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Top 9 Vivian Gornick Books
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Top 9 Vivian Gornick Books

Top 9 Vivian Gornick Books

If you're a fan of thought-provoking literature that challenges your perspectives on society and relationships, then Vivian Gornick's collection of books is a must-read. In this article, we introduce you to Gornick's fascinating works, exploring her unique approach to storytelling and the impact they've had on readers worldwide. Let's dive into the world of Vivian Gornick and discover the unforgettable characters she's gifted us with her words.

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A Memoir


Fierce Attachments: A Memoir is a poignant and courageous exploration of the mother-daughter bond as it unfolds through the life of Vivian Gornick. Born and raised in the Bronx, Gornick navigates a complex relationship with her mother, a woman of intelligence and uneducated romantic depression. Gornick's memoir weaves together her family's experiences, memories, and struggles in New York City, offering an unflinching look at the Oedipal nature of the mother-daughter relationship that Edna O'Brien describes as the "principal crux of female despair. " As Gornick and her mother argue, remember the past, and challenge each other's notions of love and work, readers are drawn into the heart-wrenching reality of their lives.

With its groundbreaking honesty and exploration of the intricacies of family dynamics, Fierce Attachments was instrumental in sparking the memoir boom and remains a powerful testament to the lasting impact of our familial ties.


  • Authors: Vivian Gornick

  • Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux

  • Published Date: September 14, 2005

  • Page Count: 220.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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A Life of Colette


"Secrets of the Flesh: A Life of Colette" paints a vivid portrait of the extraordinary life of one of the most dazzling and captivating literary giants of the twentieth century. Acclaimed biographer Judith Thurman delves deep into the enigmatic world of Colette, who charmed audiences as a stage performer, seduced both men and women, and crafted timeless works of literature.

Colette's journey is a tumultuous one, marred by childhood shadows, tumultuous marriages, and scandalous romances that defined her life and work. Having escaped the suffocating clutches of an overbearing mother, she embarked on a rollercoaster ride of love, sex, and deception, all while crafting her literary masterpieces.

From her groundbreaking stage performances to her controversial open relationship with a niece of Napoleon, and her stormy union with the controversial Willy, Colette's life was a complex and fascinating tapestry of secrets, desires, and unconventional passions.

Judith Thurman's biography, a testament to the resilience and the audacity of the author's subject, beautifully weaves together intimate revelations, colorful anecdotes, and shrewd insights into Colette's life and work. As it unveils her complex personal relationships, "Secrets of the Flesh" reveals Colette as a woman ahead of her time, challenging societal norms, and defying the conventions of her era, all while creating literary masterpieces that continue to captivate readers today.

Lush with rich historical context and written with captivating prose, this extraordinary biography will leave readers spellbound as it offers an unprecedented look into the life of one of the world's most enigmatic and irresistible literary superstars.


  • Authors: Judith Thurman

  • Publisher: Ballantine Books

  • Published Date: March 30, 2011

  • Page Count: 636.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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LBJ and Ronald Reagan at the Dawn of a New America


In "Landslide, " Jonathan Darman masterfully weaves together the complex narratives of two political titans: Lyndon Johnson and Ronald Reagan. From 1963 to 1966, these opposing forces shaped American politics as they navigated both personal and political landscapes.

A testament to their ambition and the dramatic transformations occurring in America during this time, "Landslide" brilliantly portrays their distinct personalities and the nation's anxious state. As the world around them reels from the Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, and the rise of television, Johnson and Reagan each attempt to bring forth a new, utopian vision for the country. This captivating narrative nonfiction offers a unique perspective on the historical events that ushered in a new era of American politics, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's trajectory.

Join Darman on this mesmerizing journey through a time of change and upheaval as he explores the lives and legacies of Johnson and Reagan, the giants who reshaped the American political landscape.


  • Authors: Jonathan Darman

  • Publisher: Random House Trade Paperbacks

  • Published Date: July 07, 2015

  • Page Count: 482.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: History

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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"Whatever Happened to Interracial Love? " is a passionate and poignant collection of stories set against the turbulent backdrop of 1960s New York. This remarkable debut by Kathleen Collins explores the themes of love, freedom, and the struggle for equality in a society rife with prejudice.

Amidst the intense heat of summer 1963, Collins' characters navigate the volatile landscape of civil rights protests, interracial love, and the promise of societal change. Young African-American women boldly transform themselves, casting off societal expectations, and embracing newfound freedoms. Meanwhile, young men of all races travel south to fight against segregation, seeking a future where love knows no color.

"Whatever Happened to Interracial Love? " stands as a testament to the power of Kathleen Collins' electrifying voice, which was unfortunately overlooked during her lifetime. These captivating stories, written in the late 1960s and early 1970s, serve as a reminder of the resilience and determination of those who have fought for social justice and equality.

Experience a world brought to life by Collins' masterful storytelling, as she effortlessly explores the nuances of relationships and the human experience. This must-read collection reminds us not only of the value of interracial love but also of the power of the written word to inspire and illuminate. Don't miss your chance to join the movement and find out whatever happened to interracial love in this groundbreaking debut.


  • Authors: Kathleen Collins

  • Publisher: Granta Books

  • Published Date: December 08, 2016

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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David Plante's "Difficult Women" is a mesmerizing exploration of three trailblazing literary icons, now available again after years of being out of print. This fascinating read offers captivating portraits of Jean Rhys, Sonia Orwell, and Germaine Greer, shedding light on their extraordinary lives and challenging personalities. Each character is presented with an intriguing blend of admiration and scrutiny, as Plante delves deep into their motivations and complexities.

