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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76. Our Share of Night by Mariana Enríquez
Set against the backdrop of Argentina's tumultuous political landscape, this gripping tale follows a father and son as they navigate a world steeped in dark rituals and supernatural forces. The father, a medium with the ability to communicate with the dead, is bound to a sinister cult seeking eternal life. As he grapples with his own mortality and the cult's demands, he must protect his son from becoming entangled in the same malevolent fate. This haunting narrative weaves together themes of love, sacrifice, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness, creating a chilling exploration of the human condition.
The 5618th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
77. Biography Of X by Catherine Lacey
This biography delves into the life of a mysterious public figure known only as "X," exploring the complexities and contradictions that defined their existence. Through meticulous research and interviews, the narrative uncovers the layers behind X's enigmatic persona, from their rise to prominence in the public eye to the personal struggles and controversies that marked their career and personal life. The book not only sheds light on X's significant impact on their field and society at large but also raises poignant questions about fame, identity, and the human condition, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the stories of influential yet inscrutable individuals.
The 5623rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
78. Sabrina by Nick Drnaso
This graphic novel delves into the aftermath of a young woman's disappearance and the ripple effects it has on those connected to her. Through its muted artwork and minimalist dialogue, the story explores themes of grief, conspiracy theories, and the impact of media on personal tragedy. As the characters navigate their lives amidst public scrutiny and personal loss, the narrative examines the isolation and disconnection in modern society, offering a poignant commentary on the search for meaning and truth in a world saturated with information and speculation.
The 5633rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
79. Book Lovers by Emily Henry
In this witty and heartwarming romantic comedy, two literary-minded individuals—a cutthroat literary agent and a brooding editor—find themselves repeatedly crossing paths in a sleepy North Carolina town. While she's on a mission to support her sister and he's escaping the city's bustle, their professional rivalry and personal banter lead to an unexpected connection. As they challenge each other's firmly held beliefs about life and love, they must confront their own stories to write a new one together, discovering that their perfect match might be found in the most unexpected of pages.
The 5636th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
80. Enlightenment Now by Steven Pinker
The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress
The book presents a comprehensive case for optimism in the modern era, arguing that humanity has made significant progress in various aspects such as health, prosperity, safety, peace, knowledge, and happiness, largely due to the values of the Enlightenment—reason, science, humanism, and progress. The author challenges the pervasive sense of pessimism in contemporary discourse and defends the scientific mindset and rational thinking as the driving forces behind improvements in human well-being. By analyzing a wealth of data and trends, the book encourages readers to appreciate the progress achieved and to continue embracing the Enlightenment principles to address current challenges and further advance the human condition.
The 5642nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
81. These Truths by Jill Lepore
A History of the United States
This book offers a sweeping exploration of the history of the United States, from its earliest days to the present, through the lens of the ideals set forth in the Declaration of Independence: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The narrative delves into the contradictions between these founding principles and the realities of American history, including issues of racism, inequality, and political division. By examining the stories of both well-known and obscure individuals, the book presents a comprehensive and critical examination of the American experiment in democracy, its achievements, its failures, and its ongoing challenges. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, it invites readers to reflect on the nation's past and consider the path forward.
The 5642nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
82. Nothing To See Here by Kevin Wilson
In this captivating novel, a young woman named Lillian is tasked with caring for her estranged friend's stepchildren, who possess a peculiar and dangerous ability: they spontaneously combust when agitated. Despite the challenges, Lillian grows deeply attached to the children, finding purpose and meaning in her new role. Set against a backdrop of family dynamics and political ambition, the story explores themes of acceptance, love, and the true meaning of family. Through its unique premise and heartfelt narrative, the novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the transformative power of unconditional love.
The 5651st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
83. The Covenant Of Water by Abraham Verghese
Set in Kerala, South India, the story spans from 1900 to 1977, following three generations of a family plagued by a mysterious condition where at least one member in each generation drowns. The narrative intricately weaves together the lives of its characters, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience against the backdrop of a changing world. Through the family's trials and triumphs, the novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of hope and faith.
The 5679th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
84. The Saint Of Bright Doors by Vajra Chandrasekera
The novel follows the journey of Fetter, a young man born with a mysterious mark and destined for a significant role in a city filled with intrigue and hidden magic. As he navigates a world of saints, prophets, and enigmatic doors that promise transformation, Fetter grapples with questions of identity, destiny, and the nature of belief. The narrative weaves together themes of power, faith, and self-discovery, exploring the complexities of human experience in a richly imagined setting. Through Fetter's eyes, the story delves into the tension between personal agency and the weight of prophecy, ultimately challenging the boundaries of fate and free will.
