The Greatest Books of 2017

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 759 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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  1. 101. When I Grow Up I Want To Be A List Of Further Possibilities by Chen Chen

    This poignant collection of poetry explores themes of identity, family, and the immigrant experience, weaving together personal narratives with broader cultural reflections. Through a blend of humor and vulnerability, the poems delve into the complexities of growing up as a queer Asian American, navigating the intersections of race, sexuality, and belonging. The work is a heartfelt meditation on the possibilities of love, acceptance, and self-discovery, offering a resonant voice that speaks to the universal quest for understanding and connection.

    The 11082nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 102. Mirror Sydney by Vanessa Berry

    An Atlas of Reflections

    In this captivating exploration of Sydney's urban landscape, the author delves into the city's overlooked and forgotten spaces, revealing the hidden stories and histories that shape its identity. Through a blend of personal reflection, historical research, and keen observation, the narrative uncovers the layers of transformation and decay that define the metropolis. The work invites readers to see beyond the familiar, encouraging a deeper connection with the city's unique character and the transient beauty of its everyday scenes.

    The 11082nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  3. 103. The Destroyers by Christopher Bollen

    "The Destroyers" is a suspenseful novel set on the idyllic Greek island of Patmos. The story revolves around two childhood friends, one a wealthy inheritor of a construction empire and the other a struggling playboy, who reunite under mysterious circumstances. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into themes of wealth, friendship, betrayal, and identity, all against a backdrop of escalating danger and suspense. The protagonist finds himself embroiled in a web of deception and murder, as the seemingly paradise island reveals its darker underbelly.

    The 11162nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  4. 104. Until Stones Become Lighter Than Water by António Lobo Antunes

    Set against the backdrop of the Portuguese Colonial War, this novel delves into the haunting memories and emotional scars left on soldiers and civilians alike. Through a fragmented narrative, it explores the intertwining lives of those who experienced the brutalities of war, revealing the deep psychological and moral conflicts they endure. The story unfolds through a series of vivid, stream-of-consciousness reflections, capturing the chaos, guilt, and disillusionment that linger long after the battles have ended, painting a poignant picture of the human condition in times of conflict.

    The 11235th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  5. 105. Le Pietre by Claudio Morandini

    Romanzo

    Set in a remote Alpine village, the narrative unfolds around the mysterious and unsettling phenomenon of stones that inexplicably move and multiply, causing chaos and fear among the inhabitants. As the villagers grapple with the bizarre occurrences, the story delves into themes of superstition, the clash between tradition and modernity, and the human tendency to seek explanations for the inexplicable. The atmospheric setting and the tension between the natural world and human intervention create a haunting backdrop for this exploration of the unknown.

    The 11291st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 106. The Adventures Of China Iron by Gabriela Cabezón Cámara

    Set against the backdrop of 19th-century Argentina, this vibrant and imaginative novel follows the journey of a young woman, China Iron, as she embarks on a transformative adventure across the Pampas. Escaping from an oppressive life, she joins forces with a Scottish woman named Liz, and together they traverse the vast landscapes, encountering diverse cultures and challenges. Through their travels, China Iron discovers her own identity and strength, while the narrative reimagines the traditional gaucho tales, blending historical elements with a fresh feminist perspective. The story is a celebration of freedom, resilience, and the power of reinvention.

    The 11298th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  7. 107. New Cemetery by Simon Armitage

    A poet observing from a shed watches a new cemetery being created on the West Yorkshire moor. The collection uses short, layered poems about everyday details—the cars, the planning, the changing light—to offer quiet, often wry meditations on mortality, memory and a particular sense of place, moving from local scenes to broader reflection without revealing specific events.

    The 11299th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  8. 108. Why I'm No Longer Talking To White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge, Ana Camallonga

    The Sunday Times Bestseller

    The book in question is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of race, structural racism, and the black experience in a predominantly white society. It delves into the historical roots of racial inequality, the failures of the mainstream feminist movement to address intersectionality, and the ongoing challenges faced by people of color in the realms of politics, employment, and the justice system. The author articulately expresses her frustration with the lack of understanding and denial of systemic racism by white individuals, which has led her to the titular conclusion. Through personal narrative and incisive analysis, the book serves as a call to action for meaningful conversation and systemic change.

    The 11321st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  9. 109. Ali by Jonathan Eig

    A Life

    The book provides an in-depth exploration of the life and legacy of one of the most iconic figures in sports history. It delves into his extraordinary boxing career, his charismatic personality, and his profound impact on culture and society. The narrative captures his struggles and triumphs both inside and outside the ring, highlighting his role as a symbol of resistance and his influence on issues of race, religion, and politics. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the book paints a comprehensive portrait of a man who transcended his sport to become a global icon.

