The Greatest Unknown 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. The Saboteur by Paul Kix
The Aristocrat Who Became France's Most Daring Anti-Nazi Commando
Set against the backdrop of World War II, this gripping narrative follows the daring exploits of a young French aristocrat who becomes a key figure in the Resistance movement. Driven by a deep sense of duty and a desire to fight against the Nazi occupation, he embarks on a series of high-stakes missions that test his courage and ingenuity. As he navigates the treacherous landscape of espionage and sabotage, he faces moral dilemmas and personal sacrifices, all while striving to uphold the values of freedom and justice. This true story of bravery and resilience highlights the indomitable spirit of those who risked everything to combat tyranny.
The 9191st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. 1898 by Kate Clarke Lemay, Taína Caragol
War, Empire, and Memory in America
"1898" explores the era of U.S. imperialism through the unique perspective of visual culture and portraiture. The book delves into the historical events of 1898 when the United States expanded its territories overseas, contrasting the nation's ideals of freedom and democracy. Through a collection of portraits, the authors highlight key figures who supported and opposed this expansion, including U.S. leaders like William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt, and resistance figures such as José Martí and Queen Lili‘uokalani. The narrative is enriched with landscapes, naval scenes, and artworks from both historical and contemporary artists, offering a comprehensive view of this pivotal time in history. The book encourages readers to reflect on the Spanish-American War, the Philippine-American War, and the annexation of Hawai‘i, emphasizing the enduring effects of U.S. imperialism.
The 9283rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
3. We Have No Idea by Daniel Whiteson, Jorge Cham
A Guide to the Unknown Universe
This engaging and humorous exploration delves into the vast unknowns of the universe, highlighting the many mysteries that still baffle scientists today. Through a blend of witty illustrations and accessible explanations, the book invites readers to ponder the profound questions about the cosmos, from the nature of dark matter and dark energy to the enigma of consciousness and the limits of human knowledge. It encourages curiosity and wonder, reminding us that despite our scientific advancements, there is still so much we have yet to understand about the universe and our place within it.
The 10087th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
4. Unlikely Partners by Julian Gewirtz
Chinese Reformers, Western Economists, and the Making of Global China
Set against the backdrop of China's transformative economic reforms from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, this insightful narrative delves into the unexpected collaboration between Chinese reformers and Western economists. It explores how this partnership, despite cultural and ideological differences, played a pivotal role in reshaping China's economic landscape. Through a series of engaging anecdotes and detailed analysis, the book reveals the complexities and challenges faced by both sides as they navigated the intricacies of economic modernization, ultimately highlighting the profound impact of this cross-cultural exchange on China's path to becoming a global economic powerhouse.
The 10102nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
5. Little Soldiers by Lenora Chu
An American Boy, a Chinese School, and the Global Race to Achieve
The book provides an insightful exploration into the Chinese education system through the eyes of an American mother who enrolls her young son in a Shanghai public school. It delves into the cultural contrasts between Western and Eastern educational philosophies, highlighting the rigorous discipline, high expectations, and collective mindset that characterize Chinese schooling. Through personal anecdotes and interviews, the narrative examines the impact of this system on children's creativity, independence, and emotional well-being, offering a nuanced perspective on the benefits and drawbacks of such an intense academic environment.
The 10187th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
6. The Broken King by Michael Thomas
The Broken King is a personal memoir that follows three generations of Black American men—an absent father, an estranged brother, and the author’s own sons—as it examines race, trauma, alcoholism, parenting, and mental illness. Thomas traces his upbringing in the Boston suburbs, the pressures of success, and a breakdown that leads to a difficult but hopeful path toward recovery and self-understanding.
The 10862nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
7. Hit So Hard by Patty Schemel
A Memoir
This memoir offers an unflinching look into the tumultuous life of a drummer who rose to fame in the grunge era, detailing her experiences with addiction, the music industry, and personal struggles. Through candid storytelling, she reflects on her journey from the highs of performing with a renowned rock band to the lows of battling substance abuse and homelessness. The narrative is a raw and honest exploration of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of music as a source of healing and transformation.
The 11070th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
8. Tell Them I Said No by Martin Herbert
Essays on Artists Who Refuse
This thought-provoking exploration delves into the lives of artists and writers who have chosen to step away from the public eye, examining the personal and societal factors that drive such decisions. Through a series of compelling profiles, the narrative sheds light on the tension between the desire for creative expression and the pressures of fame and commercialization. It offers a nuanced perspective on the concept of refusal, challenging conventional notions of success and highlighting the courage it takes to prioritize authenticity and personal fulfillment over external validation.
