The Greatest Australian, Irish, Japanese "Fiction, Speculative Fiction" Books Since 1950

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

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.

Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
Follow on:

Genres

Fiction

Speculative Fiction

Speculative fiction is an umbrella genre encompassing narrative fiction with supernatural or futuristic elements. This includes genres such as science fiction, fantasy, horror, supernatural fiction, superhero fiction, utopian and dystopian fiction, apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic fiction, and alternate history. The unifying factor of speculative fiction is its departure from the narrative constraints of reality, exploring imaginative and often profound questions that challenge our understanding of the world and our place within it. These stories often delve into themes like the human condition, social commentary, and the exploration of philosophical and ethical dilemmas through the lens of the fantastical or the yet-to-be-possible. By pushing the boundaries of the known, speculative fiction invites readers to consider the myriad possibilities of existence and the potential consequences of our actions in worlds that are, at once, vastly different from and eerily similar to our own.

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Australian

Irish

Japanese

Add additional country filters

Date Range

Filter

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
  1. 1. Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro

    The novel is a haunting tale of three friends, who grow up together at a seemingly idyllic English boarding school. As they mature, they discover a dark secret about their school and the purpose of their existence, which is to become organ donors for the rest of society. The story is a profound exploration of what it means to be human, the morality of scientific innovation, and the heartbreaking reality of love and loss.

    The 387th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Third Policeman by Flann O'Brien

    "The Third Policeman" is a darkly comedic and surreal novel about a nameless narrator who, after committing a murder to raise funds for his scholarly obsession with a bizarre pseudo-scientific theory, finds himself wandering in an eerie, nightmarish landscape. He encounters strange characters, including a pair of eccentric policemen who are obsessed with bicycles, and becomes embroiled in a series of increasingly absurd and ludicrous situations. The novel explores themes of existence, reality, and the nature of hell, with a twist ending that forces the reader to question everything they've read.

    The 463rd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

    A 12-year-old genius and criminal mastermind, Artemis Fowl, kidnaps a fairy, Captain Holly Short, for a large ransom of gold with the help of his bodyguard, Butler, to restore his family's fortune. In the process, he discovers an underground world of armed and dangerous fairies. The fairies fight back with magic, cunning, and technological weapons leading to a high-stakes battle of wits.

    The 1605th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Akira by Katsuhiro Otomo

    Set in a post-apocalyptic Neo-Tokyo, this graphic novel follows the lives of two teenage friends, Tetsuo and Kaneda, who are members of a biker gang. After a motorcycle accident, Tetsuo develops telekinetic abilities and is taken by the military, which fears his growing powers might unleash another cataclysmic event similar to the one that destroyed Tokyo years earlier. As Tetsuo's powers spiral out of control, Kaneda, along with a group of rebels and psychics, must try to stop him and uncover the secrets of a mysterious entity known as "Akira," which is at the heart of the government's experiments and the city's destruction. The narrative explores themes of power, corruption, and the quest for identity against a backdrop of cyberpunk visuals and intense action.

    The 2265th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Uzumaki by Junji Ito

    The book is a horror manga that centers around a small fog-bound Japanese town cursed by supernatural events involving spirals. As the obsession with the spiral pattern begins to spread among the townspeople, it manifests in increasingly bizarre and terrifying ways, warping both the minds of the inhabitants and the very fabric of the town itself. The narrative follows a high school teenager and her boyfriend as they struggle to understand and survive the madness engulfing their once-peaceful home, revealing the spiral's hypnotic and monstrous influence on both the human psyche and the natural world.

    The 2893rd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Sea And Summer by George Turner

    "The Sea and Summer" by George Turner is a dystopian novel set in a future Australia where climate change and economic disparity have created a stark divide between the rich and the poor. The story follows the lives of two families, the Kents and the Coulters, as they struggle to survive in a decaying city plagued by extreme weather conditions and social unrest. As tensions rise and the gap between social classes widens, the characters must confront the harsh realities of their world and make difficult choices to ensure their survival.

    The 4853rd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. City of Bohane by Kevin Barry

    Set in the year 2053, the book is a dystopian tale about the city of Bohane, a place filled with vice, violence, and tribal warfare. The city is controlled by a gangster named Logan Hartnett, who is challenged by his estranged wife Macu and her lover, a rival gang leader. The narrative is filled with colorful characters, rich language, and a unique blend of futuristic and archaic elements, creating a vivid, darkly comic vision of a future Ireland.

    The 5474th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Ancient Future Trilogy by Traci Harding

    The series blends elements of fantasy, science fiction, and historical fiction, following the journey of a young woman who is transported back in time to the age of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. With her knowledge of the future and her emerging psychic abilities, she becomes a pivotal figure in the ancient world, influencing historical events and intertwining her destiny with legendary characters. As she navigates the challenges of her new life, she also uncovers mysteries that link the past, present, and future, revealing a timeless battle between light and darkness. Her adventures across time explore themes of destiny, reincarnation, and the interconnectedness of all things.

