The Greatest Books of All Time on Community

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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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Genres

Community

The "Community" category in books encompasses a diverse array of literature that explores the dynamics, relationships, and shared experiences within various groups of people. This genre delves into the social fabric that binds individuals together, whether through geographical proximity, shared interests, cultural backgrounds, or common goals. Books in this category often highlight themes of cooperation, mutual support, identity, and the challenges and triumphs of collective living. From heartwarming tales of neighborhood camaraderie to in-depth analyses of societal structures, the "Community" genre offers readers insights into the ways in which human connections shape our lives and the world around us.

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Countries

Date Range

Filter books by their publication year. Enter the earliest year (Start) and latest year (End) to find books published within that period. Leave either field empty to search from the beginning of time or up to the present day.

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  1. 601. Anthill by E. O. Wilson

    A Novel of the Natural World

    A captivating blend of fiction and natural history, this novel follows the journey of a young boy from Alabama who grows into a passionate conservationist. As he navigates the complexities of human society and the natural world, he becomes deeply connected to the intricate lives of ants, drawing parallels between their communities and human civilization. Through his eyes, readers are taken on a journey of discovery, exploring themes of environmental stewardship, the delicate balance of ecosystems, and the interconnectedness of all living things.

    The 13971st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 602. Pigeon English by Stephen Kelman

    Set in a gritty London neighborhood, the story follows Harri, an eleven-year-old Ghanaian immigrant, as he navigates the challenges of adolescence and cultural assimilation. Harri's world is turned upside down when a local boy is murdered, prompting him to embark on a quest to solve the mystery with his friend Dean. Through Harri's innocent yet perceptive eyes, the narrative explores themes of identity, community, and the harsh realities of urban life, all while capturing the vibrant spirit and resilience of a young boy trying to make sense of his surroundings.

    The 14025th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 603. Emergent Strategy by adrienne maree brown

    Shaping Change, Changing Worlds

    The book explores the concept of emergent strategy, which is a way of thinking and being that draws inspiration from nature, science fiction, and social movements to create adaptive, interdependent, and transformative change. It emphasizes the importance of small, intentional actions and relationships in building resilient communities and systems. Through a blend of personal reflections, practical tools, and visionary ideas, the book encourages readers to embrace complexity, cultivate creativity, and harness collective power to navigate and shape the future.

    The 14047th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  4. 604. Pigs in Heaven by Barbara Kingsolver

    This novel follows the story of a young Cherokee girl and her adoptive mother. When the mother's right to custody is challenged by the Cherokee Nation, she takes her daughter and flees, sparking a nationwide manhunt. The narrative explores themes of cultural identity, belonging, and the meaning of family, while also delving into the legal and ethical complexities of Native American adoption laws.

    The 14051st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  5. 605. The Case Of Dr Sachs by Martin Winckler

    The book is a compelling narrative that delves into the life and practice of a compassionate and unconventional French general practitioner. Through a series of vignettes and patient encounters, the novel explores the intricacies of the doctor-patient relationship, the challenges of the medical profession, and the ethical dilemmas faced by physicians. The protagonist's approach to medicine is deeply humanistic, focusing on the individual needs of his patients rather than strictly adhering to medical protocols. His dedication to his work and the personal stories of those he treats paint a vivid portrait of a small community and the pivotal role a caring doctor plays within it.

    The 14058th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  6. 606. The Essential Dykes to Watch Out For by Alison Bechdel

    "The Essential Dykes to Watch Out For" is a compilation of comic strips that provide a satirical take on contemporary lesbian life, politics, and social issues. The book is a blend of personal and political content, focusing on the lives of a diverse group of women, their relationships, and their struggles. The comic strips provide commentary on various aspects of the LGBTQ+ experience, including identity, community, and activism.

    The 14076th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  7. 607. Deaf Republic by Ilya Kaminsky

    Set in an unnamed town under military occupation, this poignant narrative unfolds through a series of interconnected poems, chronicling the community's silent rebellion after a deaf boy is killed by soldiers. The townspeople, in a powerful act of defiance, adopt sign language as their primary mode of communication, creating a clandestine world of resistance and solidarity. Through vivid imagery and haunting verse, the story explores themes of oppression, resilience, and the transformative power of silence in the face of tyranny.

    The 14078th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 608. Brown Girl, Brownstones by Paule Marshall

    This novel explores the life of a young Barbadian-American girl growing up in Brooklyn during the Great Depression and World War II. The protagonist struggles with her identity as she navigates the cultural divide between her parents' traditional Barbadian values and her own American aspirations. The story delves into the themes of immigration, cultural identity, race, and gender, as the protagonist comes of age and seeks to establish her independence.

