The Greatest Books Since 2018

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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. 701. Burnt Sugar by Avni Doshi

    This novel delves into the complex and fraught relationship between a mother and daughter against the backdrop of contemporary India. The daughter, now an adult, grapples with her mother's advancing dementia and the bitter memories of a childhood marked by neglect and unconventional parenting. As the mother's memory deteriorates, the daughter is forced to confront the painful legacy of their past and the ambiguity of her filial obligations. The narrative weaves through themes of memory, betrayal, and the inextricable bond of family, painting a portrait of two women bound by love and resentment in equal measure.

    The 10782nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 702. Wild Thing by Sue Prideaux

    A Life of Jimi Hendrix

    "Wild Thing" by Sue Prideaux delves into the life of Paul Gauguin, a renowned post-Impressionist painter known for his vibrant colors and daring compositions. The book explores Gauguin's journey from a stockbroker in Paris to an artist who faced numerous challenges, including financial struggles and various odd jobs. It highlights his experiences in different parts of the world, such as Copenhagen, Panama City, and Tahiti, where he confronted the injustices of French colonial rule. Through encounters with notable figures like Vincent van Gogh and August Strindberg, and his marriage to Mette, Gauguin's life is portrayed as a tapestry of artistic inspiration and personal complexity. Prideaux offers a fresh perspective on Gauguin, shedding light on his creative brilliance, personal flaws, and the influences that shaped his extraordinary life.

    The 10861st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  3. 703. Poukahangatus by Tayi Tibble

    This collection of poetry delves into the complexities of identity, culture, and heritage through a contemporary lens, weaving together personal narratives and broader societal themes. The poems explore the intersections of Māori and Pākehā identities, touching on themes of colonization, beauty, and the modern experience of indigenous peoples. With a voice that is both intimate and powerful, the work captures the tension between tradition and modernity, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to navigate the world as a young indigenous woman today.

    The 10860th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  4. 704. Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez​​

    Exposing Data Bias in a World Designed for Men

    This book sheds light on the pervasive gender data gap that exists in our society, revealing how the world we live in is largely designed for men. Through extensive research and compelling examples, the author exposes the ways in which women are systematically excluded and overlooked in various aspects of life, from healthcare and transportation to the workplace and public policy. By highlighting the consequences of this data bias, the book calls for a more inclusive and equitable approach to designing and collecting data, ultimately advocating for a world that recognizes and addresses the needs and experiences of all genders.

    The 10871st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  5. 705. West Girls by Laura Elizabeth Woollett

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1980s Los Angeles, the narrative follows the intertwined lives of a group of young women navigating the complexities of friendship, ambition, and identity. As they chase their dreams in a city teeming with opportunity and danger, they grapple with the pressures of societal expectations and personal desires. Through their shared experiences, the women confront the challenges of love, betrayal, and self-discovery, ultimately seeking to define their own paths in a world that often tries to dictate them.

    The 10876th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  6. 706. Anam by André Dao

    Set against the backdrop of a family's migration from Vietnam to Australia, this poignant narrative weaves together the threads of memory, identity, and belonging. Through the lens of multiple generations, the story delves into the complexities of cultural displacement and the enduring ties to one's homeland. As the characters navigate their new lives, they grapple with the haunting echoes of the past and the challenges of forging a future in a foreign land. The narrative beautifully captures the nuances of familial bonds and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 10876th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  7. 707. The Vitals by Tracy Sorensen

    Set against the backdrop of a small Australian town, this compelling narrative delves into the intertwined lives of its residents, exploring themes of love, loss, and the search for identity. The story unfolds through the eyes of multiple characters, each grappling with their own secrets and desires, as they navigate the complexities of family dynamics and personal growth. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of human emotions, the narrative weaves a rich tapestry of interconnected stories that reveal the universal struggles of finding one's place in the world.

    The 10876th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 708. The Pole And Other Stories by J. M. Coetzee

    In this collection of stories, the narrative explores the intricate tapestry of human relationships, delving into themes of love, longing, and the complexities of human connection. Each story is a poignant reflection on the inner lives of its characters, revealing their vulnerabilities and desires as they navigate the challenges of their personal and social worlds. The prose is both lyrical and incisive, capturing the subtle nuances of emotion and the often unspoken tensions that define human interactions. Through these tales, readers are invited to ponder the profound and sometimes unsettling truths about the human condition.

