The Greatest American "Coming of age, World War II" Books of All Time

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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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Coming of age

The "Coming of age" category of books typically refers to stories that explore the transition from adolescence to adulthood. These books often focus on the challenges and experiences that young people face as they navigate the complexities of growing up, including issues such as identity, relationships, sexuality, and personal growth. Coming of age stories can be set in any time period or cultural context, and may feature protagonists of any gender, race, or background. Overall, the genre offers readers a glimpse into the universal struggles and triumphs of youth, and the process of becoming a fully realized adult.

World War II

The category of "World War II" books encompasses a wide range of literature that focuses on the events, people, and consequences of the global conflict that took place between 1939 and 1945. This category includes historical accounts, memoirs, biographies, and fiction that explore the political, social, and cultural aspects of the war, as well as its impact on individuals and societies around the world. From the Holocaust to the Pacific theater, from the home front to the battlefields, "World War II" books offer readers a deep understanding of one of the most significant and devastating events in human history.

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  1. 1. A Separate Peace by John Knowles

    Set in a New England boarding school during World War II, this novel explores the tumultuous friendship between two boys, a charismatic and daring athlete and his introverted, intellectual roommate. The story delves into themes of envy, identity, and the loss of innocence, culminating in a tragic accident that forever changes their lives. The backdrop of the war adds a layer of tension and urgency, reflecting the inner turmoil of the protagonists.

    The 664th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Everything Is Illuminated by Jonathan Safran Foer

    The novel is a richly layered narrative about a young man's quest to find the woman who saved his grandfather from the Nazis during World War II. The story is told from two perspectives: a Ukrainian translator with a unique grasp on the English language and the young man himself who is also a budding writer. The book explores themes of memory, history, and the power of storytelling, all set against the backdrop of a tragic and tumultuous period in world history.

    The 1309th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. House Made of Dawn by N. Scott Momaday

    The novel delves into the life of a young Native American man named Abel who returns home to his New Mexico Pueblo reservation after serving in World War II. Struggling with the trauma of war and the cultural dislocation caused by years away from his traditional tribal life, Abel tries to find his identity and place in a world that is torn between ancient tribal traditions and the modern white society. His journey of self-discovery and redemption is poignantly narrated, highlighting the struggles faced by Native Americans in the contemporary world.

    The 1742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. From Here to Eternity by James Jones

    This novel is a gritty and realistic portrayal of military life in the days leading up to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The story follows the lives of several soldiers stationed in Hawaii, exploring themes such as power struggles, individualism versus conformity, and the often harsh realities of military life. The narrative is marked by its frank depiction of sexuality, violence, and the stark contrast between the idyllic Hawaiian setting and the brutal realities of war.

    The 1903rd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

    Set during the turmoil of World War II, the novel follows the intersecting lives of a blind French girl and a German boy. The girl, living in occupied France, seeks solace in the world of books and the imagination, while the boy, a member of Hitler Youth, is a radio operator for the German forces. Their paths cross in the walled city of Saint-Malo, with the narrative exploring themes of survival, morality, and the human spirit.

    The 1997th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

    The book is a poignant tale of two French sisters during World War II who face the brutal German occupation of France in their own unique ways. While one sister joins the Resistance, risking her life to save others, the other struggles to maintain her family's home and protect her daughter, showcasing the resilience and strength of women under the shadow of war. Their paths are fraught with danger, moral complexity, and heartbreaking sacrifices, as they each fight for love, freedom, and survival against the backdrop of a world torn apart by conflict.

    The 6120th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

    Set during World War II, this heartwarming novel tells the story of Ada, a young girl with a clubfoot who has been locked away and mistreated by her mother her entire life. When London is evacuated, Ada and her younger brother Jamie are sent to the countryside, where they find refuge with Susan, a woman who reluctantly takes them in. As Ada learns to trust and love for the first time, she discovers her own strength and resilience, ultimately finding freedom and a sense of belonging in the midst of war.

    The 10112th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Guard of Honor by James Gould Cozzens

    "Guard of Honor" is a detailed and realistic portrayal of life in a World War II army air forces base. It revolves around the experiences of a disillusioned newspaperman, who is called back into service during World War II. The narrative delves into the complexities of military life, the intricate bureaucracy, racial tensions, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in positions of power during the war. The novel explores the themes of duty, honor, and the harsh realities of war.

    The 10138th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Soldiers in Hiding by Richard Wiley

    Soldiers in Hiding is a narrative set in Japan during World War II, revolving around three American jazz musicians who are trapped in the country during the war. The story explores their experiences, the cultural differences they encounter, and the personal transformations they undergo to survive in a hostile environment. The novel is a profound exploration of identity, survival, and the human capacity to adapt and change in extraordinary circumstances.

    The 10428th 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