Drama Archives - Joelbooks https://joelbooks.com/category/fiction/drama/ Selected quality books read by Joelbooks book club Sat, 27 May 2023 04:33:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.4 https://i0.wp.com/joelbooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/wp-1626157867628.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Drama Archives - Joelbooks https://joelbooks.com/category/fiction/drama/ 32 32 154781010 The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark (Illustrated) Bionic Reading Edition by William Shakespeare and Din Asotić https://joelbooks.com/the-tragedy-of-hamlet-prince-of-denmark-illustrated-bionic-reading-edition-by-william-shakespeare-and-din-asotic/ Sat, 27 May 2023 04:28:39 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=27383

Immerse yourself in the tragic world of Hamlet, Prince of...

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Immerse yourself in the tragic world of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, like never before with the Bionic Reading® Edition of this timeless Shakespearean masterpiece.

In this definitive Bionic Reading® Edition, the famed tragedy comes alive in a completely new and engaging way. The Bionic Reading® technique enhances the accessibility of Shakespeare's complex language, guiding your eyes in a natural and efficient movement across the page. This unique formatting allows for an increased reading speed and improved comprehension, enabling readers to dive deeper into the dramatic world Shakespeare has created.

The Tragedy of Hamlet is a renowned play written by William Shakespeare around the year 1600. Set in the Kingdom of Denmark, the story revolves around Prince Hamlet, who is tormented by the death of his father, King Hamlet, and the hasty marriage of his mother, Queen Gertrude, to his uncle, Claudius. Filled with themes of revenge, betrayal, and moral ambiguity, the play explores the psychological depths of its characters and their complex motivations.

As the play unfolds, Hamlet is visited by the ghost of his father, who reveals that he was murdered by Claudius, his own brother, and urges Hamlet to avenge his death. Hamlet, torn between duty and his own internal struggles, devises a plan to expose Claudius's guilt. Through his feigned madness and cunning maneuvers, Hamlet seeks to confirm Claudius's guilt while grappling with his own existential questions about life, death, and the nature of revenge.

The Tragedy of Hamlet delves into the intricate web of deceit and treachery, showcasing the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition and the complexities of human nature. The play's climactic scene, a dramatic duel between Hamlet and Laertes, results in a tragic chain of events leading to the deaths of several characters, including Hamlet himself. Shakespeare's masterful storytelling and profound exploration of human psychology have cemented The Tragedy of Hamlet as one of his most celebrated works, resonating with audiences for centuries and continuing to captivate readers and theatergoers to this day.

Amazon Author's Amazon Page

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9 Stunning Korean Novels In Enlish (K-Dramas, Family Dramas & Thrillers) https://joelbooks.com/korean-novels-in-enlish-k-dramas/ Thu, 13 Jan 2022 12:15:20 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=18886

It's hard to keep up with the latest trends in...

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It's hard to keep up with the latest trends in K-dramas and K-pop, not to mention culture overall. It seems like every day – sometimes even every hour – there's something new that comes out of South Korea that people just can't get enough of. Just think about Squid Game in 2021. Now we will check the best Korean novels in English. 

Now it's time to learn about the next wave of Korean culture: their literature. Just as we were glued to our TV screens watching K-dramas, we now have an entire library full of captivating stories in the form of books. Just a few years ago, no one would've thought of the concept that reading can be so much fun and exciting too!

We collected some of the best Korean novels in English, authentic stories that will touch your heart, written by creative authors who will surely make you ponder things differently.

XOXO, by Axie Oh (2021)

(YA, MG, Romance, Romcom)

Jenni doesn't usually have much time for boys, K-pop and other frivolities. She's focused on pursuing her dream of becoming a professional cellist. But when she meets up with a mysterious man in Los Angeles, Jenni finds herself falling more and more for him in spite of the fact he's about to leave for Seoul – 14 hours away by plane.

Finding someone who is completely into you isn’t just rare, but also a dream. But Jaewoo is no typical student. Turns out, he’s a member of one of the most popular K-pop bands in the world and like most K-pop idols, Jaewoo is forbidden from dating anyone because it may jeopardize their career especially for groups that promote together as the last position usually falls to whoever dates either formally or informally.

This book is brilliant. Full of friendship, hard times, and romance which makes a great K-drama book. You’ll laugh at it and cry with it, but after reading this you can’t help but feel nourished inside because in the end everything works out.

