Carrion Crow by Heather Parry review body horror with historical biteCarrion Crow by Heather Parry blends body horror with literary themes, challenging traditional depictions of womanhood in historical fiction.
An author turns tales of her Chinese family into an historical novelNancy Wang's novel "Red Altar" connects her family's history to Monterey's fishing industry and addresses themes of resilience and cultural identity.
Uncovered family secrets inspire Bay Area resident's new bookFamily secrets can transform lives and inspire creativity.The journey of uncovering family history can lead to profound realizations.Historical fiction can be rooted in real-life experiences.
An author turns tales of her Chinese family into an historical novelNancy Wang's novel "Red Altar" connects her family's history to Monterey's fishing industry and addresses themes of resilience and cultural identity.
Uncovered family secrets inspire Bay Area resident's new bookFamily secrets can transform lives and inspire creativity.The journey of uncovering family history can lead to profound realizations.Historical fiction can be rooted in real-life experiences.
Briefly Noted Book ReviewsBoth novels explore the darker aspects of human nature through unique narrative styles.
Badenheim 1939; Katerina; The Story of a Life by Aharon Appelfeld review survivors' tales full of beauty and painAppelfeld's writing skillfully portrays the Holocaust through distance and irony, emphasizing the profound impact on individuals and society.
The 10 Books You Should Be Reading This NovemberNovember is a month for reflection, ideal for exploring deep themes through diverse book recommendations.
Precipice by Robert Harris review the prime minister's affairRobert Harris's 'Precipice' explores a historical love affair amidst the impending World War I, blending romance with espionage and societal critique.
'Hold Strong' Sets a Love Story Amid the Greatest Maritime Horror of World War II'Hold Strong' intertwines historical authenticity with gripping fiction to depict the profound impact of World War II on its characters.
Gill Hornby: Jane Austen created the six best novels in the English language'Gill Hornby found success with her third novel, Miss Austen, which explores Cassandra Austen's life and has been adapted into a BBC drama.
Briefly Noted Book ReviewsBoth novels explore the darker aspects of human nature through unique narrative styles.
Badenheim 1939; Katerina; The Story of a Life by Aharon Appelfeld review survivors' tales full of beauty and painAppelfeld's writing skillfully portrays the Holocaust through distance and irony, emphasizing the profound impact on individuals and society.
The 10 Books You Should Be Reading This NovemberNovember is a month for reflection, ideal for exploring deep themes through diverse book recommendations.
Precipice by Robert Harris review the prime minister's affairRobert Harris's 'Precipice' explores a historical love affair amidst the impending World War I, blending romance with espionage and societal critique.
'Hold Strong' Sets a Love Story Amid the Greatest Maritime Horror of World War II'Hold Strong' intertwines historical authenticity with gripping fiction to depict the profound impact of World War II on its characters.
Gill Hornby: Jane Austen created the six best novels in the English language'Gill Hornby found success with her third novel, Miss Austen, which explores Cassandra Austen's life and has been adapted into a BBC drama.
In brief: My Favourite Mistake; Homeseeking; The Meteorites: Encounters With Outer Space and Deep Time reviewMarian Keyes' novel explores complex themes affecting women over 40 with humor and compassion, reaffirming her status as a leading author in contemporary fiction.
Sheila Heti on Boarding Schools and the Mind of a WriterThe story explores the dynamics of girlhood and relationships in a unique setting aboard ships during wartime.
In brief: My Favourite Mistake; Homeseeking; The Meteorites: Encounters With Outer Space and Deep Time reviewMarian Keyes' novel explores complex themes affecting women over 40 with humor and compassion, reaffirming her status as a leading author in contemporary fiction.
Sheila Heti on Boarding Schools and the Mind of a WriterThe story explores the dynamics of girlhood and relationships in a unique setting aboard ships during wartime.
In brief: Queen James; The Paris Dancer; Melting Point reviewGareth Russell’s biography of James I portrays him as a queer king, offering fresh insights into Jacobean court life.
Top of Your Stack: 11.21.24 - San Francisco Bay TimesKatherine Rundell's Vanishing Treasures highlights endangered animals, illustrating their beauty and fragility in the natural world.