    The 6560th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Nerilka's Story by Anne McCaffrey

    Set in the universe of Pern, "Nerilka's Story" follows the tale of a young woman from a noble family who is disillusioned with her father's apathy towards a devastating plague. After her family's refusal to aid the suffering population, she takes matters into her own hands, assuming a false identity to distribute medicine and supplies to those in need. Along her journey, she faces challenges and finds herself in the midst of political intrigue, personal growth, and unexpected romance. The story is a testament to courage, compassion, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 6648th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Deltora Quest Series by Emily Rodda

    The series is a collection of fantasy novels that follow the journey of a young boy named Lief, who is tasked with finding the seven lost gems of the Belt of Deltora. Accompanied by his companions Barda and Jasmine, he must travel across the land of Deltora, facing numerous challenges and adversaries, in order to restore the belt's magical properties and overthrow the tyrannical rule of the Shadow Lord. Each gem is hidden in a perilous location and guarded by a fearsome guardian, requiring courage, wit, and perseverance to be retrieved. The quest is not only a physical adventure but also a journey of self-discovery for the heroes as they learn the importance of friendship, trust, and bravery.

    The 6830th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Chronicles Of Pern: First Fall by Anne McCaffrey

    In this collection of novellas set within a richly detailed science fiction world, human colonists on the planet Pern face unexpected challenges as they adapt to their new home. The book chronicles the earliest days of the settlement, including the discovery of the deadly Thread which periodically rains from the sky, decimating all organic matter it touches. The settlers must band together, forging a symbiotic relationship with the native dragon-like creatures to combat this threat. As they struggle to survive and maintain their technology-dependent lifestyle, they lay the foundation for the unique society that will define future generations on Pern.

    The 7093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Emissary by Yoko Tawada

    "The Emissary" is set in a dystopian future Japan, where the nation has isolated itself from the rest of the world following a series of environmental disasters. The story focuses on the relationship between Mumei, a frail but wise child, and his great-grandfather Yoshiro, who cares for him in a society where the roles of the young and old have reversed. The elderly are burdened with health and vitality, while the young suffer from weakness and disease. Through their daily struggles and interactions, the novel explores themes of resilience, the bonds of family, and the enduring human spirit in the face of societal and ecological breakdown.

    The 7142nd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Harsh Cry Of The Heron by Lian Hearn

    "Harsh Cry of the Heron" is set in a mythical, feudal Japan-like setting and continues the tale of the Otori clan, focusing on Lord Takeo and his efforts to maintain peace across the Three Countries. Despite his commitment to a peaceful reign and the abolishment of violent practices like warfare and capital punishment, Takeo faces inevitable betrayal and threats from within his own ranks and from external enemies. As prophecies of doom surface, Takeo struggles with maintaining his ideals and the harsh realities of leadership, leading to a dramatic and poignant conclusion that tests the limits of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice.

    The 7810th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Rage by Steve Gerlach

    "Rage" is a chilling psychological thriller that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. The narrative follows the life of a man who, after experiencing a traumatic event, finds himself on a relentless quest for vengeance. His journey is marked by a transformation from an everyday individual into a person consumed by anger and a desire for retribution. As he descends further into his own personal hell, the lines between justice and revenge blur, leading to a gripping and harrowing exploration of the consequences of unbridled rage and the impact it has on one's soul and the world around them.

    The 8060th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Rules Of Summer by Shaun Tan

    "Rules of Summer" is a visually stunning and thought-provoking picture book that explores the complex relationship between two young boys during their summer vacation. Through a series of surreal and imaginative illustrations, the book delves into themes of friendship, power dynamics, and the unspoken rules that govern their interactions. With its rich imagery and open-ended narrative, "Rules of Summer" invites readers to reflect on the nuances of human relationships and the lessons learned during the season of growth and change.

    The 8226th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Swan Book by Alexis Wright

    "The Swan Book" is set in a dystopian future where climate change has wreaked havoc on Australia, transforming it into a landscape of perpetual floods. The story centers around Oblivia Ethylene, a mute and traumatized Aboriginal girl who is found living in a wrecked ship grounded in a tree. She is taken under the wing of Bella Donna, a European woman who marries the first Aboriginal president of Australia. The narrative weaves elements of Aboriginal mythology, environmental disaster, and the political struggles of indigenous peoples, exploring themes of displacement, identity, and resilience.