Please Look After Mom, by Kyung-Sook Shin (2011)

(Emotional Women's fiction)

The story takes place on a crowded subway station during rush hour. The heroine is Mija whose mother, Honja, is suddenly missing in the crowd she was last seen near the exit 5. Then everyone starts to search for Mija's mother and then we find out that the story is about how Mija and her mother changed each other very much in a few years.

This Korean novel took my breath away and left me crying. Every parent should read this book even it's heartbreaking. It has the potential to change the way you look at your children. There really are not enough good things I can say about it.

Wicked Fox, by Kat Cho (2019)

(Contemporary Romance, YA)

Teenager Miyoung thinks she's got it made: she has a great life, loving parents, and a bright future ahead of her. That is until one day when she starts to notice strange things about herself. It turns out she's a daughter of gumiho, a nine-tailed fox daemon. She realizes that being human isn't all it's cracked up to be and that there are dark forces out there doing everything they can to destroy her happiness.

With enemies assassinating with both the lights out and in the open, Minyoung develops a trusted bond with Jihoon to fight back. But when a new shaman seeks to steal Miyoung's bead, consequences will spark an age-long feud forcing Minyoung to choose between immortality or giving up on Jihoon.

Korean English novels could be charming, this is exactly the case with Wicked Fox, you will love this K-drama book and it's twists.

My Brilliant Life, by Ae-ran Kim (2021)

(Family life fiction)

My Brilliant Life by Ae-ran Kim presents a touching story of family bonds, the strong emotional ties that connect and strengthen relationships between people, even among those not necessarily related by blood.

Kim’s story follows the intertwined pasts and presents of an extended family, telling their stories as Areum remembers them from his childhood, as told to him by his parents. The ongoing narrative uses present day scenes to add historical context to these tales.

The story of Aerum, a little boy born with an accelerated aging disorder. His parents were both very young when they had him and he was the youngest baby in his town. However, he is full of joy and possibilities and his story is so inspirational because it's life affirming.

My Brilliant Life is definitely one of the best Korean novel in English.

Human Acts, by Han Kang (2017)

(Mystery, Thriller, Suspense)

There are many books that have been written about the Korean War (1950-1953) and its aftermath. The story of the Gwangju Uprising is often overlooked, tucked between two larger historical events. Han Kang's The Vegetarian is a novel that lays the events of the Uprising bare, and the result is a horrifically beautiful story. In this new novel of Han Kang, Human Acts starts with the violent death of a 15 year old Dong-ho in 1980. This event changes the very life of people who knew Dong-ho.

This is an intense, heart-breaking story. It tells the tale of an incident that is best forgotten by the South Korean people. With the story told through the eyes of many different people, it really adds to the humanity of the situation. The characters are strong and the story will definitely make you think.

Nowhere to Be Found, by Bae Suah (2015)

(Metaphysical fiction)

This book is a gem. It’s a tough read at times but it’s worth it. Similar to Fight Club (in a good way), I love that the main character is a female. I also love how the structure of the story feels like you’re getting to know her through flashbacks and memories.

The author did a great job to dig deep into the human psyche, definitely worth a read if you’re looking for a thought provoking read. It's one of the most authentic Korean novels in English.

Diary of a Murderer: And Other Stories, by Kim Young-ha (2019)

(Dark fiction, Short Story Collection)

Kim Byeongsu is starting to lose his mind. He keeps forgetting small details important in life such as remembering how to say basic words, whether or not he has a dog and the last time he killed someone.

In dark and violent tales, two teenagers struggle with their loyalty towards one another when their friendship turns romantic; a family disintegrates following the kidnapping of a child years ago, who is then recovered without incident; and an overtly imaginative pursuit of creativity threatens to tear down the barriers that once kept its possessor safe from danger.

This was an interesting book of short stories, several of which received literary awards. The English used was very accessible and at times some of the terms used were quirky, but hard to bring the Korean atmosphere perfectly to English readers.

The Plotters, by Un-su Kim (2019)

(Thriller, Crime, Action & Adventure)

A Korean- based suspense novel, written by a new author who has created a charming, yet exciting masterpiece that will capture you and keep you awake at night.

