This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Solomon Gursky Was Here

   

   This novel is a sprawling epic that traces the multi-generational saga of the Gursky family, rumored to have been inspired by the real-life Bronfman dynasty, Canadian liquor magnates. At its core, it follows the enigmatic figure of Solomon Gursky, whose life is shrouded in myth and mystery, from his forebears' escape from Jewish persecution in Europe to his own adventures in the Arctic, and the eventual establishment of a powerful business empire in North America. Through the eyes of Moses Berger, a writer obsessed with uncovering the truth about Solomon, the narrative delves into themes of identity, legacy, and the complexities of the human condition, all set against the backdrop of Canada's development and cultural history.

   The 5258th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. St. Urbain's Horseman

   

   The novel revolves around a Canadian filmmaker living in London, grappling with a midlife crisis, a complex web of familial relationships, and the burden of his cultural identity. As he navigates through personal and professional challenges, he is haunted by the figure of the "Horseman," a symbol of moral judgment and a reminder of his own shortcomings. The protagonist's journey is interwoven with flashbacks to his childhood in Montreal, where the influence of his larger-than-life cousin and the vibrant Jewish community of St. Urbain Street shape his worldview. The narrative explores themes of guilt, the search for redemption, and the struggle to reconcile one's ambitions with the expectations of society and family.

   The 5389th Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. The Apprenticeship Of Duddy Kravitz

   

   Set in post-war Montreal, the story follows the ambitious and cunning Duddy Kravitz, a young Jewish man determined to rise above his working-class roots. Driven by his grandfather's belief that "a man without land is nobody," Duddy embarks on a relentless pursuit of wealth and success. His journey is marked by a series of morally questionable decisions, as he navigates the complexities of family, friendship, and love. Through Duddy's trials and triumphs, the narrative explores themes of identity, ambition, and the cost of achieving one's dreams.

   The 8008th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Barney's Version

   

   The novel is a fictional memoir of Barney Panofsky, a thrice-married, hard-drinking, and irascible television producer who reflects on his tumultuous life. Through his unreliable narration, Barney recounts his relationships, career, and the mysterious disappearance of his best friend, for which he is a prime suspect. As he battles the onset of Alzheimer's, Barney's version of events becomes increasingly fragmented, blending humor, pathos, and a deep sense of regret, ultimately painting a complex portrait of a flawed yet compelling character.

   The 9831st Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. Cocksure

   

   The novel is a satirical exploration of the absurdities and moral ambiguities of modern society, following the misadventures of a Canadian writer who becomes entangled in the chaotic world of British publishing. As he navigates through a series of increasingly bizarre and comical situations, the protagonist encounters a cast of eccentric characters, each embodying various societal flaws and hypocrisies. The story delves into themes of identity, ambition, and the often ludicrous nature of human behavior, all while maintaining a sharp, irreverent tone.

   The 14457th Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. Jacob Two Two Meets The Hooded Fang

   

   In this whimsical tale, a young boy named Jacob, who is known for repeating himself to ensure he's heard, finds himself in a fantastical adventure after being wrongfully imprisoned in the Children's Prison. The prison is run by the menacing Hooded Fang, a former wrestler who despises children. With the help of some unexpected allies, including the intrepid Child Power group, Jacob embarks on a daring mission to escape and prove his innocence. The story is a delightful blend of humor, imagination, and the triumph of courage over fear, capturing the essence of childhood resilience and the power of friendship.

   The 17122nd Greatest Book of All Time

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