Bicara Buku

  Title: Swann's Way Author: Marcel Proust Librivox Audiobook app Read by Expatriate This is the first volume of the monumental novel In Search of Lost Time, a masterpiece of French literature and modernist fiction. The book explores themes of memory, time, love, jealousy, and social class, all deeply intertwined with personal experiences and psychological insight. The narrative is divided into three main parts. The first introduces the unnamed narrator's childhood in Combray, a small French town, highlighting his emotional attachment to his mother and his sensory experience of time through involuntary memory—famously illustrated by the taste of a madeleine dipped in tea. This scene has become iconic in literary history and is central to the novel’s meditation on memory. The second and longest section, "Swann in Love," focuses on Charles Swann, a cultured man of the French aristocracy, and his obsessive, emotionally turbulent relationship with Odette de Crécy. Through...

  Title: At the Heart of the Reich Author: Major Gerhard Engel Translated from the German by Geoffrey Brooks Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing, New York Year published: 2016 208 pages This memoir offers a rare and insightful account of Adolf Hitler’s inner circle from the perspective of someone who was both close to the Führer and yet remained personally detached from Nazi ideology.  Engel served as Hitler’s army adjutant from 1941 to 1943, and his writings document the day-to-day life, behaviors, and mindset of Hitler and those around him during the critical years of the Second World War. The book is based on Engel’s diaries and personal notes, providing first-hand observations of Hitler's leadership style, moods, private conversations, and strategic thinking.  Engel portrays Hitler as a complex figure—charismatic and domineering, yet increasingly isolated and erratic as the war turned against Germany.  The memoir also highlights the internal dynamics and tensions with...

  Tajuk: Tuan Guru Nik Abdul Aziz: Pemikiran Agama dan Politik Penulis: Ismail Yusoff Penerbit: Penerbit UUM, Sintok Tahun diterbitkan: 2015 366 halaman "Saya juga cukup jaga tutur kata dan pakaian dengan rakyat. Pakaian apa yang dipakai orang kampung, pakaian itulah saya pakai - dengan sarung, dengan baju Melayu, dengan serbannya. Saya tidak pakai kasut harga mahal, tetapi kasut yang biasa diguna orang kampung." (m/s 56) "Saya takut benar dipuji kerana bimbang pujian itu melebihi daripada hakikat sebenar yang ada pada saya. Bila mati nanti saya akan ditanya sama ada hakikat diri saya serupa dengan pujian yang saya terima. Kalau serupa Alhamdulillah. Kalau tidak serupa, banyak pula soal jawabnya, oleh itu tak payah pujilah." (m/s 59) Buku ini merupakan sebuah kajian yang mendalam dan ilmiah mengenai tokoh politik Islam yang paling berpengaruh dalam sejarah moden Malaysia, menelusuri gagasan-gagasan utama Tuan Guru Nik Abdul Aziz dalam bidang agama dan politik, serta...

  Title: The Red-Haired Woman (Kırmızı Saçh Kadın) Author: Orhan Pamuk Translated from the Turkish by Ekin Oklap Publisher: Faber & Faber, London Year published: 2017 253 pages The Red-Haired Woman is a haunting and layered novel that weaves together memory, myth, politics, and personal guilt to explore the relationship between fathers and sons, as well as the tension between tradition and modernity.  Set against the backdrop of Turkey’s shifting political and cultural landscape from the 1980s to the present, the story follows Cem Çelik, a boy from Istanbul who, after his father abandons the family, takes up a summer job apprenticing with a traditional well-digger in the rural town of Öngören. As the well-digger, Master Mahmut, becomes a temporary father figure to Cem, their relationship mirrors the intimate yet fraught dynamics of paternal authority.  Cem’s adolescent restlessness and curiosity grow, especially after he catches glimpses of a traveling theater troupe ...

