Stay-Home Winter Reads

The feelings and sensations associated with winter and Christmas may sometimes seem like a paradox. On one hand it can be cold and chilly, and on the other it can be warm and cosy. Whether you prefer it frosty or heartwarming, these stories will surely make for a good reading experience while staying indoors.

Read the curator's top picks and notes here: https://blog.thryft.sg/5-books-to-feel-the-winter-chill-and-christmas-warmth-from-the-comfort-of-your-home/.

Curated by: Hong Jin

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Frankenstein or, the Modern Prometheus
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If you're drawn to dark, thought-provoking tales, "Frankenstein" could be a fascinating journey for you. It's a cornerstone of Gothic literature, and Mary Shelley's intricate storytelling weaves a compelling narrative around the themes of creation, responsibility, and human fallibility. The timeless questions it raises about scientific advancement and moral boundaries still resonate today, making it a rewarding read for those who enjoy literature that provokes deep reflection and discussion.
Doctor Faustus: The A Text (1604)
Christopher Marlowe | Pearson Longman

Doctor Faustus: The A Text (1604)

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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"Doctor Faustus" isn't just a play; it's a timeless story about the human appetite for boundless knowledge and the subsequent costs of overreaching ambition. Chris Marlowe weaves a tragic yet fascinating tale showing how even the wisest can fall prey to their own desires. It echoes with relevance in today's world where the pursuit of more—be it power, knowledge or material wealth—often leads to existential dilemmas. This introspective journey makes "Doctor Faustus" a captivating read for anyone intrigued by the complexities of human nature and the eternal conflict between good and evil.
The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket

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If you're drawn to the allure of classic literature melded with suspense and the supernatural, Poe's only novella will take you on a harrowing journey—the kind that might just invade your dreams. "The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket" isn't just an adventure tale; it's Edgar Allan Poe delivering his signature blend of horror in an uncharted maritime setting. This story has left its mark on literature and is bound to leave one on you too.
The Weir, The: Guinness Edition - Thryft
Conor McPherson | Dramatic Pub Co

The Weir, The: Guinness Edition

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This book would be a great fit for fans of Irish folklore looking for a new medium to immerse themselves in. The Weir is a chilling play that masterfully blends the traditional ghost story with modern-day settings and characters. Readers will be hooked by the captivating plot and the richly crafted, relatable characters.
This book portrays the last days of some of the most renowned authors in history, giving the readers unique insights into the troubled lives and turbulent minds of these literary giants. Joyce Carol Oates' "Wild Nights!" imaginatively explores the existential loneliness of Edgar Allan Poe, Emily Dickinson's uncertainties in the unknown future, Mark Twain's relationships with young girls, Henry James' transformative experience during wartime and Ernest Hemingway's dark and chaotic life. This book is a must-read for any literature aficionado looking to get an understanding of the personal lives of authors whose works have changed the world.
The Fall Of The House Of Usher And Other Tales - Thryft
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Classic tales of mystery, terror, and suspense, including The Fall of the House of Usher—the inspiration for the Netflix series from Mike Flanagan, the director of The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass!This volume gathers together fourteen of Edgar Allan Poe's richest and most influential tales, “The Pit and the Pendulum,” his reimagining of Inquisition tortures; “The Tell-Tale Heart,” an exploration of a murderer’s madness, which Stephen King called “the best tale of inside evil ever written”; “The Fall of the House of Usher,” Poe’s tour de force about a family doomed by a grim bloodline curse; and his pioneering detective stories, “The Purloined Letter” and “The Murders in the Rue Morgue,” featuring a rational investigator with a poetic soul. Also included is Poe’s only full-length novel, Narrative of A. Gordon Pym.With an Introduction by Stephen Marloweand an Afterword by Regina Marler
Northanger Abbey - Thryft
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Jane Austen | Bantam Classics

