The Greatest American, German Books From 1910 to 1919

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 '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. 26. The Titan by Theodore Dreiser

    "The Titan" is a novel that continues the story of a ruthless and ambitious businessman as he expands his empire in the early 20th-century United States. Having conquered the streetcar industry, the protagonist now sets his sights on utilities and finance, using his wealth and power to manipulate stock markets, bribe officials, and crush any opposition. His personal life is equally tumultuous, filled with affairs and scandals that threaten his marriage and social standing. This narrative serves as a critique of the American Dream and the capitalist fervor of the time, exploring themes of greed, corruption, and the quest for power at the expense of ethics and human relationships.

    The 2276th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Lad: a Dog by Albert Payson Terhune

    "Lad: a Dog" is a collection of twelve short stories centered around a rough collie named Lad, who lives with his owners, referred to as the Master and Mistress, at a place called the Place. The stories depict Lad's adventures, his loyalty and courage, and his interactions with other animals and humans. Throughout the stories, Lad proves himself to be an extraordinary dog, exhibiting intelligence, bravery and an unwavering loyalty to his owners.

    The 2298th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. A Princess Of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs

    In this science fiction novel, a Confederate soldier named John Carter mysteriously finds himself transported to Mars, known as Barsoom by its inhabitants. On this alien planet, Carter discovers a dying civilization and becomes embroiled in a complex web of political intrigue, epic battles, and forbidden love. With his newfound strength and agility due to the planet's lower gravity, Carter becomes a formidable warrior and fights to protect the princess he loves and the people of Barsoom from imminent destruction.

    The 2438th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. The Mysterious Stranger by Mark Twain

    The novel is a dark and philosophical exploration of the human condition, set in a remote Austrian village during the Middle Ages. It follows the story of a group of young friends who encounter a mysterious and supernatural boy named Satan, who claims to be an angel and demonstrates his otherworldly powers through a series of thought-provoking and often unsettling miracles. As the narrative unfolds, the boy challenges the villagers' beliefs and perceptions of morality, good and evil, and the nature of existence, leading to a profound and controversial climax that questions the very fabric of reality and the role of a seemingly indifferent universe.

    The 2636th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Prejudices by H. L. Mencken

    "Prejudices" is a collection of essays that offers a critical and humorous look at American culture and society in the early 20th century. The author provides biting commentary on a variety of topics, including literature, politics, and the arts, while also offering his own unconventional and often controversial viewpoints. The book is known for its satirical style and its critique of American life and values.

    The 2779th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. How We Think by John Dewey

    The book explores the process of thinking, emphasizing the importance of education in developing critical thinking skills. It delves into the relationship between thought and language, the role of experience in shaping thought, and the necessity of applying reflective thinking to education. The author argues for a more active, student-centered approach in schools, promoting inquiry and problem-solving to better prepare students for the demands of modern society. The work is both a philosophical treatise and a practical guide for educators seeking to implement more effective teaching methodologies.

    The 2779th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Jennie Gerhardt by Theodore Dreiser

    This novel tells the poignant story of Jennie Gerhardt, a young woman of humble origins who, through a series of unfortunate circumstances and societal pressures, becomes involved with two different men of higher social standing throughout her life. Set against the backdrop of late 19th-century America, the narrative explores themes of love, class disparity, and the struggle for personal dignity. Jennie's character embodies resilience and moral complexity as she navigates the challenges posed by her relationships and the harsh judgments of society, ultimately highlighting the human capacity for endurance and the quest for happiness amidst societal constraints.

    The 2845th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. North Of Boston by Robert Frost

    "North of Boston" is a collection of poems that delve into the rural life and landscape of New England, capturing the beauty, hardships, and complex social relationships of early 20th-century America. Through its verses, the book explores themes of nature, human connection, isolation, and the passage of time, often through the lens of the region's stark seasons and the stoic, resilient character of its inhabitants. The poems range from narrative to dramatic, with a focus on everyday events and the subtle dramas unfolding in the lives of ordinary people, all rendered with the author's keen observational skills and a deep appreciation for the nuances of spoken language.

