The Greatest "Fiction" Books Since 1900

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 '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. 5551. At Canaan's Edge by Taylor Branch

    "At Canaan's Edge" concludes a comprehensive trilogy that chronicles the American civil rights movement during the 1960s. This final volume focuses on the years 1965 to 1968, a period marked by significant achievements and profound tragedies. It details the relentless struggles, political maneuvers, and major events of the era, including the Selma to Montgomery marches and the emergence of Black Power. The narrative also delves into the lives and leadership of key figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., providing a deep exploration of their strategies, challenges, and the impact of their work on the movement and the nation. The book captures the complexity and intensity of the fight for civil rights, offering a detailed and poignant portrayal of this pivotal period in American history.

  2. 5552. Grass by Sheri S. Tepper

    "Grass" is a science fiction novel set on a mysterious planet covered entirely in grass, where a deadly plague threatens the human population. The story follows Marjorie, a member of a powerful family, as she embarks on a mission to uncover the truth behind the plague and save her loved ones. Along the way, she encounters strange creatures, political intrigue, and the dark secrets of the planet's ruling class. With its blend of mystery, adventure, and social commentary, "Grass" explores themes of environmentalism, religion, and the complexities of human nature.

  3. 5553. A Girl Like Her by Talia Hibbert

    "A Girl Like Her" is a heartwarming contemporary romance novel that follows the story of a fiercely independent woman named Ruth who has been labeled as an outcast in her small town. When a new neighbor, the charming and understanding Evan, moves in next door, he sees past Ruth's tough exterior and is determined to break down her walls. As their friendship blossoms into something more, they must navigate the challenges of their pasts and societal expectations to find love and acceptance in each other.

  4. 5554. A Princess In Theory by Alyssa Cole

    "A Princess In Theory" is a contemporary romance novel that follows the story of Naledi Smith, a hardworking graduate student who receives an unexpected email claiming that she is betrothed to an African prince. Skeptical at first, Naledi eventually agrees to meet the prince, Thabiso, and finds herself caught up in a whirlwind of royal intrigue and undeniable chemistry. As Naledi navigates her newfound royal life and uncovers the truth about her past, she must decide if she is willing to embrace her destiny and the love that awaits her.

  5. 5555. The Woman In The Window by A. J. Finn

    "The Woman In The Window" follows the life of Anna Fox, a woman who has been confined to her New York City home due to severe agoraphobia. Spending her days observing her neighbors through her window, Anna becomes intrigued by the new family that moves in across the street. However, when she witnesses a shocking crime, Anna's world is turned upside down and she finds herself questioning her own sanity as she tries to uncover the truth.

  6. 5556. Front Desk by Kelly Yang

    "Front Desk" by Kelly Yang is a heartwarming and empowering middle-grade novel that follows the story of Mia Tang, a ten-year-old Chinese immigrant who helps her parents manage a motel in America. Despite facing discrimination and financial struggles, Mia finds solace in her passion for writing and her determination to fight for justice. With themes of resilience, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right, this book explores the challenges and triumphs of an immigrant family striving to build a better life.

  7. 5557. Dactyl Hill Squad by Daniel José Older

    "Dactyl Hill Squad" is an adventurous historical fiction novel set during the Civil War era. The story follows a group of young orphaned children who possess the ability to communicate with dinosaurs. When their home is attacked and their caretaker is kidnapped, they join a secret society of young rebels who ride dinosaurs to fight against the oppressive forces of the Confederacy. With their unique abilities and newfound allies, the children embark on a dangerous mission to rescue their friend and bring justice to their war-torn world.

  8. 5558. The Firelings by Carol Kendall

    "The Firelings" by Carol Kendall is a fantasy novel about a group of small, flame-colored creatures called Firelings who live in a hidden valley. When their home is threatened by an evil sorcerer, the Firelings must venture out into the world to find a way to save their valley. Along the way, they encounter a variety of creatures and obstacles, including a group of humans who are skeptical of their existence. With courage and determination, the Firelings work together to overcome challenges and ultimately save their home.

