The Greatest Irish Books of 2017

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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. 1. Conversations With Friends by Sally Rooney

    The novel explores the intricate dynamics of relationships through the lives of two college students, Frances and Bobbi, who become entwined with an older married couple, Melissa and Nick. As Frances navigates her complex feelings for Nick, she grapples with issues of identity, friendship, and the nuances of intimacy. The story delves into themes of love, power, and vulnerability, capturing the emotional turbulence and self-discovery that accompany the transition into adulthood. Through sharp dialogue and introspective narrative, the book examines how personal connections shape and redefine the characters' understanding of themselves and each other.

    The 4594th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 2. The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne

    The novel follows the life of Cyril Avery, an adopted child in mid-20th century Ireland, as he navigates his identity and sexuality in a society rife with prejudice and hypocrisy. From his tumultuous childhood with eccentric adoptive parents to his struggles as a gay man in a repressive culture, Cyril's journey is marked by moments of heartbreak, humor, and resilience. The story spans several decades, capturing the profound changes in Irish society and the enduring quest for love and acceptance. Through a series of interconnected relationships and events, Cyril ultimately finds a sense of belonging and self-acceptance.

    The 6100th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  3. 3. Midwinter Break by Bernard MacLaverty

    A retired couple embarks on a short holiday to Amsterdam, hoping to escape the monotony of their daily lives and rekindle their relationship. As they navigate the city's picturesque streets and iconic landmarks, the trip becomes a poignant exploration of their shared history, individual regrets, and unspoken desires. Through moments of tenderness and tension, they confront the complexities of love, aging, and the passage of time, ultimately seeking solace and understanding in each other's company.

    The 6257th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  4. 4. A Line Made By Walking by Sara Baume

    In this introspective novel, a young artist grapples with her mental health and the complexities of modern life by retreating to her late grandmother's rural cottage. Immersed in the solitude of the countryside, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, using her art to explore themes of nature, decay, and the passage of time. Through her interactions with the natural world and reflections on art history, she seeks to find meaning and connection in a world that often feels overwhelming and disconnected.

    The 9372nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  5. 5. Oh My God What A Complete Aisling by Emer McLysaght, Sarah Breen

    The Novel

    Aisling is a quintessential small-town Irish girl who finds herself navigating the complexities of life, love, and friendship in the bustling city of Dublin. With her practical mindset and endearing quirks, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery after a breakup, leading to humorous and heartfelt adventures. As she grapples with the challenges of modern life, Aisling learns to embrace change, cherish her roots, and redefine her understanding of happiness and success.

    The 9376th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. To Be A Machine by Mark O'Connell

    Adventures Among Cyborgs, Utopians, Hackers, and the Futurists Solving the Modest Problem of Death

    In this thought-provoking exploration, the author delves into the world of transhumanism, a movement that seeks to transcend the limitations of the human body through technology. The narrative weaves together interviews with scientists, entrepreneurs, and visionaries who are at the forefront of this radical quest for immortality and enhanced human capabilities. With a blend of skepticism and curiosity, the book examines the ethical and philosophical implications of merging man with machine, questioning what it truly means to be human in an age where the boundaries between biology and technology are increasingly blurred.

    The 14176th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  7. 7. Montpelier Parade by Karl Geary

    Set against the backdrop of 1980s Dublin, this poignant coming-of-age story follows Sonny, a working-class teenager, as he navigates the complexities of adolescence and the harsh realities of his environment. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Vera, an enigmatic and troubled older woman, whose presence offers both solace and turmoil. Through their unlikely connection, Sonny grapples with themes of love, longing, and the search for identity, all while confronting the limitations imposed by his socio-economic circumstances. The narrative beautifully captures the raw emotions of youth and the bittersweet nature of fleeting relationships.

    The 17174th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase 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.

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.

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