The Greatest French, Chinese, Spanish "Fiction" Books Since 1970

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

Add additional genre filters

Countries

French

Chinese

Spanish

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. 26. Obabakoak by Bernardo Atxaga

    Obabakoak is a collection of interconnected stories that revolve around the inhabitants of a fictional Basque village named Obaba. The stories, which are a blend of the magical and the everyday, explore the complexities of human nature, as well as the rich history and culture of the Basque region. Themes of love, fear, tradition, and change are woven throughout, offering a nuanced and evocative portrait of a community and its people.

    The 3382nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. All Souls by Javier Marías

    "All Souls" is a novel that follows the experiences of a Spanish professor teaching at Oxford University. His life is filled with eccentric colleagues, a puzzling love affair, and a mysterious sense of intrigue. As the protagonist navigates through the academic world, he becomes entangled in a web of personal relationships and bureaucratic intricacies. The book is a blend of romance, suspense, and satire, with a poignant exploration of memory, longing, and the ephemeral nature of human relationships.

    The 3435th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Cleaned Out by Annie Ernaux

    "Cleaned Out" is a poignant autobiographical novel that delves into the life of a young woman coming of age in post-war France. The narrative follows her journey from a working-class background through her experiences at a boarding school and university, where she grapples with the social and sexual mores of the time. The protagonist's struggle with an unwanted pregnancy and the subsequent illegal abortion is a central and harrowing theme, reflecting the broader issues of female autonomy and the class divide. The novel is a stark and unflinching exploration of identity, memory, and the societal pressures that shape the lives of women.

    The 3469th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Dear Departed by Marguerite Yourcenar

    "Dear Departed" is a reflective and poignant exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of mortality, memory, and the enduring impact of the past on the present. Through a series of letters and personal narratives, the book weaves together the lives of various characters, each grappling with the loss of loved ones and the quest for meaning in the face of death. The narrative serves as a meditation on the ways in which individuals cope with grief and seek to preserve the essence of those they have lost, ultimately offering a profound commentary on the universal experience of mourning and the delicate balance between holding on and letting go.

    The 3469th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. No Kiss For Mother by Tomi Ungerer

    "No Kiss For Mother" is a heartwarming children's book that follows a young boy named Toby who is determined to find the perfect gift for his mother on her birthday. Along the way, Toby encounters various animals who offer him advice and assistance, leading him to realize that the greatest gift he can give his mother is a heartfelt kiss. Through colorful illustrations and a charming storyline, the book emphasizes the importance of love and affection within a family.

    The 3767th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. L'étrange Destin De Wangrin by Amadou Hampâté Bâ

    "L'étrange Destin De Wangrin" by "Amadou Hampâté Bâ" is a captivating narrative that delves into the life of Wangrin, a complex and enigmatic figure in West African society. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book explores Wangrin's rise from a humble clerk to a powerful and influential figure, as well as his eventual downfall. Set against the backdrop of colonialism and cultural clashes, the novel offers a thought-provoking exploration of identity, power dynamics, and the consequences of one's choices.

    The 3802nd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. La Saga/ Fuga de J. B./ The Saga/ Escape of J.B. by Gonzalo Torrente Ballester

    "La Saga/ Fuga de J. B./ The Saga/ Escape of J.B." is a complex narrative that explores the themes of reality and fiction, and their intersection. The story revolves around a mysterious character, J.B., who escapes from a novel into the real world. As he navigates this new realm, the boundaries between the fictional world he came from and the reality he now inhabits become increasingly blurred, leading to a surreal and thought-provoking exploration of the nature of existence.

    The 3802nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Count Julian by Juan Goytisolo

    "Count Julian" is a novel that explores the themes of betrayal, revenge, and cultural identity. The protagonist, an exiled Spaniard, reflects on the history of his homeland, Spain, and its past conquests and losses. He identifies with Count Julian, a historical figure who invited the Moors to invade Spain as an act of revenge against the Visigothic King Roderic. The narrative is a critique of Spanish nationalism and cultural identity, as the protagonist dreams of a new invasion to cleanse Spain of its past and present sins. The book's complex narrative structure, nonlinear timeline, and poetic language make it a challenging but rewarding read.

