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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801. Love Me Tender by Constance Debré
In this poignant narrative, a woman grapples with the complexities of identity, freedom, and motherhood as she navigates the aftermath of a life-altering decision. Struggling to reconcile her past with her present, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, confronting societal norms and personal expectations. Her story unfolds with raw honesty, exploring themes of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of authenticity in a world that often demands conformity. Through introspective reflections and candid revelations, the protagonist seeks to redefine her place in the world, ultimately striving for a life that is true to herself.
The 11391st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
802. Poor by Caleb Femi
A spare, lyrical sequence that follows young lives on an inner‑city estate, tracing the effects of poverty, absent adults, policing and the pressures of masculinity while also finding tenderness, humour and communal resilience in small moments; the city itself becomes both a source of grief and a living archive of memory, rendered in urgent, street‑inflected language that moves between reportage, elegy and intimate address.
The 11391st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
803. The Living and the Rest by José Eduardo Agualusa
Um Diário
Daniel Benchimol retorna à Ilha de Moçambique, onde um festival literário reúne dezenas de escritores. Uma tempestade os deixa isolados por sete dias e, a seguir, uma série de acontecimentos misteriosos começa a desfocar as fronteiras entre realidade e ficção, passado e futuro, vida e morte, inquietando autores e habitantes. O romance explora memória, imaginação e as maneiras como as histórias transformam o real.
The 11402nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
804. Hildegarde by Léo Henry
Set against the backdrop of a medieval world teetering on the brink of transformation, this narrative follows the journey of a visionary woman whose spiritual and intellectual pursuits defy the constraints of her time. As she navigates the intricate web of politics, religion, and personal ambition, her story unfolds with a rich tapestry of mysticism, music, and the relentless quest for knowledge. Her life becomes a testament to the power of resilience and the enduring impact of a singular voice in a world eager for change.
The 11409th Greatest Book of All Time -
805. Djinn Patrol On The Purple Line by Deepa Anappara
Set in a sprawling slum in India, this novel follows nine-year-old Jai and his friends as they embark on a quest to find a missing classmate. As children in their community continue to disappear, Jai takes it upon himself to become a detective, determined to uncover the truth. Faced with poverty, corruption, and a society that disregards their plight, Jai and his friends navigate the complexities of their surroundings while grappling with their own fears and dreams. Through their eyes, the book explores themes of innocence, resilience, and the harsh realities of life in a marginalized community.
The 11417th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
806. When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole
"When No One Is Watching" is a gripping thriller that takes place in a gentrifying Brooklyn neighborhood. Sydney, a young Black woman, becomes increasingly suspicious of the changes happening around her as her neighbors mysteriously disappear. Teaming up with her new white neighbor, Theo, they uncover a dark conspiracy that threatens to upend the community and their lives. As Sydney and Theo dig deeper, they must navigate a web of lies, secrets, and hidden agendas, while also confronting their own personal demons. This thought-provoking novel explores themes of race, identity, and the insidious nature of systemic oppression, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the shocking conclusion.
The 11417th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
807. Winter Counts by David Heska Wanbli Weiden
"Winter Counts" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel set on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. The story follows Virgil Wounded Horse, a local enforcer who takes justice into his own hands when the legal system fails his community. When his nephew becomes entangled in the dangerous world of drug trafficking, Virgil embarks on a mission to protect his family and seek retribution. Through its powerful narrative and exploration of Native American culture, the book sheds light on the complexities of modern-day reservation life and the struggle for justice in an unjust world.
The 11417th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
808. Children Of Virtue And Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi
In this fantasy sequel, the protagonists struggle to unite the kingdom of Orïsha and restore magic to the oppressed maji. After a brutal battle, the maji have regained their powers, but the monarchy and military now possess magical abilities as well. The heroine grapples with her role as a leader and her complex feelings for the enemy prince, while the kingdom is on the brink of civil war. As both sides fight for dominance, the characters must navigate betrayal, ancient mythology, and their own inner demons to bring peace and justice to their divided land.
