The Greatest Trinidadian, Canadian "Fiction" Books Since 1970

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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. 26. The Wars by Timothy Findley

    "The Wars" is a historical novel that follows the life of a young Canadian soldier, Robert Ross, during World War I. The narrative explores Ross's experiences in the war, his struggles with his own morality, and the harsh realities of the battlefield. The book also delves into the psychological impact of war on soldiers, as well as the effects of war on animals, which Ross is particularly sensitive to. Through non-linear storytelling, the novel provides a visceral and poignant commentary on the brutality and senselessness of war.

    The 2739th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Generation X by Douglas Coupland

    The book is a novel that captures the disaffections of young adults growing up in the late 20th century, specifically those born in the late 1950s to the early 1980s. It follows the lives of three friends who have retreated to the California desert to escape the complexities and frustrations of the modern world. Through their stories, the novel explores themes of aimlessness, consumer culture, and the search for authenticity in a society saturated with media and technology. The characters' tales are interspersed with quirky definitions and cartoons that reflect their cynical, yet deeply yearning outlook on life, coining terms and concepts that resonate with a generation struggling to find its identity amidst economic and social uncertainty.

    The 2936th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Open Secrets: Stories by Alice Munro

    "Open Secrets: Stories" is a collection of eight short stories that delve into the complex lives of women, exploring themes of love, loss, and the secrets that bind and divide people. Set in various locations, from small-town Ontario to Australia, the stories feature characters grappling with their pasts, negotiating relationships, and confronting the mysteries of life. The narrative oscillates between past and present, revealing the profound and often unsettling truths hidden beneath the surface of ordinary lives.

    The 3056th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage by Alice Munro

    "Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage" is a collection of nine short stories that explore the complexities of human relationships. Each story delves into the intricate web of emotions and experiences that define the human condition, including love, hate, friendship, courtship, and marriage. The characters are rendered with depth and nuance, their lives marked by moments of profound change and subtle transformation. The stories are set against the backdrop of rural and urban landscapes, offering a rich, evocative portrayal of life in all its complexities and contradictions.

    The 3069th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. The First Garden by Anne Hébert

    "The First Garden" is a historical fiction novel set in 17th-century Canada. It tells the story of a young woman who is sent to New France (now Quebec) to be a "Filles du roi" or "King's Daughter" - a program where women were sent to marry the men of New France in order to populate the colony. The protagonist struggles to adapt to her new life, facing harsh winters, cultural differences, and the challenges of frontier life while grappling with her feelings for a local trapper. The book explores themes of survival, love, and the clash of cultures.

    The 3375th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. The Pegnitz Junction by Mavis Gallant

    "The Pegnitz Junction" is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships and the nuances of life's experiences. The narratives, set in various European locales, explore themes of memory, identity, and the passage of time through the eyes of characters often caught between cultures and histories. The title story, which stands out in the collection, focuses on a young girl's coming-of-age during a train journey, symbolizing the transitions and connections that define the human condition. The stories are marked by their psychological depth, sharp observation, and the author's skillful prose, which captures the subtleties of her characters' inner worlds and the intricacies of their interactions with the world around them.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Crick Crack, Monkey by Merle Hodge

    This novel is a coming-of-age story set in Trinidad, exploring themes of colonialism, identity, and cultural conflict through the eyes of a young girl named Tee. As she navigates the complexities of her Afro-Trinidadian heritage and the imposed British colonial education system, Tee is torn between the warmth and vibrancy of her working-class upbringing with her aunt Tantie and the strict, anglicized environment of her middle-class aunt Beatrice. The narrative delves into the psychological impact of cultural dislocation and the struggle to find a sense of belonging in a society deeply fractured by class and race.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Guerrillas by V. S. Naipaul

    "Guerrillas" is a novel set on a Caribbean island, exploring themes of race, politics, and power. The plot follows a group of characters, including a disillusioned Englishwoman, a struggling black activist, and a charismatic but dangerous mixed-race man who leads a band of guerilla fighters. As the tension and violence escalate, the novel delves into the complexities of post-colonial society and the struggle for identity and self-determination.

