The Greatest Turkish, Greek Books Since 1950

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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  1. 1. My Name is Red by Orhan Pamuk

    Set in the late 16th century Ottoman Empire, this novel explores the conflict between East and West, tradition and innovation, through the lens of miniaturist painters. When a renowned artist is murdered, his colleagues must solve the mystery while grappling with the changes in their art brought about by the western Renaissance. This complex narrative intertwines love, art, religion, and power, offering a deep exploration of the struggles between old and new.

    The 750th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Memed, My Hawk by Yashar Kemal

    "Memed, My Hawk" is a novel set in the harsh and lawless rural Turkey of the 1920s. It follows the story of a young boy, Memed, who becomes an outlaw and a local hero after standing up to the corrupt authorities and feudal landlords who oppress his village. The novel explores themes of love, revenge, and social justice, and is a powerful indictment of the social and economic conditions of rural Turkey in the early 20th century.

    The 1008th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Last Temptation of Christ by Nikos Kazantzakis

    This novel presents an alternative interpretation of the life of Jesus Christ, who is depicted as a conflicted, all-too-human figure who struggles with his divine destiny. The book explores his journey through life, his friendships, his fears, and his ultimate temptation to avoid crucifixion and live a normal life. The narrative delves into the psychological and emotional aspects of his experiences, creating a complex, humanized portrayal of a traditionally divine figure.

    The 1135th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Snow by Orhan Pamuk

    Set in the small city of Kars in northeastern Turkey, the novel follows a Turkish poet who has spent several years in political exile in Germany. He returns to Turkey during a time of political unrest, with tensions high between religious and secular factions. As he becomes embroiled in the turmoil, he also becomes involved in a romantic relationship with a beautiful woman. The city is cut off from the rest of the world by a relentless snowstorm, leading to a series of tragic events. The novel is a contemplation on love, faith, and the tensions between tradition and modernity.

    The 1338th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Z by Vassilis Vassilikos

    "Z" is a political novel that explores the events surrounding the assassination of a prominent leftist politician in Greece. The story delves into the corruption and violence that pervades the government, with the narrative alternating between the perspectives of the victim, the assassins, the investigators, and the government officials involved. The novel is a critique of political tyranny and an exploration of the struggle for justice in a corrupt system.

    The 1562nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Third Wedding by Kōstas Tachtsēs

    "The Third Wedding" is a powerful exploration of love, passion, and societal expectations set in mid-20th century Greece. The story revolves around a strong-willed and independent woman who has been married twice and is about to enter her third marriage. The narrative delves into her past love affairs, her struggle with the societal norms of the time, and her quest for personal freedom. The book is a poignant commentary on the condition of women in a patriarchal society and the sacrifices they make in the name of love and duty.

    The 2443rd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. They Burn the Thistles by Yaşar Kemal

    In the sequel to the story of a defiant Anatolian peasant boy, the protagonist continues his struggle against the oppressive feudal landlords. Despite being declared an outlaw and having a bounty on his head, he does not give up his fight for justice and equality. The narrative explores the harsh realities of rural life and the deep-seated traditions of the Anatolian people, while also delving into the protagonist's inner battles and his unwavering determination to resist tyranny.

    The 2711th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Daughter by Pavlos Matesis

    "The Daughter" is a powerful novel set in Greece during the Second World War. The narrative follows the life of a young girl who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war. Her father, a communist, is executed by the Germans, and the girl is left to navigate the complexities of life, politics, and love in a world that is rapidly changing. The book offers a poignant exploration of the human capacity for resilience, survival, and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

    The 3605th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Astradeni by Eugenia Fakinou

    "Astradeni" is a coming-of-age novel set in post-World War II Greece. The story follows the life of a young girl named Astradeni, who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war and poverty. Despite the hardships she faces, Astradeni maintains a hopeful and imaginative spirit, often escaping into a world of myths and legends. The novel explores themes of resilience, the power of storytelling, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

    The 3681st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Uncle Petros and Goldbach's Conjecture by Apostolos Doxiadis

    The novel follows the story of a young man who becomes fascinated by his reclusive and eccentric Uncle Petros. As he delves into his uncle's past, he uncovers Petros' obsession with proving Goldbach's Conjecture, a famous unsolved problem in number theory. This obsession led to Petros' alienation from society and ultimately his downfall. The book explores themes of mathematical obsession, family relationships, and the fine line between genius and madness.

