The Greatest Polish, Icelandic, Chilean "Fiction" Books Since 1990

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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. The Savage Detectives by Roberto Bolaño

    "The Savage Detectives" is a novel that follows the lives of two Latin American poets, Arturo Belano and Ulises Lima, who are founders of a literary movement called "visceral realism." The book is divided into three parts and is narrated by multiple characters, providing different perspectives on the protagonists. The narrative spans over 20 years, following the poets' journey from Mexico City to Europe, Israel, and Africa, as they search for a mysterious poetess and navigate through the world of literature, sex, drugs, and the complexities of life.

    The 452nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. 2666 by Roberto Bolaño

    The novel is a sprawling, ambitious work that spans continents and time periods, centering around an elusive, reclusive German author. It intertwines five different narratives: a group of European academics searching for the author, a professor in Mexico dealing with his own personal crises, a New York reporter sent to cover a boxing match in Mexico, an African-American journalist in Detroit, and the horrifying and unsolved murders of hundreds of women in a Mexican border town. The narratives are linked by themes of violence, mystery, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.

    The 488th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk

    This novel centers around an eccentric woman living in a remote Polish village, who becomes embroiled in a series of mysterious deaths occurring in her community. As she investigates, she is drawn into a deeper exploration of nature, astrology, and the human psyche, all while navigating the dismissive attitudes of the local law enforcement. The narrative is a blend of dark comedy, philosophical inquiry, and mystery, with a strong underlying commentary on animal rights and environmentalism.

    The 2891st Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. City of the Beasts by Isabel Allende

    A 15-year-old boy is forced to move in with his eccentric grandmother after his mother falls ill. Together, they embark on a journey to the Amazon rainforest in search of a legendary, healing beast. Along the way, they encounter various challenges, including dangerous animals, harsh environments, and a group of indigenous people with mystical powers. The boy learns to overcome his fears and prejudices, forming a strong bond with the indigenous people and the rainforest itself.

    The 5369th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Jar City by Arnaldur Indriðason

    In this gripping Icelandic crime novel, a seasoned detective investigates the murder of an elderly man, only to uncover a web of long-buried secrets. As the detective delves deeper into the case, he discovers a connection to a decades-old unsolved rape, a mysterious genetic condition, and a hidden "jar city" of preserved human tissue samples. The investigation challenges the detective to confront ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic privacy and the ghosts of the past, while navigating the complexities of his own personal life. The novel intertwines a compelling mystery with the stark atmosphere of Iceland, creating a dark and thought-provoking narrative that keeps the reader engaged until the very end.

    The 5468th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Flights by Olga Tokarczuk

    "Flights" is a fragmented and philosophical novel that explores the theme of travel and movement. Through a series of interconnected stories and reflections, the book delves into the nature of human existence, the complexities of modern life, and the desire for freedom and escape. With its poetic language and unconventional structure, "Flights" invites readers to contemplate the transient nature of time, the significance of journeys, and the search for meaning in a world constantly in motion.

    The 6136th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Internal Ecology Morals For Xxi Century by Dario Salas Sommer

    This book delves into the intricate relationship between individual moral development and the broader ecological balance of our planet, proposing that the environmental crises of the 21st century are deeply intertwined with the moral and ethical decay observed in contemporary society. The author argues that by fostering a deeper understanding of our internal ecology—our thoughts, emotions, and spiritual well-being—we can cultivate a more harmonious relationship with the external world. Through a blend of philosophical insight and practical guidance, the text invites readers to embark on a journey of personal transformation as a foundational step towards addressing the global environmental challenges of our time, emphasizing the critical role of individual responsibility and ethical conduct in shaping a sustainable future.

    The 6568th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Silence Of The Grave by Arnaldur Indriðason

    In this gripping crime novel, a skeleton is discovered half-buried in a construction site on the outskirts of Reykjavik, leading Detective Erlendur and his team on a haunting journey into Iceland's past. As they dig deeper, the investigation intertwines with a decades-old mystery involving domestic violence, unresolved family secrets, and the enduring impact of war. The narrative masterfully weaves between the present investigation and the tragic events of the past, revealing the silent horrors that lie buried in human lives. Through its intricate plot and deep exploration of its characters' inner lives, the story not only uncovers the truth behind the bones but also reflects on the nature of violence, memory, and redemption.

    The 6718th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Blood Of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski

    This novel is the first in a series that delves into a richly imagined fantasy world, where the fate of the realms hangs in the balance. It follows the story of a young girl who is destined for great power and the group of protectors, including a famed witcher, who must safeguard her from numerous forces seeking to control or destroy her. As political turmoil, ancient magic, and personal vendettas intertwine, the characters are drawn into a complex web of alliances and conflicts. The narrative explores themes of destiny, the nature of good and evil, and the impact of past choices on the present, all set against a backdrop of intricate world-building and vividly described battles.

