The Greatest Hungarian, Unknown "Fiction, Historical fiction" 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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Fiction

Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

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  1. 1. Fateless by Imre Kertész

    "Fateless" is a harrowing account of a Hungarian Jewish boy's experiences in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. The protagonist is sent to Auschwitz, then Buchenwald, and finally to a factory in Zeitz, enduring brutal conditions and witnessing unimaginable horrors. Despite his experiences, he maintains a detached, almost indifferent perspective, focusing on the mundane aspects of life in the camps, which further highlights the absurdity and horror of the situation. The novel explores themes of identity, survival, and the arbitrary nature of fate.

    The 686th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Notebook: The Proof ; The Third Lie : Three Novels by Agota Kristof

    "The Notebook: The Proof ; The Third Lie : Three Novels" is a trilogy of novels that follow the lives of twin brothers, living through the harsh realities of war, separation, and betrayal. The first novel, "The Notebook," tells the story of their survival as children in a rural town at the end of World War II. The second book, "The Proof," continues their story into adulthood, exploring the effects of their traumatic childhood. The final book, "The Third Lie," delves into the complexities of their relationship and the secrets they kept from one another. The trilogy is a poignant exploration of identity, love, and the enduring bond of brotherhood.

    The 1298th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Celestial Harmonies by Peter Esterhazy

    "Celestial Harmonies" is a historical novel that tells the story of the aristocratic Esterházy family, tracing their lineage from the late Middle Ages to the present day. The narrative is divided into two parts, with the first part featuring a series of vignettes about the family's ancestors, while the second part focuses on the experiences of the narrator's father under the Communist regime in Hungary. The novel is characterized by its intricate structure, complex themes, and lush, poetic language, offering a rich exploration of Hungarian history, family dynamics, and the human condition.

    The 2369th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. December Bride by Sam Hanna Bell

    "December Bride" is a poignant and captivating novel set in rural Northern Ireland during the early 20th century. The story follows the life of a young woman named Sarah, who finds herself caught between tradition and her own desires. As she navigates the complexities of love, family, and societal expectations, Sarah must make difficult choices that will shape her future. With its vivid descriptions and richly drawn characters, this book explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love.

    The 2594th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Black List, Section H by Francis Stuart

    "Black List, Section H" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complex themes of identity, loyalty, and the consequences of war. Set during World War II, the story follows a group of individuals who find themselves entangled in a web of espionage and betrayal. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of Nazi-occupied Europe, their loyalties are tested, and they must confront the moral dilemmas that arise when faced with impossible choices. With its rich character development and atmospheric setting, this book offers a compelling exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 2617th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The White Ship by Chinghiz Aitmatov

    "The White Ship" by Chinghiz Aitmatov is a poignant and thought-provoking novella set in a remote village in Kyrgyzstan. The story follows a young shepherd named Mati, who embarks on a dangerous journey to rescue his fellow villagers after a devastating avalanche. Through Mati's experiences, the author explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. With beautiful prose and vivid descriptions, Aitmatov paints a vivid picture of the harsh yet enchanting landscapes of Kyrgyzstan while offering a powerful commentary on the strength of community bonds.

    The 3279th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Dervish And The Death by Meša Selimović

    "Dervish and the Death" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complex themes of identity, morality, and the human condition. Set in the 18th century Ottoman Empire, the story follows a dervish, Sheikh Nuruddin, as he navigates the turbulent world of politics, power, and religion. Through his encounters with various characters, including the enigmatic Death, the dervish grapples with his own beliefs and questions the nature of existence. Selimovic's masterful storytelling and introspective prose make this novel a captivating exploration of life's fundamental questions.

    The 3279th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Death And Nightingales by Eugene McCabe

    "Death and Nightingales" is a gripping and atmospheric novel set in 19th-century Ireland. The story follows Beth, a young woman trapped in a loveless marriage, who plans to escape with her lover, Liam. As the narrative unfolds over the course of a single day, tensions rise, secrets are revealed, and the characters' lives become entangled in a web of desire, betrayal, and violence. With its richly drawn characters and evocative prose, the book explores themes of love, power, and the consequences of one's choices in a society marked by oppression and turmoil.