    The 3757th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Life is a Carawanserai Has Two Doors I Went in One I Came out the Other by Emine Sevgi Özdamar

    This novel follows the life of a young Turkish girl growing up in the 1950s and 60s, exploring her experiences in a rapidly changing society. The protagonist navigates the complexities of her family life, her struggle with her identity and her eventual emigration to Germany. The book explores themes of female empowerment, cultural clashes, and the immigrant experience, all told through a unique narrative style that blends reality with dreams and folktales.

    The 3757th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Collected Poems Of Odysseus Elytis by Odysseas Elytis

    This collection brings together the lyrical and evocative poetry of a Nobel Prize-winning poet, renowned for his profound connection to the natural world and his exploration of existential themes. Through his work, the poet delves into the essence of Greek landscape, mythology, and cultural identity, weaving a tapestry of imagery that celebrates the beauty of the Aegean Sea, the resilience of the human spirit, and the eternal quest for freedom and love. His innovative use of language and form has left a lasting impact on modern poetry, making this compilation a testament to his visionary contribution to the literary world.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Report To Greco by Nikos Kazantzakis

    This book is a semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the spiritual journey of its protagonist, blending historical fact with philosophical musings and fictional elements. Through a series of reflective essays and narratives, the protagonist embarks on a quest for spiritual enlightenment, exploring the tensions between the flesh and the spirit, the individual and society, and the temporal and the eternal. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century and drawing heavily on the author's own life experiences, the narrative weaves through various landscapes and encounters with key historical figures, offering a deep meditation on the nature of human existence, the quest for freedom, and the pursuit of faith amidst the complexities of the modern world.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. The Poems Of Dinos Christianopoulos by Dinos Christianopoulos

    This collection showcases the evocative and poignant poetry of a renowned Greek poet, whose work delves into themes of love, loss, identity, and the complexities of the human condition. Through his verses, the poet navigates the intricacies of his own experiences, particularly focusing on his sexuality and societal marginalization, with a raw and honest voice. His poetry, characterized by its lyrical simplicity and emotional depth, has resonated with readers worldwide, making him a celebrated figure in contemporary literature. The collection serves not only as a testament to his literary talent but also as a powerful commentary on the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Flaw by Antonis Samarakis

    The book is a gripping narrative set in an unnamed totalitarian state, where the protagonist, a government clerk, finds himself inadvertently embroiled in a complex web of political intrigue and moral dilemmas after discovering a minor error in a routine report. This seemingly insignificant flaw sets off a chain of events that exposes the oppressive and corrupt nature of the regime, challenging the protagonist's loyalties and beliefs. As he navigates through a dangerous landscape of surveillance, betrayal, and resistance, the story explores themes of power, conscience, and the human spirit's resilience against authoritarianism. Through its tense and thought-provoking plot, the novel serves as a poignant critique of totalitarian systems and a testament to the individual's struggle for justice and freedom.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Complete Works Of Alexandros Papadiamantis by Alexandros Papadiamantis

    This collection brings together the masterful works of Alexandros Papadiamantis, a seminal figure in Greek literature, known for his profound storytelling and intricate portrayal of Greek life in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Through his narratives, often set in his native island of Skiathos, Papadiamantis delves into the complexities of human nature, the struggles of everyday life, and the impact of modernity on traditional Greek values. His stories, rich in folklore and deeply rooted in the Orthodox Christian faith, explore themes of poverty, social injustice, morality, and redemption, offering a window into the soul of Greece during a time of transition. This comprehensive collection showcases his unique ability to blend the mystical with the real, earning him a timeless place in the canon of world literature.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Επιταφιος Θρηνος by Giorgos Ioannou

    This book is a poignant exploration of grief, memory, and the enduring impact of loss, set against the backdrop of post-war Greece. Through a series of reflective essays and narratives, the author delves into personal and collective mourning, weaving together the personal with the historical. The work is a meditation on the ways in which the past haunts the present, and how the echoes of conflict and displacement shape identities and memories. With lyrical prose and deep empathy, it offers a window into the soul of a nation and the hearts of those who carry the weight of its history.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. The Axion Esti by Odysseas Elytis

