption, Dante's "Purgatorio" could offer profound resonance. This new translation by D. M. Black might be just the right blend of historical epic and contemporary accessibility. Plus, being a bilingual edition with insightful commentary, it's a treasure for both the poetic soul and the keen thinker.
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If you're drawn to classics that delve into the complexities of social dynamics, "Howards End" offers a poignant exploration. Through the interwoven lives of three families, Forster masterfully exposes the tensions of class, idealism, and human connectivity. It's particularly engaging for anyone interested in the intricate portrait of early 20th-century England and the timeless struggles that resonate even today.
Gillian Day, William Shakespeare |
The
Arden
Shakespeare
Richard III
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Goodreads rating: 3.91
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If you're intrigued by how theatrical interpretation can breathe new life into Shakespeare's work, "Richard III" from the Arden Shakespeare series is a compelling choice. These editions delve into the various ways the plays have been brought to the stage, especially at the revered Stratford-upon-Avon. The inclusion of unique photographs and scholarly analysis makes this an enriching read for students, academics, and general readers passionate about theatre.
Just Arrived
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"The Bonfire of the Vanities" is sharp and unforgiving, with Tom Wolfe's keen observational wit slicing through the veneer of high society. If you're intrigued by the excesses of Wall Street and the unsavory appetite of media and politics for scandal, this novel offers a scathing critique that's both entertaining and thought-provoking. Plus, if you're into books with a strong sense of time and place that act as a social commentary, this might just be your next favorite read.
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If you're feeling stuck in a rut, "Zorba the Greek" might just be the literary escape you need. Through Zorba, you'll experience a love for life that's contagious, philosophical, and deeply human, as he teaches the more reserved English writer—and by extension, you—to embrace the beauty of existence. It's not just a journey to Crete; it's a journey into living without regret.
David James Duncan
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Dial
Press
Trade
Paperback
Brothers K
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Goodreads rating: 4.39
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Duncan took almost 10 years to follow up the publication of his much-praised first novel, The River Why, but this massive second effort is well worth the wait. It is a stunning work: a complex tapestry of family tensions, baseball, politics and religion, by turns hilariously funny and agonizingly sad. Highly inventive formally, the novel is mainly narrated by Kincaid Chance, the youngest son in a family of four boys and identical twin girls, the children of Hugh Chance, a discouraged minor-league ballplayer whose once-promising career was curtained by an industrial accident, and his wife Laura, an increasingly fanatical Seventh-Day Adventist. The plot traces the working-out of the family's fate from the beginning of the Eisenhower years through the traumas of Vietnam.
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If you enjoy diving into the depths of human experiences through a collection of short stories, then "Selected Stories" by Alice Munro is for you. Munro's remarkable ability to convey the nuances of everyday life with profound insight is on full display here. Each story is crafted with clear, lucid prose, making them accessible yet deeply affecting. As you journey through different lives and times, Munro's writing promises to linger in your thoughts long after the last page.
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If you're looking to explore the depths of human ethics against the backdrop of a poignant Southern setting, "To Kill a Mockingbird" is that journey. Not only does it elegantly depict struggles with conscience through the innocent eyes of children but it's also underpinned by a narrative that's as moving as it is enlightening—an experience that resonates long after the last page. Harper Lee's ability to weave a story that reflects on society's imperfections while celebrating the potential for goodness makes this a must-read.
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"The Bone People" offers you a profound narrative journey, one that explores deep emotional landscapes and the intricacies of human relationships. It's a thought-provoking read for those who appreciate cultural depth and character-driven stories. The raw emotion, poetic prose, and cultural insights will linger with you long after the final page. If you seek a novel that delves into the complexities of the human spirit and the clash of cultures with a haunting beauty, this is it.
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If this past year has left you reflecting on the unexpected turns life can take and the beauty in finding oneself amidst chaos, Jodi Picoult's "Wish You Were Here" could resonate with you. It's an evocative exploration of our times, wrapped in a story that promises both the warmth of humanity and the thrill of unforeseen adventure. Picoult's narrative could offer you a companionable mirror to your own thoughts and feelings about these uncertain times.