The 5687th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
85. Night Boat To Tangier by Kevin Barry
"Night Boat To Tangier" by Kevin Barry is a darkly comedic novel that follows two aging Irish gangsters, Charlie Redmond and Maurice Hearne, as they wait in a Spanish port for a ferry that may bring Maurice's estranged daughter back into his life. As they reminisce about their past and contemplate their future, the two men confront their regrets, failures, and the toll that a life of crime has taken on them. With poetic language and a keen eye for detail, Barry explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition in a story that is both haunting and humorous.
The 5693rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
86. The Sum Of Us by Heather McGhee
What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together
"The Sum of Us" explores the concept of the "zero-sum" paradigm—the idea that progress for some communities must come at the expense of others. Through compelling data and narratives, the book examines how this belief has fostered systemic racism and inequality in America, detrimentally affecting everyone, including white Americans. The author argues that policies designed to uplift one group do not necessarily harm others, and that a more inclusive approach to policy-making can lead to benefits for all members of society. By highlighting examples of places where cross-racial solidarity has led to greater economic prosperity and social cohesion, the book makes a case for rejecting zero-sum thinking and embracing a new vision of shared success.
The 5706th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
87. Warlight by Michael Ondaatje
Set in post-World War II London, the narrative follows Nathaniel and his sister Rachel, who are left in the care of enigmatic figures after their parents mysteriously disappear. As they navigate a world filled with shadowy characters and hidden truths, the siblings uncover layers of secrets about their family's past and the war's lingering impact. Through a blend of memory and discovery, the story explores themes of identity, trust, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion, ultimately revealing the profound ways in which history shapes personal lives.
The 5720th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
88. Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake
How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds & Shape Our Futures
"Entangled Life" explores the fascinating world of fungi and their intricate relationships with other organisms. From the underground networks that connect trees and plants to the role of fungi in shaping ecosystems, the book delves into the hidden realms of mycelium and its impact on our planet. With captivating storytelling and scientific insights, the author reveals the astonishing diversity and resilience of fungi, challenging our understanding of life itself.
The 5780th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
89. Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar
**Martyr!** by Kaveh Akbar follows Cyrus Shams, a young man navigating the complexities of his past and present. As the son of Iranian immigrants, Cyrus struggles with the legacy of his mother's tragic death and his father's challenging life in America. Battling addiction and driven by a fascination with martyrs, Cyrus embarks on a journey of self-discovery. His path leads him to a terminally ill painter in the Brooklyn Museum, where he uncovers hidden truths about his family and himself. Through encounters with various voices from the past, Cyrus seeks to understand his identity and find meaning in his life.
The 5804th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
90. King by Jonathan Eig
A Life
The book provides an in-depth exploration of the life and legacy of a pivotal figure in the American civil rights movement. It delves into his personal and public struggles, highlighting his profound impact on the quest for racial equality and justice. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the narrative captures the complexities of his character, his strategic brilliance, and the challenges he faced in a turbulent era. The work also examines the broader social and political context of his activism, offering insights into the enduring significance of his contributions to the fight for civil rights.
The 5932nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
91. Small Fry by Lisa Brennan-Jobs
A Memoir
"Small Fry" is a memoir by Lisa Brennan-Jobs, the daughter of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. The book details her complicated relationship with her father, who denied paternity for several years before finally acknowledging her as his daughter. Brennan-Jobs describes the emotional abuse she endured at the hands of her father, who alternated between neglect and intense attention. The memoir also explores her own journey towards self-acceptance and forgiveness, as she grapples with the legacy of her famous and flawed parent.
The 5933rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
92. This Is Happiness by Niall Williams
Set in a remote Irish village, the novel unfolds through the eyes of a young man who, during a transformative summer, witnesses the arrival of electricity and the changes it brings to the community. As the village buzzes with anticipation and skepticism, the protagonist also encounters personal growth and the complexities of love, as he is drawn into the lives and stories of the local inhabitants. The narrative is a poignant exploration of progress and tradition, the power of memory, and the bittersweet nature of coming-of-age, all set against a backdrop of lyrical landscapes and the whimsical charm of rural Ireland.