    This renowned work is a captivating blend of poetry and prose that delves into the essence of Greek identity, history, and the human condition. Through its lyrical and evocative language, the text weaves together personal experiences with national mythology, exploring themes of love, suffering, and the quest for transcendence. Its structure, a mix of narrative, hymns, and reflections, mirrors the complexity of life and the rich tapestry of Greek cultural heritage. Celebrated for its innovative style and profound philosophical insights, this masterpiece stands as a monumental tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring beauty of the natural world.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Mother Of The Dog by Pavlos Matesis

    This novel delves into the harrowing experiences of a Greek village under Nazi occupation during World War II, exploring themes of survival, betrayal, and the complex dynamics of human relationships in times of crisis. Through the eyes of a young boy, the narrative unfolds the story of a mother's desperate act to save her son from execution by offering herself to a German officer. This act of sacrifice and its repercussions on her family and the village community are examined with poignant depth, revealing the moral ambiguities and the enduring scars of war. The story is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impacts of war on individual lives and societal norms.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Drifting Cities by Stratis Tsirkas

    Set against the backdrop of World War II and the subsequent civil war in Greece, this novel weaves together the lives of a diverse group of characters who find themselves in Jerusalem, Cairo, and Alexandria. Through their interconnected stories, the narrative explores themes of identity, displacement, and the quest for personal and political freedom. The cities, each with their own unique atmosphere and challenges, serve as more than mere settings; they are integral to the characters' experiences, reflecting the broader historical and cultural shifts of the mid-20th century. As these individuals navigate love, betrayal, and the struggle for a sense of belonging, the book offers a rich tapestry of human resilience and the complexities of home in times of turmoil.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Mission Box by Aris Alexandrou

    The book in question is a profound exploration of betrayal, ideology, and the complexities of human nature set against the backdrop of the Greek Civil War. Through the lens of an unnamed protagonist, a member of a leftist organization tasked with a critical mission, the narrative delves into the intricate dynamics within the group, marked by suspicion, loyalty, and the harsh realities of wartime espionage. As the protagonist navigates through these challenges, the story unfolds into a deeper meditation on the cost of political commitment and the ambiguous nature of truth and trust, ultimately questioning the very ideals that drive human actions in times of conflict.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Kassandra And The Wolf by Margarita Karapanou

    This novel presents a surreal and disturbing journey through the eyes of a six-year-old girl named Kassandra. Through fragmented, dreamlike episodes, the narrative delves into her experiences of violence, sexuality, and the complexities of her inner world. The story oscillates between reality and fantasy, revealing the dark and often perplexing aspects of childhood and the process of coming of age. The protagonist's interactions with her surroundings and the people in her life are depicted with a stark, unsettling vividness, challenging the reader's perceptions of innocence and the nature of reality itself. This work is a provocative exploration of the darker sides of human nature and the intricacies of a child's imagination.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. The Plant, The Well, The Angel by Vassilis Vassilikos

    This novel weaves a complex narrative that explores the interconnectedness of human life, nature, and the divine. Through the symbolic elements of a plant, a well, and an angel, the story delves into themes of growth, discovery, and spiritual awakening. Set against a backdrop that blends the mundane with the mystical, the narrative follows the journey of its characters as they navigate personal and collective challenges, ultimately seeking redemption and enlightenment. The author masterfully uses these symbols to reflect on the essence of existence, the cycles of life, and the pursuit of meaning in a world filled with both beauty and hardship.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Η Αυλή των Θαυμάτων by Iakovos Kambanellis

    The book is a poignant narrative set in the aftermath of World War II, within the confines of a concentration camp. It explores the resilience of the human spirit through the lens of its diverse cast of characters, who, despite the dire circumstances, strive to find moments of beauty, love, and even humor. The story delves into the complexities of human relationships, the struggle for survival, and the indomitable will to maintain one's humanity in the face of unimaginable horrors. Through its vivid portrayal of life within the camp, the narrative offers a profound commentary on the nature of hope and the enduring capacity of people to dream of a better future, making it a powerful and moving testament to the strength of the human spirit.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Ο Εξώστης by Nikos Kakhtitsis

    This novel delves into the life of a young man grappling with his sexual identity amidst the conservative and oppressive societal norms of mid-20th century Greece. Through a series of introspective monologues and vivid encounters, the protagonist navigates the complexities of desire, shame, and the longing for acceptance. Set against the backdrop of post-war Greece, the narrative explores themes of alienation, the struggle for self-realization, and the quest for freedom in a rigidly structured society. The protagonist's journey is a poignant reflection on the human condition, offering a deep exploration of the internal and external conflicts arising from societal expectations and personal identity.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download