Summaries of books about History & Biographies:
Foundation
The History of England Volume I
Peter Ackroyd
The book traces the evolution of England from its earliest prehistoric period through the Roman occupation, Anglo-Saxon era, and up to the end of the reign of Henry VII in 1509. It explores the social, political, and cultural developments that shaped the nation's early history.
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My Lobotomy
A Memoir
Howard Dully|Charles Fleming
The memoir recounts Howard Dully's harrowing experience of undergoing a lobotomy at the age of 12, a procedure pushed by his stepmother and performed by the infamous Dr. Walter Freeman. Dully shares his journey of personal discovery and healing, as he seeks to understand his past and the impact of the lobotomy on his life.
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The Island at the Center of the World
Russell Shorto
The book delves into the history of Dutch Manhattan, exploring the founding of New York City when it was a Dutch colony called New Amsterdam. It highlights the cultural and political influences of the Dutch settlers that have persisted in American society, based on extensive research from 17th-century documents.
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The History Book
Big Ideas Simply Explained
DK
The book presents a comprehensive overview of significant historical events, concepts, and figures from ancient times to the modern era, explained in an accessible and engaging manner. It uses a mix of timelines, infographics, and clear narratives to help readers understand the context and impact of each historical milestone.
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Blood and Treasure
Daniel Boone and the Fight for America's First Frontier
Bob Drury|Tom Clavin
The book chronicles the life of the legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone and his role in the westward expansion of the United States, focusing on his adventures, the settlement of Kentucky, and his encounters with Native American tribes during the tumultuous period of American colonization and the fight for control over the frontier. It weaves together personal stories, historical battles, and the broader context of the struggle between settlers and indigenous peoples over the rich lands of the early American frontier.
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Pioneer Girl
The Annotated Autobiography
Laura Ingalls Wilder
The book presents the original, unedited autobiography of Laura Ingalls Wilder, providing a detailed and realistic look at frontier life in the late 19th century. It includes extensive annotations, historical context, and exploration of her writing process, revealing the true stories behind the beloved "Little House" series.
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A Simple Soldier
Steven R. Fehrenbach
The book chronicles the life of a young man who enlists in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War era, detailing his experiences from basic training to combat and the personal growth he undergoes through the trials of military service. It explores themes of camaraderie, the harsh realities of war, and the psychological impact on soldiers.
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The Long Road Home
An account of the author's experiences as a prisoner-of-war in the hands of the Germans during the Second World War
Adrian Vincent
The book chronicles the author's harrowing experiences as a POW under German captivity, detailing the daily struggles, psychological toll, and the camaraderie among fellow prisoners during WWII. It provides a personal narrative of survival, resilience, and the journey back to freedom after enduring the hardships of war.
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American Wolf
A True Story of Survival and Obsession in the West
Nate Blakeslee
The book chronicles the life of O-Six, a famous Yellowstone National Park alpha female wolf, detailing her rise to prominence in the park's Lamar Valley and the human impact on her life. It explores the broader political and social battles over the conservation and management of wolves in the American West, as seen through the lens of O-Six's experiences and the people who were captivated by her.
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A Train in Winter
An Extraordinary Story of Women, Friendship, and Resistance in Occupied France
Caroline Moorehead
The book recounts the harrowing tale of a group of French women who were part of the Resistance during World War II, detailing their courageous acts against the Nazi occupation. It follows their eventual capture and the brutal experiences they endured together in concentration camps, highlighting the strength of their friendship and solidarity in the face of extreme adversity.
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