    The 3093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Trifles by Susan Glaspell

    This play is a gripping exploration of gender roles and the dynamics of power through the investigation of a rural murder. Set in the early 20th century, it follows two women who accompany their husbands, a sheriff and a neighbor, to the home of a man who has been murdered. While the men dismissively search for evidence, considering the women's concerns as mere "trifles," the women uncover crucial evidence by paying attention to domestic details overlooked by the men. Through their discoveries, the play critiques societal underestimation of women and subtly explores themes of justice and solidarity, revealing the women's empathy and understanding of the accused wife's plight, leading them to a moral dilemma.

    The 3093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Mountain Interval by Robert Frost

    "Mountain Interval" is a collection of poetry that delves into the human experience through the lens of nature and rural life. The poems explore themes of choice, self-reflection, and the passage of time, often with a contemplative and sometimes melancholic tone. The poet's use of simple yet evocative language and imagery draws readers into a world where the natural landscape serves as a backdrop for introspection and the contemplation of life's complexities. The work includes some of the poet's most famous pieces, which reflect on the significance of the paths we take and the decisions we make.

    The 3093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Renascence and Other Poems by Edna St. Vincent Millay

    "Renascence and Other Poems" is a collection of lyrical and thought-provoking poetry that explores themes of love, death, nature, and the human condition. The book features the author's early works, including the titular poem, "Renascence," a long-form piece that garnered significant attention and acclaim. The author's expressive language and powerful imagery create a captivating and emotionally resonant reading experience.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Virginia by Ellen Glasgow

    The novel is a portrayal of the life of a Southern woman named Virginia, who embodies the traditional values and social expectations of the American South at the turn of the 20th century. Throughout the story, Virginia's personal journey is marked by her marriage, motherhood, and the gradual disillusionment with her prescribed role in society. As she confronts the changing world around her, including the challenges of modernity and the evolving status of women, she experiences both internal conflict and growth. The narrative delves into themes of identity, societal norms, and the struggle for self-realization within the confines of a conservative and patriarchal culture.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. The House on Henry Street by Lillian D. Wald

    "The House on Henry Street" is a memoir by a prominent social worker and public health advocate, detailing her experiences and work in the Lower East Side of New York City in the early 20th century. The book chronicles her establishment of a settlement house in the area, which provided a range of services including healthcare, education, and employment assistance to the community. The narrative offers a poignant insight into the struggles and resilience of the immigrant population during this period, and the author's pioneering role in public health nursing and social reform.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Daddy Long Legs by Jean Webster

    "Daddy Long Legs" is a heartwarming and humorous novel that follows the story of an orphaned girl named Judy Abbott. After being granted a scholarship to attend college, Judy begins exchanging letters with her mysterious benefactor, whom she affectionately calls "Daddy Long Legs." Through these letters, Judy shares her experiences, struggles, and dreams, while also discovering her own independence and identity. With witty and charming prose, the book explores themes of love, friendship, and the pursuit of one's dreams.

    The 3753rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. The Loyal Subject by Heinrich Mann

    "The Loyal Subject" is a satirical novel set in Germany during the reign of Kaiser Wilhelm II. It follows the life of a petty bureaucrat who is obsessively devoted to the Kaiser and the state, despite the fact that his loyalty is constantly abused. His blind obedience and the absurdity of the system are used to critique the militarism and authoritarianism of the period. The story is a powerful indictment of the dangers of unchecked nationalism and the dehumanization that can result from excessive obedience to authority.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Ideas by Edmund Husserl

    This philosophical work delves into the complex realm of phenomenology, exploring the intricate relationship between consciousness and the objects of its awareness. The author systematically unpacks the concept of intentionality, the idea that consciousness is always consciousness of something, and introduces the method of phenomenological reduction as a means to study the essential structures of consciousness. Through a rigorous examination of the acts of consciousness, including perception, imagination, and judgment, the text seeks to lay bare the foundational elements of human experience, arguing for a direct investigation into the phenomena as they present themselves to consciousness, free from presuppositions. This exploration aims to establish a solid groundwork for understanding the nature of reality as it is experienced, emphasizing the importance of subjective experience in the constitution of the world.

