The Greatest Books Since 1990

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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. 2376. Cosmopolis by Don DeLillo

    In a single day, a young billionaire asset manager embarks on a surreal journey across Manhattan in his luxurious, high-tech limousine, seeking a haircut. As he navigates through the chaos of the city, he encounters a series of bizarre and unsettling events that unravel his meticulously controlled life. Amidst the backdrop of a crumbling economy and societal unrest, he confronts existential questions about wealth, power, and the human condition, leading to a profound and transformative reckoning with his own identity and mortality.

    The 9111th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2377. Cruddy by Lynda Barry

    An Illustrated Novel

    In the darkly comic and unsettling novel, a teenage girl recounts her harrowing journey through a dysfunctional childhood marked by neglect, abuse, and a road trip with her dangerously unhinged father. As she navigates the grim realities of her life, her story oscillates between the grimy, violent past and her struggle to survive in the present. The narrative, rich with vivid and disturbing imagery, explores themes of memory, trauma, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. The protagonist's voice, both raw and poignant, offers a stark and unflinching look at the complexities of family and the scars that our early experiences can leave on us.

    The 9112th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 2378. Beyond Black by Hilary Mantel

    This novel delves into the life of Alison Hart, a medium who navigates the thin veil between the living and the dead with her unique psychic abilities. With her pragmatic assistant, Colette, Alison tours the dreary landscapes of suburban London, offering solace to the bereaved while grappling with her own tormented past. The narrative explores themes of memory, trauma, and redemption, as Alison confronts her own demons alongside those she communicates with from the beyond. Through a blend of dark humor and poignant moments, the story examines the complexities of the human spirit and the possibility of finding light in the darkest of places.

    The 9124th Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 2379. Lumberjanes by Noelle Stevenson

    Beware the Kitten Holy

    "Lumberjanes" is a graphic novel that follows a group of five diverse and adventurous girls at a summer camp, who stumble upon supernatural creatures and mysterious happenings in the nearby forest. As they work together to uncover the secrets of the camp, they also navigate themes of friendship, bravery, and self-discovery. With its charming illustrations and empowering narrative, "Lumberjanes" is a delightful and captivating read for all ages.

    The 9125th Greatest Book of All Time
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  5. 2380. The Storied Life Of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

    Set on a small island off the coast of Massachusetts, this heartwarming tale follows the life of a curmudgeonly bookstore owner whose world is turned upside down when a mysterious package arrives at his store. As he navigates personal loss and unexpected connections, he discovers the transformative power of love, literature, and community. Through a series of endearing and poignant events, he learns to open his heart to new beginnings, finding redemption and joy in the most unexpected places.

    The 9125th Greatest Book of All Time
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  6. 2381. Génie Divin by Guillaume Dustan

    Aucun sous-titre

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of Paris, this narrative delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of love, desire, and self-discovery. The protagonist embarks on a journey of introspection, navigating the intricacies of modern life while grappling with personal identity and societal expectations. Through a series of encounters and introspective moments, the story captures the essence of contemporary existential dilemmas, offering a raw and candid portrayal of the search for meaning in an ever-evolving world.

    The 9127th Greatest Book of All Time
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  7. 2382. The Very Secret Society Of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

    The novel follows Mika Moon, a witch who has always lived a solitary life due to the secrecy surrounding her magical abilities. When she receives an unexpected invitation to teach three young witches at the mysterious Nowhere House, Mika finds herself drawn into a unique community that challenges her understanding of family and belonging. As she navigates the complexities of mentoring the girls and managing her own powers, Mika discovers the importance of connection and love, ultimately transforming her life and the lives of those around her.

    The 9128th Greatest Book of All Time
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  8. 2383. Mutant Message Down Under by Marlo Morgan

    A Woman's Journey into Dreamtime Australia

    The book is a fictional account presented as a true story about an American woman's spiritual odyssey through the Australian Outback. Accompanied by a group of Aboriginal people, she embarks on a four-month-long walkabout, during which she learns about their culture, beliefs, and connection to the land. The journey is transformative, challenging her Western values and perspectives as she gains insights into the wisdom and customs of her hosts. The narrative explores themes of environmentalism, spirituality, and the clash between modern civilization and traditional ways of life.

    The 9130th Greatest Book of All Time
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  9. 2384. Why the West Rules - For Now by Ian Morris

    The Patterns of History, and What They Reveal About the Future

    This book is a comprehensive exploration of the historical and cultural patterns that have led to Western dominance in the world. The author uses a broad range of evidence from archaeology, genetics, and linguistics to trace the development of East and West from prehistoric times to the present, arguing that physical geography, rather than culture, religion, or great men, is the primary driving force behind the rise of the West. The book also offers a forecast for the future, predicting a shift in global power from the West to the East.