    The 10876th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  9. 709. My Friends by Fredrik Backman

    Four teenagers forge a deep bond during one summer on a seaside pier, and their friendship gives rise to a striking painting. Twenty-five years later, aspiring artist Louisa follows the painting’s trail to uncover how it was made and how connections between people can shape lives.

    The 10885th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  10. 710. Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score

    In this captivating romance novel, a woman finds herself unexpectedly stranded in a small town after her twin sister vanishes, leaving behind a trail of chaos. As she navigates the complexities of her new life, she encounters a ruggedly handsome local who is as infuriating as he is irresistible. Despite their initial clashes, the two form an unlikely bond, uncovering secrets and healing past wounds along the way. Through humor, heartache, and unexpected twists, the story explores themes of love, forgiveness, and the power of starting over.

    The 10884th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  11. 711. Everything Is Tuberculosis by John Green

    John Green follows the story of Henry Reider, a young tuberculosis patient he met in Sierra Leone, and uses Henry’s experience to explore the science, history, and social forces behind tuberculosis. The book examines how poverty and health inequity allow a preventable, curable disease to remain a leading cause of death, and calls for greater access to treatment and awareness.

    The 10888th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  12. 712. You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith

    The book is a poignant memoir that delves into the author's personal journey through the dissolution of her marriage and the subsequent path to self-discovery and healing. Through a series of reflective essays and poetic prose, the author explores themes of love, loss, resilience, and the transformative power of creativity. She candidly examines the complexities of relationships and the process of rebuilding one's life, ultimately finding beauty and strength in vulnerability and change.

    The 10892nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  13. 713. Roman Stories by Jhumpa Lahiri

    **Roman Stories** by Jhumpa Lahiri is a collection of nine short stories where Rome itself takes center stage. Each tale explores the city's rich tapestry of history and modernity, revealing the lives of its diverse inhabitants. - **"The Boundary"**: A family's vacation in the Roman countryside is seen through the eyes of a caretaker's daughter, who grapples with her family's immigrant history. - **"P's Parties"**: A Roman couple, now without children at home, finds solace in their social circle until an unexpected incident disrupts their routine. - **"The Steps"**: A public staircase becomes a microcosm of Rome's social and cultural dynamics, highlighting the complexities of identity and belonging. These stories, written in Italian and translated by the author, delve into themes of cultural intersection, personal transformation, and the essence of home, all set against the backdrop of Italy's capital.

    The 10892nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  14. 714. Lola In The Mirror by Trent Dalton

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of Australia's Gold Coast, this captivating tale follows a young girl on a quest to uncover the truth about her mysterious past. As she navigates the complexities of identity and belonging, she encounters a cast of colorful characters who each hold a piece of the puzzle she seeks to solve. With themes of family, resilience, and self-discovery, the narrative weaves a poignant and heartwarming story that explores the power of love and the courage it takes to confront one's own reflection.

    The 10892nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  15. 715. Rising Out Of Hatred by Eli Saslow

    The Awakening of a Former White Nationalist

    "Rising Out of Hatred" chronicles the transformative journey of a young man who was groomed to be a white nationalist leader but eventually rejected the ideology. Raised in a family prominent in the white supremacist movement, he was poised to continue their legacy. However, his exposure to diverse perspectives during his college years, coupled with meaningful relationships he formed with Jewish and non-white students, prompted a profound reevaluation of his beliefs. This narrative explores themes of identity, redemption, and the impact of education and empathy in challenging deeply ingrained prejudices.

    The 10901st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  16. 716. Before I Forget by Anne Pauly

    In this poignant memoir, a daughter grapples with the complex emotions surrounding the death of her father, a man who was both a source of love and chaos in her life. As she sifts through memories and belongings, she confronts the contradictions of his character, reflecting on the impact of his presence and absence. Through a blend of humor and raw honesty, the narrative explores themes of grief, identity, and the enduring bonds of family, offering a tender yet unflinching look at the process of coming to terms with loss.

    The 10901st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  17. 717. Grief by Andrew Holleran

    The book is a poignant exploration of loss and loneliness, set against the backdrop of Washington D.C. The protagonist, a middle-aged gay man, grapples with the death of his mother and the ravages of the AIDS epidemic. As he moves into an apartment once occupied by Mary Todd Lincoln, he finds himself reflecting on historical and personal grief, seeking solace in the company of other mournful souls and the city's monuments to past sorrows. The narrative delves into the depths of his despair and the universal quest for connection and meaning in the face of life's inevitable tragedies.