Northanger Abbey

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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If you enjoy a clever and lighthearted take on Gothic romances, "Northanger Abbey" is the perfect book for you. Jane Austen's witty satire will have you laughing out loud as the ordinary yet imaginative Catherine Morland navigates the pitfalls of love and society in Bath. Prepare for hilarious social gaffes, unexpected awakenings, and a reminder of the power of literature and life.
The Fall of the House of Usher and Other Writings - Thryft
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'And much of Madness and more of Sin And Horror the Soul of the Plot'This selection of Poe's critical writings, short fiction and poetry demonstrates his intense interest in aesthetic issues, and the astonishing power and imagination with which he probed the darkest corners of the human mind. 'The Fall of the House of Usher' describes the final hours of a family tormented by tragedy and the legacy of the past. In 'Tell-Tale Heart', a murderer's insane delusions threaten to betray him, while stories such as 'The Pit and the Pendulum' and 'The Cask of Amontillado' explore extreme states of decadence, fear and hate. These works display Poe's startling ability to build suspense with almost nightmarish intensity.David Galloway's introduction re-examines the myths surrounding Poe's life and reputation. This edition includes a new chronology and suggestions for further reading.PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AS SELECTED WRITINGSChronologyIntroductionFurther ReadingA Note on the TextPOEMSStanzasSonnet — To ScienceA/ AaraafRomanceTO HelenIsrafelThe City in the SeaThe SleeperLenoreThe Valley of UnrestThe RavenUlalumeFor AnnieA ValentineAnnabel LeeThe BellsEldoradoTALESMS. Found in a BottleLigeiaThe Man that was Used UpThe Fall of the House of UsherWilliam WilsonThe Man of the CrowdThe Murders in the Rue MorgueA Descent into the MaelströmEleonoraThe Oval PortraitThe Masque of the Red DeathThe Pit and the PendulumThe Tell-Tale HeartThe Gold-BugThe Black CatThe Purloined LetterThe Facts in the Case of M. ValdemarThe Cask of AmontilladoHop-FrogESSÄYS AND REVIEWSLetter to B—Georgia ScenesThe Drake—Halleck Review (excerpts)Watkins TottleThe Philosophy of FurnitureWyandottéMusicTime and SpaceTwice-Told TalesThe American Drama (excerpts)HazlittThe Philosophy of CompositionSong-WritingOn ImaginationThe Veil of the SoulThe Poetic Principle (excerpts)Notes
The Picture of Dorian Gray - Thryft
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Oscar Wilde | Penguin

The Picture of Dorian Gray

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If the concept of trading morality for everlasting youth intrigues you, then "The Picture of Dorian Gray" is the seductive classic you need. This book isn't just about vanity and the superficial; it dives into the depths of human depravity and the consequences that come with it. Wilde's eloquent prose and the haunting transformation of Dorian will stay with you, a testament to the dark allure of immortality and the price one pays for it.
Complete Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe
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For fans of horror fiction, poetry, and mystery, Edgar Allan Poe's work evokes a sense of dark romanticism and gothic horror with intense psychological themes. His tales and poems are known for skillful plotting, vivid imagery, and unsettling atmosphere. With a collection of over 1000 pages, this leather-bound book is a must-have for those who appreciate masterful storytelling and macabre literature that stands the test of time.
The Complete Poetry of Edgar Allan Poe
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If the darker edges of poetry captivate you, Edgar Allan Poe's verses will offer a sublime escapade. Poe's work is enveloped in a cloak of Gothic beauty ideal for those who find solace in the melancholic and the mysterious. His poems, like whispered secrets, linger in the psyche, ensuring an unforgettable reading experience that's as chilling as it is beautiful. Poe isn't just for the horror enthusiast but for anyone who appreciates poetry's power to stir the deep recesses of the human soul.
The Parasites - Thryft
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Daphne du Maurier, Julie Myerson  | Virago