    The 3625th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Milkman by Anna Burns

    Set during The Troubles in Northern Ireland, this novel follows an unnamed 18-year-old protagonist who is pursued by a powerful, older man known only as the Milkman. Despite her attempts to avoid him and maintain a low profile in her community, rumors spread about their supposed affair, leading to increased scrutiny and isolation. The book explores the protagonist's struggle to maintain her individuality amidst political and social turmoil, while also dealing with the pervasive threat of violence and the power of gossip in a close-knit community.

    The 3688th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Brown Girl In The Ring by Nalo Hopkinson

    Set in a dystopian future Toronto that has been abandoned by the government and cordoned off from the rest of Canada, the novel follows a young, spirited woman of Caribbean descent who must navigate the perilous, gang-ruled cityscape while harnessing her newfound, ancestral spiritual powers. As she grapples with her identity and the demands of the community that relies on her, she is drawn into a dangerous quest to save her dying grandmother and confronts a malevolent spirit. The story is a rich tapestry of Afro-Caribbean culture, folklore, and tradition, exploring themes of resilience, heritage, and the transformative power of love and family.

    The 3724th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen

    In this humorous and cleverly illustrated children's book, a bear searches for his missing hat, asking various animals along the way if they have seen it. As the bear's frustration grows, readers are left to wonder if the bear will ever find his hat and what might happen when he does.

    The 4016th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay

    In a land where a ruthless sorcerer has erased the name and history of a once-proud province, a group of rebels fights to reclaim their identity and homeland. The story unfolds in a richly detailed fantasy world where magic and political intrigue intertwine, and the power of memory and the resilience of the human spirit are central themes. The rebels, each with their own personal vendettas and dreams, must navigate complex alliances and confront their own pasts as they strive to restore the name of their province and free it from the grip of tyranny. Their quest is fraught with challenges, as they face not only the sorcerer's formidable powers but also the difficulties of uniting a fractured people under a forgotten banner.

    The 4028th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. De Niro's Game by Rawi Hage

    The novel delves into the lives of two childhood friends navigating the treacherous landscape of war-torn Beirut. As the city crumbles under the weight of the Lebanese Civil War, the young men find themselves drawn into the violence and chaos that surrounds them. One chooses the path of emigration, seeking a new life abroad, while the other becomes embroiled in the militia warfare that dominates the streets. Their friendship is tested by the brutality of their environment, as they grapple with the moral complexities of survival, loyalty, and the devastating impact of conflict on the human spirit.

    The 4085th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Fireflies by Shiva Naipaul

    This novel explores the complexities of post-colonial Trinidad through the lens of the protagonist's tumultuous family life and his arranged marriage. Set against a backdrop of societal change and personal disillusionment, the narrative delves into themes of identity, tradition, and the search for meaning in a rapidly transforming world. The protagonist's journey is marked by his struggle to reconcile his ambitions and desires with the expectations placed upon him by his family and community, ultimately presenting a poignant critique of the societal norms and cultural heritage that both bind and divide the characters. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the book offers a nuanced examination of the human condition within a specific cultural context.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Fall On Your Knees by Ann-Marie MacDonald

    "Fall On Your Knees" is a multi-generational saga set in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, that explores themes of family, love, betrayal, and secrets. The story revolves around the Piper family, specifically four sisters, their father James, and their mother Materia. The narrative weaves through time, revealing the family's complex relationships, the impact of racial and cultural tensions, and the dark secrets that have shaped their lives. This novel is a deep exploration of family dynamics, love, and the power of secrets.

    The 4474th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. The Summer Tree by Guy Gavriel Kay

    This fantasy novel is the first in a series that weaves a tale of five university students from Toronto who are transported to a magical world called Fionavar. Invited as guests to witness the celebration of a pivotal anniversary, they soon find themselves embroiled in a struggle against an ancient evil that threatens the very fabric of all worlds. Central to the story is the Summer Tree, a sacred object of sacrifice and rebirth, where one of the students must endure a harrowing trial that will affect the fate of both Fionavar and their own world. The narrative blends myth, legend, and personal growth, as each character confronts their destiny and the complex moral choices of a world filled with gods, power, and enchantment.

    The 4479th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. The Love of a Good Woman by Alice Munro

    "The Love of a Good Woman" is a collection of eight short stories, each delving into the complex nature of relationships, particularly focusing on women. The narratives explore various themes such as love, betrayal, death, and the often overlooked intricacies of everyday life. Set in small-town Canada, the stories are filled with characters grappling with their desires, secrets, and the unexpected turns of life, offering a profound and nuanced exploration of human behavior and emotions.

