In 'Florida', Lauren Groff weaves a tapestry of life in the Sunshine State, exploring the beauty and brutality of nature through a series of interconnected stories. Each narrative delves into the lives of complex characters, haunted by their pasts and striving to find their place in a world that feels increasingly chaotic. The lush, often oppressive landscape of Florida itself becomes a character, reflecting the emotional turbulence of its inhabitants. With sharp prose and vivid imagery, Groff captures moments of joy, fear, and longing, making the reader question the thin line between paradise and peril. This collection invites contemplation on human resilience and the unrelenting forces of nature that shape our destinies.
By Lauren Groff
Published: 2019
""The heat was not just about temperature; it was the density of everything that made the air itself feel alive, a palpable reminder that the world was both beautiful and feral, and we were always at its mercy.""
The universally-acclaimed return of the New York Times bestselling author of Fates and Furies, Matrix, and the highly-anticipated The Vaster Wilds In Lauren Groff’s Florida, the hot sun shines, but a wild darkness lurks. Florida is a "superlative" book (Boston Globe), "gorgeously weird and limber" (New Yorker), "frequently funny" (San Francisco Chronicle), "brooding, inventive and often moving" (NPR Fresh Air) -- as Groff is recognized as "Florida's unofficial poet laureate, as Joan Didion was for California." (Washington Post) "Groff's gifts as a writer just keep soaring higher and higher.” – NPR’s Fresh Air In her thrilling new book, Lauren Groff brings the reader into a physical world that is at once domestic and wild—a place where the hazards of the natural world lie waiting to pounce, yet the greatest threats and mysteries are still of an emotional, psychological nature. A family retreat can be derailed by a prowling panther, or by a sexual secret. Among those navigating this place are a resourceful pair of abandoned sisters; a lonely boy, grown up; a restless, childless couple, a searching, homeless woman; and an unforgettable, recurring character—a steely and conflicted wife and mother. The stories in this collection span characters, towns, decades, even centuries, but Florida—its landscape, climate, history, and state of mind—becomes its gravitational center: an energy, a mood, as much as a place of residence. Groff transports the reader, then jolts us alert with a crackle of wit, a wave of sadness, a flash of cruelty, as she writes about loneliness, rage, family, and the passage of time. With shocking accuracy and effect, she pinpoints the moments and decisions and connections behind human pleasure and pain, hope and despair, love and fury—the moments that make us alive. Startling, precise, and affecting, Florida is a magnificent achievement.
Showing 8 of 27 similar books
Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, author, and founder of The School of Life, an organization dedicated to teaching emotional intelligence and life skills. De Botton’s books, such as The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life, blend philosophy with everyday life, offering practical wisdom on love, work, and happiness. His work has popularized philosophy, making it accessible to a wider audience. De Botton is also a public speaker and essayist, frequently exploring topics related to human fulfillment and personal growth. His unique approach to philosophy has made him a respected voice in contemporary culture.
Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.
David Sedaris is an American humorist, author, and radio contributor, known for his witty and satirical essays that explore themes of family, culture, and personal idiosyncrasies. Sedaris rose to fame with his collections Me Talk Pretty One Day and Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, which have earned him a devoted following for his blend of humor and keen observation. His work is often autobiographical, capturing the quirks of everyday life in a humorous light. Sedaris regularly contributes to The New Yorker and NPR’s This American Life, and his live readings are popular events that showcase his comedic timing and unique storytelling style.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Oprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
Showing 8 of 17 related collections
“"The heat was not just about temperature; it was the density of everything that made the air itself feel alive, a palpable reminder that the world was both beautiful and feral, and we were always at its mercy."”