In brief: Queen James; The Paris Dancer; Melting Point reviewGareth Russell’s biography of James I portrays him as a queer king, offering fresh insights into Jacobean court life.
Top of Your Stack: 11.21.24 - San Francisco Bay TimesKatherine Rundell's Vanishing Treasures highlights endangered animals, illustrating their beauty and fragility in the natural world.
Empathy as a Strategy of Resilience - Non Profit News | Nonprofit QuarterlyLauren Tarshis's I Survived series portrays historical events through the eyes of child characters, making intense history relatable for young readers.
The Artist by Lucy Steeds review mystery and romance in ProvenceJoseph's arrival at the farmhouse symbolizes the intersection of art, loss, and the search for acceptance in a post-war Europe.
Perspectives by Laurent Binet review a dazzling Renaissance rompThe murder of painter Jacopo da Pontormo in 1557 Florence sparks a complex investigation involving Renaissance artists and political intrigue.
10 Food-Filled Beach Reads for Your Summer VacationFood-themed books provide summer escapism, mirroring real-life trends with a mix of genres like romance, mystery, and historical fiction.
The Artist by Lucy Steeds review mystery and romance in ProvenceJoseph's arrival at the farmhouse symbolizes the intersection of art, loss, and the search for acceptance in a post-war Europe.
Perspectives by Laurent Binet review a dazzling Renaissance rompThe murder of painter Jacopo da Pontormo in 1557 Florence sparks a complex investigation involving Renaissance artists and political intrigue.
10 Food-Filled Beach Reads for Your Summer VacationFood-themed books provide summer escapism, mirroring real-life trends with a mix of genres like romance, mystery, and historical fiction.
In the 1600s, a Yolu girl was kidnapped from an Australian beach. Centuries later her story is a novelThe historical novel 'A Piece of Red Cloth' portrays the impact of foreign traders on Aboriginal communities through a blend of oral histories and Western storytelling.
Ian McEwan novel What We Can Know to be published this yearIan McEwan's new novel explores the interconnectedness of past, present, and future in a submerged UK.
Curtain Calls: Michelangelo and da Vinci compete in The Contest' at Berkeley City ClubThe Contest dramatizes the rivalry between Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, highlighting the interplay of art and politics during a turbulent time in Florence.
A Tennessee Williams-Marlon Brando Tango, and Other Riffs on ClassicsKowalski is a comedy that blends historical fact with speculative fiction, showcasing the essence of Brando and Williams without impersonation.
Curtain Calls: Michelangelo and da Vinci compete in The Contest' at Berkeley City ClubThe Contest dramatizes the rivalry between Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, highlighting the interplay of art and politics during a turbulent time in Florence.
A Tennessee Williams-Marlon Brando Tango, and Other Riffs on ClassicsKowalski is a comedy that blends historical fact with speculative fiction, showcasing the essence of Brando and Williams without impersonation.
'The Bridge of the Gods': Frederic Homer Balch's novel of Indigenous people, ministry, and romance * Oregon ArtsWatchFrederic Homer Balch navigated personal and professional conflicts before achieving literary success with his novel The Bridge of the Gods.
Colson Whitehead shares the true story of abuse and injustice behind 'Nickel Boys'Colson Whitehead's 'The Nickel Boys' tackles racial injustice and the brutal realities of the Dozier School for Boys through powerful storytelling.
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead audiobook review a dark chapter in America's pastThe Nickel Boys exposes the brutal realities of the Jim Crow era through the lens of systemic racism and personal survival.
Colson Whitehead shares the true story of abuse and injustice behind 'Nickel Boys'Colson Whitehead's 'The Nickel Boys' tackles racial injustice and the brutal realities of the Dozier School for Boys through powerful storytelling.
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead audiobook review a dark chapter in America's pastThe Nickel Boys exposes the brutal realities of the Jim Crow era through the lens of systemic racism and personal survival.
Assassin's Creed Shadows is excellent, but can it save Ubisoft?Assassin's Creed Shadows revitalizes the franchise, combining elements from previous games into one rich experience.
Dynasty Warriors: Origins turns in a bold new directionDynasty Warriors: Origins reinvents real-time battles, offering a unique experience that blends gameplay with historical narrative.