"Difficult Women" begins with a poignant portrait of Jean Rhys in her twilight years, after the publication of "The Wide Sargasso Sea" finally garnered the recognition her earlier works deserved. Rhys's struggle with fame, her alcoholism, and her tragic state of mind are all vividly portrayed by Plante, who remains an impartial observer amidst her turmoil.

Next, Plante turns his attention to Sonia Orwell, a woman whose beauty and social graces both served and hindered her. Through his portrayal, we witness her vulnerability and resilience as she navigates life's ups and downs.

Finally, Germaine Greer emerges as an enigmatic and unwavering force in the world of academia. Plante's unflinching gaze captures the essence of the brilliant, opinionated, and opinion-dividing figure she is.

Through these vivid portraits, Plante raises challenging questions about the character and intentions of the astute portraitist himself. This thought-provoking book is not only a testament to the strength and complexity of these "difficult women, " but also a reminder of the power and responsibility that comes with observation and understanding.

"Difficult Women" by David Plante is a must-read for anyone interested in the lives and works of groundbreaking literary figures, offering a captivating glimpse into their complex personalities and the impact they had on the literary world.


  • Authors: David Plante

  • Publisher: New York Review of Books

  • Published Date: September 26, 2017

  • Page Count: 208.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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A Novel


In the gripping novel Ill Will by National Book Award finalist Dan Chaon, readers are drawn into a chilling tale of unsolved crimes and shattered memories. Psychologist Dustin Tillman finds his world turned upside down when his adopted brother, Rusty, is released from prison after serving decades for a crime that was never proven. As Dustin grapples with the revelations, he becomes increasingly suspicious of a string of drowning deaths he hears about from one of his patients.

As their amateur investigation unfolds, Dustin starts to believe that he must solve the mystery, even if it puts his own family at risk. With its exploration of the failures of memory and the dangers of self-deception, Ill Will is a masterfully crafted thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

(Page Count: 498.0).


  • Authors: Dan Chaon

  • Publisher: Ballantine Books

  • Published Date: January 09, 2018

  • Page Count: 498.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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Approaching Eye Level by acclaimed nonfiction author Vivian Gornick delves into evocative themes such as loneliness, life in New York, friendship, feminism, and writing, all explored through a collection of seminal essays. Gornick's introspective writing showcases the challenges and victories faced by a modern woman making her way through the bustling metropolis, embracing a life of solitude, and navigating the intricacies of friendship, feminism, and love.

Gornick fearlessly shares her intimate journey of self-discovery, intertwining her experiences as a waitress, a mentor, and a writer. Through genuine recollections of her time in the feminist movement, her marital life, and her experience teaching writing, Gornick invites readers to embark on her quest for comprehension and connection with the world.

Published in 1996, Approaching Eye Level presents 142 pages filled with insightful and unapologetic essays as Gornick delves further into the complexities of the human experience. A touching and enlightening compilation, this book will captivate readers seeking an authentic perspective on life, relationships, and the search for self-understanding.


  • Authors: Vivian Gornick

  • Publisher: Macmillan + ORM

  • Published Date: March 03, 2020

  • Page Count: 142.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Literary Collections

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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Essays on Culture, Literature, and Feminism in Our Time


In Taking a Long Look, acclaimed essayist and cultural critic Vivian Gornick offers a stunning collection of work spanning nearly five decades. With her signature clear-eyed perception and lively prose, Gornick navigates feminism, literature, and culture, all while exploring the transformative power of self-understanding. Gornick delves into the lives and works of literary giants such as Alfred Kazin, Mary McCarthy, and Philip Roth, as well as delving into the impact of Silent Spring and Uncle Tom's Cabin.

Readers will also find themselves drawn into the unique characters and stories only found in the bustling streets of New York. Additionally, the publication of this work marks the return to print of Gornick's passionate pieces from the 1970s, championing the revolutionary Women's Liberation Movement. As America's beloved critic, Gornick never fails to entertain and enlighten, showcasing her best work in Taking a Long Look.


  • Authors: Vivian Gornick

  • Publisher: Verso Books

  • Published Date: March 16, 2021

  • Page Count: 257.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Social Science

  • Average Rating: 3.5

  • Ratings Count: 2.0

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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a-splendid-intelligence-the-life-of-elizabeth-hardwick-169796-1

A Splendid Intelligence: The Life of Elizabeth Hardwick is a captivating biography that delves into the extraordinary life of a critically acclaimed essayist, critic, and short story writer. Following her tumultuous journey from poverty-stricken Kentucky to the bustling New York City, this book offers a rich and engrossing portrait of Hardwick's life, her intellectual pursuits, and the long-lasting friendships she forged with prominent literary figures.

Through a series of enthralling events and encounters, Hardwick's life is illuminated by her sharp wit, progressive political beliefs, and deep love for literature. Her marriage to the celebrated poet Robert Lowell, as well as his controversial decision to publish excerpts from their private letters, serves as the backdrop for not only her personal struggles but also her enduring passion for writing.

As a cofounder of The New York Review of Books, Hardwick made her name known in the literary world, eviscerating authors while also forging lasting connections with the likes of Mary McCarthy, Adrienne Rich, and Susan Sontag. Her life and work, infused with her splendid intelligence, are elegantly celebrated in this meticulously-researched biography.

A Splendid Intelligence presents an intimate and riveting account of a woman who left an indelible mark on postwar American culture; it is a testament to Hardwick's legacy and her unparalleled contribution to the literary landscape.


  • Authors: Cathy Curtis

  • Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company

  • Published Date: November 16, 2021

  • Page Count: 327.0

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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