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If you're drawn to stories that deeply explore the intersections of family, race, and the legacy of the American South, "Sing, Unburied, Sing" by Jesmyn Ward may resonate with you. The prose is poetic and immersive, making the characters’ struggles and internal worlds incredibly vivid. Especially in a time when examining the complexities of identity and belonging is more relevant than ever, Jesmyn Ward offers a narrative that is both a harsh reflection of societal issues and a tender tale of familial bonds.
William Shakespeare
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Heinemann
Hamlet
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Goodreads rating: 4.02
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If you're delving into Shakespeare, "Hamlet" is a masterpiece that's not to be missed. This edition is particularly student-friendly, easing the transition from GCSE to A Level with its helpful notes. The assignments after each act encourage deep reflection and analysis, making it an interactive experience that's geared towards both understanding and appreciating this complex play.
Margaret Jull Costa, Paulo Coelho |
Harper
Like the Flowing River: Thoughts and Reflections
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Goodreads rating: 3.91
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"Like the Flowing River" might resonate with you if you're in a reflective mood, craving insights on existence delivered through easily digestible stories. Coelho's expertise in weaving together tales that touch on life's big questions is renowned, and this book isn't an exception. Those who love to ponder the twists and turns of destiny, choice, and love will find quiet companionship in these pages.
Just Arrived
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"Chowringhee" offers a vivid tableau of 1960s Calcutta seen through the microcosm of a prestigious hotel. Its rich narrative explores the complexity of human relationships and gives you a peek into the colourful mosaic that is urban Indian life. You might find it both nostalgic and enlightening, a perfect blend for those fascinated by culture and history.
Lang Leav
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Andrews
Mcmeel
Publishing
Love and Misadventure
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Goodreads rating: 3.93
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Love & Misadventure could be a good read for those who have experienced the rollercoaster ride of love. Lang Leav's evocative poetry beautifully captures the complexities of love and heartbreak, taking readers on a personal yet universal journey. Her ability to express profound emotions in simple yet powerful words will resonate with anyone who has loved and lost. Prepare to be moved by the raw honesty and hope that shines through this collection.
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"Little Fires Everywhere" truly resonates with anyone who appreciates complex character dynamics and the often unspoken tension between societal expectations and personal desires. Celeste Ng delves into the intricacies of motherhood, adolescence, and the illusion of a perfect life in a way that's both relatable and thought-provoking, igniting a reflection on your own life's 'little fires'.
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If you're looking to immerse yourself in a profound narrative that grapples with the horrors of slavery and its long-lasting impact, "Beloved" by Toni Morrison is an essential read. Morrison's masterful storytelling vividly brings to life the psychological depth of her characters, making it an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after the final page.
William Boyd
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Penguin
Canada
Brazzaville Beach
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Goodreads rating: 3.95
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If you're looking for a story that blends the excitement of scientific discovery with the depth of personal introspection, "Brazzaville Beach" will captivate you. The novel's intertwining of Hope Clearwater’s personal journey with the tumultuous politics of a corner of Africa offers a rich tapestry of conflict and contemplation. Boyd’s masterful narrative will make you ponder the complexities of life and our place in the world.
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Empty string.
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If you're drawn to the darker side of the human experience, Dazai Osamu's "인간실격" ("No Longer Human") could resonate deeply with you. It's a stark, haunting dive into the psyche of a man who feels utterly detached from the society around him. The introspective narration and profound exploration of identity and the struggle for meaning have made it a timeless classic in existential literature.
Jon Ellis, Iain S. Thomas, pleasefindthis |
Central
Avenue
Publishing
I Wrote This for You
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Goodreads rating: 4.08
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"I Wrote This For You" feels like a personal treasure meant only for you, yet it resonates universally. It's a mosaic of reflections on love, loss, and human emotions, melded with complementary photography. The deeper beauty of it lies in how the words make you feel understood, granting a sense of connection. If you're yearning for a book that echoes the intricacies of your inner world, this might just be the silent whisper you've been waiting to hear.
