Possession Book Summary

SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEY'S WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 'A delicious, important novel' The Times 'Alert, alive and gripping' Independent 'Some novels tell a great story and others make you change the way you look at the world. Americanah does both.' Guardian As teenagers in a Lagos secondary school, Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Their Nigeria is under military dictatorship, and people are fleeing the country if they can. Ifemelu--beautiful, self-assured--departs for America to study. She suffers defeats and triumphs, finds and loses relationships and friendships, all the while feeling the weight of something she never thought of back home: race. Obinze--the quiet, thoughtful son of a professor--had hoped to join her, but post-9/11 America will not let him in, and he plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Thirteen years later, Obinze is a wealthy man in a newly democratic Nigeria, while Ifemelu has achieved success as a writer of an eye-opening blog about race in America. But when Ifemelu returns to Nigeria, and she and Obinze reignite their shared passion--for their homeland and for each other--they will face the toughest decisions of their lives. Fearless, gripping, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story of love and expectation set in today's globalized world.

In 'Madame Bovary,' Gustave Flaubert tells the poignant story of Emma Bovary, a woman trapped in the mundane reality of provincial life. Yearning for romance and excitement, she becomes embroiled in a series of ill-fated affairs that lead to tragedy. With each fleeting passion, Emma's disillusionment deepens, revealing the stark contrast between her dreams and reality. Flaubert's masterful prose captures the essence of desire, desperation, and the pursuit of happiness. Will Emma ever find the fulfillment she seeks, or is she destined for despair?

In the electrifying world of 1888, "The Last Days of Night" follows the fierce battle between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse over the future of electricity. Amidst corporate espionage and technological innovation, a young lawyer named Paul Cravath navigates this thrilling landscape of ambition and betrayal. As he uncovers secrets and confronts moral dilemmas, Paul finds himself entangled not only in a war of inventions but also in a complicated romance with the enigmatic figure of Westinghouse's assistant. With the fate of electric power hanging in the balance, can he outsmart the titans of industry? This captivating tale of ingenuity and rivalry will leave you questioning the true cost of progress.

In 'Jane Eyre', a young orphaned girl rises from a tumultuous childhood marked by abuse and neglect to become a strong-willed governess. Her journey leads her to Thornfield Hall, where she encounters the enigmatic Mr. Rochester, igniting a passionate yet tumultuous romance. As secrets unfold and societal expectations clash, Jane must navigate her own sense of identity and morality. This gothic tale weaves themes of love, liberty, and resilience, challenging the norms of its time. Will Jane find her rightful place in a world rife with obstacles, or will her search for independence lead to unforeseen sacrifices?

In 'I Don't Want to Talk About It', Terrence Real delves into the hidden struggles of men grappling with vulnerability and emotional disconnect. Through poignant stories and insightful analysis, he reveals how societal expectations shape male identity and hinder authentic communication. The book challenges longstanding stereotypes and invites readers to reconsider the true essence of masculinity. Real's compassionate guidance offers a pathway towards deeper connections and emotional healing. This powerful exploration leaves readers questioning: what happens when men dare to embrace their feelings?

Delve into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and music with Daniel J. Levitin's 'This Is Your Brain on Music.' The author, a neuroscientist and musician, unravels how our brains perceive, process, and are profoundly affected by music. From the emotional responses it elicits to the cognitive impact of rhythm and melody, Levitin offers a captivating exploration of music's role in human experience. With insights that challenge preconceived notions about music, this book will leave you pondering the power it holds over our minds and lives. Whether you're a casual listener or a seasoned musician, the revelations in this book will resonate with you long after the last note.

In 'Political Fictions,' Joan Didion explores the intricate relationship between politics and public perception, unraveling the narratives that shape American identity. Through her sharp prose and keen observations, Didion critiques the disconnection between the political narrative and the realities of everyday life. The essays are a blend of personal reflection and analytical dissection, revealing the often theatrical nature of political discourse. Didion's unique voice invites readers to question the authenticity of the stories they are told. Engaging and thought-provoking, this work challenges us to reconsider the fictions that inform our political landscape.

In 'Get Off Your "But"', motivational speaker Sean Stephenson challenges readers to confront their own excuses and limitations. Through compelling anecdotes and practical strategies, he empowers individuals to take control of their lives and pursue their dreams with fearless determination. As he shares his personal journey overcoming adversity, you'll be inspired to tackle your own 'buts' and embrace change. The book is a call to action, prompting you to reconsider what’s truly possible when you stop making excuses. Are you ready to break free from your self-imposed barriers and unlock your potential?