The Character Of Rain by Amélie Nothomb

The book is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the early years of a young girl born in Japan to Belgian parents. It delves into the protagonist's experiences and perceptions from her infancy through her toddler years, presenting a philosophical and introspective look at the development of consciousness and identity. The narrative is characterized by its exploration of the Japanese concept of 'the third brother,' which symbolizes the child's pre-linguistic state of purity and potential, and the transition from this state to becoming a sentient individual with a unique character shaped by cultural and familial influences. The story is a blend of whimsy and depth, reflecting on the nature of being and the transformative journey of self-discovery from the earliest moments of life.

The 7138th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 78

Since this book was first published in 2000, there is a penalty of 41.6%. The age adjusted score is 45.55.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.