    The 11481st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  10. 110. The Sparsholt Affair by Alan Hollinghurst

    Set against the backdrop of changing social and sexual mores in Britain, this novel intricately weaves together the lives of several characters across multiple decades, beginning in the 1940s. The narrative unfolds through the lens of a scandal involving a charismatic young man, whose allure and actions ripple through the lives of those around him, leaving a lasting impact on subsequent generations. Through its exploration of art, identity, and the complexities of human relationships, the story delves into themes of desire, secrecy, and the passage of time, painting a vivid portrait of a society in flux.

    The 11481st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  11. 111. The Darkening Age by Catherine Nixey

    The Christian Destruction of the Classical World

    This compelling historical narrative delves into the transformative period of late antiquity, exploring the rise of Christianity and its profound impact on the classical world. It vividly recounts how the new faith, once a persecuted minority, grew in power and influence, often at the expense of the rich tapestry of Greco-Roman culture. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the book reveals the systematic destruction of pagan temples, the suppression of classical thought, and the erasure of ancient traditions, painting a picture of a world in transition where the old gods were replaced by a new, singular belief system.

    The 11481st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  12. 112. Ninety Nine Glimpses Of Princess Margaret by Craig Brown

    A Life in Fragments

    This captivating book offers a unique and multifaceted portrait of Princess Margaret, the enigmatic sister of Queen Elizabeth II. Through a series of ninety-nine vignettes, the narrative weaves together anecdotes, interviews, and historical accounts to paint a vivid picture of a woman who was both glamorous and controversial. The book delves into her complex personality, exploring her relationships, public persona, and the challenges she faced within the confines of royal life. With a blend of humor and insight, it captures the essence of a princess who defied expectations and left an indelible mark on the British monarchy.

    The 11481st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  13. 113. Why Comics? by Hillary L. Chute

    From Underground to Everywhere

    This insightful exploration delves into the world of comics, examining their evolution from niche subculture to a significant form of artistic and literary expression. It highlights the unique power of comics to tackle complex themes such as trauma, identity, and politics through their distinctive blend of visual and textual storytelling. The book also showcases the work of influential artists and writers, offering a comprehensive analysis of how comics have become a vital medium for contemporary narratives and cultural commentary.

    The 11481st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 114. Homesick for Another World by Ottessa Moshfegh

    "Homesick for Another World" is a collection of short stories that explore the lives of various flawed and eccentric characters, each struggling with their own personal demons and insecurities. The narratives delve into the dark, often uncomfortable aspects of humanity, with themes of loneliness, self-loathing, and the desperate search for connection and meaning. The stories are set in a variety of locations, from small towns to big cities, and each presents a unique perspective on the human condition.

    The 11613th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  15. 115. The Evolution Of Beauty by Richard O. Prum

    How Darwin's Forgotten Theory of Mate Choice Shapes the Animal World - and Us

    In "The Evolution of Beauty," Richard O. Prum explores the theory of mate choice in evolution, arguing that it plays a much larger role in shaping animal traits and behaviors than previously thought. He examines the evolution of beauty in various species, from birds to humans, and how it relates to sexual selection and the idea of fitness. Prum also challenges traditional scientific beliefs about the role of natural selection in evolution and proposes a new perspective on the importance of aesthetic preferences in shaping the animal world and potentially even human culture.

    The 11661st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  16. 116. The Mother Of All Questions by Rebecca Solnit

    Further Feminisms

    In this thought-provoking collection of essays, the author delves into the complexities of silence and voice in the context of feminism and societal expectations. Through a series of insightful narratives, the book challenges the pervasive cultural norms that dictate women's roles and the questions they are expected to answer. It explores the power dynamics that silence women and the courage required to speak out, offering a nuanced examination of gender, identity, and the transformative potential of storytelling. The essays encourage readers to question the status quo and envision a world where every voice is heard and valued.

    The 11827th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  17. 117. The Fate Of Rome by Kyle Harper

    Climate, Disease, and the End of an Empire

    This historical analysis delves into the complex interplay between environmental factors and the decline of one of history's greatest empires. It explores how climate change, pandemics, and other natural phenomena significantly influenced the trajectory of the Roman Empire, contributing to its eventual fall. By examining scientific data alongside historical records, the narrative offers a fresh perspective on how nature's forces shaped human history, challenging traditional views that solely attribute Rome's decline to political and military failures.