    The 4023rd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. A Small Country by Sian James

    "A Small Country" is a poignant novel set in a rural Welsh community, where the lives of the inhabitants are deeply intertwined with the land and each other. The narrative explores the complexities of human relationships, the challenges of change, and the enduring strength of family and tradition. As the characters navigate personal struggles and societal shifts, the story delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the bittersweet nature of progress. The novel paints a vivid portrait of a way of life that is at once resilient and vulnerable to the inexorable march of time.

    The 4073rd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. A Funtineli Boszorkány by Albert Wass

    The novel is a sweeping historical saga set in Transylvania, focusing on the life of a young peasant girl who, despite her humble origins and the tumultuous times, rises to become a powerful figure in her community. Possessing an indomitable spirit and a mysterious gift that some consider witchcraft, she navigates the complex social hierarchies and political upheavals of her era, becoming both revered and feared. Her journey is marked by love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of her destiny, as she becomes entwined with the fates of the villagers and the land itself, reflecting the broader struggles and resilience of the human spirit.

    The 4150th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Moon Over Africa by Pamela Kent

    Set against the evocative backdrop of Africa, this novel follows the journey of a young Englishwoman who leaves the familiarity of her home to embark on an adventurous life in Africa with her husband. As they navigate the challenges and wonders of their new surroundings, their relationship is tested by the mysteries and dangers they encounter. The story is a rich tapestry of love, adventure, and the quest for belonging, showcasing the transformative power of the African landscape on the lives of those who dare to explore its depths.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Give Me Back My Mountains by Albert Wass

    "Give Me Back My Mountains" is a poignant historical novel that delves into the struggles and resilience of a Transylvanian noble family during the tumultuous period of World War II and the subsequent communist takeover. The narrative explores themes of loss, identity, and the unyielding human spirit, as the family confronts the confiscation of their ancestral lands and the erosion of their cultural heritage. Through vivid characters and rich descriptions, the book paints a picture of a bygone era, highlighting the personal and collective challenges faced by those who lived through the seismic political shifts of the 20th century in Eastern Europe.

    The 4373rd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. School At The Frontier by Géza Ottlik

    "School at the Frontier" is a novel set in a military academy in Hungary during the interwar period, where a group of boys navigates the complexities of adolescence against the backdrop of a strict and often oppressive educational system. The narrative delves into the intricate relationships, hierarchies, and unspoken codes that govern the lives of the students, as they form alliances, confront authority, and grapple with the looming shadow of the outside world's political turmoil. Through the lens of the protagonist's experiences, the story explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and the loss of innocence, painting a poignant picture of youth and the formative experiences that shape one's identity.

    The 4456th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. The Great Brain; More Adventures Of The Great Brain; Me And My Little Brain; The Great Brain At The Academy; The Great Brain Reforms (The Great Brain, Volumes 1 5) by Unknown

    This series follows the escapades of a young boy with a reputation for being the cleverest trickster and con artist in his small Utah town in the late 19th century. Known for his sharp intellect and a knack for turning a profit, he navigates childhood with his friends and family, often using his "great brain" to solve problems, outwit adults, and occasionally help his peers, all while making a penny or two. Whether he's running schemes at his boarding school or reforming his ways back home, his adventures are a mix of humor, heart, and lessons learned.

    The 4668th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Land Of Look Behind by Michelle Cliff

    The book is a poignant exploration of identity, history, and the enduring impact of colonialism in Jamaica. Through the eyes of its protagonist, a Jamaican woman who returns to her homeland after years in the United States, the narrative delves into the complexities of her personal journey and the island's tumultuous past. As she reconnects with her roots and confronts the ghosts of slavery and oppression that haunt the landscape, the story weaves a rich tapestry of memory, culture, and the search for belonging in a land marked by beauty and scarred by injustice.

