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. Let the Great World Spin

   

   Set in 1970s New York City, the novel weaves together the stories of a diverse group of characters, ranging from a young Irish monk living among prostitutes in the Bronx to a group of wealthy Park Avenue ladies planning a charity event. Their lives intersect in unexpected ways against the backdrop of a tightrope walker's daring feat between the Twin Towers. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, and the interconnectedness of humanity.

   The 1958th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. Apeirogon

   

   In this poignant and intricately woven narrative, the lives of two fathers, one Palestinian and one Israeli, intersect through shared grief and a quest for peace after both lose their daughters to the ongoing conflict. Through a tapestry of stories, historical reflections, and personal anecdotes, the novel explores the complexities of human emotions and the power of empathy, transcending borders and divisions. The narrative structure mirrors the infinite possibilities of understanding and reconciliation, offering a profound meditation on the enduring impact of loss and the unyielding hope for a harmonious future.

   The 6851st Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. Twist

   A Novel

   

   Anthony Fennell, an Irish journalist and playwright, is sent to report on the undersea fiber‑optic cables that carry the world’s information. His investigation brings him to the west coast of Africa and aboard a cable‑repair ship led by John Conway, a skilled engineer and freediver, intersecting with Zanele, a South African actress. As they set out to repair deep breaks, the novel quietly examines the hidden labor behind global infrastructure and the ways people try to mend personal and collective ruptures.

   The 12311th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. This Side Of Brightness

   

   The novel delves into the lives of tunnel diggers beneath New York City at the turn of the 20th century, juxtaposing their stories with those of their descendants in the 1990s. It explores themes of racial tension, poverty, and the enduring human spirit through the interwoven narratives of a black sandhog who survives a harrowing tunnel collapse and his grandson, grappling with a life on the fringes of society. As the tale unfolds, it reveals the deep connections between past and present, and the invisible threads that bind the city's history to the fates of its inhabitants.

   The 14050th Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. American Mother

   

   "American Mother" tells the poignant story of Diane Foley, who confronts the tragic loss of her son, James Foley, a journalist captured and killed by ISIS. The narrative weaves through time, exploring James's dedication to highlighting the struggles of war victims, his captivity, and the aftermath of his death. Through Diane's perspective, the book delves into her emotional journey of grief, resilience, and hope, as she seeks to honor her son's legacy by advocating for others in a fractured world.

   The 17114th Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. Trans Atlantic

   

   Spanning over a century, this novel intricately weaves together the lives of three historical figures and the fictional stories of four generations of women, exploring themes of connection, legacy, and the passage of time. The narrative begins with the daring 1919 transatlantic flight of aviators Alcock and Brown, followed by Frederick Douglass's visit to Ireland in 1845, and Senator George Mitchell's pivotal role in the Northern Ireland peace process in 1998. Through these events, the novel delves into the personal and political struggles of its characters, highlighting the enduring impact of history on individual lives and the invisible threads that bind disparate moments across time and space.

   The 17114th Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. Fishing The Sloe Black River

   

   This collection of short stories delves into the intricate tapestry of human experiences, exploring themes of longing, displacement, and the search for connection. Set against diverse backdrops, from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of Ireland, each narrative captures the essence of life's unpredictability and the resilience of the human spirit. Through richly drawn characters and evocative prose, the stories invite readers to reflect on the complexities of identity and the universal quest for belonging.

8. 8. Songdogs

   

   A poignant exploration of memory and identity, this novel follows Conor Lyons as he returns to his native Ireland from Mexico to confront the fragmented pieces of his past. Through a tapestry of vivid imagery and lyrical prose, the narrative unfolds Conor's quest to understand his father's enigmatic life and the haunting photographs that capture the essence of his family's history. As Conor delves deeper into the stories behind these images, he grapples with themes of loss, love, and the enduring impact of familial bonds, ultimately seeking reconciliation with his own sense of self.

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9. 9. Zoli

   

   Set against the backdrop of 20th-century Europe, this novel follows the life of a Romani woman as she navigates the challenges of her identity and the shifting political landscapes around her. From her early years in Slovakia, where she is nurtured by her grandfather's wisdom, to her rise as a celebrated poet and singer, her journey is marked by resilience and defiance. As she faces betrayal and exile, her story becomes a poignant exploration of cultural displacement, the power of art, and the enduring quest for belonging in a world that often marginalizes those who are different.

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