    The 4065th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Penrod by Booth Tarkington

    This novel centers around the misadventures of a young boy, capturing the essence of boyhood in the early 20th century Midwest. Through a series of humorous and often poignant episodes, the protagonist navigates the trials and tribulations of adolescence, dealing with family, friends, and his own burgeoning sense of self. The narrative delves into themes of honor, friendship, and the societal expectations placed on young boys, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone that vividly brings to life the joys and challenges of growing up.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. A Critique of the Theory of Evolution by Thomas Hunt Morgan

    The book is a scientific critique of the theory of evolution, presenting arguments and evidence against certain aspects of the theory. The author, a prominent biologist, explores the limitations and inconsistencies in the theory of evolution, challenging the widely accepted Darwinian principles. He presents alternative theories and hypotheses, backed by his own research and observations, to explain the process of species development and genetic inheritance, thereby attempting to provide a more comprehensive understanding of biological evolution.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The Mark Of Zorro by Johnston McCulley

    This classic adventure novel is set in early 19th century California, under Spanish rule. It tells the story of Don Diego Vega, a seemingly effete and foppish nobleman, who leads a double life as the masked outlaw Zorro. Zorro champions the oppressed and fights the corrupt government and its officials, using his wit, swordsmanship, and acrobatic skills. The story weaves together themes of justice, honor, and romance, as Zorro navigates his secret identity, battles villains, and wins the heart of the beautiful Lolita Pulido. Through daring escapades and a quest for justice, Zorro leaves his mark as a symbol of hope and resistance against tyranny.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. The Apriori Foundations Of The Civil Law by Adolf Reinach

    "The Apriori Foundations of the Civil Law" is a philosophical exploration of the foundational concepts and a priori principles underlying civil law. The work delves into the nature of legal obligations, property rights, and social interactions, arguing that these elements are rooted in inherent structures of human cognition and social reality rather than merely conventional or constructed systems. By examining the essential characteristics of legal phenomena, the book seeks to establish a universal framework for understanding the principles that govern legal relations and duties, independent of specific legal systems and historical contexts.

    The 4688th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. The Scarlet Plague by Jack London

    In "The Scarlet Plague", the world has been devastated by a deadly pandemic that has wiped out most of humanity, leaving only a few survivors. The story is set in 2073, sixty years after the plague, and is narrated by an old man who is one of the last people alive who remembers the pre-plague world. He attempts to impart his knowledge and memories to his grandsons, who have only known the primitive, post-apocalyptic world. The novel explores themes of civilization, knowledge, and the fragility of society.

    The 4916th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. The Social Teachings Of The Christian Churches by Ernst Troeltsch

    "The Social Teachings of the Christian Churches" explores the development and impact of Christian social thought across different historical periods and denominations. The book examines how various Christian traditions, including Catholicism, Protestantism, and Eastern Orthodoxy, have approached social issues and structured their ethical teachings. It delves into the ways these religious groups have influenced societal norms and politics, addressing themes such as the relationship between church and state, economic ethics, and the role of religion in public life. Through a comprehensive historical analysis, the work reveals the diversity and evolution of Christian social teachings and their ongoing relevance in modern social discourse.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. The Origin Of Continents And Oceans by Alfred Wegener

    "The Origin of Continents and Oceans" presents the groundbreaking theory of continental drift, proposing that the Earth's continents were once joined together in a single landmass and have since drifted apart to their current positions. The author, a meteorologist and geophysicist, supports his hypothesis with extensive geological and paleontological evidence, showing similarities in rock formations, fossil records, and climatic patterns across different continents. Despite initial skepticism from the scientific community, this work laid the foundation for the modern understanding of plate tectonics and fundamentally changed the way we think about the Earth's surface and its dynamic nature.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. Family Limitation by Margaret Sanger

    "Family Limitation" is a pioneering work that advocates for the importance of birth control and family planning. Written in the early 20th century, the book provides practical information and guidance on various contraceptive methods available at the time, aiming to empower women with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. The author, a prominent birth control activist, argues for the moral and social necessity of family limitation, emphasizing its role in alleviating poverty and improving the welfare of women and children. The book was considered highly controversial during its publication but played a significant role in the birth control movement and the eventual widespread acceptance of contraception.

    The 5947th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. The Masters Of Capital by John Moody

    "The Masters of Capital" delves into the influential world of American financiers who played pivotal roles in shaping the economic landscape of the early 20th century. The book provides an insightful analysis of how these financial leaders, often referred to as "captains of industry," utilized their wealth and power to impact the development of key industries and influence government policies. Through detailed accounts of their business dealings and personal networks, the narrative explores the complexities of financial power and its far-reaching effects on the American economy and society.

    The 5947th Greatest Book of All Time

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