Pawns are the people who decide to roll with whatever happens in their quest for survival. There’re those pawns who just do what they’re told like the plotters we spoke about earlier and there’s others who take matters into their own hands and rise above it all like a bishop on a chessboard instead of simply going along for the ride. However, if you try to kill the king/queen or other main character like a kingmaker, you'll only discover that there's another queen/king and so on up the chain because control is ultimately an illusion.

the setting of this book’s story is Korea, and the book’s main protagonist is a young man named Reseng. He’s an orphan who doesn’t know his past because he was taken in by The Old Raccoon. The Old Raccoon ostensibly runs a library which is really the secret headquarters of an organized criminal gang known as The Library.

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, by Axie Oh (2022)

(YA, Mythological retelling, Fantasy)

Axie Oh's The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea is a phenomenal tale based on Shim Cheong that weaves an emotional and deeply affecting story of self-discovery.

Many believe that Shimcheong, the beautiful maiden of their village—and the beloved of Mina’s older brother Joon—could be the legendary true bride. But on the night Shimcheong was to be sacrificed, instead Joon followed Cheong out to sea despite the deep consequences that awaited him. To save her brother, Mina threw herself into the water in Shimcheong’s stead.

Best Korean novels in English end thought

These were the best Korean books translated. Either you are a fan of K-dramas or simply enjoyed the cultural atmosphere of Netflix movies, you will find a thriller or romance in the above list, that will extend the feeling of Korean storytelling. If you interested in more K-crime books check our recommendations for Squid Game fans.

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The Window Peep by Salwa Michel https://joelbooks.com/the-window-peep-by-salwa-michel/ Tue, 26 Oct 2021 14:50:13 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=16844

Every forbidden fruit is desired…. until forbidden fruits are within...

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Every forbidden fruit is desired…. until forbidden fruits are within reach.

An epic tale that takes us across cultures, yet this is not the tale of one girl or woman, but that of many and for fear of sounding clichéd, perhaps all women in some areas of the world. Their voice is not heard because if one speaks out numerous may silence their own kind, or she becomes the black sheep, the odd one out.

Every forbidden fruit is desired. And when we realize that ominous list of ‘don’t do this’, we are left with the only option, looking. And, like a starved or fasting man, he draws images in his mind of what he wants to eat or craves at that particular moment. At this point, window peeping becomes not just a way of life but the only way to live – the fact that you peep out at life but are never allowed to live it. Fearing, and that might sound strange to many people who live in countries where freedom begins with the ability to walk. Others will take a deep breath and join hands with me, along with others who are beginning to speak out.

In some countries, people – and here I am pointing to women in particular – may have to fight just to open a window for some much-needed fresh air. If you think that is a joke, please, you are welcome to visit any country where women are suffering severe oppression and talk to any woman you meet, and you will see for yourself.

Some had the advantage of enlightened parents who encouraged completion of education, and with that comes some freedom – but not much. The chains of society and an old culture demand basics of women and girls that if they are not met – the girl is shunned or shamed and maybe for life.

Others who have left the country know exactly what is meant by these words.

The Window Peep is not the story of one woman, but through Hana, the extent that women go to just to have a little bit of life will be seen.

That little goes a long way for those who have none – like the dehydrated man in a desert, just a spoonful of water keeps him alive. When he does get it – he has no more to ask for. But when he finds a lot of water, he may drink till he dies.

Freedom is usually forgotten in the humdrum routine of daily life until it is mixed up with abuse into a thick dough that makes it not a search for freedom but the fight to just stay alive. She fights alone because no one dares support her, even others like her – all the energy they have is for each one to confront her own war – Hana, The Window Peep.

Amazon

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Pride & Dignity by Alastair Neil https://joelbooks.com/pride-dignity-by-alastair-neil/ Thu, 07 Jan 2021 09:12:20 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=10925

A highly emotional and evocative tragedy Based on fact, a...

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A highly emotional and evocative tragedy

Based on fact, a powerful and heart wrenching story of Ben and his father Jack, who have the strongest of bonds, but are torn apart by the most unconventional of choices.

Pride‘, puts you into the lives of Ben and Jack, their family, their work, their conflicts, and their highs and lows. But Jack is secretly facing problems of the severest kind. He is being subjected to the most ultimate challenge of all, and from the most ruthless opponent there is.

Dignity‘, Jack faces his adversary, knowing he cannot defeat it, but maybe he can stop his foe from gaining total and absolute victory. Will Ben help when his father's request tears him between his moral principles and his absolute love for his father? This amazing story will subject you to the extremes of emotion as you journey with these remarkable people in their lives and share their ultimate crisis.

