The Greatest Czech, Ukrainian, Greek 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 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. 1. The Daughter by Pavlos Matesis

    "The Daughter" is a powerful novel set in Greece during the Second World War. The narrative follows the life of a young girl who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war. Her father, a communist, is executed by the Germans, and the girl is left to navigate the complexities of life, politics, and love in a world that is rapidly changing. The book offers a poignant exploration of the human capacity for resilience, survival, and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

    The 2074th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Death And The Penguin by Andrey Kurkov

    The book is a darkly comic novel set in post-Soviet Ukraine, following the life of a struggling writer who lands a job penning obituaries for notable figures while they are still alive. His life takes a bizarre turn when these individuals start dying mysteriously, drawing him into a world of political intrigue and crime. Accompanied by his pet penguin, the protagonist navigates the chaos of his environment, revealing the absurdities and corruption of the society around him. As he delves deeper, his unusual occupation becomes increasingly dangerous, blurring the lines between the living and the dead.

    The 3233rd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Astradeni by Eugenia Fakinou

    "Astradeni" is a coming-of-age novel set in post-World War II Greece. The story follows the life of a young girl named Astradeni, who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war and poverty. Despite the hardships she faces, Astradeni maintains a hopeful and imaginative spirit, often escaping into a world of myths and legends. The novel explores themes of resilience, the power of storytelling, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

    The 3700th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Uncle Petros and Goldbach's Conjecture by Apostolos Doxiadis

    The novel follows the story of a young man who becomes fascinated by his reclusive and eccentric Uncle Petros. As he delves into his uncle's past, he uncovers Petros' obsession with proving Goldbach's Conjecture, a famous unsolved problem in number theory. This obsession led to Petros' alienation from society and ultimately his downfall. The book explores themes of mathematical obsession, family relationships, and the fine line between genius and madness.

    The 3778th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Waiting for the Dark, Waiting for the Light by Ivan Klíma

    The novel is set in the twilight of Communist rule in Czechoslovakia and follows the life of a television cameraman named Pavel. Despite his dreams of becoming a filmmaker and capturing the truth, he is trapped in a job that requires him to distort it. As the regime starts to crumble, Pavel grapples with the opportunities and challenges that freedom brings. He is forced to confront his past, his moral choices, and his dreams, leading to a deep exploration of the human condition and the struggle for personal and artistic freedom.

    The 4066th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. City, Sister, Silver by Jáchym Topol

    This novel follows the journey of a young Czech man, Potok, as he navigates the tumultuous period of the Velvet Revolution and its aftermath. The story is filled with surreal and often disturbing imagery as it explores themes of chaos, transformation, and the struggle for identity in a rapidly changing world. Potok's adventures take him from the crumbling infrastructure of post-communist Czechoslovakia to the burgeoning world of Western Europe, and his experiences reflect the larger societal upheaval of the time.

    The 4121st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Late-night News by Petros Markaris

    In "The Late-night News," a seasoned journalist is found murdered in his office. The investigation of the crime falls to a grizzled detective, who uncovers a web of corruption and deceit within the world of Greek media. As he delves deeper into the case, he finds that the journalist was working on a story that could have significant political implications, making the list of suspects long and dangerous. The detective must navigate through this complex world to find the killer, all while dealing with his own personal demons.

    The 4391st Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Moscoviad by Yuri Andrukhovych

    "The Moscoviad" is a satirical novel that follows the journey of a group of Ukrainian intellectuals as they embark on a chaotic and absurd trip to Moscow. Through a series of hilarious and bizarre encounters, the author explores the complex relationship between Ukraine and Russia, while also delving into the themes of identity, history, and cultural clashes. With its sharp wit and biting commentary, the novel offers a unique perspective on the post-Soviet era and the tensions between the two neighboring countries.

    The 5176th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. The Seventh Garment by Eugenia Fakinou

    "The Seventh Garment" is a compelling narrative that weaves together the lives of several women across different generations, all connected by a mysterious heirloom garment. Set against the backdrop of Greek history and mythology, the novel explores themes of identity, tradition, and the complex bonds of family. As the story unfolds, each woman's personal journey is revealed, reflecting the broader societal changes and challenges they face. The garment serves as a symbol of their shared heritage and the secrets that are passed down through the years, binding them together in a tapestry of resilience and enduring strength.

