Szabó, Magda

Magda Szabó was a renowned Hungarian author, born on October 5, 1917, in Debrecen, Hungary, and passed away on November 19, 2007. She is widely recognized for her novels, poetry, essays, and plays. Szabó's work often explores themes such as personal relationships, the impacts of political regimes on individual lives, and the female experience. Her most famous novel, 'The Door', has been translated into numerous languages and received international acclaim. Throughout her career, she received several prestigious awards, solidifying her status as one of Hungary's most influential and celebrated writers.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Door

    "The Door" by Magda Szabo is a novel about the relationship between two women, one of whom is a writer and the other is her housekeeper. The story explores themes of class, power, and the complexities of human relationships. As the two women become increasingly intertwined, their relationship becomes more and more complicated, leading to unexpected consequences for both of them. The novel is a powerful exploration of the human condition, and a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding and empathy in our interactions with others.

    The 2372nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Abigél

    Set against the backdrop of World War II in Hungary, the novel follows a young girl sent to a strict boarding school in the countryside by her father, a high-ranking general who fears for her safety amidst the war. Struggling to fit in and feeling abandoned, she eventually discovers the school harbors deep secrets, including the mysterious "Abigél," a statue that seems to be at the center of a clandestine operation protecting those persecuted by the war. As the protagonist navigates the complexities of adolescence, authority, and the harsh realities of her time, she learns valuable lessons about trust, loyalty, and the power of community in the face of adversity.

    The 4115th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Régimódi Történet

    "Régimódi Történet" is a poignant narrative set in early 20th-century Hungary, focusing on the life of a young girl from a noble family. As she grows up, she witnesses the decline of her family's fortunes and the changing social order following World War I. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, as well as the impact of historical events on individual lives. Through the protagonist's eyes, the reader experiences the challenges of adapting to a new era while clinging to the values and traditions of the past. The story is a rich tapestry of personal and historical transformation, illustrating the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 4752nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Für Elise

    The novel revolves around the life of a woman named Elise, who, after the death of her husband, discovers a series of letters that reveal hidden aspects of her marriage and her husband's past. As she delves into the contents of the letters, Elise is forced to confront the illusions and truths of her relationship, as well as her own identity. Set against the backdrop of a changing society, the story explores themes of love, betrayal, and the complex layers of human relationships, ultimately leading Elise on a poignant journey of self-discovery and redemption.

    The 5213th Greatest Book of All Time