    The 4742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Régimódi Történet by Szabó, Magda

    "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 4764th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Ne Féljetek by Anna Jókai

    "Ne Féljetek" is a poignant reflection on the human condition, set against the backdrop of a society grappling with the oppressive weight of a totalitarian regime. The narrative delves into the lives of individuals who, amidst the pervasive fear and silence enforced by the state, find themselves wrestling with the moral complexities of courage, resistance, and the yearning for freedom. Through a tapestry of interconnected stories and characters, the book explores the subtle acts of defiance and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of an unyielding political landscape, ultimately offering a testament to the enduring power of hope and the unquenchable desire for change.

    The 4765th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. The Threshing Floor by Barbara Burford

    "The Threshing Floor" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, sexuality, and the intersections of science and personal ethics. Set against the backdrop of a futuristic society, the narrative follows the journey of a geneticist who grapples with the moral implications of her work in genetic engineering. As she navigates the challenges of her profession, she also embarks on a quest for self-discovery, exploring her own desires and the nature of human connection. The book raises profound questions about the manipulation of life, the essence of individuality, and the price of progress, all while weaving a story of love, ambition, and the search for truth.

    The 4787th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Maps by Nuruddin Farah

    "Maps" by Nuruddin Farah is a compelling novel that delves into the complex themes of identity, exile, and the search for belonging. Set in Somalia during a time of political turmoil, the story follows Askar, a young boy who is caught between conflicting cultural and political forces. As he grows older, Askar becomes increasingly aware of the divisions within his society and struggles to navigate the shifting landscapes of his own identity. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, Farah explores the power of maps as both physical representations of territory and metaphorical symbols of personal and national boundaries.

    The 5019th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Ualalapi by Ungulani Ba Ka Khosa

    "Ualalapi" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complex history and cultural identity of Mozambique. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book explores themes of colonialism, war, and the struggle for independence, as well as the impact of these historical events on individuals and society. With lyrical prose and vivid imagery, the author skillfully weaves together folklore, mythology, and real-life experiences to create a captivating narrative that challenges readers to reflect on the legacy of the past and its influence on the present.

    The 5090th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. The Ice People by Unknown

    The book in question is a speculative fiction novel set in a dystopian future where a sudden and severe ice age has gripped the Earth, leading to the collapse of civilization and the emergence of a new society. The story follows the protagonist, a historian, who discovers the truth about the ice age's origins and the existence of an advanced prehistoric civilization. As the protagonist delves deeper into the past, he uncovers startling revelations about humanity's history and the cyclical nature of human progress and decline, all while navigating the challenges of life in a frozen world.

    The 5164th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Für Elise by Szabó, Magda

    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 5226th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. The Crowned Wanderer by Rahim Esenov

    "The Crowned Wanderer" is a captivating tale set in a fictional world where a young wanderer named Zahir embarks on a transformative journey. As he travels through enchanting landscapes and encounters diverse characters, Zahir learns profound lessons about love, loss, and the complexities of human nature. With poetic prose and rich imagery, the novel explores themes of self-discovery, destiny, and the eternal search for meaning.

    The 5310th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. The Captains And The Kings by Jennifer Johnston

    "The Captains And The Kings" is a poignant and introspective novel that delves into the complex dynamics of a wealthy Irish family. Set against the backdrop of political unrest and social change in Ireland, the story follows the lives of the dysfunctional King family as they navigate through personal tragedies, secrets, and the weight of their own expectations. With beautifully crafted prose and deeply flawed characters, the book explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of family bonds.

    The 5319th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Jadviga Párnája by Pál Závada

    "Jadviga Párnája" is a historical novel set in a Hungarian village at the turn of the 20th century. It delves into the life of a young woman named Jadviga, who is of Polish descent, and her marriage to a Hungarian man, András. The narrative unfolds through a series of letters, diary entries, and other documents, painting a vivid picture of rural life, social norms, and the personal struggles of the characters. The novel explores themes of love, fidelity, identity, and the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a society grappling with change and the influences of modernity.

    The 6297th 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