    The 3802nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Betty Blue: The Story of a Passion by Philippe Djian

    Betty Blue: The Story of a Passion is a tragic love story set in rural France. The novel follows the passionate and tumultuous relationship between a handyman and a free-spirited, mentally unstable woman named Betty. As their relationship deepens, Betty's mental health deteriorates, leading to a series of dramatic and heartbreaking events. The story is a raw and poignant exploration of love, mental illness, and the devastating consequences of passion.

    The 4031st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. My City: A Hong Kong Story by Xi Xi

    "My City: A Hong Kong Story" is a compelling narrative that provides an intimate exploration of Hong Kong through the author's eyes. The author weaves a rich tapestry of the city's unique culture, history, and identity, drawing on personal experiences, observations, and a deep love for the city. The book is a poignant tribute to Hong Kong, presenting the city's transformation over the years and the challenges it faces, while also highlighting its resilience and spirit.

    The 4053rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Whatever by Michel Houellebecq

    "Whatever" is a satirical novel that explores the life of a depressed and disillusioned computer programmer working for a software company in Paris. The protagonist's life is characterized by his cynicism and indifference towards his job, his failed relationships, and society at large. His only relief comes from his philosophical musings about life and the human condition. The novel is a bleak critique of modern society and the isolation and alienation brought about by technology and capitalism.

    The 4115th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Love Must Not Be Forgotten by Zhang Jie

    The narrative explores the complexities of love and memory through the lens of a woman who discovers her deceased mother's diary, which reveals a poignant and secret love affair. As the daughter delves into the pages, she confronts her own romantic dilemmas and the societal pressures of 1980s China. The story weaves together themes of personal freedom, the weight of traditional expectations, and the enduring impact of love across generations, prompting the protagonist to reflect on her life choices and the possibility of happiness in her future relationships.

    The 4123rd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. Spring Moon by Betty Bao Lord

    Set against the backdrop of a changing China from the late Qing Dynasty through the Cultural Revolution, the novel follows the life of Spring Moon, a young noblewoman of the Soong family. As she navigates the complexities of tradition and modernity, Spring Moon experiences personal tragedies and triumphs while witnessing the seismic shifts in Chinese society. Her story is one of love, loss, and resilience, reflecting the broader historical forces at play that reshape her country and her family's destiny. Through her eyes, readers experience the clash of old values with new ways, and the struggle to find harmony amidst chaos.

    The 4369th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. La Vie Et Demie by Sony Labou Tansi

    "La Vie Et Demie" is a thought-provoking novel set in an unnamed African country, where an oppressive regime has seized power and implemented a bizarre policy of dividing its citizens into "halves" and "wholes." The story follows the life of a young girl named Sophie, who is born as a "half" and faces discrimination and hardship due to her status. Through Sophie's experiences, the author explores themes of identity, inequality, and the dehumanizing effects of totalitarianism, offering a powerful critique of social and political systems.

    The 4455th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Le Jeune Homme De Sable by Williams Sassine

    "Le Jeune Homme De Sable" is a thought-provoking novel that follows the journey of a young man named Sissoko, who is torn between his traditional African roots and the allure of the Western world. Set in postcolonial Africa, the book explores themes of cultural identity, colonialism, and the impact of globalization on the younger generation. Through Sissoko's experiences and encounters, the author delves into the complexities of modernity and the challenges faced by individuals striving to find their place in a rapidly changing society.

    The 4455th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. A Light Comedy by Eduardo Mendoza

    "A Light Comedy" is a humorous tale set in Barcelona during the 1940s, centered around a middle-aged woman who, after losing everything in the Civil War, uses her wits and cunning to survive. She turns her apartment into a boarding house for single ladies, but when the business starts to falter, she decides to concoct a plan to marry a rich American. The novel is filled with a colorful cast of characters, and is a satirical commentary on the social and political climate of the time.

    The 4485th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Childhood by Nathalie Sarraute

    "Childhood" is a memoir that delves into the fragmented memories of the author's early years, exploring the complexities of growing up and the formation of identity. Through a series of vignettes, the narrative captures the nuanced emotions and experiences of a young girl navigating her way through the challenges of family dynamics, societal expectations, and self-discovery. The author employs an innovative literary style, characterized by introspection and a stream-of-consciousness approach, to reflect on the elusive nature of memory and the ways in which our childhood experiences shape who we become.