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If you crave a story that grips your heart tightly and lingers long after you've turned the last page, "A Little Life" is that emotionally heavy but profoundly moving read. It's an immersive journey that explores the complexities of human relationships, the weight of past traumas, and the enduring power of friendship. Just a heads-up: it's not a light read, so be prepared for a narrative that's as challenging as it is rewarding.
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If you appreciate literary mastery and are intrigued by the intricate layers of the human psyche as reflected through artful storytelling, David Foster Wallace's "Oblivion" should be next on your reading list. This collection of stories showcases Wallace's exceptional ability to weave together deep introspection with vivid narrative, marking him as a revolutionary voice in modern fiction. His unmatched craftsmanship in dissecting modernity will captivate your mind and provoke profound contemplation.
Tobias Wolff
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Knopf
Doubleday
Publishing
Group
The Night in Question
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Goodreads rating: 4.16
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If you enjoy stories that challenge expectations and probe at the complexities of truth, "The Night in Question" will likely captivate you. Tobias Wolff's masterful storytelling roots itself in the darkly comical and the painfully real, creating not just a read, but an experience. His prose might leave you questioning your own perceptions, with twists that satisfy a yearning for both the intellectually profound and emotionally resonant.
William Shakespeare
|
Composing
Room
&
Graphic
Arts
Typographers
The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark
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Goodreads rating: 4.02
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"Hamlet" isn't just a play; it's a journey into the human psyche. This particular edition, The Players' Shakespeare, brings the drama vividly to life, almost as if you're part of the audience in Elizabethan England. If you love classics that delve into existential queries and showcase the complexity of human emotions, this is the text that not only entertains but also provokes profound thought.
Pam Houston
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Washington
Square
Press
Cowboys Are My Weakness : Stories
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Goodreads rating: 4.08
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Recommendation: This collection of vividly narrated short stories follows heroines on their journey towards satisfying their semi-romantic, adventure-seeking cowboys craving, ultimately discovering their own strength and resilience in the process. Pam Houston's Cowboys Are My Weakness is a modern work of genius that amazingly captures the nuances of modern women and their struggles with love and relationship, and it's especially recommended to those who are looking for a unique blend of adventure and romance.
Just Arrived
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"Pilgrim's Progress" isn't just a book; it's a journey that mirrors our own search for meaning, resonating deeply with anyone on a path to greater understanding of their faith and life's purpose. Its timeless narrative speaks to the heart of perseverance amidst trials, making it an enduring read for those looking to be uplifted and inspired.
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If you're intrigued by the intricacies of family, community, and the teetering scales of morality against the backdrop of a changing India, Rohinton Mistry's "Such a Long Journey" might just be the read you're looking for. It's not only a window into the struggles of an ordinary man, but also a rich tapestry of the chaos and vibrancy of Bombay life. The narrative is steeped in cultural depth, offering a slice of history with a very human heart.
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"Middlemarch" isn't just a book; it's an immersion into the depth of an English town's transformation during the 19th century. Eliot's detailed narrative invites readers who appreciate character development and social commentary to explore the complexities of love, ambition, and reform. If you relish novels that double as time machines, taking you back to the bustle of a previous era's change and growth, then "Middlemarch" is a journey worth embarking upon.
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Maya Angelou, Langston Hughes |
Scribner
Not Without Laughter
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Goodreads rating: 4.23
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If you're intrigued by the resilience and complexity woven into the fabric of African-American experiences, "Not Without Laughter" could be a profound read for you. Langston Hughes captures the essence of a Black family's challenges and joys in an early 20th-century Kansas town with lyrical prowess that resonates deeply even today. It's a testament to the enduring human spirit.
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If you're drawn to stories that immerse you in a world teetering on the edge of change, "The Opposing Shore" might just be your next favorite read. Julien Gracq masterfully paints a portrait of a society suspended in a precarious calm, using rich language that invites contemplation. Aldo's experiences are likely to resonate with anyone who understands the complexities of duty versus desire.