Assassin's Creed Shadows is excellent, but can it save Ubisoft?Assassin's Creed Shadows revitalizes the franchise, combining elements from previous games into one rich experience.
Dynasty Warriors: Origins turns in a bold new directionDynasty Warriors: Origins reinvents real-time battles, offering a unique experience that blends gameplay with historical narrative.
20 Most Anticipated Books of 2025Zora Neale Hurston's manuscript on King Herod finally published, illuminating a complex figure through imagination and scholarly effort.
The Power of Queer Romance Set in Post-Nazi LifeThe debut novel 'The Safekeep' explores a queer romance against the backdrop of historical themes, highlighting the complexity of visibility and identity.
Lit Snax 1.16.25 - San Francisco Bay TimesMartyr! engages deeply with themes of identity and mortality within a queer narrative.Women's Hotel offers a humorous glimpse into the lives of women in a unique 1960s setting.A Wilder Shore presents a fair and researched look at the lives of notable creative figures.
The Power of Queer Romance Set in Post-Nazi LifeThe debut novel 'The Safekeep' explores a queer romance against the backdrop of historical themes, highlighting the complexity of visibility and identity.
Lit Snax 1.16.25 - San Francisco Bay TimesMartyr! engages deeply with themes of identity and mortality within a queer narrative.Women's Hotel offers a humorous glimpse into the lives of women in a unique 1960s setting.A Wilder Shore presents a fair and researched look at the lives of notable creative figures.
Confessions by Catherine Airey review family secrets unearthedCatherine Airey's novel depicts the intertwined stories of loss and resilience across generations, initiated by the tragedy of 9/11.
Top of Your Stack: 9.5.24 - San Francisco Bay TimesLiterature reflects on personal redemption through relationships and histories intertwined across time.Books featured explore themes of love, history, resilience, and the quest for creative freedom.
Confessions by Catherine Airey review family secrets unearthedCatherine Airey's novel depicts the intertwined stories of loss and resilience across generations, initiated by the tragedy of 9/11.
Top of Your Stack: 9.5.24 - San Francisco Bay TimesLiterature reflects on personal redemption through relationships and histories intertwined across time.Books featured explore themes of love, history, resilience, and the quest for creative freedom.
A Hole Made More Obvious by What Surrounds ItLily Tuck transforms from novelist to prosecutor in her quest to resurrect Holocaust victims through fiction.
What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in NovemberBooks offer deep insights into personal and historical narratives, blending fact with fiction.Exploration of women's roles in history reveals significant yet overlooked contributions.
A Hole Made More Obvious by What Surrounds ItLily Tuck transforms from novelist to prosecutor in her quest to resurrect Holocaust victims through fiction.
What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in NovemberBooks offer deep insights into personal and historical narratives, blending fact with fiction.Exploration of women's roles in history reveals significant yet overlooked contributions.
2025 may be the year of the historical fiction gameHistorical fiction games like Assassin's Creed Shadows will become highly anticipated, blending real history with player-driven narratives in 2025.
The Most Underrated Assassin's Creed Just Got A New Update And Is Cheaper Than EverAssassin's Creed Syndicate is an overlooked gem that has received a significant update, making it worthwhile for players to revisit.
2025 may be the year of the historical fiction gameHistorical fiction games like Assassin's Creed Shadows will become highly anticipated, blending real history with player-driven narratives in 2025.
The Most Underrated Assassin's Creed Just Got A New Update And Is Cheaper Than EverAssassin's Creed Syndicate is an overlooked gem that has received a significant update, making it worthwhile for players to revisit.
Call the Midwife returns with brand new series - How to watch and full cast listCall the Midwife's 14th series has started, featuring new stories and characters while maintaining its cultural significance.
These Are Local Libraries' Most Borrowed Books of 2024 - Washingtonian2024 was a standout year for libraries, with historical fiction and nonfiction like 'Killers of the Flower Moon' leading circulation.
Screen Grabs: Zut alors! The Count of Monte Cristo rides again - 48 hillsThe adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo offers a grand, albeit altered, visualization of Dumas' classic tale filled with intrigue and revenge.
Every Outlander Sex Scene, RankedOutlander features a blend of genres with a prominent emphasis on satisfying intimate scenes that appeal to both male and female viewers.