    The 4517th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. Ernest And Celestine by Gabrielle Vincent

    "Ernest And Celestine" is a heartwarming children's book about an unlikely friendship between a bear named Ernest and a young mouse named Celestine. Despite societal expectations and prejudices, the two form a deep bond and defy the norms of their respective worlds. Through their adventures and challenges, they teach readers the importance of acceptance, friendship, and the power of love.

    The 4571st Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The Heretic by Miguel Delibes

    "The Heretic" is a historical novel set during the Spanish Inquisition. It follows the life of a man born in 16th century Spain, who, despite being raised in a strictly Catholic environment, begins to question the teachings and practices of the Church. As he grows older, he becomes involved in the Protestant Reformation, risking his life in a society where heresy is punishable by death. This book explores themes of faith, religious persecution, and the struggle for freedom of thought.

    The 4770th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. Segu by Maryse Condé

    "Segu" is a historical novel that delves into the lives of the Traore family, a noble lineage within the Bambara Empire of Segu (present-day Mali) during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. As the region faces the pressures of colonialism, the slave trade, and religious upheaval from both Islam and Christianity, the family members experience profound transformations in their personal identities and loyalties. Through their diverse and often conflicting paths, the novel explores the complex interplay of social, political, and cultural forces shaping West Africa during a period of intense turmoil and change.

    The 4858th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. The Possibility Of An Island by Michel Houellebecq

    The novel explores the life and thoughts of a successful comedian who, disillusioned with the superficiality and decay of human relationships in a hedonistic society, becomes involved with a cult that seeks immortality through cloning and genetic manipulation. As the narrative alternates between the comedian's experiences and the reflections of his future cloned descendants, it delves into themes of existential despair, the search for meaning, and the consequences of eternal life. The story weaves a bleak and satirical tapestry of humanity's obsession with youth, sex, and death, ultimately questioning the very nature of human progress and happiness.

    The 4900th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Fantasia: An Algerian Cavalcade by Assia Djebar

    "Fantasia: An Algerian Cavalcade" is a multifaceted novel that intertwines personal narratives with the history of Algeria's resistance against French colonialism. Through a blend of autobiography, historical documentation, and fictional reimaginings, the book explores the complex layers of identity, memory, and struggle from the perspective of Algerian women. The narrative shifts across time, recounting both the 19th-century French invasion and the 20th-century war for independence, while delving into the author's own experiences and the broader cultural and linguistic challenges faced by Algerian society. The novel stands out for its poetic style and its innovative use of language to capture the voices of those often silenced in historical discourse.

    The 4928th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. Soldiers of Salamis by Javier Cercas

    This novel revolves around a true event during the Spanish Civil War, where a nationalist soldier spares the life of a famous poet who was about to be executed. The story is told from the perspective of a journalist who becomes obsessed with the incident and embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about what happened. As he delves deeper, he discovers the complexities of heroism, history, and memory, and is forced to question his own understanding of these concepts.

    The 5075th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. The Garlic Ballads: A Novel by Yan Mo

    The novel is a harsh critique of the Chinese government's agricultural policy. Set in 1980s China, it tells the story of the farmers of Paradise County, who are encouraged by the government to plant garlic, only to find that the government can't or won't buy their crops, leading to violent protests. The narrative is centered around three characters - Gao Yang, who has been arrested for leading the protests; his blind father, Gao Ma, who continues to struggle with the garlic harvest; and Jinju, the woman both men love. The book is a powerful exploration of corruption, love, the human spirit, and the struggle for justice in an oppressive regime.

    The 5172nd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. Mamy Wata Et Le Monstre by Veronique Tadjo

    "Mamy Wata Et Le Monstre" by Veronique Tadjo is a captivating tale that explores the relationship between humans and nature. Set in a coastal village, the story follows the adventures of a young girl named Mamy Wata, who discovers a mysterious monster wreaking havoc on her community. As she embarks on a journey to confront the monster, Mamy Wata learns valuable lessons about the importance of harmony and respect for the environment. With its vivid imagery and thought-provoking narrative, this book serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and the natural world.

    The 5172nd 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