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  Tajuk: Sebuah Trilogi Tiga Genre Penulis: Arena Wati Penerbit: Utusan Publications & Distributors, Kuala Lumpur Tahun diterbitkan: 2007 722 halaman Sebuah Trilogi Tiga Genre merupakan sebuah koleksi yang menghimpunkan tiga bentuk penulisan berbeza, memperlihatkan kepelbagaian gaya dan pemikiran penulisnya.   Antara Manusia mengandungi cerpen-cerpen yang mencerminkan pengalaman dan pemerhatian penulis terhadap kehidupan, terutamanya dalam fasa usia tua. Ia menyelami keinsafan, kebijaksanaan, dan perubahan yang dialami dalam peredaran masa.   Kepala Bapak Itu pula merupakan sebuah drama yang menampilkan lima babak, menggambarkan keluhan dan suara rakyat jelata. Naskhah ini menyampaikan kritikan sosial yang tajam terhadap ketidakadilan dan penderitaan masyarakat, dengan gaya bahasa yang kuat dan penuh ekspresi.   Samira, sebuah novel yang lebih bersifat peribadi, mengisahkan kenangan terhadap ibu bapa serta harapan terhadap masa depan. Ia membawa pe...

  Title: A History of the Japanese People Authors: Dairoku Kikuchi & F Brinkley iBooks This book is an extensive historical account that traces the evolution of Japan from its early origins to modern times. It presents a detailed analysis of the cultural, political, social, and economic changes that shaped the country, offering a comprehensive perspective on Japan’s development. The narrative begins with an exploration of Japan’s mythological origins and its ancient traditions, where the early influences of Shintoism and Buddhism played a significant role in shaping societal values. The book delves into the rise of the Yamato clan, which established the imperial system that continues to this day. The authors discuss how the country gradually transitioned from a collection of rival clans to a more centralized state, highlighting the importance of key figures such as Prince Shotoku, who promoted Buddhism and centralized governance. Moving into the medieval period, the book examin...

  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....