The Greatest Greek, Australian, Japanese "Fiction" Books From 1940 to 1949

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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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  1. 1. Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis

    In this novel, a young intellectual who is immersed in books and ideas embarks on a journey with a passionate and adventurous older man named Zorba. The two men have contrasting personalities, which leads to a series of philosophical discussions and adventures. The story is set in Crete and explores themes of life, death, friendship, love, and the struggle between the physical and intellectual aspects of existence. Zorba's zest for life and his fearlessness in the face of death inspire the young man to embrace a more physical and spontaneous way of living.

    The 335th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Man Who Loved Children by Christina Stead

    This novel explores the complex dynamics of the Pollit family, focusing on the relationship between the egotistical patriarch Sam and his idealistic daughter Louie. Set in Washington D.C. during the 1930s, the story provides a stark portrayal of a dysfunctional family, where Sam's delusional optimism and insensitivity clash with Louie's growing disillusionment and rebellion. The narrative delves into themes of family conflict, emotional abuse, and the struggle for individual identity within the confines of family expectations.

    The 436th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Makioka Sisters by Junichiro Tanizaki

    "The Makioka Sisters" is a novel set in pre-World War II Japan, following the lives of four sisters from a once-wealthy Osaka family. The story focuses on their struggles to maintain their traditional lifestyle and status in a rapidly changing society. The two elder sisters are concerned with finding a suitable husband for the third sister, while the youngest sister, more modern and independent, resists the constraints of her family's expectations. The book provides a detailed and nuanced exploration of the clash between tradition and modernity in Japanese society.

    The 1362nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Confessions of a Mask by Yukio Mishima

    The novel explores the life of a young man living in post-World War II Japan who grapples with his homosexuality in a society that does not accept it. The protagonist must wear a metaphorical mask to hide his true identity and desires, leading to a life of self-denial and inner turmoil. The narrative delves into themes of identity, sexuality, societal expectations, and the struggle for self-acceptance.

    The 2027th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai

    The narrative delves into the life of a troubled man who feels disconnected from society, viewing himself as fundamentally different from those around him. Through a series of notebooks, he recounts his life story, detailing his struggles with alienation, social anxiety, and a deep sense of personal inadequacy. As he grapples with his own identity and the expectations of others, his journey is marked by failed relationships, substance abuse, and an ongoing battle with his inner demons. The protagonist's quest for understanding and his inability to find his place in the world ultimately lead him down a dark and self-destructive path, reflecting a poignant exploration of the human condition and the difficulty of truly connecting with others.

    The 2132nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Honjin Murders by Seishi Yokomizo

    "The Honjin Murders" is a captivating mystery novel set in a rural village in Japan. When a young couple is found brutally murdered on their wedding night in an isolated mansion, the local police are baffled by the lack of evidence and suspects. As the investigation unfolds, dark family secrets, hidden motives, and a series of puzzling clues emerge, leading the reader on a thrilling journey to uncover the truth behind the Honjin murders.

    The 2226th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Living and the Dead by Patrick White

    "The Living and the Dead" is a novel that explores the lives and relationships of the Standish family living in London. The story delves into the complexities of the human condition, as it portrays the characters' struggles with their identities, societal expectations, and the inherent loneliness of existence. The narrative is characterized by its rich, introspective, and often satirical examination of the upper-middle-class life, the disillusionment of youth, and the search for meaning.

    The 2454th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Harp In The South by Ruth Park

    "The Harp In The South" is a compelling novel that delves into the lives of the Darcy family, living in the slums of Sydney in the 1940s. Through the eyes of the young protagonist, Roie, readers witness the struggles, dreams, and resilience of a family trying to make ends meet amidst poverty, violence, and societal prejudices. With vivid descriptions and memorable characters, the book explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a better life, ultimately painting a poignant portrait of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 3802nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Difficult Nights by Melpo Axioti

    This book is a poignant exploration of human emotions and experiences, delving into the depths of despair, love, and the quest for meaning in a tumultuous world. Through a series of interconnected stories, the narrative weaves together the lives of various characters, each struggling with their own inner turmoil and societal constraints. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Europe, the book captures the essence of the human condition, portraying the complex interplay between personal desires and the harsh realities of life. With its rich, lyrical prose, the novel invites readers to reflect on the nature of difficulty, the nights of the soul we all must navigate, and the glimmers of hope that sustain us through our darkest hours.

    The 3802nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Το Μυθιστόρημα της Κυρίας Έρσης by Nikos-Gabriel Pentzikis

    This novel is a rich tapestry that weaves together elements of Greek folklore, Byzantine mysticism, and modernist narrative techniques to explore the life and spiritual journey of its protagonist, Lady Ersi. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Thessaloniki, a city at the crossroads of cultures and religions, the story delves into themes of memory, identity, and the search for meaning amidst the chaos of existence. Through a blend of poetic language, philosophical reflections, and vivid imagery, the novel invites readers into a world where the boundaries between reality and myth blur, offering a unique and introspective look at the human condition.

    The 3802nd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Η Χαμένη Άνοιξη by Stratis Tsirkas

    This novel unfolds in the turbulent era of World War II, exploring the lives of individuals caught in the whirlwind of global conflict and personal turmoil. Set against the backdrop of Alexandria, a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, the narrative delves into the complexities of human relationships, political intrigue, and the quest for identity amidst the chaos of war. Through the eyes of its diverse characters, the story captures the essence of a lost spring, symbolizing both the literal and metaphorical loss experienced by those living through the war and its aftermath. The novel is a poignant reflection on the cost of conflict and the enduring hope for renewal and peace.

    The 3802nd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Hunting Gun by Yasushi Inoue

    "The Hunting Gun" is a poignant tale set in post-war Japan, revolving around the lives of three women who unknowingly share a common bond, a man with whom they are all involved. The man's secret love affairs and the emotional turmoil they cause are revealed through letters from each of the women. The narrative explores themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human emotions, painting a vivid picture of the human condition and the consequences of hidden passions.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Christ Recrucified by Nikos Kazantzakis

    The novel is set in a small Greek village under Turkish occupation, where villagers are chosen to portray key figures in the Passion of Christ during their annual Easter Passion play. As the story unfolds, the actors begin to embody their biblical roles in real life, leading to a profound transformation in their understanding of justice, power, and sacrifice. The protagonist, chosen to play Christ, becomes a revolutionary figure, challenging both the oppressive Turkish rulers and the corrupt Greek elders. The narrative explores themes of faith, betrayal, and redemption, culminating in a powerful reenactment of Christ's crucifixion, which blurs the lines between life and theater, sacred and secular.

    The 8750th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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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