The Parasites

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Many people thought the Delaney family was blessed, but others thought it was cursed. Celia was a wonderful artist who refused to acknowledge her gift. Maria was a talented actress who preferred cheap life dramas to stage roles. Niall was a brilliant composer who mocked his talent. None of them cared very much about anything. They were the fabulous Delaneys - chasing love and luxury in a world they believed was strictly their own.
Tales of Mystery & Imagination - The Bloomsbury Phantastics
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If you relish the eerie and the macabre, Poe's collection will immerse you in the terrifying depths of human psyche. His stories are not just frights; they're cerebral puzzles that probe into our deepest fears, compelling you to question what lurks in the shadows of our own minds. The originality of Poe's narrative style and his pioneering detective stories could give you endless chills and thrills.
Other Voices, Other Rooms - Thryft
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If you're intrigued by the complexities of youth and the haunting beauty of the South, "Other Voices, Other Rooms" is a poignant read. Capote's prose weaves a dense tapestry of emotion and place, drawing you into Joel's search for connection amidst a backdrop of decay and eccentricity. This novel is a testament to Capote's ability to explore deep themes with lyrical finesse.
The Phantom of the Opera - Thryft
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Gaston Leroux, Anne Perry  | Modern Library

The Phantom of the Opera

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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If you're captivated by haunting tales and timeless romance wrapped in the allure of Gothic horror, "The Phantom of the Opera" is your call to the dark depths of the Paris Opera House. The novel's blend of mystery, passion, and the grotesque will transport you into a world where beauty meets the beast in an entirely unique fashion. Leroux's storytelling will have you hear the music and feel the shadow of the phantom himself.
Kiss Kiss
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Roald Dahl | Penguin

Kiss Kiss

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Goodreads rating: 4.07

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If the whimsical darkness of Roald Dahl intrigues you, "Kiss Kiss" will not disappoint. These short stories are a departure from his beloved children's tales, yet radiate the same imaginative brilliance with a mature, macabre twist. Engrossing for lovers of the strange and the ironic, it's Dahl showcasing his mastery in a new, shadowed light.
The Complete Poetry Of Edgar Allan Poe - Thryft
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This book is perfect for fans of gothic literature and dark, eerie poetry. Poe's poems touch on themes of madness, death, and the macabre, drawing readers into a world of mystery and intrigue. The collection includes his most famous works, such as "The Raven" and "Annabel Lee," as well as lesser-known masterpieces like "The Haunted Palace" and "The Conqueror Worm." With an introduction by Jay Parini and an afterword by April Bernard, readers are provided with historical context and a deeper understanding of Poe's artistry. Overall, this collection is a must-read for anyone who loves poetry or wants to explore the darker side of literature.
The Hunter - Thryft
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Julia Leigh | Faber And Faber

The Hunter

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Goodreads rating: 3.52

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The Hunter takes the reader on a haunting journey through Tasmania's wilderness to follow the story of a man's obsessive quest to find the last thylacine. The book explores themes of grief and the disconnectedness between humans and nature. The story is told in exceptionally clear and elegant prose by Julia Leigh. A great read for anyone interested in wildlife, especially the Tasmanian tiger, or for those who enjoy literary fiction with a touch of mystery.
The Picture of Dorian Gray
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"The Picture of Dorian Gray" is a timeless exploration of vanity, morality, and the dark corners of human nature. Oscar Wilde's eloquent prose invites you into a world where beauty and corruption dance in a seductive tango. Reading this novel is like peering into a mirror that reflects the soul's capacity for both elegance and evil. It's a must-read if you appreciate literature that marries Gothic horror with philosophical musings, all wrapped up in Wilde's uniquely witty banter.
Dis Mem Ber
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Joyce Carol Oates | Head Of Zeus

Dis Mem Ber

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Joyce Carol Oates delivers a masterclass in suspense with "Dis Mem Ber". Her ability to weave existential dread within ordinary settings will resonate with readers who enjoy diving into the darker corners of the human psyche. If you gravitate towards narratives that challenge your sense of security and perception, this collection of stories promises to satisfy that craving for unsettling yet profound literature.
The Turn of the Screw
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Henry James, David Bromwich  | Penguin Books