    The 9131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  10. 2385. Through the Language Glass by Guy Deutscher

    Why the World Looks Different in Other Languages

    This book explores the link between language and perception, challenging the conventional belief that languages are only tools for describing reality and do not influence the way we perceive the world. The author delves into how different languages can shape the way their speakers understand and interact with their surroundings, arguing that linguistic differences can significantly impact cognition and perception. The book combines linguistic analysis, cultural history, and cognitive science to provide a fascinating examination of how our mother tongue can affect our cognitive processes, including color perception and spatial orientation.

    The 9131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  11. 2386. My Name Is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout

    The novel is a deeply moving exploration of the complex relationship between a mother and daughter. The protagonist, Lucy Barton, is recovering from a surgery in a New York hospital when she is visited by her estranged mother. Over the course of several days, they share stories from their past, revealing their troubled family history, poverty, and abuse. As Lucy grapples with her own identity and struggles to understand her mother, she also reflects on her own experiences as a wife and mother, her desire to become a writer, and her battle with a mysterious illness. Through their conversations, the two women attempt to reconcile their past and their relationship.

    The 9131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  12. 2387. How To Write About Africa by Binyavanga Wainaina

    The book offers a satirical critique of the stereotypical and often patronizing ways in which Africa is portrayed in Western literature and media. Through a series of ironic guidelines, it exposes the clichés and reductive narratives that reduce the continent to a monolithic entity defined by poverty, conflict, and exoticism. The work challenges writers and readers to recognize and move beyond these simplistic portrayals, advocating for a more nuanced and respectful representation of Africa's diverse cultures, histories, and experiences.

    The 9135th Greatest Book of All Time
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  13. 2388. The Last Lover by Can Xue

    The novel explores the surreal and fragmented lives of several characters, intertwining their dreams and realities in a disorienting, dreamlike narrative. The story delves into the inner worlds of a shoe factory manager, his wife, and other interconnected individuals, revealing their deepest desires, fears, and memories. As the boundaries between the real and the imaginary blur, the characters embark on a journey of self-discovery and existential reflection, ultimately questioning the nature of love and human connection.

    The 9135th Greatest Book of All Time
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  14. 2389. The Dream Life Of Sukhanov by Olga Grushin

    The novel tells the story of Anatoly Sukhanov, a former avant-garde artist who abandoned his dreams for a secure life as an art critic under the Soviet regime. As the Soviet Union begins to collapse, Sukhanov's carefully constructed world unravels, forcing him to confront his past choices and the compromises he made. Through a series of surreal and introspective episodes, Sukhanov grapples with the tension between his lost artistic aspirations and the reality of his present existence, ultimately leading to a profound personal reckoning.

    The 9135th Greatest Book of All Time
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  15. 2390. The Consequences by Niña Weijers

    Set against the backdrop of the contemporary art world, this novel delves into the life of a young, successful artist whose work blurs the lines between reality and performance. As she navigates her career and personal relationships, she becomes increasingly consumed by the concept of identity and the impact of her choices. Her journey is marked by introspection and existential questions, leading her to confront the boundaries of her own existence and the consequences of her actions.

    The 9138th Greatest Book of All Time
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  16. 2391. Bangkok 8 by John Burdett

    In this gripping crime novel set in Thailand's bustling capital, a dedicated Thai detective embarks on a quest for justice after his partner is killed in the line of duty. The investigation leads him into the underbelly of Bangkok's seedy nightlife, where he encounters a complex web of corruption, drug trafficking, and illicit dealings. As he delves deeper, the detective must navigate a cultural landscape rife with spiritual beliefs and practices, facing moral dilemmas that challenge his own ethical code. With the help of an alluring FBI agent, he races against time to unravel a conspiracy that reaches far beyond the city's streets, all while contending with the mystical and often dangerous elements of Thai superstition and the supernatural.

    The 9140th Greatest Book of All Time
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  17. 2392. Can You Tolerate This? by Ashleigh Young

    Essays

    This collection of personal essays delves into the intricacies of life, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the passage of time. Through a series of poignant and often humorous reflections, the author navigates the complexities of growing up in New Zealand, grappling with the challenges of adulthood, and the universal quest for self-understanding. Each essay is a window into the author's world, offering insights into the human experience with a blend of vulnerability and wit, ultimately inviting readers to ponder their own journeys and the moments that shape them.