    The 4521st Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. The Beauty Of The Husband by Anne Carson

    "The Beauty of the Husband" is a poetic exploration of a failing marriage. Told in 29 tangos, the narrative unfolds the story of a woman who remains in love with her husband despite his numerous infidelities. The husband, a charming and deceitful character, is portrayed as a figure of magnetic attraction and revulsion, with his wife drawn to his charisma and repelled by his dishonesty. The book is a profound examination of love, betrayal, and the complex dynamics of relationships.

    The 4557th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. Friend Of My Youth: Stories by Alice Munro

    The book is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships, memory, and the passage of time, often through the lens of women's experiences. Set primarily in small-town Canada, the narratives explore the lives of characters who confront personal betrayals, moral dilemmas, and the subtle yet profound moments that shape their identities. With a keen eye for detail and a masterful use of language, the author weaves tales that reveal the depth and nuance of ordinary life, capturing the universal truths that lie within the particularities of individual stories.

    The 4736th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. Mohawk Trail by Beth Brant

    "Mohawk Trail" is a poignant collection of stories and essays that delve into the lives and experiences of Native Americans, particularly focusing on the Mohawk community and other indigenous peoples. The narrative weaves together themes of identity, culture, and the struggles of living in a world where traditional ways are often at odds with modern society. Through a blend of personal reflection, historical accounts, and rich storytelling, the book offers a window into the resilience and complexities of Native American life, exploring the intersection of past and present, and the journey towards self-discovery and cultural preservation amidst the challenges of displacement and assimilation.

    The 4742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Various Miracles by Carol Shields

    "Various Miracles" is a collection of short stories that explore the intricacies of human relationships and the unexpected events that shape our lives. With a blend of humor and poignancy, the narratives delve into the lives of ordinary individuals facing extraordinary moments, where miracles—both literal and metaphorical—occur in everyday settings. The stories examine themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of chance encounters, revealing the magic hidden within the mundane and the profound connections that can arise from the simplest of interactions.

    The 4742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. The Devil Is Loose by Antonine Maillet

    "The Devil Is Loose" is a narrative that delves into the folklore and superstitions of a small Acadian village, where the sudden appearance of a mysterious stranger coincides with a series of inexplicable events. The villagers, immersed in their traditional beliefs and tales of the supernatural, begin to suspect that the devil himself may be walking among them, causing fear and chaos. As the story unfolds, it explores themes of fear, the power of myth, and the human tendency to seek explanations in the face of the unknown, all while painting a vivid picture of Acadian culture and the tight-knit community's response to perceived evil.

    The 4787th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. Memory Board by Jane Rule

    The novel explores the complexities of aging, memory, and identity through the lives of two elderly siblings who reunite after many years. The brother, who is struggling with dementia, moves in with his lesbian sister, who is dealing with her own challenges as she navigates the social stigmas of her time. Together, they confront their pasts and the changes in their present lives, examining the bonds of family, the impact of memory on their sense of self, and the need for acceptance and understanding in the face of life's inevitable transitions.

    The 4854th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. Sans Souci And Other Stories by Dionne Brand

    "Sans Souci and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships, identity, and the immigrant experience. The narratives, set against diverse backdrops from the Caribbean to Canada, explore themes of love, loss, and the search for belonging. Through a tapestry of vivid characters and poignant moments, the stories examine the intricate ways in which personal and cultural histories intertwine, revealing the resilience and struggles of individuals as they navigate the nuances of life in a world marked by transitions and transformations.

    The 4969th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. The Wandering Fire by Guy Gavriel Kay

    In this fantasy novel, a group of young men and women from our own world find themselves transported to a realm where myth and magic reign. They become embroiled in a desperate struggle to fulfill an ancient prophecy and combat a dark sorcery that threatens to engulf both worlds. As they journey through this enchanted land, they encounter legendary figures and creatures, and must come to terms with their own destinies. With the fate of two worlds hanging in the balance, they must harness their newfound abilities and face the malevolent force that seeks to extinguish the light of both the realms they have come to cherish.

    The 5019th Greatest Book of All Time

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.

Download