    The 6906th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Distant Star by Roberto Bolaño

    "Distant Star" is a chilling novel set in Chile following the 1973 coup that overthrew Salvador Allende. The story focuses on a character who uses his position as a member of the Chilean Air Force to commit heinous acts of violence. His fascination with poetry and aerial acrobatics is interwoven with his terrifying actions, creating a disconcerting contrast. The narrative explores the horrific realities of political upheaval, the fine line between art and brutality, and the long-lasting effects of trauma.

    The 7773rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Death And The Maiden by Ariel Dorfman

    In a post-dictatorship country, a former political prisoner, Paulina, encounters a man whom she believes to be her former torturer. She takes him captive and subjects him to a mock trial, seeking justice for the atrocities she endured. As the tension escalates, the play delves into themes of truth, revenge, and the complex aftermath of trauma, challenging the audience to question the blurred lines between victim and perpetrator in a society grappling with its dark past.

    The 7902nd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Daughter Of Fortune by Isabel Allende

    This novel is a sweeping tale of love, adventure, and discovery set against the backdrop of the California Gold Rush. It follows the journey of a young orphan raised in the British colony of Valparaíso, Chile, who embarks on a daring quest to find her lover in the goldfields of California. Along the way, she transforms from a naive girl into a strong and independent woman, encountering a diverse cast of characters who shape her destiny. The story delves into themes of freedom, identity, and the pursuit of fortune, offering a rich exploration of historical events through the eyes of a determined protagonist seeking her place in a rapidly changing world.

    The 8190th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Trust by Hernán Díaz

    "Trust" by Hernán Díaz is a novel that follows the journey of a young man named Rafael, who leaves his home in Mexico to pursue the American Dream in the 19th century. Rafael's journey takes him through the Wild West, where he encounters a diverse cast of characters and faces numerous challenges. Along the way, he learns about the complexities of trust and betrayal, and ultimately discovers the true meaning of home and belonging. The novel is a poignant exploration of identity, immigration, and the American experience.

    The 9464th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Strange Shores by Arnaldur Indriðason

    In this gripping installment of a popular Nordic noir series, the protagonist, a deeply introspective detective, embarks on a personal journey that intertwines with an official investigation into a decades-old case. Set against the haunting and desolate backdrop of Iceland's landscape, the detective delves into the mysterious disappearance of a woman during a snowstorm, a case that has remained unsolved and has personal significance to him. As he uncovers long-buried secrets and confronts his own demons, the narrative explores themes of loss, redemption, and the inescapable nature of the past. The detective's quest for truth leads to a poignant and unexpected resolution, making this story a compelling blend of human emotion and suspenseful mystery.

    The 9529th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. When We Cease To Understand The World by Adrian Nathan West, Benjamin Labatut

    "When We Cease To Understand The World" is a collection of two novellas that explore the limits of human knowledge and the consequences of scientific discovery. In "The Immaculate Void," a mathematician becomes obsessed with solving a seemingly unsolvable equation and risks his sanity in the process. In "The Unfinished," a group of scientists race to unlock the secrets of nuclear fission, only to realize the devastating power they have unleashed. Through these stories, the authors question the role of science in society and the dangers of pursuing knowledge without considering its ethical implications.

    The 9546th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Silence Of The Sea by Yrsa Sigurdardottir

    This gripping novel delves into the mysterious disappearance of a luxury yacht that arrives in Reykjavik harbor with no one on board. The story intertwines the investigation led by lawyer Thóra Gudmundsdóttir with the harrowing journey of the missing family at sea, revealing a chilling tale of secrets, survival, and sinister forces at play. As Thóra digs deeper into the yacht's voyage and the family's past, she uncovers a web of deceit that challenges her understanding of justice and morality, leading to a suspenseful and haunting conclusion.

    The 9670th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Witcher by Andrzej Sapkowski

    This fantasy series introduces readers to a world filled with magic, monstrous creatures, and political intrigue, centered around the life of Geralt of Rivia, a Witcher. Witchers are humans who have been genetically modified and trained from a young age to hunt and kill monsters. Geralt, with his exceptional sword skills, navigates through the morally ambiguous landscape, often finding that humans can be more wicked than the beasts he hunts. Along his journey, he is entangled with powerful sorceresses, kings, and creatures of dark lore, all while grappling with his destiny and the concept of what it means to be human in a world where the line between good and evil is blurred.

    The 10087th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Dukla by Andrzej Stasiuk

    This book offers a series of evocative essays that delve into the essence of Dukla, a small town in Poland, through the lens of memory and sensory experiences. The author masterfully blends observations of the mundane with philosophical musings, painting a vivid picture of the landscape, its people, and the passage of time. Through his exploration of various locales, from bustling markets to serene natural settings, he invites readers to reflect on the nature of existence, the beauty of the overlooked, and the profound connection between place and identity. The narrative is a poignant reminder of how deeply our surroundings can influence our perceptions of the world and ourselves.

    The 10487th 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