    The 14132nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  9. 609. Farmer in the Sky by Robert A. Heinlein

    A Boy's Journey to the Stars

    The book is a science fiction novel that follows the story of a teenage boy who emigrates with his family from an overcrowded Earth to Ganymede, one of Jupiter's moons, which is in the process of being terraformed into a habitable environment. The narrative explores the challenges of pioneering on a new world, including the struggle to adapt to a harsh and unfamiliar environment, the need for self-sufficiency, and the dynamics of building a new society on the frontier of space. The protagonist must navigate personal loss, the complexities of adolescence, and the responsibilities of helping to establish a new colony, all while facing the unpredictable dangers of an alien world.

    The 14138th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  10. 610. The Human Comedy by William Saroyan

    "The Human Comedy" is a poignant narrative set during World War II in the small town of Ithaca, California, where the Macauley family grapples with the universal themes of love, loss, and hope. The story centers on young Homer Macauley, who takes on the responsibility of being the man of the house while his older brother is away at war. As a telegram messenger, Homer witnesses firsthand the joys and sorrows of his community, experiencing the growing pains of youth alongside the harsh realities of wartime America. Through a series of touching vignettes, the novel explores the resilience of the human spirit and the interconnectedness of human experiences.

    The 14172nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  11. 611. Alas, Babylon by Pat Frank

    "Alas, Babylon" is a post-apocalyptic novel set during the height of the Cold War. The story follows the residents of a small town in Florida as they struggle to survive after a nuclear attack devastates the United States. With limited resources and the breakdown of society, the townspeople must come together and rely on their ingenuity and resilience to rebuild their lives and create a new community in the aftermath of destruction.

    The 14190th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  12. 612. High-Rise by J. G. Ballard

    In a towering, self-contained apartment building, the veneer of civilized society begins to crumble as residents become increasingly isolated from the outside world. The novel explores the psychological and social breakdown of the inhabitants, who are divided by class and status within the high-rise. As tensions escalate, the building descends into chaos, with floors turning into battlegrounds and neighbors into adversaries. The story delves into themes of power, dehumanization, and the primal instincts that emerge when societal norms disintegrate, painting a chilling portrait of modern urban life.

    The 14204th Greatest Book of All Time
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  13. 613. The Year of the French by Thomas Flanagan

    "The Year of the French" is a historical novel set during the Irish Rebellion of 1798. The story provides a detailed account of the events leading up to the rebellion, the rebellion itself, and its aftermath, through the eyes of different characters from various social classes. The narrative explores the complex relationships between the Irish rebels, the British forces, and the French troops who came to aid the Irish, and the tragic consequences of their clash.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  14. 614. A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle

    "A Year in Provence" is a humorous and engaging memoir that chronicles a year in the life of a British couple who move to Provence, France. The book captures the charm and quirks of rural French life, as the couple adapt to their new home, navigate through the French bureaucracy, deal with local tradesmen, and savor the local cuisine and wines. The changing seasons and local customs are vividly described, providing a delightful and insightful view of life in Provence.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  15. 615. Dart by Alice Oswald

    Poem

    "Dart" is a narrative poem that traces the journey of the River Dart in Devon, England, from its source to the sea. The poem is a vivid exploration of the river's natural and human environments, and the voices of the people who live and work along its banks. It is a celebration of the river's vitality and diversity, and a meditation on the complex interplay between nature and human activity.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  16. 616. LaRose by Louise Erdrich

    In this emotionally charged novel, a man accidentally kills his neighbor's son while hunting and, in an act of ancient tribal tradition, offers his own son, LaRose, as compensation. The narrative explores the complexities of grief, justice, and cultural identity, as both families grapple with the loss of their sons and the impact of this decision. The story is set against the backdrop of the Ojibwe reservation in North Dakota, and the intertwining of the two families leads to unexpected relationships and the healing power of shared sorrow.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  17. 617. The Postman by David Brin

    In a post-apocalyptic America, where civilization has collapsed and survival is a daily struggle, a lone wanderer accidentally becomes a symbol of hope. Taking on the identity of a postal worker from the long-defunct United States Postal Service, he dons an old uniform and begins delivering mail, initially as a means to scavenge for food and shelter. However, his actions inspire others, and what starts as a deception evolves into a movement. The protagonist's journey transforms him into a leader who inadvertently unites disparate communities and reignites a sense of unity and purpose, becoming a catalyst for the reconstruction of society amidst the chaos and desolation of a fallen world.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  18. 618. One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

