Light in August
In 'Light in August', William Faulkner weaves a haunting tale set in the American South, exploring themes of identity, race, and the burdens of the past. Against a backdrop of stark social divides, the lives of several interconnected characters unfold, each grappling with their own search for meaning and belonging. The story centers on Lena Grove, a pregnant woman in search of the father of her child, and Joe Christmas, a tormented man struggling with his mixed heritage. Faulkner's rich, lyrical prose invites readers to ponder the complexities of human relationships and the shadows of history. As the characters' paths converge, the poignant revelations of their lives resonate, prompting a reflection on the light and darkness within us all.
By William Faulkner
Published: 1991
Start Listening
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
You might also like →
Natural
Alan Levinovitz
The Age of Surveillance Capitalism
Shoshana Zuboff
All-of-a-Kind Family
Sydney Taylor
Sharp
Michelle Dean
Buzzed
Cynthia Kuhn, Scott Swartzwelder, Wilkie Wilson, Leigh Heather Wilson, Jeremy Foster
The Devil in the White City
Erik Larson
All the Light We Cannot See
Anthony Doerr
The Precipice
Toby Ord
Beloved
Toni Morrison
A Room of One's Own
Virginia Woolf
How to Cook Your Life
Dogen, Kosho Uchiyama Roshi
Beyträge Zur Vaterländischen Historie, Geographie, Staatistik, Und Landwirthschaft, Samt Einer Uebersicht Der Schönen Litteratur.
Lorenz Von Westenrieder
As I Lay Dying
William Faulkner
The Heart is a Lonely Hunter
Carson McCullers
A Lesson Before Dying
Ernest J. Gaines
The Inimitable Jeeves
P. G. Wodehouse
The Secrets We Kept
Lara Prescott
The Life and Loves of a He Devil
Graham Norton
Domain-driven Design
Eric Evans
Unlabel
Marc Ecko
Taking the Work Out of Networking
Karen Wickre
The Planetary Omnibus
Warren Ellis
McMafia
Misha Glenny
The Girl in the Green Raincoat
Laura Lippman
A Collection of Essays
George Orwell
Loving What Is
Byron Katie
The Shadow of the Wind
Carlos Ruiz Zafon
King of Clubs
Robert H. Dedman, Debbie DeLoach
Your Ad Ignored Here
Tom Fishburne
CIRCE
Madeline Miller
Book Collections you might like →
Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations
Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
View Collection
Caterina Fake's Book Recommendations
Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
View Collection
Audrey Gelman's Book Recommendations
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
View Collection
John Green's Book Recommendations
John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Andrew Garfield's Book Recommendations
Andrew Garfield is a British-American actor known for his roles in films like The Social Network, Hacksaw Ridge, and his portrayal of Spider-Man in The Amazing Spider-Man series. Garfield’s performances are often praised for their emotional depth and intensity, earning him critical acclaim and awards, including a Golden Globe. He has appeared in a variety of roles, from indie films to major blockbusters, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Garfield is also known for his activism, particularly in supporting LGBTQ+ rights and other social causes. His commitment to both his craft and his advocacy work has made him one of the most respected actors of his generation.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Richard Branson's Book Recommendations
Richard Branson is a British entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group, which operates in sectors ranging from airlines to space travel. Branson’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s with Virgin Records, and he has since built one of the most recognized brands in the world. Known for his adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks, Branson has pursued innovative ventures like Virgin Galactic, aiming to pioneer commercial space tourism. He is also a philanthropist, focusing on environmental sustainability and global health issues. Branson's bold and unconventional approach to business has made him a global icon of entrepreneurship.
View Collection
Bozoma Saint John's Book Recommendations
Bozoma Saint John is a renowned business executive and marketing guru, celebrated for her transformative impact on major companies such as Uber, Apple Music, and Netflix. Though primarily known for her corporate achievements, Saint John captured her experiences and insights in her memoir, "The Urgent Life," which offers an intimate look into overcoming personal and professional challenges. Her dynamic storytelling and candid approach have inspired many, making her a significant voice in contemporary literature. Beyond her memoir, she has been a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Her work continues to influence both the business and literary worlds, blending leadership lessons with deeply personal narratives.
View Collection
Anthony Bourdain's Book Recommendations
Anthony Bourdain was an acclaimed chef, author, and television personality known for his deep exploration of global cuisine and culture. He gained widespread recognition with his 2000 bestseller "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly," which offered an unvarnished look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Bourdain's literary talents extended to several other books, including "A Cook's Tour" and "Medium Raw," further cementing his status as a compelling storyteller. His groundbreaking TV shows such as "No Reservations" and "Parts Unknown" took viewers on culinary adventures around the world, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bourdain's legacy endures as a pioneer who celebrated the richness of diverse cultures through food.
View Collection
Derek Sivers's Book Recommendations
Derek Sivers is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of CD Baby, one of the first online platforms that allowed independent musicians to sell their music directly to fans. Sivers is known for his unconventional approach to business and life, advocating for simplicity, focus, and self-reliance. After selling CD Baby, Sivers has become a sought-after speaker and writer, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and personal development. His books, including Anything You Want, provide practical advice for living a meaningful, purpose-driven life. Sivers’ minimalist and thoughtful approach has made him a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community.
View Collection
Guy Proops's Book Recommendations
Guy Proops is a celebrated British author known for his engaging contemporary fiction and sharp wit. He gained widespread recognition with his debut novel, "The Timeworn Traveler," which explored themes of nostalgia and modernity, earning critical acclaim. Proops has since published several bestsellers that delve into human relationships and societal norms, solidifying his reputation as a keen observer of modern life. His works have been translated into multiple languages, reaching a global audience and receiving numerous literary awards. In addition to his novels, Proops is an active contributor to literary magazines and journals, where he continues to influence and inspire new writers.
View Collection
Nancy Pearl's Book Recommendations
Nancy Pearl is an American librarian, author, and literary critic, best known for her work in promoting reading and literature. She gained national recognition with her Book Lust series, which provides recommendations on a wide range of books for all types of readers. Pearl’s enthusiasm for books and reading has made her a beloved figure in the literary community, and her “One City One Book” program has inspired cities across the U.S. to come together through shared reading experiences. Pearl is also known for her regular book reviews and discussions on public radio. Her influence as a literary advocate has helped foster a culture of reading and learning.
View Collection
Colin Firth's Book Recommendations
Colin Firth is a British actor known for his roles in films such as The King’s Speech, Pride and Prejudice, and A Single Man. Firth’s portrayal of King George VI in The King’s Speech earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. He is widely respected for his ability to bring depth and nuance to a wide range of characters, from romantic leads to complex historical figures. Firth is also a passionate advocate for human rights and environmental causes, using his platform to support charitable organizations. His combination of talent and activism has made him one of the most admired actors in the film industry.
View Collection
Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations
Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.
View CollectionFrequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.