The 11427th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
809. Gods Of Jade And Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
In this enchanting novel, a young woman's life is forever changed when she accidentally awakens the Mayan god of death, setting off on a transformative journey that blends Mexican folklore with the allure of the Jazz Age. As she travels with the deity to restore him to his throne in the underworld, she encounters demons, sorcerers, and otherworldly beings. Along the way, she discovers her own strength and independence, challenging the expectations of her traditional family and society. The story weaves together the rich tapestry of myth with the struggles of the mortal realm, creating a captivating tale of adventure, self-discovery, and unlikely romance.
The 11427th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
810. We Hunt The Flame by Hafsah Faizal
Sands of Arawiya
In a fantastical world inspired by ancient Arabia, a fierce hunter disguises herself as a man to provide for her people, while a tormented prince is tasked with assassinating those who defy his autocratic father's rule. Their paths converge when both are sent on a perilous quest to retrieve a magical artifact that can restore magic to their cursed world and stop the encroaching darkness. As they journey through treacherous lands and face insurmountable odds, they must contend with their own secrets and the growing attraction between them, all while navigating the complex politics and power struggles that threaten to tear their world apart.
The 11427th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
811. Readme.Txt by Chelsea Manning
A Memoir
In this compelling memoir, the author delves into their journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a pivotal figure in one of the most significant intelligence leaks in modern history. The narrative explores themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of truth, as the author grapples with personal and political challenges. Through candid reflections, they offer insights into the complexities of whistleblowing, the impact of their actions on global discourse, and the personal sacrifices made in the quest for transparency and justice.
The 11442nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
812. Someone To Watch Over You by Kumi Kimura
In early 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, two isolated people move in together: a former security guard linked to a protester’s death and a former teacher accused in a student’s suicide. They keep their distance, communicating mostly through notes and shared routines, forming a tense, ambiguous connection that offers shelter and raises questions about trust and consequence.
The 11477th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
813. Overstaying by Ariane Koch
A darkly comic, absurdist novel about an impudent young woman who continues to live in her parents’ empty house in a small hometown she hates but can’t bring herself to leave. When a mysterious visitor turns up, she takes him in and becomes consumed by his ambiguous presence—part lover, part freeloader, part absence—while her imagination and memories send the narrative into surprising, room-like episodes rather than a straightforward plot.
The 11481st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
814. Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson
"Red at the Bone" is a multi-generational novel that explores the lasting impact of past decisions on the present and future. The story begins at a 16-year-old girl's coming-of-age ceremony in Brooklyn and then delves into the past, revealing the complex histories of her parents and grandparents. The narrative is a powerful exploration of identity, ambition, love, and the ways in which history and personal circumstances can shape a family's life.
The 11493rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
815. Ultramarine by Mariette Navarro, Eve Hill-Agnus
A female captain aboard a cargo ship lets her crew stop the engines for a swim; when they return there are twenty-one people and the vessel begins to behave strangely. As the captain’s perceptions unravel, the story blurs the line between hallucination and reality while she struggles to understand what is happening and to keep control of the ship.
The 11497th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
816. Hunter by Shuang Xuetao
A linked collection of stories set in contemporary China that blend gritty realism with myth: a provincial ambulance searching for a hospital at night, a struggling actor who takes on the role of a hitman on a sweltering rooftop, and a famed knife fighter now working on a northern factory floor. Darkly humorous, noir-tinged, and occasionally magical, the tales illuminate ordinary lives shaped by violence, history, and desire.
The 11498th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
817. Azadi by Arundhati Roy
Freedom. Fascism. Fiction.
This compelling collection of essays delves into the intricate tapestry of freedom and its multifaceted implications in contemporary India. Through a blend of personal reflections and incisive political commentary, the narrative explores the struggles of marginalized communities, the erosion of democratic values, and the pervasive impact of nationalism. The author weaves together stories of resistance and resilience, urging readers to question the status quo and envision a more equitable future. With a keen eye for detail and a profound sense of empathy, the work challenges conventional narratives and invites a deeper understanding of the socio-political landscape.