  Tajuk: Saya Bukan Menteri Penulis: Zainuddin Maidin Penerbit: Penerbit UUM, Sintok Tahun diterbitkan: 2016 279 halaman BERSIH, CEKAP & AMANAH? Dr. Mahathir telah mengucapkan terima kasih kepada saya apabila saya mengucapkan tangannya pada majlis meraikan hari jadinya yang diberikan oleh jutawan Vincent Tan di sebuah hotel. (halaman 193) SIAPA MENTERI VETERAN GATAL? Ada kisah lucu tentang seorang menteri veteran yang gatal setiap kali menemui gadis-gadis atau wanita-wanita cantik akan memuji kecantikan mereka ataupun mengatakan lama tak tengok you walaupun beliau belum pernah menemui mereka sebelumnya. Beliau pandai untuk menyeronokkan wanita. Suatu hari beliau terlihat seorang gadis yang cantik dalam barisan untuk menyambutnya dan terus menyatakan, "Lama tak tengok, pi mana? You ni semakin cantik, minggu sudah I jumpa bapa you." Gadis ini terus menjawab, "Bapa I dah mati lima tahun dahulu." (halaman 199) SIAPAKAH BUDAK-BUDAK TINGKAT 4? Bagaimanapun yang lebih ...

  Title: The End of the Chinese Dream Author: Gerard Lemos Publisher: Yale University Press, London Year published: 2013 301 pages This book is a detailed and sobering exploration of the social, economic, and personal challenges faced by ordinary Chinese citizens in the early 21st century. Drawing on extensive fieldwork conducted between 2006 and 2010, primarily in the industrial megacity of Chongqing, Lemos seeks to uncover the lived experiences, aspirations, and fears of everyday people, challenging the polished narrative of China’s rapid development and prosperity often promoted by state media.  Through an innovative research method involving “wish trees,” where participants anonymously shared their hopes and concerns, Lemos provides a rare glimpse into the anxieties and frustrations of a population grappling with the consequences of breakneck modernization, systemic corruption, and social inequality.  The book argues that beneath the surface of China’s economic miracl...

  Tajuk: Dia dan Nya Penulis: Sutung Umar Rs Penerbit: ITBM, Kuala Lumpur Tahun diterbitkan: 2013 394 halaman Novel ini mengisahkan perjalanan batin yang merangkum kenangan masa lalu dan kini, sambil membuka wawasan terhadap masa depan. Pendekatan unik diketengahkan dengan menghadirkan konsep "diri terpecah" melalui dua watak, yakni Dia dan Nya. Dia mewakili sosok kompleks yang terjebak dalam pergulatan antara kebaikan dan keburukan, mencerminkan nafsu yang bersarang dalam diri manusia. Sebaliknya, Nya adalah kewujudan jiwa yang menggagas kebaikan dalam diri. Kisah Dia dipenuhi dengan pengalaman masa lalu yang kelam dan penuh cacat. Nya hadir sebagai bisikan batin yang berusaha menyelamatkan Dia dari belenggu masa lalunya. Di penghujung liku-liku perjalanan ini, Sutung mengakhiri Dia dan Nya dengan mengungkap titik puncak dari perjalanan hidup manusia. BACA LAGI MENARIK

  Title: End This Depression Now! Author: Paul Krugman Publisher: Norton, New York Year published: 2013 259 pages End This Depression Now! by Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman is a passionate and incisive critique of economic policy in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, offering both a sharp diagnosis and a clear solution to the lingering global economic malaise. The book is a call to action, urging policymakers, economists, and the public to adopt the tools necessary to bring an end to what Krugman describes as a needless economic depression. Krugman begins by contrasting the immense suffering caused by high unemployment, stagnant growth, and lost income with the inaction of governments—particularly the United States government. He argues that the crisis was not a mysterious or complex failure of the system, but rather a failure of will and understanding. According to Krugman, the persistent economic downturn following the 2008 crash is not due to deep structural prob...

  Tajuk: Tugu Penulis: Hasan Ali Penerbit: DBP, Kuala Lumpur Tahun diterbitkan: 2010 167 halaman Novel ini memaparkan kisah perjuangan dan pengorbanan para pejuang tanah air dalam mempertahankan maruah bangsa dan kemerdekaan negara ketika era Darurat  yang berpunca daripada pemberontakan pengganas komunis. Tugu menggabungkan unsur sejarah, patriotisme dan nilai kemanusiaan melalui penceritaan yang menyentuh hati.  Watak-watak yang diketengahkan mewakili pelbagai latar masyarakat yang bersatu dalam menentang penjajahan, dengan semangat keberanian dan keikhlasan yang tinggi. Melalui naratif yang penuh emosi dan realiti sosial, pembaca dibawa menyelami perasaan mereka yang hidup dalam zaman sukar, serta kesan psikologi dan fizikal akibat konflik yang berpanjangan.  Novel ini bukan sekadar mengenang sejarah, tetapi juga menjadi seruan agar generasi hari ini menghargai erti kemerdekaan yang sebenar serta pengorbanan yang mendasarinya. Gaya penulisan yang padat dan puitis ...

