Caucasian literature: the best contemporary fiction to add to your reading list

This is one of the 759 lists we use to generate our main The Greatest Books list.

View: List Grid Table
  • The Literature Express by Lasha Bugadze

    In this satirical novel, a group of eccentric writers from various countries embarks on a chaotic train journey across Europe, each with their own quirks and literary ambitions. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of a young Georgian author who finds himself entangled in a whirlwind of absurd situations, cultural clashes, and unexpected friendships. As the train hurtles through picturesque landscapes, the passengers grapple with their insecurities, creative struggles, and the elusive nature of fame, all while navigating the complexities of human relationships and the often humorous, sometimes poignant, realities of the literary world.

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Requiem For The Living by Alan Cherchesov

    Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous Caucasus region, this novel intricately weaves the lives of its characters through a tapestry of history, memory, and identity. The narrative explores the profound impact of political upheaval and cultural conflict on personal lives, as individuals grapple with their past and seek meaning in a world marked by loss and transformation. Through a rich and evocative prose, the story delves into the complexities of human resilience and the enduring quest for understanding amidst chaos.

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  • The Mountain And The Wall by Alisa Ganieva

    "The Mountain and the Wall" is a thought-provoking novel set in a fictional region of Russia, where a massive wall is being constructed to separate the Muslim population from the rest of the country. Through the eyes of various characters, the book explores the impact of this division on individuals and communities, delving into themes of identity, religion, and the struggle for freedom. As tensions rise and conflicts erupt, the story highlights the complexities of human relationships in a divided society.

    The 6675th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • The Orphan Sky by Ella Leya

    Set against the backdrop of 1970s Azerbaijan, this captivating novel follows the journey of a young piano prodigy, Leila, as she navigates the complexities of life under a repressive regime. Torn between her passion for music and the expectations of her family and society, Leila's world is further complicated when she encounters a mysterious painter who opens her eyes to the power of art and the possibility of freedom. As she grapples with questions of identity, loyalty, and love, Leila must decide whether to conform to the constraints of her world or to pursue her own path, risking everything for a chance at self-discovery and liberation.

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • A Man Was Going Down The Road by Otar Chiladze

    Set against the backdrop of ancient Colchis, the narrative intertwines myth and reality, exploring the timeless themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for identity. The protagonist embarks on a journey that mirrors the legendary voyage of the Argonauts, delving into the depths of human emotion and the complexities of fate. As he navigates through a world filled with enigmatic characters and mystical landscapes, the story unfolds as a poignant reflection on the human condition, capturing the essence of a civilization caught between tradition and change.

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
  • The Fleeting City by Hovhannes Tekgyozan

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  • Dagny, Or A Love Feast by Zurab Karumidze

    Or A Love Feast

    Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Europe, this novel intricately weaves a tapestry of love, art, and existential musings. The narrative follows a passionate and tumultuous affair between a charismatic poet and a captivating muse, exploring the depths of human emotion and the complexities of creative inspiration. As their relationship unfolds, the story delves into themes of identity, the fleeting nature of beauty, and the relentless pursuit of artistic immortality, all while capturing the vibrant cultural milieu of the era.

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Solar Plexus by Rustam Ibragimbekov

    A Baku Saga in Four Parts

    Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society, this novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the search for identity. The narrative follows the intertwined lives of several characters, each grappling with their own personal dilemmas and societal expectations. Through a series of poignant and often humorous encounters, the story explores themes of love, ambition, and the struggle for self-discovery. As the characters navigate their paths, they confront the challenges of modern life, ultimately seeking meaning and connection in a world that is both familiar and unpredictable.

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • The Legacy Of Lost Things by Aida Zilalian

    Set against the backdrop of the Armenian diaspora in Los Angeles, this poignant narrative weaves together the lives of three generations grappling with the weight of their past. As secrets and memories unfold, the characters navigate the complexities of identity, belonging, and the haunting echoes of a homeland left behind. Through a tapestry of familial bonds and personal struggles, the story explores the enduring impact of heritage and the quest for understanding amidst the shadows of history.

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
  • A Small Corner Of Hell by Anna Politkovskaya

    Dispatches from Chechnya

    Set against the backdrop of the Second Chechen War, this harrowing account delves into the grim realities faced by civilians and soldiers alike in the conflict-ridden region. Through a series of poignant narratives, the book exposes the brutality, corruption, and human rights abuses that permeate the war-torn landscape. The author provides a raw and unflinching portrayal of the suffering endured by the Chechen people, highlighting the indifference of the world to their plight. With a focus on personal stories and firsthand experiences, the narrative serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and courage of those caught in the crossfire.

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
About this list

New East Digital Archive, 10 Books

A list of the ten best contemporary Caucasian books available in English, by Hannah Weber.

This list was originally published in 2017 and was added to this site about 1 year ago.

How Good is this List?

This list has a weight of 1%. To learn more about what this means please visit the Rankings page.

Here is a list of what is decreasing the importance of this list:

  • Voters: Voter Count
  • List: only covers 1 specific country
  • Voters: are mostly from a single country/location

If you think this is incorrect please contact us.

List Information

Number of Voters:
1
Voter Count Unknown:
No
Voter Names Unknown:
No
High Quality Source:
No
Location Specific:
Yes
Category Specific:
No