You will get involved in the current international debate on one of the most thought provoking, topical issues as experienced by the characters. Pride & Dignity will provide you with the facts, you decide.

Alastair Neil’s ‘Pride & Dignity’ could just be the most tragic, contentious family drama to have been released in a decade. It’s two stories in one, following the business dealings of a doting father-and-son team who put integrity before profit, only to have their bonds tested to the limit when terminal illness strikes and assisted suicide strains everyone’s beliefs and morals. It’s a novel that looks at the wider assisted suicide movement, particularly from a standpoint of ethics and ideology. One critic wrote, “What a rollercoaster of emotions and very well written. Made me think what would I do in the same circumstances.”.

What would happen if your father was a man of class and integrity who, after falling ill and facing his own death, decided to travel to Switzerland for the ultimate self-deliverance? Could you provide unreserved support? Would it go against the morals you hold so near and dear? For the son in Alastair Neil’s new book, it’s a decision he must make today.

Amazon
Review

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She Chose Me by Amber Drake https://joelbooks.com/she-chose-me-by-amber-drake/ Tue, 18 Aug 2020 09:23:31 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=8677

The Heart-Wrenching Tale of a Woman and Her Best Friend...

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The Heart-Wrenching Tale of a Woman and Her Best Friend

When twelve-year-old Evelyn is given a Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppy as a gift from her father, she and her new dog, Paws, are inseparable. They grow up together, do everything together, and Evelyn is rarely seen without faithful Paws by her side. But one day, when she's attending college in New York City, Paws' nose won't stop bleeding. The vet tells Evelyn three earth-shattering words that will change their lives forever. Paws has cancer.

Follow this heart-breaking and emotional tale, based on a true story, of Evelyn and Paws and their fight against esophageal cancer, their story of heartbreak, loss, and hope.

B&N

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Best of Friends Trilogy by Sherry Brantley https://joelbooks.com/best-of-friends-trilogy-by-sherry-brantley/ Tue, 12 May 2020 07:54:00 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=7195

What happens when a family death wreaks havoc among siblings?...

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What happens when a family death wreaks havoc among siblings? What would you do if the ‘peace-maker' of the family suddenly loses control? If the opportunity arose, would you agree to simply ‘burn the will,' sell the estate and split the proceeds? What would be your response when calling the cops and being told: “We're not coming out, unless there are bullets flying and bodies to count?” Elizabeth Caliente is faced with such propositions in Sherry Brantley's latest novel, ‘Best of Friends.'

Best of Friends,' has won two national awards for “Best Fiction of the Year!” Meet the ‘Fabulous Five,' as ‘Best of Friends' takes readers on a whirlwind excursion among five friends. Though often humorous, the ride is filled with lessons on friendship, family dynamics and strong relationships! You'll love connecting with the members of the ‘Fabulous Five,' as they deal individually and collectively with the drama that surrounds them!

A message from the author:

The Best of Friends trilogy was birthed from the antics of family members after my mother suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. The antics are at times, comical and unbelievable, and had I not actually experienced them, I would think they were the writings of someone with a very creative imagination! It details many hurdles that most of us will experience in life: Challenges, setbacks, and opportunities to overcome obstacles. Ultimately the characters, upon doing some soul-searching and inner reflection and retrospection, learn what they're truly made of and must decided if the results are what they want to portray to themselves and to the world, or if they'd like to make changes in their lives to create a new path for themselves.

— Sherry Brantley

Amazon Author's Website



Read online Best of Friends Trilogy by Sherry Brantley

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Born Again by Kathy Thompson https://joelbooks.com/born-again-by-kathy-thompson/ Thu, 01 Aug 2019 12:00:07 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=1192

In the future Meg and Doug both fall over a...

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In the future Meg and Doug both fall over a waterfall. Both of them start new lives filled with oppression, deception, love, and Loss. Will they ever meet again?

Amazon

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Living a Double Life by Annette Christian https://joelbooks.com/living-a-double-life-by-annette-christian/ Mon, 01 Jul 2019 11:51:48 +0000 https://joelbooks.com/?p=979

Latrese is a single, beautiful and educated woman who's past...

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Latrese is a single, beautiful and educated woman who's past will not leave her alone. She's a lawyer but has a dark secret that she is trying to get away from. She found someone who she wants to have a relationship with but is torn between telling him the truth for fear of losing him. She decides to handle the situation to cut all ties but things turn deadly.

Amazon

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