    The 10908th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  18. 718. The Economic Weapon by Nicholas Mulder

    The Rise of Sanctions as a Tool of Modern War

    The book explores the development and impact of economic sanctions as a tool of international policy in the interwar period. It examines how sanctions emerged as a non-military means to exert pressure and influence global politics, particularly in the context of the League of Nations. The narrative delves into the theoretical underpinnings, practical applications, and the moral and ethical debates surrounding the use of economic coercion. By analyzing historical case studies, the book sheds light on the effectiveness and unintended consequences of sanctions, offering insights into their role in shaping modern international relations.

    The 10917th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  19. 719. Classified by David E. Bernstein

    The Untold Story of Racial Classification in America

    The book explores the pervasive influence of racial and ethnic classifications in American society, particularly within the realms of education, employment, and government policy. It delves into the historical origins and contemporary implications of these classifications, arguing that they often perpetuate divisions and stereotypes rather than fostering equality. Through a combination of legal analysis, case studies, and personal narratives, the author critiques the current system and advocates for a more individualized approach that transcends simplistic racial and ethnic categories.

    The 10917th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  20. 720. Mark Twain by Ron Chernow

    Ron Chernow’s biography traces Samuel Clemens’s journey from Missouri and riverboat pilot to the literary figure known as Mark Twain. Using extensive archival sources, the book examines his rise as a humorist and novelist, his public lectures and political views, the financial failures and years spent in Europe, and the personal losses that marked his later life. It places Twain in the context of westward expansion, industrialization, and post–Civil War debates over race, presenting a vivid, balanced portrait of his talents and contradictions.

    The 10919th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  21. 721. Bodies Of Light by Jennifer Down

    Set against the backdrop of Australia, this poignant narrative follows the tumultuous journey of a young woman grappling with the shadows of her past. As she navigates through the complexities of identity, trauma, and healing, the story delves into the intricate layers of human resilience and the quest for belonging. Through evocative prose and vivid character portrayals, the tale explores the profound impact of familial bonds and the enduring strength found in the pursuit of light amidst darkness.

    The 10932nd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 722. The Bone Key by Sarah Monette

    The Necromantic Mysteries of Kyle Murchison Booth

    "The Bone Key" is a collection of interconnected short stories centered around the character of Kyle Murchison Booth, a socially awkward museum archivist with a penchant for the supernatural. The tales are steeped in gothic horror and follow Booth as he encounters a series of eerie and otherworldly mysteries that he must solve. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of ancient artifacts and the occult, Booth navigates through hauntings, curses, and the restless undead, all while grappling with his own personal demons and the loneliness that pervades his life. The stories are rich in atmosphere and evoke the style of classic ghost stories, offering a modern homage to the genre with a unique, introspective protagonist.

    The 10934th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 723. Latitudes Of Longing by Shubhangi Swarup

    The book weaves together interconnected stories set across the diverse landscapes of the Indian subcontinent, exploring themes of love, loss, and the profound connections between humans and nature. Through its richly detailed narrative, it delves into the lives of a scientist, a clairvoyant, a geologist, and a revolutionary, among others, each grappling with their own desires and destinies. The novel's lyrical prose and vivid imagery highlight the mystical and often surreal interplay between the natural world and human emotions, creating a tapestry of experiences that transcend time and geography.

    The 10943rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  24. 724. Barracoon by Zora Neale Hurston

    The Story of the Last "Black Cargo

    The book presents the poignant and powerful account of Cudjo Lewis, one of the last known survivors of the Atlantic slave trade. Through a series of interviews conducted in the late 1920s, it captures his harrowing journey from his homeland in West Africa to his enslavement in America, and his subsequent life after emancipation. The narrative offers a deeply personal perspective on the brutal realities of slavery and the enduring strength of the human spirit, while also preserving a crucial piece of history that might otherwise have been forgotten.

    The 10943rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  25. 725. Gideon The Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

    The Locked Tomb

    In a universe where necromancers hold power, Gideon, a skilled swordswoman, is reluctantly paired with her childhood rival, Harrow, to compete in a deadly trial that could grant them immortality. As they venture into an ancient, decaying mansion filled with secrets and puzzles, they must unravel the mysteries of their world and face sinister forces lurking within. With a blend of dark humor, complex characters, and a gripping plot, "Gideon The Ninth" is a thrilling and unique blend of science fiction and fantasy.

    The 10960th 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