Summaries of books about History & Biographies:
The Last Season (P.S.)
Eric Blehm
The book chronicles the mysterious disappearance of Randy Morgenson, a seasoned backcountry ranger in California's Sierra Nevada Mountains, and the subsequent search and investigation. It delves into Morgenson's life, his deep connection to the wilderness, and the impact of his vanishing on the tight-knit community of National Park Service rangers.
See full summary
Cary Grant
A Brilliant Disguise
Scott Eyman
The book delves into the life and career of the iconic actor, exploring the complexities behind his suave on-screen persona and his journey from a troubled childhood in England to Hollywood stardom. It provides an in-depth look at his personal relationships, professional triumphs, and the transformation he underwent to become the epitome of classic American sophistication.
See full summary
I'm Just a Person
Tig Notaro
The memoir recounts the comedian's tumultuous year during which she was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease, lost her mother unexpectedly, and went through a breakup, all while her career was taking off. It offers a candid and humorous look at personal tragedy and the journey of healing and self-discovery that followed.
See full summary
Four Perfect Pebbles
A True Story of the Holocaust
Lila Perl|Marion Blumenthal Lazan
The book recounts the harrowing experiences of Marion Blumenthal Lazan, a Jewish girl who, along with her family, endured the horrors of the Holocaust, including internment in concentration camps. It details their struggle for survival, the loss and hardship they faced, and Marion's hope symbolized by her search for four pebbles, representing the members of her family she wished to keep alive.
See full summary
Ancient Rome
The Rise and Fall of an Empire
Simon Baker
The book chronicles the epic narrative of Rome, from its mythic beginnings and expansion as a republic to the dramatic collapse of the empire. It delves into the political intrigue, military campaigns, and key figures that shaped Roman history over centuries.
See full summary
Jumping from Helicopters
A Vietnam Memoir
John Stillman|Lori Stillman
The memoir recounts a U.S. Army veteran's experiences during the Vietnam War, detailing the intense combat, camaraderie, and psychological toll of the conflict. It provides a personal perspective on the challenges faced by soldiers, including the author's own journey from youthful enlistment to the realities of war and its aftermath.
See full summary
When a Crocodile Eats the Sun
A Memoir of Africa
Peter Godwin
The memoir recounts the author's experiences in Zimbabwe during the country's decline under Robert Mugabe, interweaving personal and national history. It explores themes of identity, displacement, and the complex relationship between the author's family and a land undergoing political turmoil and economic disaster.
See full summary
The Lost King
The Search for Richard III
Philippa Langley|Michael Jones
The book chronicles the remarkable quest of Philippa Langley to locate the lost grave of Richard III, which leads to the discovery of the king's remains beneath a Leicester car park. It intertwines historical research with the personal journey of Langley, revealing the challenges faced and the impact of the find on our understanding of history.
See full summary
Lit
A Memoir
Mary Karr
The memoir recounts the author's journey through alcoholism, recovery, and finding faith. It delves into her struggles with writing, motherhood, and the search for a deeper understanding of herself and her spirituality.
See full summary
The Last Days of the Incas
Kim MacQuarrie
The book chronicles the epic story of the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire, led by Francisco Pizarro and his conquistadors, detailing the Incas' struggle, resistance, and eventual downfall. It also explores the rich history and culture of the Inca civilization, as well as the modern discoveries and ongoing search for the lost city of Vilcabamba.
See full summary