The Turn of the Screw

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If you're drawn to classic literature with an eerie undertone, "The Turn of the Screw" may just curl your toes. It's a gripping Victorian tale exploring the ghostly and the psychological, forcing you to question the reality of the supernatural events within its pages. Henry James weaves tension and ambiguity so masterfully that it leaves you pondering the narrative long after the final page.
The Complete Stories - Thryft
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Flannery O'Connor | Macmillan

The Complete Stories

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Goodreads rating: 4.39

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The Complete Stories by Flannery O'Connor is a must-read for lovers of Southern Gothic literature, with stories that are both disturbing and thought-provoking. O'Connor's use of grotesque characters, religious themes, and dark humor make for a unique reading experience that lingers long after the book is finished. Readers will appreciate the author's masterful storytelling and her ability to simultaneously shock and enlighten.
Edgar Allan Poe Complete Tales and Poems - Thryft
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Edgar Allan Poe | Castle Books

Edgar Allan Poe Complete Tales and Poems

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Edgar Allan Poe: Complete Tales and Poems is perfect for those who love dark, eerie, and psychologically thrilling stories. Poe's writing is known for transporting readers to a supernatural realm and perfecting the psychological thriller genre. His most famous works include The Raven, The Tell-Tale Heart, and The Fall of the House of Usher. With a dramatic life, Poe created some of the finest literature the world has ever known, influencing many creative forces such as Charles Baudelaire and filmmaker D.W. Griffith. This book is a timeless classic that is a must-read for those who enjoy literary masterpieces.
The Ballad of the Sad Cafe - Thryft
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Carson McCullers | Penguin Books Ltd

The Ballad of the Sad Cafe

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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In The Ballad of the Sad Café, a tale of unrequited love, Miss Amelia, a spirited, unconventional woman, runs a small-town store and, except for a marriage that lasted just ten days, has always lived alone. Then Cousin Lymon appears from nowhere, a little, strutting hunchback who steals Miss Amelia's heart. Together they transform the store into a lively, popular café. But when her rejected husband Marvin Macy returns, the result is a bizarre love triangle that brings with it violence, hatred and betrayal.Six stories by Carson McCullers also appear in this volume.
The Picture of Dorian Gray
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Oscar Wilde | Vintage Classics

The Picture of Dorian Gray

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"The Picture of Dorian Gray" is a sharp and arresting exploration of the pursuit of pleasure and the superficiality of beauty. Wilde's writing is not only elegant but also packed with wit, giving this dark story a certain lightness. As you dive into the psychological depth of Dorian Gray's character, you'll find yourself questioning the value society places on youth and beauty, immersed in a world where art becomes eerily alive.
Wild Nights! Deluxe Edition : Stories About the Last Days of Poe, Dickinson, Twain, James, and Hemingway - Thryft
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New York Times bestselling author Joyce Carol Oates’ imaginative look at the last days of five giants of American literature, now available in a deluxe paperback edition in Ecco’s The Art of the Story Series. Edgar Allan Poe, Emily Dickinson, Samuel Clemens (“Mark Twain”), Henry James, Ernest Hemingway—Joyce Carol Oates evokes each of these American literary icons in this work of prose fiction, poignantly and audaciously reinventing the climactic events of their lives. In subtly nuanced language suggestive of each of these writers, Oates explores the mysterious regions of the unknowable self that is “genius.” Darkly hilarious, brilliant, and brazen, Wild Nights! is an original and haunting work of the imagination.
Geek Love : A Novel - Thryft
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Katherine Dunn | Random House Vintage

Geek Love : A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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Geek Love is the story of the Binewskis, a carny family whose mater- and paterfamilias set out ― with the help of amphetamine, arsenic, and radioisotopes ― to breed their own exhibit of human oddities. There's Arturo the Aquaboy, who has flippers for limbs and a megalomaniac ambition worthy of Genghis Khan . . . Iphy and Elly, the lissome Siamese twins . . . albino hunchback Oly, and the outwardly normal Chick, whose mysterious gifts make him the family's most precious ― and dangerous ― asset.As the Binewskis take their act across the backwaters of the U.S., inspiring fanatical devotion and murderous revulsion; as its members conduct their own Machiavellian version of sibling rivalry, Geek Love throws its sulfurous light on our notions of the freakish and the normal, the beautiful and the ugly, the holy and the obscene. Family values will never be the same.
I'm the King of the Castle
Susan Hill | Longman Publishing Group

