Summaries of books about History & Biographies:
The Deviant's War
The Homosexual vs. the United States of America
Eric Cervini
The book chronicles the life of Frank Kameny, a pivotal figure in the early gay rights movement, following his dismissal from a government job due to his sexuality. It details the legal battles, protests, and advocacy efforts that marked the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in the face of systemic discrimination in mid-20th-century America.
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Paramedic to the Prince
An American Paramedic's Account of Life Inside the Mysterious World of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Patrick (Tom) Notestine
The book provides a personal account of an American paramedic's experiences working for the Saudi royal family, offering insights into the cultural and professional aspects of life in Saudi Arabia. It details the author's encounters with the complexities of the medical field, the intricacies of Saudi customs, and his unique interactions with the royals and expatriate community.
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Carrying the Fire
50th Anniversary Edition
Michael Collins
The book is an autobiographical account of Michael Collins, an astronaut from the Apollo 11 mission, providing a detailed and personal perspective on his experiences in space exploration, including the historic 1969 moon landing. This anniversary edition includes a new preface by the author reflecting on the mission's legacy half a century later.
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The Vanity Fair Diaries
Power, Wealth, Celebrity, and Dreams: My Years at the Magazine That Defined a Decade
Tina Brown
The book is a compilation of personal diaries kept by the author during her time as editor-in-chief of Vanity Fair magazine from 1983 to 1992. It provides an insider's view of the glitz and glamour of 1980s New York, detailing the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the media industry, celebrity encounters, and the cultural trends that shaped the era.
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In Search of Sisterhood
Delta Sigma Theta and the Challenge of the Black Sorority Movement
Paula Giddings
The book chronicles the history and evolution of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority, highlighting its role in empowering African American women and its impact on the civil rights and feminist movements. It delves into the organization's challenges, achievements, and contributions to social change through the personal stories and experiences of its members.
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Falling Leaves
The True Story of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter
Adeline Yen Mah
The memoir recounts the author's experiences growing up in a wealthy but emotionally abusive family in mid-20th century China. It details her struggle for acceptance and love from her family, particularly after her mother's death and her father's remarriage to a cruel stepmother.
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Blood on Red Dirt
Gary Cowart
The memoir recounts the experiences of a Marine serving in Vietnam, detailing the brutal realities of war and its psychological impact on soldiers. It provides a personal perspective on combat, camaraderie, and the challenges faced upon returning home.
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I Wish I Could Say I Was Sorry
A memoir
Susie Kelly
The memoir recounts the author's experiences growing up in post-war England and Kenya, detailing a complex relationship with her sister and the challenges she faced in her family and personal life. It explores themes of loss, adventure, and the search for belonging as she navigates through various landscapes and emotional terrains.
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34 Years in Hell
My Time Inside America's Toughest Prisons
Jamie Morgan Kane
The book chronicles the author's experiences of over three decades spent in some of the most notorious prisons in the United States, detailing the brutal realities of life behind bars. It provides a personal account of survival, the criminal justice system, and the profound impact of long-term incarceration on an individual.
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Andy and Don
The Making of a Friendship and a Classic American
Daniel de Visé
The book delves into the deep personal and professional relationship between Andy Griffith and Don Knotts, who starred together on "The Andy Griffith Show." It explores their enduring friendship, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and the impact of their iconic television partnership on American culture.
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