    The 11842nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  18. 118. The House Of Government by Yuri Slezkine

    A Saga of the Russian Revolution

    The book provides a detailed historical account of the lives of Soviet officials and their families living in the House of Government, a massive apartment complex in Moscow, during the rise and fall of the Soviet Union. It explores the personal and political dynamics within this unique community, highlighting the intersection of private lives and state ideology. Through a blend of narrative history and biographical sketches, the book delves into the hopes, dreams, and eventual disillusionment of the residents, offering a microcosmic view of the broader Soviet experience and the tragic consequences of revolutionary zeal.

    The 11845th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  19. 119. Ghosts Of The Tsunami by Richard Lloyd Parry

    Death and Life in Japan's Disaster Zone

    The book delves into the aftermath of the devastating 2011 tsunami in Japan, focusing on the human stories and emotional impact of the disaster. It particularly highlights the tragedy at Okawa Elementary School, where many children lost their lives, and explores the grief, anger, and resilience of the affected families and communities. Through meticulous research and poignant storytelling, the narrative captures the haunting presence of loss and the struggle to find meaning and justice amidst overwhelming tragedy.

    The 11845th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  20. 120. Spirit Hunters by Ellen Oh

    The Island of Monsters

    "Spirit Hunters" is a gripping tale of a young girl who moves into a new house with her family, only to discover that it harbors dark secrets and restless spirits. As eerie events unfold and her younger brother's behavior becomes increasingly strange, she must confront the chilling truth about the supernatural forces at play. With the help of her grandmother and her own burgeoning abilities as a spirit hunter, she embarks on a perilous journey to save her brother and put the troubled spirits to rest, uncovering her family's hidden past and her own connection to the spirit world in the process.

    The 11924th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  21. 121. This Young Monster by Charlie Fox

    None

    This book is a vibrant and thought-provoking exploration of the monstrous and the grotesque in art and culture. It delves into the lives and works of various artists, filmmakers, and writers who have embraced the unconventional and the bizarre, celebrating their ability to challenge societal norms and provoke new ways of thinking. Through a series of essays, the narrative weaves together personal reflections, historical insights, and cultural critiques, offering a fresh perspective on the allure of the monstrous and its role in shaping contemporary creativity.

    The 11932nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  22. 122. Animals Strike Curious Poses by Elena Passarello

    This captivating collection of essays delves into the fascinating lives and historical significance of various animals, weaving together a tapestry of human-animal interactions across time. Each essay explores a different creature, from the legendary elephant gifted to Charlemagne to the enigmatic starling that inspired Mozart, offering a unique blend of scientific insight, cultural history, and personal reflection. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, the book invites readers to reconsider the complex relationships humans have with the animal kingdom, highlighting the profound impact these creatures have had on our world and imagination.

    The 11932nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  23. 123. Honouring High Places by Junko Tabei

    The Mountain Life of Junko Tabei

    "Honouring High Places" is a compelling collection of autobiographical stories chronicling the remarkable life of the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest. The book offers a deeply personal account of the challenges she faced, from societal expectations in Japan and the physical demands of climbing to the joys and tragedies encountered on her expeditions. Through her vivid storytelling, the author paints a picture of her groundbreaking climbs, her dedication to environmental issues, and her commitment to encouraging women to embrace adventure and challenge gender norms in the world of mountaineering.

    The 12034th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  24. 124. Crash Override by Zoë Quinn

    How Gamergate (Nearly) Destroyed My Life, and How We Can Win the Fight Against Online Hate

    In this compelling memoir, the author recounts their harrowing experience as a target of online harassment during the notorious Gamergate controversy. They delve into the personal and professional fallout from the relentless cyberattacks, while also exploring broader themes of digital privacy, gender politics, and the pervasive culture of online abuse. Through their story, the author not only sheds light on the dark side of internet culture but also offers a message of hope and resilience, advocating for systemic change and the empowerment of individuals to reclaim their narratives in the digital age.

    The 12039th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  25. 125. Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson

    The book centers on a teenage girl with a traumatic past, who was convicted of a heinous crime at a very young age—the murder of a baby. Now living in a group home and dealing with the complex dynamics within, she struggles with the weight of her past and the challenges of her present. As she contends with a society quick to label her as irredeemable, she seeks to uncover the truth and fight for a future that seems increasingly out of reach. Her journey is one of resilience and the quest for redemption, as she navigates a system that is often more interested in judgment than justice.

    The 12187th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

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

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

Login to Download