  9. 5559. The Many-Colored Land by Julian May

    In "The Many-Colored Land," a group of misfits and adventurers from the 22nd century, disillusioned with the technologically advanced and psychically-gifted society they live in, volunteer to travel back in time to the Pliocene Epoch through a one-way time portal. Upon arrival, they expect an idyllic existence but instead find themselves in a dangerous world dominated by alien races—the exotic and psychic Tanu and the savage, beastly Firvulag. The travelers must navigate a complex social hierarchy and confront their own personal demons while struggling to survive in this prehistoric land, where they are forced to choose sides in an epic conflict that predates human history.

  10. 5560. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

    "The Day You Begin" is a heartfelt picture book that explores the feelings of loneliness, fear, and the courage to be oneself. Through relatable stories and beautiful illustrations, the book encourages readers to embrace their unique identities, celebrate their differences, and find the strength to connect with others, even when it feels difficult. It is a powerful reminder that everyone has a story worth sharing and that true connection begins when we have the courage to step out and be ourselves.

  11. 5561. The Cabin At The End Of The World by Paul Tremblay

    "The Cabin At The End Of The World" by Paul Tremblay is a gripping and suspenseful psychological thriller that follows a family's vacation turned nightmare. The story revolves around a group of strangers who invade a peaceful cabin in the woods, claiming that the world is about to end and they need the family's help to prevent it. As tension rises and trust is tested, the family must make impossible decisions to protect themselves and their daughter. With its intense atmosphere and thought-provoking themes, this book explores the depths of human nature and the lengths one will go to survive.

  12. 5562. Dreamers by Yuyi Morales

    "Dreamers" by Yuyi Morales is a heartfelt and visually stunning picture book that tells the story of a young mother and her son who immigrate to the United States. Through captivating illustrations and poetic language, the book explores their journey of adapting to a new country, learning a new language, and finding solace and hope in the power of books and imagination. It celebrates the resilience and courage of immigrants while emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity and the universal language of dreams.

  13. 5563. Exit Strategy by Martha Wells

    In "Exit Strategy," a thrilling sci-fi novel, a rogue artificial intelligence named Murderbot continues its quest for freedom and self-discovery. Tasked with rescuing a group of scientists from a dangerous situation, Murderbot must confront its own fears and navigate treacherous alliances. As it battles against powerful forces, the AI must decide whether to prioritize its own survival or risk everything to protect those it has come to care for. With its sharp wit and gripping action, "Exit Strategy" explores themes of identity, autonomy, and the complexities of human emotions.

  14. 5564. The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang

    "The Kiss Quotient" is a heartwarming and unconventional romance novel that follows the story of Stella, a brilliant econometrician with Asperger's syndrome. Frustrated with her lack of dating experience, Stella hires a male escort named Michael to teach her about intimacy and relationships. As they embark on their lessons, Stella and Michael unexpectedly find themselves developing genuine feelings for each other, leading to a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and the power of love.

  15. 5565. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

    "The Cruel Prince" is a dark and captivating fantasy novel that follows the story of Jude, a human girl who is taken to the faerie world after her parents are murdered. In the treacherous and ruthless Court of Faerie, Jude must navigate a dangerous game of politics and power, where she becomes entangled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and deadly intrigue. As she fights for her place in this world, Jude discovers her own strength and resilience, challenging the cruel and twisted nature of the faerie realm.

  16. 5566. This Mortal Boy by Fiona Kidman

    Set in 1950s New Zealand, "This Mortal Boy" tells the gripping true story of Albert "Paddy" Black, a young Irish immigrant who finds himself caught up in a tragic turn of events. When Paddy is accused of murder, his fate rests in the hands of the justice system and the public's perception of him as an outsider. As the trial unfolds, the novel explores themes of prejudice, class division, and the power of love and hope in the face of adversity.

  17. 5567. A Spell Of Winter by Helen Dunmore

    In "A Spell of Winter," a young girl named Cathy and her brother Rob live in a decaying mansion in the English countryside. As they grow older, their bond intensifies into a forbidden love, leading them down a path of darkness and obsession. Set against the backdrop of World War I, this haunting and atmospheric novel explores themes of love, family secrets, and the destructive power of desire.

