The Greatest Non-Western "Autobiography, Teen & Young Adult" Books of All Time

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This list showcases a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books from Non-Western literature. Curated through a specialized algorithm, it amalgamates 305 'best of' book lists to present a definitive guide to essential literary works from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and beyond. This selection celebrates the diverse and vibrant literary traditions of the world, offering readers a window into a myriad of fascinating narratives and perspectives. For more information on how these books are selected, please visit the rankings page.

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Autobiography

Autobiography is a literary genre that focuses on the life story of the author. It is a first-person account of the author's experiences, thoughts, and emotions, often including significant events and milestones that have shaped their life. Autobiographies can be written by anyone, from famous public figures to ordinary people, and can cover a wide range of topics, including personal growth, career achievements, struggles, and relationships. This genre provides readers with a unique insight into the author's life and perspective, making it a popular and engaging category of books.

Teen & Young Adult

The "Teen & Young Adult" category in literature encompasses a broad range of fiction and non-fiction books specifically tailored for readers aged roughly between 12 and 18 years old. These books often feature protagonists and experiences that resonate with the challenges, emotions, and transitions characteristic of adolescence and young adulthood. Themes such as identity, romance, friendship, family dynamics, and self-discovery are commonly explored, with settings ranging from realistic to fantastical. The genre aims to provide a relatable and engaging reading experience, offering both escapism and insight into the complexities of growing up. While primarily targeting teenagers and young adults, these books often possess a crossover appeal, attracting adult readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories and the fresh perspectives of youthful narratives.

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  1. 1. Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

    This graphic novel is a memoir that provides a personal account of the author's childhood and young adult years in Iran during and after the Islamic revolution. The story portrays the impact of war, political upheaval, and religious extremism on ordinary people, while also exploring themes of identity, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Despite the harsh realities the protagonist faces, the narrative also includes moments of humor and warmth, providing a nuanced view of life in Iran during this tumultuous period.

    The 629th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah

    This book is a memoir of a young girl growing up in China during the 1940s and 1950s. The protagonist is considered unlucky by her family after her mother dies giving birth to her. She is mistreated by her stepmother and largely ignored by her father, leading to a lonely and challenging childhood. Despite these difficulties, she finds solace in her academic achievements and her Aunt Baba's support. The story is a testament to the power of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.

    The 5022nd 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