'Outlander' broke me: I fully lost it when Jamie and Claire had dinner with George Washington and LafayetteOutlander merges historical events with personal drama, but some scenes challenge viewers' suspension of disbelief.
Every Outlander Sex Scene, RankedOutlander features a blend of genres with a prominent emphasis on satisfying intimate scenes that appeal to both male and female viewers.
'Outlander' broke me: I fully lost it when Jamie and Claire had dinner with George Washington and LafayetteOutlander merges historical events with personal drama, but some scenes challenge viewers' suspension of disbelief.
New spy novel from William Boyd will keep readers guessingGabriel Dax becomes entangled in a geopolitical scandal after interviewing Lumumba, questioning his role amidst darker powers at play.
It's the Biggest New Novel of the Year. It's Almost Unreadably Bad.Kristin Hannah's 'The Women' dominated 2024, achieving immense success and critical acclaim within the women's historical fiction genre.
New Medieval Books: The Fell Deeds of Fate - Medievalists.netThe novel vividly portrays a Viking warrior's perilous journey across Europe in the eighth century.
David Szalay on the Inarticulacy of ExperienceThe relationship between individual lives and larger historical events is central to understanding personal tragedy and universal experience.
What to Know About Denzel Washington's Gladiator II CharacterGladiator II intertwines historical elements and fictional narratives, particularly focusing on the character Macrinus and his political ambition.
A historian says the naval battle in 'Gladiator II' only got one thing wrong"Gladiator II" creatively depicts a naval battle in the Colosseum, diverging from historical accuracy to enhance audience entertainment.
What to Know About Denzel Washington's Gladiator II CharacterGladiator II intertwines historical elements and fictional narratives, particularly focusing on the character Macrinus and his political ambition.
A historian says the naval battle in 'Gladiator II' only got one thing wrong"Gladiator II" creatively depicts a naval battle in the Colosseum, diverging from historical accuracy to enhance audience entertainment.
A Thousand Splendid Suns ReviewThe novel illustrates the struggles of Afghan women during the Taliban's rise, reflecting broader themes of loss and resilience.
Why is Wolf Hall's Thomas Cromwell such a fascinating character?Thomas Cromwell's life intrigues due to the secrecy surrounding his personal story, enriching the historical narrative.
The best recent crime and thrillers review roundupThe Outsider explores the complexities of loyalty within a dangerous criminal family, while White City reflects the enduring consequences of political manipulation and crime.
CJ Sansom obituaryCJ Sansom transitioned from lawyer to best-selling novelist through hard work and dedication, creating a beloved historical fiction series that echoes modern political struggles.
The best recent crime and thrillers review roundupThe Outsider explores the complexities of loyalty within a dangerous criminal family, while White City reflects the enduring consequences of political manipulation and crime.
CJ Sansom obituaryCJ Sansom transitioned from lawyer to best-selling novelist through hard work and dedication, creating a beloved historical fiction series that echoes modern political struggles.
I'm Charlie Walker review stereotype-busting sort-of true story of a trucker and an oil spillThe film presents the story of Charlie Walker, a Black entrepreneur who overcomes racism while navigating the challenges of business and personal ambition.
Briefly Noted Book ReviewsMolly Aitken's "Bright I Burn" explores the life of Alice Kyteler, a historical figure who navigated love, loss, and social stigma in 13th-century Ireland.Suzumi Suzuki's "Gifted" delves into the harsh realities faced by a young woman grappling with trauma and familial dysfunction while working in Tokyo's adult entertainment.
New Medieval Books: The Stone Witch of Florence - Medievalists.netThe Stone Witch of Florence combines historical details with magic and mystery, creating a compelling narrative set during the Black Death.
Rapture by Emily Maguire review tale of medieval female pope feels fresh and intimateEmily Maguire's novel Rapture explores faith and identity through the life of Pope Joan, emphasizing societal roles and personal challenges in a historical context.
Apple TV+'s Pachinko Expands Its Narrative Palate For An Emotional Season Two | TV/Streaming | Roger EbertThe narrative of 'Pachinko' explores generational struggles with identity, ambition, and familial duty, emphasized through the experiences of Sunja and her grandson Solomon.