The 5962nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
93. A Princess In Theory by Alyssa Cole
Reluctant Royals
"A Princess In Theory" is a contemporary romance novel that follows the story of Naledi Smith, a hardworking graduate student who receives an unexpected email claiming that she is betrothed to an African prince. Skeptical at first, Naledi eventually agrees to meet the prince, Thabiso, and finds herself caught up in a whirlwind of royal intrigue and undeniable chemistry. As Naledi navigates her newfound royal life and uncovers the truth about her past, she must decide if she is willing to embrace her destiny and the love that awaits her.
The 5965th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
94. The Coddling Of The American Mind by Jonathan Haidt, Greg Lukianoff
How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure
The book explores the cultural shifts in American society that have led to increased anxiety, fragility, and a lack of resilience among young people. It argues that well-intentioned overprotection by parents and institutions has contributed to a generation less equipped to handle adversity and differing viewpoints. The authors identify three untruths—fragility, emotional reasoning, and us-versus-them thinking—that they believe are undermining mental health and intellectual development. They advocate for a return to principles that promote resilience, critical thinking, and open dialogue.
The 5996th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
95. My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite
In this darkly comedic novel, a nurse named Korede finds herself repeatedly cleaning up after her sister Ayoola, who has a disturbing habit of killing her boyfriends. As Ayoola's murderous tendencies escalate, Korede is torn between her loyalty to her sister and her growing concern for the next potential victim. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, the sisters' bond is put to the ultimate test, leading to a gripping and unexpected conclusion.
The 6084th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
96. The God Of The Woods by Liz Moore
In the summer of 1975, a young girl named Barbara Van Laar disappears from her family's Adirondack camp. As the daughter of the camp's owners, her disappearance sends shockwaves through the community, especially since her brother vanished under similar circumstances years earlier. The story delves into the complex dynamics between the Van Laar family and the local workers, unraveling hidden secrets and exploring themes of mystery and redemption.
The 6156th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
97. Know My Name by Chanel Miller
The book is a powerful and transformative memoir by a young woman who reclaimed her identity after being known to the world as "Emily Doe" in a highly publicized sexual assault case. With unflinching honesty and profound eloquence, she shares her harrowing experience of trauma and the grueling path through the criminal justice system. Her narrative goes beyond the assault and its aftermath, delving into the societal attitudes toward sexual assault and the personal journey of healing and empowerment. Her story is a testament to resilience, a call to change the culture that shames survivors, and an inspiration for others to assert their own identity and tell their truth.
The 6194th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
98. Doppelganger by Naomi Klein
A Trip into the Mirror World
The book explores the unsettling phenomenon of doppelgängers in the modern world, delving into how individuals and their public personas can be manipulated and distorted in the age of social media and digital surveillance. It examines the impact of these duplications on personal identity, politics, and society, revealing the ways in which technology and media can create alternate realities that challenge our understanding of truth and authenticity. Through a blend of personal narrative, cultural analysis, and investigative journalism, the book offers a thought-provoking critique of contemporary life and the forces that shape our perceptions.
The 6212th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
99. Rejection by Tony Tulathimutte
Rejection by Tony Tulathimutte is a captivating collection of interconnected stories that delve into the chaos and humor of modern life. The narrative follows a diverse group of characters whose lives are thrown into turmoil by rejection. Each story explores personal crises and the comic tragedies of relationships, identity, and the digital age. In "The Feminist," a man's journey from allyship to disillusionment unfolds over three decades, while "Pics" portrays a woman's unrequited love turning into an obsession that challenges her self-worth. "Ahegao; or, The Ballad of Sexual Repression" tells the tale of a shy individual whose first romantic endeavor leads to a life-altering mistake. As these characters intersect through dating apps, social media, and chance encounters, they reveal how our misconceptions can distort our longing for connection. Rejection offers a sharp and humorous look at the often overlooked sorrows of being turned away by others and oneself.
The 6301st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
100. The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich
This novel is a powerful exploration of the life of a Native American community in the 1950s, focusing on a determined night watchman who fights against a Congressional effort to dispossess his people of their land. Inspired by the author's own grandfather, the story weaves together the lives of several characters, each navigating personal and collective struggles amidst the backdrop of historical injustices. Through a narrative that blends the spiritual with the political, the book not only portrays the resilience and complexity of its characters but also offers a poignant critique of the policies that sought to undermine Native American identity and sovereignty.
The 6333rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase 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.
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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