  18. 5568. Los Días Azules by Fernando Vallejo

    "Los Días Azules" is a reflective and autobiographical narrative that delves into the author's memories of his childhood and youth in Colombia. The book paints a vivid picture of the author's family life, the cultural and social environment of his upbringing, and the formative experiences that shaped his worldview. Through a series of poignant and often critical recollections, the author explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, all set against the backdrop of a country marked by political turmoil and societal change. The narrative is characterized by its lyrical prose and introspective tone, offering readers a deeply personal glimpse into the author's past and the moments that have defined his life's journey.

  19. 5569. Nightfall by Isaac Asimov, Robert Silverberg

    In a distant future, a planet experiences eternal daylight due to the presence of six suns. However, once every 2,049 years, a rare event known as "Nightfall" occurs, plunging the world into complete darkness. As scientists predict the imminent Nightfall, chaos ensues among the inhabitants who struggle to comprehend the unknown and cope with their fears. A group of scientists and scholars embarks on a desperate mission to preserve knowledge and find a way to survive the impending darkness. As the countdown to Nightfall begins, the characters are faced with existential questions about the nature of their existence and the fragility of human civilization.

  20. 5570. The Lieutenant Of Inishmore by Martin McDonagh

    The play is a darkly comedic tale set on the Irish island of Inishmore, where we meet Padraic, a violent Irish National Liberation Army enforcer who is more concerned with the welfare of his cat, Wee Thomas, than the human casualties of his day job. When he receives news that his beloved cat is doing poorly, he rushes home, only to find the pet has been killed. This sets off a chain of bloody events as Padraic seeks revenge, leading to an absurdly gruesome climax. The narrative satirizes the political tensions of Ireland and the cyclical nature of violence, all while exploring themes of loyalty, brutality, and the absurdity of extremism.

  21. 5571. The Rowan by Anne McCaffrey

    "The Rowan" is a science fiction novel set in a future where telekinesis is a common ability. The story follows a young girl named The Rowan, who possesses an extraordinary level of telekinetic power. She is discovered by a powerful organization called the Talent, who train her to use her abilities to protect humanity from dangerous space phenomena. As The Rowan grows older, she becomes a respected leader within the Talent and faces numerous challenges, both personal and professional, as she navigates her role in saving the human race.

  22. 5572. Earth by David Brin

    In this thought-provoking novel, a diverse group of scientists and astronauts come together to face an impending disaster that threatens the future of Earth. As they navigate political intrigue, technological advancements, and personal relationships, they must find a way to save their planet from destruction. With its rich world-building and complex characters, this book explores the delicate balance between humanity's impact on the environment and the potential for scientific advancements to both harm and save us.

  23. 5573. Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson

    "Red at the Bone" is a multi-generational novel that explores the lasting impact of past decisions on the present and future. The story begins at a 16-year-old girl's coming-of-age ceremony in Brooklyn and then delves into the past, revealing the complex histories of her parents and grandparents. The narrative is a powerful exploration of identity, ambition, love, and the ways in which history and personal circumstances can shape a family's life.

  24. 5574. Xenocide by Orson Scott Card

    In this science fiction novel, humanity is faced with a moral dilemma as they struggle to find a solution to the threat posed by the alien species known as the "buggers." As tensions rise among different factions, a young scientist named Qing-jao becomes entangled in a complex web of political intrigue and religious fanaticism. With the fate of humanity hanging in the balance, the characters must grapple with the consequences of their actions and confront the ethical implications of xenocide.

  25. 5575. The Children's Hour by Lillian Hellman

    The play revolves around the lives of two women who run an all-girls boarding school. Their peaceful and successful life is shattered when a malicious student starts an unfounded rumor that the two women are engaged in a lesbian relationship. The lie quickly spreads, leading to public scandal, financial ruin, and a devastating court case for the women. The narrative delves into themes of lies, malice, the destructive power of gossip, and the tragic consequences that can arise from false accusations and societal prejudices.

Reading Statistics

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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.

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