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Milan Kundera, Peter Kussi |
Faber
And
Faber
Immortality
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Goodreads rating: 4.14
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"Immortality" by Milan Kundera is a rare gem that combines a profound exploration of life's meaning with a wit that keeps you engaged and amused. If you're the kind of reader who enjoys deep dives into philosophical musings without losing the thread of entertainment, this book's ability to possibly expand your intellect as well as your emotional intelligence might just make it your next favorite read. Plus, its status as an unclassifiable masterpiece hints at the unique experience you'll have, which is not something you come across every day.
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If you find yourself drawn to stories rich with cultural depth and complex family dynamics, "The Moor's Last Sigh" might captivate you. Salman Rushdie masterfully navigates the intertwined threads of personal identity and historical upheaval. The experience of Moor, both unique in his physicality and universal in his quest for meaning, serves as a powerful mirror to anyone contemplating the perennial human question of belonging amidst chaos.
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"Blindness" by José Saramago is a profound journey that will resonate with anyone interested in the human condition and the fragility of societal structures. The book's strength lies in its ability to strip away the veneer of civilization, exploring how people react when plunged into chaos. At its core, it's a story about resilience and the varied aspects of human nature, making it a thought-provoking read for those who appreciate a deep, character-driven narrative in the guise of a dystopian scenario.
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"Life of Pi" isn't just an adventure story; it's a beautiful intersection of faith, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit. Yann Martel weaves an unforgettable narrative that challenges the boundaries between reality and imagination. The relationship between Pi and Richard Parker is as complex as it is fascinating, making the book a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the strength found in dire circumstances and the stories we tell to make sense of the world.
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Shin Kyung-Sook, Chi-Young Kim |
Knopf
Please Look After Mom
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Goodreads rating: 3.91
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If you're drawn to stories that delve into the complexity of family relationships and the silent sacrifices of parenthood, "Please Look After Mom" is a poignant read. It holds up a mirror to our familial bonds, nudging us to think about the often-overlooked depths of a mother's life and love.
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Pat Barker
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A
William
Abrahams
Book/plume
The Ghost Road
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Goodreads rating: 4.09
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"The Ghost Road" delves deep into the contrasting journeys of two men bound by the ravages of WWI. It's a thought-provoking read for anyone fascinated by the lasting scars of war, not only on the body but on the mind as well. With its rich historical backdrop and emotional depth, it pulls you into the complexities of healing and the inexorable draw of duty amidst chaos.
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Taylor Jenkins Reid
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Ballantine
Books
Daisy Jones & The Six
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Goodreads rating: 4.2
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If you're someone who's ever been captivated by the heady days of '70s rock and roll, star power, and the inevitable drama that comes with fame, "Daisy Jones & The Six" is a backstage pass to that world. Taylor Jenkins Reid crafts an unforgettable journey reminiscent of a VH1 Behind the Music episode, but with the depth of a novel that will have you questioning where the line blurs between reality and fiction. It's a book that's as much an ode to music as it is a study of complex characters and relationships, perfect for music lovers and readers who thrive on character-driven narratives.
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Amy Tan
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Harper
Perennial
The Hundred Secret Senses
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Goodreads rating: 4.0
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The way Amy Tan weaves the spiritual with the everyday makes "The Hundred Secret Senses" quite compelling. It's not just a story about sisters or family dynamics; it's about how the past, and sometimes even the supernatural, can shape our lives in ways we don't expect. Kwan’s unfaltering belief in the supernatural, set against Olivia’s desire for normalcy, creates a fascinating contrast that could deeply resonate with anyone who's grappled with family differences and the search for self-understanding.