    The 9142nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  18. 2393. Talk Before Sleep by Elizabeth Berg

    "Talk Before Sleep" is a heartfelt novel that explores the profound bond between two women as they navigate the trials and tribulations of life. When one of them is diagnosed with breast cancer, their friendship is tested in unimaginable ways. As they grapple with the harsh realities of illness, they find solace in each other, sharing their deepest fears, hopes, and dreams in the quiet hours of the night. The narrative is a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and the human capacity for resilience in the face of adversity.

    The 9143rd Greatest Book of All Time
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  19. 2394. Boy, Snow, Bird by Helen Oyeyemi

    In "Boy, Snow, Bird," a young woman named Boy Novak escapes her abusive father in New York City to settle in a small town in Massachusetts, where she marries a widower and becomes stepmother to his daughter, Snow. After giving birth to her own daughter, Bird, who is dark-skinned, it is revealed that her husband and stepdaughter are light-skinned African Americans passing as white. The book explores themes of identity, beauty, and the damaging effects of racism as Boy grapples with her feelings towards Snow and Bird, and the societal implications of their different skin tones.

    The 9144th Greatest Book of All Time
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  20. 2395. Bugs by Whiti Hereaka

    The Remarkable Story of the Weta

    Set in contemporary New Zealand, this coming-of-age novel follows the journey of a teenage girl navigating the complexities of friendship, identity, and societal expectations. As she grapples with the pressures of school, family, and her own aspirations, she finds herself at a crossroads, questioning the path laid out for her. Through her interactions with a diverse group of friends, each facing their own challenges, she learns valuable lessons about resilience, self-discovery, and the courage to forge her own path in a world that often tries to define her.

    The 9145th Greatest Book of All Time
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  21. 2396. The World For Sale by Jack Farchy, Javier Blas

    Money, Power, and the Traders Who Barter the Earth's Resources

    The book delves into the secretive and influential world of commodity traders who navigate the complex global markets of oil, metals, and food. It explores how these traders operate behind the scenes, wielding immense power and shaping economies and geopolitics through their deals. The narrative uncovers the risks, rewards, and ethical dilemmas faced by these individuals and companies, providing a detailed look at the mechanisms and impacts of global trade in essential resources.

    The 9146th Greatest Book of All Time
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  22. 2397. Mercy by Jussi Adler-Olsen

    A Department Q Novel

    This novel delves into the gripping tale of a cold case that resurfaces, challenging the skills of Copenhagen's Department Q, a division dedicated to solving long-forgotten crimes. The story centers around the mysterious disappearance of a promising young politician five years prior, believed to have perished in a tragic accident. However, new evidence suggests a much darker fate. The head of Department Q, Detective Carl Mørck, along with his assistant Assad, embarks on a relentless quest to uncover the truth. Their investigation leads them into a sinister world of captivity and desperation, where they must race against time to save a victim whose time is running out. This thrilling narrative combines suspenseful twists, complex characters, and the stark realities of crime's impact on human lives.

    The 9150th Greatest Book of All Time
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  23. 2398. Limberlost by Robbie Arnott

    Set against the backdrop of the rugged Tasmanian wilderness, this evocative novel follows the journey of a young boy navigating the complexities of adolescence and family life during the post-war era. As he grapples with the challenges of growing up, he finds solace and adventure in the natural world around him, particularly through his encounters with the enigmatic and untamed Limberlost River. The narrative beautifully intertwines themes of resilience, the passage of time, and the profound connection between humans and nature, offering a poignant reflection on the transformative power of the wild.

    The 9151st Greatest Book of All Time
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  24. 2399. In A Cloud Of Dust And Smoke by Raymond Fraser

    a novel

    Set against the backdrop of a small Canadian town, this evocative narrative delves into the lives of its inhabitants as they grapple with the challenges of change and the passage of time. Through a tapestry of interconnected stories, the book explores themes of nostalgia, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. As the characters navigate personal struggles and societal shifts, they find solace and strength in their shared experiences, painting a vivid portrait of community life in the face of uncertainty.

    The 9152nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  25. 2400. From The Beast To The Blonde by Marina Warner

    On Fairy Tales and Their Tellers

    The book explores the cultural history and significance of fairy tales, examining how these stories have evolved over time and their impact on society. It delves into the roles of storytellers, particularly focusing on the portrayal of women and the transformation of female characters from monstrous figures to more nuanced and complex individuals. The work also investigates the underlying themes and symbols within these tales, highlighting their influence on gender roles and societal norms throughout history.

    The 9157th Greatest Book of All Time
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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.

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