Bicara Buku

  Title: Politics Author: Aristotle Librivox Audiobook app Read by LibriVox Volunteers Aristotle’s Politics is one of the most influential works in political philosophy, providing a comprehensive analysis of government, citizenship, and the role of the state.  Written in the 4th century BCE, the book explores the nature of political communities, the various forms of government, and the principles that contribute to a just and stable society.  Aristotle’s observations remain relevant in discussions of democracy, monarchy, oligarchy, and the balance of power in governance.   The book is divided into eight sections, each addressing a different aspect of political life. Aristotle begins by defining the state as a natural institution that emerges from the need for humans to live together.  He argues that man is a “political animal” because people are naturally inclined to form communities, and the highest form of community is the polis, or city-state.  Unli...

  Title: Noli Me Tangere (The Social Cancer) Author: Jose Rizal Librivox Audiobook Read by Availle First published in 1887, this novel is a seminal work in Philippine literature and a powerful critique of Spanish colonial rule, exposing the abuses, corruption, and social injustices suffered by Filipinos under the Spanish authorities and the friars.  The novel is set in the Philippines during the late 19th century and follows the life of Juan Crisóstomo Ibarra, a young and idealistic mestizo who returns to his homeland after studying in Europe.  His experiences reveal the deep-seated problems in Philippine society and ultimately lead to his downfall. The story begins with Ibarra’s return to the Philippines after seven years abroad.  He is warmly welcomed by Capitan Tiago, a wealthy Filipino who hosts a grand party attended by prominent figures, including Padre Damaso, a Franciscan friar known for his arrogance and cruelty.  During the gathering, Ibarra learns tha...

  Title: All Quiet on the Western Front (Im Westen nichts Neues) Author: Erich Maria Remarque Translated into English by A W Wheen Publisher: Random House, London Year published: 2014 208 pages This powerful anti-war novel was first published in 1929. The story follows Paul Bäumer, a young German soldier who enlists in World War I with his classmates after being inspired by patriotic speeches from their schoolteacher. However, their initial enthusiasm quickly fades as they experience the brutal realities of trench warfare.   Paul and his comrades face unimaginable horrors on the Western Front, including constant shelling, gas attacks, and the psychological torment of losing friends in battle.  The novel vividly depicts the dehumanizing effects of war, showing how young soldiers are transformed from idealistic boys into hardened men struggling to survive. They endure terrible living conditions, hunger, disease, and the ever-present threat of death.   Through...

  Title: A Pattern of Islands Author: Arthur Grimble Publisher: The Reprint Society, London Year published: 1954 312 pages A Pattern of Islands is a memoir by Arthur Grimble, recounting his experiences as a British colonial officer in the Gilbert and Ellice Islands (now Kiribati and Tuvalu) during the early 20th century.  The book offers a captivating glimpse into life on these remote Pacific islands, detailing the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the indigenous people.  Grimble, who initially arrived as a young cadet in the colonial service, shares his personal journey of adaptation, respect, and admiration for the islanders.   Through engaging storytelling, Grimble vividly describes the beauty of the islands, the challenges of colonial administration, and the deep cultural wisdom of the people he governed.  He narrates fascinating encounters, from learning the intricacies of island folklore to navigating the complex social structures and traditions....

  Title: A House for Mr. Biswas Author: V. S. Naipaul Publisher: Vintage International, New York Year published: 2001 564 pages This is a richly detailed novel that chronicles the life of Mohun Biswas, an Indo-Trinidadian man whose lifelong struggle for independence and dignity is symbolized by his dream of owning a house. Set in mid-20th century colonial Trinidad, the novel explores themes of personal ambition, social hierarchy, and the complexities of identity within a postcolonial society. Born into poverty and misfortune, Mr. Biswas faces hardship from an early age. A pundit predicts that he will lead an unlucky life, and this prophecy seems to come true as he endures one misfortune after another. His father drowns when he is still a child, leaving the family in financial ruin. As a result, Mr. Biswas grows up under the control of various relatives, never truly belonging anywhere. His lack of stability and autonomy fuels his deep-seated desire to carve out his own place in the ...

  Title: New Europe and the New World - British & Foreign History, Book Two Author: E H Dance Publisher: Longmans, Green and Co, London Year published: 1956 212 pages The book offers an insightful exploration of historical developments in Europe and beyond, and it also serves as a detailed examination of key events, figures, and transformations that shaped the modern world.   It covers a wide range of topics, providing an in-depth understanding of the political, economic, and social changes that defined different periods in European and global history.  It delves into the impact of colonial expansion, revolutions, and shifting power dynamics among nations.  Dance presents historical narratives that are both engaging and educational, making complex historical events accessible to readers.   One of the key strengths of this book lies in its ability to contextualize historical events within a broader framework, helping readers connect the past with co...