The 11499th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
818. What The Colonists Never Knew by Dennis Foley, Peter Read
A History of Aboriginal Sydney
This insightful book delves into the untold stories and overlooked perspectives of Australia's Indigenous peoples during the colonial era. It challenges the traditional narratives by highlighting the rich cultural heritage and resilience of Aboriginal communities, often overshadowed by the dominant colonial discourse. Through a blend of historical accounts, personal stories, and cultural insights, the book offers a nuanced understanding of the complex interactions between Indigenous Australians and European settlers, emphasizing the enduring impact of colonization on the land and its original inhabitants.
The 11499th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
819. The Thirty Names Of Night by Zeyn Joukhadar
In a vibrant tapestry of identity, memory, and transformation, the narrative follows a young Syrian-American trans boy navigating the complexities of self-discovery and familial legacy in New York City. As he grapples with the loss of his mother and the challenges of coming out, he stumbles upon the journal of a mysterious artist, Laila Z, whose life and struggles mirror his own. Through this connection, he embarks on a journey of healing and understanding, unraveling the intertwined threads of his heritage, gender, and the haunting echoes of the past, ultimately finding solace and strength in embracing his true self.
The 11499th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
820. The Nature Of Nature by Enric Sala
Why We Need the Wild
This book explores the intricate and essential relationship between humanity and the natural world. The author, a renowned marine ecologist, delves into how nature operates, emphasizing the importance of preserving biodiversity for the planet's health and our own survival. Through a combination of scientific insights and personal experiences, the narrative makes a compelling case for the urgent need to protect and restore the Earth's ecosystems. The author argues that by understanding and respecting the fundamental principles of nature, we can solve many of the environmental challenges facing us today, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all living beings.
The 11504th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
821. Bowlaway by Elizabeth McCracken
"Bowlaway" is a multi-generational saga that revolves around a bowling alley in a small New England town. The story begins with the mysterious arrival of a woman who establishes the bowling alley, and her subsequent death sets off a chain of events that impacts the town and its residents for decades to come. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, and the complex dynamics of family relationships, all against the backdrop of the bowling alley that serves as a communal hub for the town.
The 11511th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
822. The Coming Bad Days by Sarah Bernstein
A woman leaves the man she lives with and moves to a low stone cottage in a university town. She joins an academic department and begins a research project on the poet Paul Celan from an office on the thirteenth floor. As she navigates an atmosphere of paranoia, worsening weather, and an unexplained curfew she forms an intimate friendship with Clara, a decisive and assured woman, until an act of violence threatens to sever their connection.
The 11507th Greatest Book of All Time -
823. On The Line by Joseph Ponthus
A Factory Worker's Memoir
In this poignant and immersive narrative, a man finds himself navigating the relentless and grueling world of factory work in the food processing industry. Through a series of poetic reflections and vivid descriptions, he captures the monotonous yet demanding nature of his daily routine, highlighting the physical and emotional toll it takes on him. The story delves into themes of resilience, identity, and the search for meaning amidst the repetitive cycles of labor, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the human spirit's endurance in the face of adversity.
The 11513th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
824. Le Recensement Des Intellos De Gauche by Giacomo Papi
Ou Comment Reconnaître Un Intellectuel De Gauche Sans Se Tromper
Set in a satirical world where intellectuals are systematically hunted down and cataloged, this novel explores themes of censorship, freedom of thought, and the absurdity of bureaucratic control. The narrative follows a protagonist who navigates a society obsessed with labeling and suppressing intellectualism, offering a humorous yet poignant critique of the lengths to which authorities might go to stifle dissent and creativity. Through its witty prose and sharp observations, the story serves as both a cautionary tale and a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppressive regimes.
The 11514th Greatest Book of All Time -
825. Dial A For Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto
In this delightful and chaotic romantic comedy, a young wedding photographer finds herself in a whirlwind of trouble when a blind date goes disastrously wrong, resulting in an accidental death. With no one else to turn to, she enlists the help of her meddlesome but well-meaning aunties, who are more than willing to lend a hand, albeit with their own unique flair. As they navigate a series of hilarious and unpredictable events, including a lavish wedding and a potential love interest, the family must work together to keep their secrets under wraps while ensuring that love and laughter prevail.
The 11523rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org
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.
DownloadTo 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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