    "One Crazy Summer" is a heartwarming and poignant story set in the 1960s, following the journey of three sisters who travel to Oakland, California to spend the summer with their estranged mother. The girls find themselves immersed in the Black Panther movement and discover the harsh realities of racial inequality and social injustice. Through their experiences, they learn about love, resilience, and the importance of family.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  19. 619. Sweat by Lynn Nottage

    A Play

    "Sweat" is a powerful drama that delves into the lives of factory workers in Reading, Pennsylvania, as they grapple with deindustrialization, economic instability, and the resulting social tensions that arise in the early 2000s. The play explores the complexities of friendship, race, and class against the backdrop of a once-thriving steel town that is now facing job losses and the erosion of the American Dream. As the characters confront layoffs and picket lines, their close-knit relationships are tested, revealing the personal and collective struggles of a community in a world where work, which once promised security and identity, becomes a source of uncertainty and division.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  20. 620. Jerusalem by Jez Butterworth

    "Jerusalem" is a contemporary play set in the English countryside, which vividly captures the spirit of an eccentric local daredevil, Johnny "Rooster" Byron, on St. George's Day. The story delves into the tensions between the modern world and old English folklore, as Rooster, a defiant and charismatic outsider, tells outlandish tales and provides sanctuary to the town's youth against the encroaching forces of authority and gentrification. The narrative unfolds with a mix of humor and tragedy, exploring themes of national identity, social change, and the erosion of rural traditions in the face of progress and conformity.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  21. 621. Because Of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

    This heartwarming novel follows the story of a young girl named Opal who, upon moving to a new town with her father, a preacher, adopts a stray dog she names Winn-Dixie. The dog helps her make new friends in the community and heal her relationship with her father. Through her adventures with Winn-Dixie, Opal learns about friendship, forgiveness, and the importance of looking beyond first impressions. The story beautifully captures the essence of human connection and the ways in which our lives are intertwined with those around us, all seen through the innocent and hopeful eyes of a child and her loyal companion.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  22. 622. Mrs. Frisby And The Rats Of Nimh by Robert C. O'Brien

    This novel follows the adventurous tale of Mrs. Frisby, a widowed field mouse, as she embarks on a perilous journey to save her family. With her youngest son falling ill and their home threatened by the farmer's plow, Mrs. Frisby seeks the aid of the mysterious and highly intelligent rats of NIMH. These rats, having escaped from a laboratory where they were subjects of scientific experiments, possess advanced technologies and have built a secret, sophisticated society. As Mrs. Frisby delves deeper into the rats' world, she uncovers the secrets of their past and forms an unlikely alliance, showcasing themes of courage, sacrifice, and the quest for freedom.

    The 14228th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  23. 623. The Sweet Hereafter by Russell Banks

    "The Sweet Hereafter" is a poignant exploration of a small town's grief and search for justice following a tragic school bus accident that claims the lives of numerous local children. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of four different characters, each deeply affected by the tragedy. As the community grapples with the emotional aftermath and the complexities of blame, the story delves into themes of loss, community bonds, and the challenging path toward healing. The novel examines the impact of the disaster on the town's social fabric and the personal lives of its residents, revealing the enduring strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of profound sorrow.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  24. 624. The Man From Glengarry by Ralph Connor

    A Tale of the Ottawa

    Set in the rugged Canadian wilderness, this novel follows the life of a young man named Ranald Macdonald as he grows from a boy into a formidable figure within his community. Raised in the tough environment of Glengarry, he faces numerous challenges that test his strength, character, and moral values. Through hard work, determination, and the guidance of his mentors, Ranald navigates the complexities of love, rivalry, and personal ambition, ultimately emerging as a respected leader. The story vividly captures the spirit of the early settlers and the harsh yet beautiful landscape they inhabit.

    The 14342nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  25. 625. Let The Record Show by Sarah Schulman

    A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987-1993

    The book provides a comprehensive and deeply personal account of the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) movement in New York City from 1987 to 1993. Through a combination of oral histories, interviews, and the author's own experiences, it captures the grassroots activism, the diverse group of individuals involved, and the strategic actions that challenged government neglect and pharmaceutical greed. The narrative highlights the resilience, creativity, and solidarity of the activists who fought tirelessly for the rights and lives of people with AIDS, ultimately reshaping public health policy and societal attitudes towards the epidemic.

    The 14347th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon

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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