    The 8325th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Memory Police by Yoko Ogawa

    In this dystopian novel, an unnamed island is under the control of a mysterious authoritarian force known as the Memory Police, who systematically eliminate objects from the world, erasing memories associated with them from the minds of the populace. The story follows a young novelist who struggles to retain her memories and maintain her identity in a society where both are under constant threat. As more and more disappears, she becomes involved in a dangerous endeavor to hide her editor, who is unable to forget, risking everything to preserve the remnants of their shared past and the essence of their humanity.

    The 8415th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. One Piece by Eiichiro Oda

    The book is a thrilling adventure that follows a young, ambitious pirate whose dream is to find the world's ultimate treasure, known as "One Piece," and thereby become the Pirate King. Along his journey, he gathers a diverse crew of loyal companions, each with their own unique abilities and dreams. They sail the Grand Line, facing off against other pirates, the World Government, and various powerful enemies, all while exploring mysterious islands, uncovering hidden secrets, and forging strong bonds of friendship. The story is renowned for its intricate plot, dynamic characters, and a world rich with fantastical elements and lore.

    The 8459th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Sabriel by Garth Nix

    In a world where the living is bordered by the realm of the dead, a young woman named Sabriel inherits the role of Abhorsen from her father, tasked with keeping the dead at bay and maintaining the balance between life and death. Raised in a boarding school away from the magical Old Kingdom, she must quickly master the art of necromancy and wield the power of the Charter—a set of magical symbols—to navigate through perilous lands and confront a powerful evil that threatens to overwhelm the world of the living. Along her journey, Sabriel is aided by a mysterious cat-like creature and a young man ensnared by a powerful spell, as she seeks to fulfill her destiny and restore harmony to her fractured world.

    The 8468th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. The Alchemyst by Michael Scott

    This novel introduces readers to a world where ancient magic and modern day collide, centered around the life of Nicholas Flamel, a legendary alchemist who possesses the secret to eternal life. When his powerful book, the Codex, is stolen, Flamel and his wife must rely on the help of two teenage siblings, Sophie and Josh Newman, to recover it. The story unfolds across a backdrop of myth and history, weaving together a thrilling adventure that spans across continents and involves figures from lore and legend. As the twins discover their own untapped powers, they become central to the battle between the forces of good and evil, with the fate of the world hanging in the balance.

    The 8575th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. The Ghost In The Shell by Shirow Masamune

    This science fiction narrative delves into a future where cybernetic enhancements and artificial intelligence have blurred the lines between humanity and machines. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and cyber warfare, the story follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg operative of a government agency, as she hunts a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master. Through her pursuit, the narrative explores themes of identity, consciousness, and the nature of the soul, questioning what it truly means to be human in a world where the physical and digital realms are indistinguishably intertwined.

    The 9363rd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Permutation City by Greg Egan

    "Permutation City" by Greg Egan is a science fiction novel set in a future where people can create digital copies of themselves, known as "copies," and upload their consciousness into virtual reality. The story follows a computer scientist named Paul Durham who is obsessed with creating a perfect copy of himself. As he delves deeper into the possibilities of digital existence, he uncovers profound philosophical questions about identity, consciousness, and the nature of reality. Egan's thought-provoking narrative explores the ethical and existential implications of creating and living as digital beings.

    The 9456th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. A Bride's Story by Kaoru Mori

    "A Bride's Story" by Kaoru Mori is a captivating historical manga that follows the life of Amir Halgal, a young woman from a nomadic tribe in Central Asia during the 19th century. Set in a time of arranged marriages and cultural traditions, the story beautifully explores Amir's journey as she navigates the challenges and joys of becoming a bride. With stunning artwork and intricate details, the book offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of life in a bygone era, highlighting themes of love, family, and the resilience of women.

    The 9645th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Tender Morsels by Margo Lanagan

    "Tender Morsels" is a dark and evocative fantasy novel that explores themes of trauma, healing, and the complexities of human emotion. The story follows Liga, a young woman who, after enduring unspeakable abuse, escapes to a parallel world where she can raise her daughters in peace, away from the horrors of her past. However, the barrier between her safe haven and the real world begins to weaken, and the intrusion of outsiders threatens the sanctuary she has created. As her daughters grow and encounter the challenges of their own desires and the allure of the harsher, real world, the novel delves into the difficult journey of confronting pain, the power of resilience, and the bittersweet process of letting go for the sake of growth and transformation.

    The 9681st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Tokyo Ghoul by Sui Ishida

    In a dark and twisted version of Tokyo, creatures known as ghouls lurk in the shadows, surviving by consuming human flesh. The story follows a young college student who, after a fateful encounter with a ghoul, becomes a half-ghoul himself. Thrust into a hidden world filled with danger and hunger, he must navigate the blurred lines between human and monster, grappling with his new reality and the moral complexities of his insatiable appetite. As he struggles to maintain his humanity, he finds himself caught in the crossfire between ghoul factions and the relentless ghoul investigators determined to eradicate their kind.

    The 9684th 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