    The 5202nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Elegies Of Oxopetra by Odysseas Elytis

    This book is a profound collection of poetry that delves into the essence of human existence, intertwining the beauty of the natural world with the complexities of the human spirit. Through vivid imagery and emotive language, the poet explores themes of love, mortality, and the transcendental connection between the individual and the cosmos. The work serves as a lyrical testament to the resilience of the human heart and the eternal quest for meaning amidst the ephemeral nature of life. The poems are both a celebration and a lament, capturing the fleeting moments of joy and sorrow that define the human condition.

    The 5466th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Fieldwork In Ukrainian Sex by Oksana Zabuzhko

    "Fieldwork In Ukrainian Sex" is a provocative and introspective novel that delves into the complexities of identity, sexuality, and the power dynamics within relationships. Through the perspective of a young Ukrainian woman studying in America, the book explores themes of cultural clashes, personal discovery, and the search for one's own voice amidst societal expectations. With a blend of vivid storytelling and philosophical musings, the author challenges traditional norms and invites readers to question their own beliefs about love, desire, and the pursuit of happiness.

    The 5482nd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Και Με Το Φως Του Λυκου Επανερχονται by Zyranna Zateli

    This novel weaves a rich tapestry of family saga and Greek mythology, set against the backdrop of the 20th century. It tells the story of two families bound by a deep and complex connection, exploring themes of love, loss, and the cyclical nature of life through the lens of magical realism. The narrative is imbued with the mystical allure of folklore, as characters navigate their fates intertwined with the whims of gods and the transformative power of storytelling. Through its lyrical prose, the book delves into the essence of human experience, the bonds that tie us to our past, and the enduring light of hope that guides us through darkness.

    The 5683rd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Ο Μπιντές by Marios Hakkas

    This novel delves into the life of a man known by the nickname "Ο Μπιντές," exploring his journey through various stages of his life, from his early years in a small village to his experiences in the bustling city. The narrative weaves through themes of love, loss, and the quest for identity, set against the backdrop of significant historical and social changes in Greece. Through vivid characterizations and a keen eye for detail, the author crafts a poignant tale that not only tells the story of one man's life but also reflects on the broader human condition, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 5683rd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Orthokostá by Thanassis Valtinos

    This novel presents a vivid tapestry of life in a rural Greek village, focusing on the intricate web of human relationships, traditions, and the harsh realities of rural existence. Through a series of interconnected stories and a diverse cast of characters, the narrative delves into themes of love, loss, struggle, and the enduring strength of the human spirit against the backdrop of Greece's tumultuous history. The author masterfully employs a minimalist style and dialogue-driven narrative to explore the complexities of social and personal identity, making it a poignant reflection on the universal aspects of human life.

    The 5750th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Ντιάλιθ' ιμ Χριστάκη by Sotiris Dimitriou

    This book is a compelling narrative that delves into the life of its protagonist, Ντιάλιθ, set against the backdrop of the vibrant yet tumultuous landscape of Greece. Through a series of evocative episodes, the story explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human relationships. The protagonist's journey is marked by a quest for personal meaning and connection within the confines of a society that is both rich in tradition and grappling with modern challenges. The author masterfully weaves together the personal and the political, creating a poignant exploration of the human condition and the enduring search for home.

    The 6134th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Identity: A Novel by Milan Kundera

    "Identity: A Novel" is a philosophical exploration of the complexities of love, identity, and the human psyche. It revolves around the lives of two lovers, Chantal and Jean-Marc, who are living in Paris. As their relationship progresses, they grapple with existential questions, the nature of identity, and the fear of oblivion. The novel delves into their individual and shared insecurities, their perceptions of each other, and how these perceptions shape their identities. The narrative offers a profound reflection on the intricacies of human relationships, the concept of self, and the role of memory and imagination in identity formation.

    The 6233rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Χαιρε Ποτε by Kiki Dimoula

    This book is a collection of poetry that delves into the complexities of existence, love, and the passage of time through a unique and evocative lens. The poet navigates through the intricacies of human emotions and experiences, employing a rich tapestry of imagery and metaphor to explore themes of longing, memory, and the elusive nature of happiness. With a delicate balance between melancholy and hope, the poems invite readers to reflect on the beauty and transience of life, encouraging a deeper engagement with the world around them. Through its lyrical prose and profound insights, the collection stands as a poignant meditation on the human condition.