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Alexander McCall Smith
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Abacus
In the Company of Cheerful Ladies
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Goodreads rating: 4.09
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"In The Company Of Cheerful Ladies" is a delightful escape into the sunlit streets of Botswana, where you meet the always sage and endearing Mma Ramotswe. It’s not just about solving cases; it’s about the joys and complications that stitch the fabric of daily life. The series offers a gentle examination of human nature and will leave you feeling a bit more optimistic about the world.
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Alan Paton
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Pearson
Education
Cry, the Beloved Country
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Goodreads rating: 3.92
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If you ever felt like breaking away from the mundane routine of everyday life, "Cry, The Beloved Country" will resonate with you. Witness Shirley's hilarious yet poignant journey as she swaps her domestic drudgery for a taste of romance and adventure in Greece. It's a feel-good story of self-discovery that might just inspire you to follow your own dreams.
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Colum McCann
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Phoenix
Dancer
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Goodreads rating: 3.94
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"Dancer" artfully weaves the grace and intensity of ballet with the poignant journey of Rudolf Nureyev, a master of movement who leapt beyond the confines of his circumstances. Colum McCann's skillful prose lifts Nureyev's story off the pages, making it a dance in itself. If you're drawn to narratives of perseverance, artistry, and the complex sacrifices for excellence, this novel will resonate deeply with you.
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Mordecai Richler
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Ccv
Barney's Version
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Goodreads rating: 4.16
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If you're drawn to character-driven narratives with a distinctive voice, "Barney's Version" might just be the next book to get lost in. Richler masterfully presents a protagonist whose unreliable memories paint a vibrant, if questionable, mosaic of a life filled with triumphs, failures, and unwavering candidness. Barney's tale is unique in its honesty and dark humor, and you may find yourself both rooting for and against him as he reveals his version of the truth.
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Peter Matthiessen
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Knopf
Doubleday
Publishing
Group
At Play in the Fields of the Lord
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Goodreads rating: 4.03
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If you're intrigued by the depths of ethical and spiritual conflicts set against an untamed backdrop, "At Play in the Fields of the Lord" is a book that's likely to resonate with you. Peter Matthiessen's storytelling weaves an intricate and unforgettable narrative about survival, belief, and humanity's often tragic interactions with both nature and different cultures. Dive into this book for a profound examination of the human spirit, explored through characters pushed to their limits in a world both cruel and beautiful.
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Shirley Hazzard
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Viking
The Transit of Venus
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Goodreads rating: 4.0
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"The Transit of Venus" stands as a profound exploration of relationships and mortality, carried by Hazzard's exquisite prose. It's a book that immerses you in the lives of its characters, and their complex emotional landscapes will resonate deeply. The novel's timeless themes and intricate narrative structure make it an engrossing read for those who appreciate literary depth and elegance.
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Emma Donoghue
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Little,
Brown
And
Company
Room: A Novel
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Goodreads rating: 4.08
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"Room" invites you into an intimate world that's as harrowing as it is uplifting. Donoghue's novel explores the boundless love between a mother and her son under the most dire circumstances. Their journey from confinement to freedom is a testament to the human spirit, making it a must-read for those who appreciate stories of resilience and the profound strength of familial bonds.
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Dante Alighieri
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Chartwell
Books
Dante's Divine Comedy
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Goodreads rating: 4.08
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Long narrative poem originally titled Commedia (about 1555 printed as La divina commedia) written about 1310-14 by Dante. The work is divided into three major sections--Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso--which trace the journey of a man from darkness and error to the revelation of the divine light, culminating in the beatific vision of God. It is usually held to be one of the world's greatest works of literature. The plot of The Divine Comedy is simple: a man is miraculously enabled to visit the souls in Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. He has two guides: Virgil, who leads him through the Inferno and Purgatorio, and Beatrice, who introduces him to Paradiso. Through these fictional encounters taking place from Good Friday evening in 1300 through Easter Sunday and slightly beyond, Dante the character learns of the exile that is awaiting him (an actual exile that had already occurred at the time of writing). This device allowed Dante not only to create a story out of his exile but also to explain how he came to cope with personal calamity and to offer suggestions for the resolution of Italy's troubles as well.