  Title: Miramar Author: Naguib Mahfouz Translated into English by Fatma Moussa Mahmoud Publisher: Anchor Books, New York Year published: 1993 181 pages Set in Alexandria during a time of political and social transition in Egypt, this novel centers on a once-grand pension called Miramar, run by an aging woman named Mariana. The pension becomes a microcosm of the changing Egyptian society, bringing together characters from various backgrounds and ideologies.  At the heart of the story is Zohra, a beautiful and ambitious young peasant girl who seeks to escape poverty and traditional constraints by working at Miramar. Her presence and aspirations disrupt the lives of the pension’s residents and become a point of contention among them. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of four male residents—Amer Wagdi, Hosny Allam, Mansour Bahy, and Sarhan al-Beheiry—each of whom recounts events in their own voice, offering conflicting views of the people around them and revealing th...

  Tajuk: Kemenangan Yang Tertangguh Penulis: Mohd Hasbie Muda Penerbit: Megamind Leadership Consultancy, Petaling Jaya Tahun diterbitkan: 2013 145 halaman Kemenangan Yang Tertangguh mengupas perjalanan panjang gerakan Islam khususnya PAS dalam politik Malaysia, dengan menyoroti faktor-faktor yang menyumbang kepada kejayaan dan kegagalan mereka dalam arena demokrasi.  Buku ini memberi tumpuan kepada cabaran yang dihadapi oleh gerakan Islam, termasuk tekanan politik, perubahan sokongan rakyat, serta strategi yang digunakan untuk bertahan dan berkembang dalam landskap politik yang sentiasa berubah.   Penulis mengemukakan hujah bahawa perjuangan politik Islam tidak sekadar bertumpu kepada kemenangan pilihan raya, tetapi turut melibatkan aspek pembinaan pemikiran, pengukuhan organisasi, serta kebolehan menyesuaikan diri dengan tuntutan zaman.  Melalui analisis yang mendalam, beliau membincangkan pengalaman gerakan Islam dalam pelbagai pilihan raya, termasuk kejayaan ...

  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....

  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...

  Tajuk: Air Mata Kesengsaraan Rohingya Penulis: Azharuddin Mohamed Dali & Azlinariah Abdullah Penerbit: Inteam Publishing, Kuala Lumpur Tahun diterbitkan: 2012 233 halaman Dari kulit muka belakang: ROHINGYA barangkali tidak keterlaluan jika ia dianggap sebagai kaum yang paling malang dan dilupakan di planet ini. Berasal dari Myanmar, hidup secara diaspora selepas lari akibat ditindas dan diseksa oleh tentera yang memerintah. Bukan itu sahaja, sejarah yang mengaitkan mereka berasal dari Arakan, sebuah pusat penyebaran Islam suatu ketika dahulu, tidak membolehkan mereka mendapat kerakyatan di negara sendiri disebabkan penggubalan undang-undang berhubung kewarganegaraan. Keadaan ini menyebabkan mereka menjadi pelarian, dibelenggu masalah identiti, hidup  penuh duka nestapa dan menjadi minoriti Muslim Myanmar yang sentiasa bertemankan air mata kesedihan serta meratapi nasib yang menimpa mereka. Namun ramai dari masyarakat dunia yang tidak mengetahui masalah akar daripada kisa...

Title: Lord Nelson Author: Carola Oman Publisher: Collins, London Year published: 1954 158 pages This book is a compelling biography of one of Britain's most celebrated naval heroes, Admiral Horatio Nelson.  It provides a detailed and intimate portrait of Nelson's life, achievements, and personal struggles.  Oman draws upon a wealth of historical documents and correspondence to weave a narrative that goes beyond Nelson's military triumphs, delving into his character, relationships, and the challenges he faced as a leader during a tumultuous period in British history. The book chronicles Nelson's rise through the ranks of the Royal Navy, highlighting his pivotal role in battles such as the Battle of the Nile and the Battle of Trafalgar.  Oman captures the strategic brilliance and unyielding determination that defined his career, while also addressing his controversial personal life, including his relationship with Lady Emma Hamilton. What sets Oman's biography apart ...