    The 6284th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Dancing In Odessa by Ilya Kaminsky

    "Dancing In Odessa" is a collection of poems that explores themes of love, loss, and identity through the lens of the author's experiences growing up in Odessa, Ukraine. With vivid imagery and lyrical language, the poems delve into the complexities of personal and cultural history, capturing the resilience and beauty of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through its exploration of love and longing, the collection offers a poignant and evocative portrayal of the human condition.

    The 6433rd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Poems Of Manolis Anagnostakis by Manolis Anagnostakis

    This collection brings together the poignant and powerful poetry of Manolis Anagnostakis, a prominent Greek poet whose work spans the mid-20th century. Through his verses, Anagnostakis delves into the complexities of the human condition, political disillusionment, and the existential angst of post-war Greece. His poetry, characterized by its lyrical intensity and intellectual depth, reflects the poet's personal struggles and broader societal issues, offering a candid and often critical perspective on the political and social landscape of his time. Anagnostakis' work stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, making his collection a significant contribution to modern Greek literature and a compelling exploration of the themes of morality, identity, and the quest for meaning.

    The 6484th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. A Short Border Handbook by Gazmend Kapllani

    "A Short Border Handbook" is a poignant and thought-provoking memoir that follows the journey of a young Albanian man who leaves his homeland to seek a better life in Greece. Through a series of vivid and often humorous anecdotes, the author explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of borders, both physical and metaphorical. With a mix of personal experiences and historical context, this book offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of immigration, ultimately revealing the universal human desire for freedom and acceptance.

    The 6869th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Voroshilovgrad by Serhiy Zhadan

    "Voroshilovgrad" is a powerful novel set in post-Soviet Ukraine, following the lives of several characters who are grappling with the consequences of war, corruption, and economic decline. The story explores themes of identity, love, and the struggle to find meaning in a society that is rapidly changing. Through vivid and poetic prose, the author paints a haunting picture of a city and its inhabitants, capturing the complexities and contradictions of life in a country in transition.

    The 6957th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Energy by Vaclav Smil

    This book provides a comprehensive exploration of energy in its various forms, tracing its role throughout human history. The author delves into the science of energy, from the muscle power of prehistoric humans to the modern era's reliance on fossil fuels and the potential of renewable sources. With a focus on the environmental and societal impacts of energy consumption, the narrative emphasizes the importance of sustainable energy practices. Through a blend of historical context, scientific analysis, and a look at current energy challenges, the book offers a deep understanding of the essential role energy plays in shaping civilizations and the urgent need for a more efficient and environmentally friendly approach to energy use.

    The 8089th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Carbide by Andriy Lyubka

    In this thought-provoking novel, "Carbide" explores the complex dynamics of power, corruption, and the human condition. Set in a dystopian society, the story follows a young protagonist who becomes entangled in a dangerous game of political intrigue. As he navigates through the treacherous landscape, he discovers shocking truths about the ruling elite and the lengths they will go to maintain their control. With its compelling narrative and vivid imagery, "Carbide" delves into the dark underbelly of society, challenging readers to question their own beliefs and the nature of power.

    The 8114th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Theophrastus: His Psychological, Doxographical, and Scientific Writings by William Wall Fortenbaugh, Dimitri Gutas

    This book is an extensive study of Theophrastus, a Greek philosopher and pupil of Aristotle, focusing on his psychological, doxographical, and scientific writings. The authors delve into his theories, ideas, and contributions to various fields, including biology, physics, metaphysics, and ethics. They also examine his influence on later philosophers and his role in the development of Greek philosophy. The book provides a comprehensive understanding of Theophrastus's works, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars of ancient philosophy.

    The 8168th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Judge On Trial by Ivan Klima

    "Judge on Trial" is a novel that delves into the life of Adam Kindl, a judge in Communist Czechoslovakia who is struggling with the moral dilemmas of his profession and personal life. As he presides over a politically charged case, Kindl grapples with the oppressive regime's influence on justice and his own sense of integrity. The narrative explores themes of power, corruption, and the quest for truth, while also examining the complexities of love, fidelity, and the human condition. Through Kindl's introspective journey, the novel provides a poignant critique of the judicial and political systems of the time.

    The 8225th 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