Let's go historical

[frenchani]

Being a historian, I'm very picky when it comes to historical fictions, either in books or on screen. Usually, when a book is accurate history-wise, it is lacking in terms of literary qualities...and vice-versa. It's difficult to find historical novels that are actually great books so it is not a genre that I read much.

BTW this post was prompted by

Comments

[selenak]

And there's a rec list right here (though I know some novels on it already). The Alejo Carpentier sounds like a must!

[frenchani]

All Alejo Carpentier's books are must read but this one is my favourite.

[owenthurman]

I like the genre, too, though I agree it's hard to find good work

[frenchani]

Hugo was very politically committed and was even elected deputy several times-- although his political speeches are less known than his novels or poetry -- , but his political views evolved a lot through the XIXth Century. He started very conservative and a monarchist in his youth (pro Charles X even!), became a democrat in the 1850's and a reformist, and ended up a radical Republican, almost a socialist, in his 70's...hence Quatre-Vingt-Treize...

[herself_nyc]

The only one of these I've read is the Eco, a million billion years ago, and possibly the Powers, which as I don't remember it, it obviously didn't stick for me.

Two I'd rec to you: any of JG Farrell's three novels - THE SINGAPORE GRIP, THE TROUBLES, and I forget the third title but it's about the mutiny in India.

I'd also recommend highly THE PUBLIC BURNING by Robert Coover.

[frenchani]

I remember you told me you were not a fan of Powers' novels. I think that the one you read was The Echo Maker, and maybe Three Farmers On Their Way to A Dance (his debut novel), though.

Thanks for the recs!

[herself_nyc]

Yes, and I also read the one about the guy who has a car wreck and then thinks his sister is an imposter.

DO try Farrell -- he's really great. I read his three novels fairly recently and found them funny, educational, and immensely compelling.

[frenchani]

Yes, and I also read the one about the guy who has a car wreck and then thinks his sister is an imposter.

That's The Echo Maker. :- )

[lijability]

Egads!!! I've actually read some of those!

I know what you mean. James Michener has ripped off history (usually American history) for a slew of his novels. I remember reading one and saying to myself - 'hey! It didn't happen that way!'