The 11081st Greatest Book of All Time -
9. The Blockade by Fawzia Rasheed
A Novel of the Siege of Leningrad
Set against the backdrop of a politically turbulent region, the story follows the lives of several individuals whose paths intersect during a prolonged blockade. As resources dwindle and tensions rise, the characters must navigate personal and collective struggles, revealing their resilience, vulnerabilities, and the intricate web of human connections that bind them. Through their experiences, the narrative explores themes of survival, solidarity, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.
The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time -
10. Border by Kassa Kappabova
A Journey to the Edge of Europe
Set against the backdrop of the Balkan region, this narrative delves into the complex and often tumultuous history of borders, both physical and metaphorical. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, historical insights, and vivid storytelling, the book explores the lives of those who have lived in the shadow of these dividing lines. It captures the essence of a region marked by conflict, migration, and cultural intersections, offering a poignant reflection on the human experience of boundaries and the enduring quest for identity and belonging.
The 17120th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
11. My Part Of Her by Javad Djavahery
Set against the backdrop of a politically tumultuous Iran, this poignant narrative delves into the intertwined lives of two childhood friends whose paths diverge dramatically. As they navigate the complexities of love, loyalty, and betrayal, the story explores the profound impact of personal choices amidst societal upheaval. Through evocative prose, the novel captures the essence of longing and the enduring quest for identity and belonging in a world marked by change and uncertainty.
The 17120th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
12. The Last Days Of Cafe Leila by Donia Bijan
Set against the backdrop of a vibrant yet tumultuous Tehran, this poignant tale follows Noor, a woman who returns to her childhood home and the family-run Café Leila after years of living in America. As she navigates the complexities of her past and present, Noor reconnects with her father, Zod, and explores the intricate tapestry of family, love, and tradition. Through the café's rich aromas and the stories of its patrons, Noor embarks on a journey of healing and self-discovery, ultimately finding solace and strength in the enduring bonds of her heritage.
The 17120th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
13. Ghosts by Unknown
In this poignant narrative, the protagonist grapples with the complexities of modern relationships, familial bonds, and the haunting presence of past decisions. As she navigates the challenges of her career and personal life, she is forced to confront the ghosts of her past that linger in her present, influencing her choices and shaping her future. The story beautifully intertwines themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, offering a reflective exploration of what it means to truly connect with others and oneself in an ever-changing world.
The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time -
14. Spies In The Family by Eva Dillon
An American Spymaster, His Russian Crown Jewel, and the Friendship That Helped End the Cold War
Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, this gripping memoir unveils the intertwined lives of two families on opposite sides of the Iron Curtain. The narrative delves into the clandestine world of espionage, revealing the remarkable story of a CIA officer and his Soviet double agent, whose covert collaboration played a pivotal role in shaping history. Through personal anecdotes and historical insights, the book explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the complex moral landscape navigated by those living in the shadows of international intrigue.
The 17120th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
15. Into The Amazon by Larry Rohter
The Life of Cândido Rondon, Trailblazing Explorer, Scientist, Statesman, and Conservationist
This captivating narrative delves into the heart of the Amazon, unraveling the complex tapestry of its history, culture, and the myriad challenges it faces today. Through vivid storytelling, the book explores the intricate relationships between the indigenous peoples, the relentless march of modernization, and the environmental pressures threatening this vital ecosystem. It offers a profound insight into the Amazon's significance not just as a geographical wonder, but as a crucial component of the global ecological balance, urging readers to reflect on the broader implications of its preservation.
The 17120th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
16. The Hunting Accident by David Carlson
A True Story of Crime and Poetry
Set against the backdrop of 1950s Chicago, this gripping graphic novel delves into the life of Charlie Rizzo, a young boy whose father, Matt, is blind. As Charlie grapples with his father's mysterious past, he uncovers a tale of crime, punishment, and redemption. Through a series of poignant flashbacks, Matt reveals his own journey from a reckless youth involved in a botched robbery to his transformative time in prison, where he found solace and enlightenment through literature and the mentorship of a fellow inmate. The narrative weaves themes of forgiveness, the power of storytelling, and the enduring human spirit.
The 17120th 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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