Florida
By Lauren Groff
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Lauren Groff is an acclaimed American novelist and short story writer, widely recognized for her distinctive narrative voice and exploration of complex themes such as family, identity, and the human experience. She is the author of several notable works, including the bestselling novels 'Fates and Furies' and 'Matrix', as well as the short story collections 'Delicate Edible Birds' and 'Florida'. Groff's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose, intricate character development, and a profound sense of place, often reflecting her own experiences in Florida. Her work has garnered numerous awards, including the Pushcart Prize and the O Henry Award, and she was named one of Granta's Best Young American Novelists.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'More Heat Than Light', Philip Mirowski takes readers on a captivating journey through the tangled relationship between economics and physics. He uncovers how the methodologies of these two fields intertwine, sparking fascinating debates about knowledge and power. Mirowski challenges conventional wisdom, inviting us to reconsider the ways we apply scientific principles to economic theory. In a world obsessed with data and models, his insights prompt a critical examination of the credibility of economic assertions. This thought-provoking read will leave you questioning the very foundations of both disciplines and their impact on society.
Delve into the transformative world of Scrum with 'The Elements of Scrum,' where authors Chris Sims and Hillary Louise Johnson unravel the principles that drive agile project management. This insightful guide not only explains the core components of the Scrum framework but also illustrates how they can revolutionize teamwork and productivity. Through vivid examples and practical tips, you’ll discover how to foster collaboration and innovation in any environment. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned practitioner, the book challenges conventional approaches and ignites a passion for continuous improvement. Are you ready to embrace agility and unleash your team's potential?
In Philip Roth's 'Goodbye, Columbus', the complexities of love and class are intricately woven together as the tale unfolds between Neil Klugman and Brenda Patimkin. Set against the backdrop of a Jewish suburban community, this novella explores the contrasts between a working-class young man and his wealthy girlfriend. As their relationship deepens, Neil grapples with the pressures of societal expectations and personal identity. The narrative is both a poignant love story and a sharp critique of materialism and social status. Will Neil and Brenda reconcile their differing worlds, or will their paths inevitably diverge?
In 'How Buildings Learn,' Stewart Brand explores the fascinating relationship between architecture and adaptability, revealing how structures evolve over time. He challenges the notion of buildings as static creations, illustrating how they respond to the needs of their occupants and the changing environment. Through striking examples and insightful analysis, Brand uncovers the inherent adaptability of great design. This thought-provoking journey invites readers to reevaluate their perceptions of architecture and reimagine the potential of our built surroundings. Discover how the passage of time can transform buildings into living entities.
In 'Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain,' Betty Edwards unveils revolutionary techniques that tap into the creative potential of the brain’s right hemisphere. This book challenges conventional notions of art and self-expression, providing readers with innovative exercises to enhance their drawing skills, no matter their experience level. Edwards demystifies the process of seeing and translates it into practical, engaging steps that anyone can follow. As neuropsychology intertwines with artistry, readers discover how to shift their perceptions and unlock hidden talents. Can you truly learn to see and draw the world anew?
In 'Can't and Won't', Lydia Davis presents a collection of sharply crafted short stories that explore the intricacies of human thought and communication. Each piece invites readers into fragmented yet profound moments of life, ranging from the mundane to the existential. Davis's signature wit and keen observations expose the absurdities of daily routines and personal dilemmas. As she navigates themes of desire, indecision, and the art of storytelling, her unique voice captivates and challenges conventional narrative forms. Prepare for an intellectual journey that probes the depths of what it means to think, feel, and express oneself.
In 'Best Stories', Hugh Garner weaves a tapestry of human experience through a collection of gripping short stories that explore themes of love, loss, and resilience. Each tale offers a vivid portrayal of characters grappling with the complexities of life, leaving readers both reflective and intrigued. Garner's sharp prose and keen insights invite us to look beyond the surface and uncover the deeper truths of our shared humanity. This anthology not only showcases his storytelling prowess but also challenges us to confront our own moral dilemmas. Prepare to be captivated as you journey through the pages of this extraordinary collection!
In 'The Signal and the Noise', Nate Silver, the acclaimed statistician, explores the art of prediction in an age overwhelmed by information. He distinguishes between valuable insights and misleading data, revealing the secrets behind successful forecasting across various fields, from politics to sports. Silver's engaging narrative delves into the psychology of decision-making and the common pitfalls that lead us astray. As he unravels the complexities of uncertainty, readers are invited to question their own perceptions of probability. Will you discern the signal from the noise?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