Rapture by Emily Maguire review tale of medieval female pope feels fresh and intimateEmily Maguire's novel Rapture explores faith and identity through the life of Pope Joan, emphasizing societal roles and personal challenges in a historical context.
Apple TV+'s Pachinko Expands Its Narrative Palate For An Emotional Season Two | TV/Streaming | Roger EbertThe narrative of 'Pachinko' explores generational struggles with identity, ambition, and familial duty, emphasized through the experiences of Sunja and her grandson Solomon.
New Medieval Books: Olav Audunssn - Medievalists.net'Olav Audunssøn' is a richly woven saga that explores the intricate relationships and historical context of medieval Norway, showcasing Undset's literary brilliance.
Karl Marlantes, Deep River Storyteller"Deep River" explores the immigrant experience of Finnish settlers in America, focusing on their struggles and resilience in the face of historical challenges.The novel's setting along the Columbia River serves as a backdrop for the cultural and historical legacy of the logging industry and Finnish immigrants.
The Real History Behind Netflix's Korean War Epic UprisingThe film 'Uprising' examines friendship and class disparity against the backdrop of the Imjin War in late 16th century Korea.
The Mordant Intimacy of Cecile Desprairies's "The Propagandist"The exploration of historical artifacts raises questions about provenance and the legacies of family histories tied to complicity in past injustices.
Han Kang's Nobel PrizeHan Kang's work deeply explores heavy themes like patriarchy and historical trauma through an experimental literary lens.
How a National Family Secret in France' Inspired Her NovelThe Propagandist reveals the hidden truths of France's collaboration with Nazi Germany during WWII, inspired by the author's personal family history.
Helen Mirren Tells a Story of Evil and Hope During WWII in 'White Bird'The film 'White Bird' highlights the importance of kindness through a narrative of refuge in Nazi-occupied France.
In brief: Small Bomb at Dimperley; The Revelation of Ireland 1995-2020; The Story of Art Without Men reviewEvans's novel is impressive in its storytelling despite not being groundbreaking, set in a post-war context.Ferriter reflects on Ireland's recent transformations, analyzing the socio-political landscape in relation to Brexit.Hessel highlights the narratives of female artists in a male-dominated history of art, offering a more balanced perspective.
How a National Family Secret in France' Inspired Her NovelThe Propagandist reveals the hidden truths of France's collaboration with Nazi Germany during WWII, inspired by the author's personal family history.
Helen Mirren Tells a Story of Evil and Hope During WWII in 'White Bird'The film 'White Bird' highlights the importance of kindness through a narrative of refuge in Nazi-occupied France.
In brief: Small Bomb at Dimperley; The Revelation of Ireland 1995-2020; The Story of Art Without Men reviewEvans's novel is impressive in its storytelling despite not being groundbreaking, set in a post-war context.Ferriter reflects on Ireland's recent transformations, analyzing the socio-political landscape in relation to Brexit.Hessel highlights the narratives of female artists in a male-dominated history of art, offering a more balanced perspective.
Alan Hollinghurst's Lost EnglandAlan Hollinghurst redefined gay literature with his candid depiction of sexuality and intricate prose, often drawing comparisons to literary greats like Henry James.
The Map of Bones by Kate Mosse review satisfying family saga finaleKate Mosse's 'The Ghost Ship' series captivates with strong female protagonists and combines adventure with historical intrigue, appealing to modern readers.
Review: Manhattan Project sets the scene for love and regret in novel of moral dilemmaThe Sound of a Thousand Stars intricately merges romance with the ethical complexities of the Manhattan Project, showcasing both scientific brilliance and human emotion.
The Strangers by Ekow Eshun review inside the minds of extraordinary Black menHistorical emotion is difficult to capture, but 'The Strangers' offers profound imagination on the lives of five significant Black men.
New Medieval Books: The Misadventures of Master Mugwort - Medievalists.netThe 'Misadventures of Master Mugwort' is a humorous, eclectic collection of stories exploring human folly through the lens of Warring States era antics.
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! I'm Leaving the IndustryThe protagonist feels disheartened by a stagnant town-crying career while comparing himself to a more successful peer in Canterbury.
New Medieval Books: The Misadventures of Master Mugwort - Medievalists.netThe 'Misadventures of Master Mugwort' is a humorous, eclectic collection of stories exploring human folly through the lens of Warring States era antics.
