The Little Virtues by Natalia Ginzburg

"The Little Virtues" is a collection of essays that delve into the fabric of everyday life, exploring themes such as the intricacies of family relationships, the importance of personal growth and integrity, and the role of education and parenting. The author reflects on her own experiences, including her upbringing in Italy, the impact of World War II on her life, and her observations on the cultural and societal norms of her time. With a blend of personal anecdote and philosophical insight, the essays advocate for the pursuit of larger virtues—such as generosity, honesty, and courage—over the 'little virtues' like frugality and caution, suggesting that a life well-lived is one that embraces the full spectrum of human potential and kindness.

The 2635th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 141

Since this book was first published in 1962, there is a penalty of 0%. The age adjusted score is 141.0.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.