I'm the King of the Castle

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Goodreads rating: 3.49

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If you enjoy stories that delve into the darker aspects of childhood and psychological warfare, "I'm The King Of The Castle" is an unflinching look at how those dynamics can play out. It's a book that will resonate with you long after you've turned the last page, especially if you appreciated the emotional intensity and themes of "Lord of the Flies." The award-winning status is a testament to Susan Hill's ability to capture something simultaneously quintessential and unsettling about the experience of growing up.
Spirits of the Dead: Tales and Other Poems
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For the lover of the gothic and the grandmaster of suspense, Poe's "Spirits of the Dead" is a treasury that will plunge you into the depths of human psyche with its lyrical darkness. His pioneering detective stories ignite the mind, while his poems, such as "The Raven", transcend mere words, becoming an experience. It's a fusion of the eerie and the profound that can only come from the pen of Poe.
The Melancholy of Resistance
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If you've ever felt that the world around you is teetering on the edge of chaos, "The Melancholy of Resistance" might resonate deeply with you. László Krasznahorkai masterfully crafts a narrative that's as thought-provoking as it is unsettling, diving into the human psyche during times of societal unrest. It's a challenging read, but its beauty lies in the dense, hypnotic prose and the philosophical depth that Krasznahorkai is renowned for. This book is a journey through the darker side of human nature, which could be just the kind of profound literary experience you're searching for.
Confessions of a Justified Sinner
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If you've ever been fascinated by the darker side of human nature, "Confessions of a Justified Sinner" is a riveting journey through the psychological landscape of evil and redemption. Hogg's chilling narrative masterfully grapples with themes of fanaticism and identity, offering an early exploration of ideas that would later be central to classic psychological thrillers. It's a story that stays with you, questioning morality and the very nature of self.
Tales of Mystery and Imagination
Edgar Allan Poe | Wordsworth Classics

Tales of Mystery and Imagination

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Goodreads rating: 4.09

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If you're drawn to the darker side of literature, Poe's "Tales of Mystery and Imagination" is bound to captivate you. The way Poe weaves suspense and the supernatural into the fabric of every tale will keep you on edge. His stories are timeless, and his masterful storytelling invites you to explore the depths of human psychology and the macabre.
Joyce Carol Oates | Plume

Heat, and Other Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

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If you're someone who savors getting into the intricacies of human experiences, "Heat, and Other Stories" by Joyce Carol Oates is a must-read. Oates's mastery in crafting short stories is evident as she delves into the depths of her characters' psyches. With each story, you're likely to find yourself transported, challenged, and moved. This collection is perfect for readers looking for something profound yet concise.
Kiss Kiss
Roald Dahl | Penguin Books

Kiss Kiss

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Goodreads rating: 4.06

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If you delight in stories that offer a window into the oddities of human nature with a surprising edge, "Kiss Kiss" by Roald Dahl could be a thrilling choice. Each tale unwinds with Dahl's signature blend of dark humor and macabre, ending often with a twist that'll leave you thinking long after you've turned the final page. It's an ideal pick for readers who love their fiction with a dash of the sinister and the satirical.
Study for Obedience
Sarah Bernstein

Study for Obedience

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Goodreads rating: 3.01

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"Study for Obedience" delves deeply into the psychological tangle of why individuals comply with authority, even when it betrays their own moral compass. It's a haunting exploration that will resonate with anyone fascinated by the darker aspects of human nature and the complex interplay between personal responsibility and societal pressure. The book's brevity does not shy away from delivering a potent, thought-provoking punch that will linger with you long after the last page.