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! I'm Leaving the IndustryThe protagonist feels disheartened by a stagnant town-crying career while comparing himself to a more successful peer in Canterbury.
How Historical Fiction Redefined the Literary CanonMajor literary prizes increasingly favor historical fiction over contemporary narratives, signaling a significant shift in American literature.
New Medieval Books: The Mirror of Simple Souls - Medievalists.netThe Mirror of Simple Souls details the lives of Beguines in 14th century Paris, highlighting their unique independence and spiritual community.
This is genius: A new graphic novel imagines conversations between Einstein and KafkaKen Krimstein's 'Einstein in Kafkaland' explores Albert Einstein's pivotal year in Prague, combining biography with elements of historical fiction and whimsy.
fromwww.nytimes.com6 months agoPachinko' Is a Gorgeous Epic of Love and StrugglePachinko is a multi-generational drama exploring the struggles of a Korean family dealing with oppression and aspirations under Japanese colonial rule.
Munichs by David Peace review bravura portrait of a football tragedyThe novel explores the Munich Air Disaster's profound impact on society, melding personal stories with broader themes of loss and the passage of time.
New Mafia Game Announced, Launching Next YearMafia: The Old Country returns the franchise to its roots, exploring the origins of organized crime in early 1900s Sicily.
The Serpent Queen Recap: Rumors of Her Virginity Are Greatly ExaggeratedThe portrayal of Elizabeth I in the article emphasizes her ambition and disregard for traditional female roles, contrasting her with sympathetic depictions of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Elusive Samurai takes anime visual design in jaw-dropping directionsElusive Samurai impresses with its innovative animation styles interwoven with historical storytelling, but it may take time to engage fully with its narrative.
Women in Blue is Good at Suspense, Medium at Feminism | TV/Streaming | Roger EbertThe show 'Women in Blue' presents a surface-level understanding of gender dynamics and historical events, lacking depth but engaging with an intriguing mix of elements.
What the AnOther Team Are Reading This SummerHistorical fiction can be immersive, educational, and enjoyable, appealing to readers seeking easy yet compelling reads.
A Little Trickerie by Rosanna Pike review loveable historical fictionHistorical fiction exploring the life of a real-life fraudulent figure allows for imaginative storytelling of unknown motivations and unique voices.
Briefly Noted Book ReviewsExploration of historical figures in a contemporary setting reveals connections between past and present struggles.
Caleb Carr, Author of Dark Histories, Dies at 68Caleb Carr, author of 'The Alienist,' passed away at 68, known for his in-depth research and focus on violence roots.
A new novel shows how the U.S. fought Nazis with economicsMoore's 'The Wealth of Shadows' combines spy novel readability with insightful economic lessons
Sam Taylor: Translating is like X-raying a book. You get a deep tissue read'Sam Taylor transitioned from writing novels to literary translating for financial support, culminating in a novel with a unique parallel universe concept.
The Problem With TV's New Holocaust ObsessionThe Tattooist of Auschwitz portrays a love story within familiar Holocaust imagery influenced by pop culture.
C.J. Sansom, Mystery Novelist Drawn to Tudor England, Dies at 71The article highlights the successful career and unfortunate death of C.J. Sansom, a popular historical novelist known for his detailed and suspenseful depiction of events in Tudor England.
History, addiction and community in Tommy Orange's latest novel - High Country NewsOrange's sequel, Wandering Stars, delves into ancestral history and the ongoing struggles faced by a Native American family, tackling themes of oppression and addiction.
The Best California Books for ChildrenHighlighting children's books reflecting life in California, adding six new books to the reading list based on readers' recommendations.
Everyone's obsessed with the gay pirates of 'Black Sails' now that the adventure drama is streaming on NetflixThe pirate drama Black Sails gained popularity on Netflix years after its initial airing, showcasing queer representation in historical contexts.
The must-read books of spring 2024Exploring diverse genres and inspirations in new book releases for spring.Authors crafting modern Gothic and historical tales with strong female leads.
'James' revisits Huck Finn's traveling companion, giving rise to a new classicClassic literature reimagined with a focus on a Black character as the protagonist.The reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Percival Everett is a unique and compelling historical heist novel.