The Greatest Canadian, Greek, Argentinian "Fiction" Books Since 1970

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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. 26. Generation X by Douglas Coupland

    The book is a novel that captures the disaffections of young adults growing up in the late 20th century, specifically those born in the late 1950s to the early 1980s. It follows the lives of three friends who have retreated to the California desert to escape the complexities and frustrations of the modern world. Through their stories, the novel explores themes of aimlessness, consumer culture, and the search for authenticity in a society saturated with media and technology. The characters' tales are interspersed with quirky definitions and cartoons that reflect their cynical, yet deeply yearning outlook on life, coining terms and concepts that resonate with a generation struggling to find its identity amidst economic and social uncertainty.

    The 2942nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. The Witness by Juan José Saer

    "The Witness" is a novel that explores the life of a young European boy who is the only survivor of a shipwreck in the 16th century. He is found and raised by a tribe of Indians in South America, where he spends ten years of his life. The boy is eventually found by a band of Spanish conquistadors and returns to Europe, where he becomes a well-respected scholar. The story unfolds as the man, now in his 90s, recounts his experiences and struggles to reconcile his European identity with his decade-long immersion in the tribal culture.

    The 3038th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Open Secrets: Stories by Alice Munro

    "Open Secrets: Stories" is a collection of eight short stories that delve into the complex lives of women, exploring themes of love, loss, and the secrets that bind and divide people. Set in various locations, from small-town Ontario to Australia, the stories feature characters grappling with their pasts, negotiating relationships, and confronting the mysteries of life. The narrative oscillates between past and present, revealing the profound and often unsettling truths hidden beneath the surface of ordinary lives.

    The 3063rd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage by Alice Munro

    "Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage" is a collection of nine short stories that explore the complexities of human relationships. Each story delves into the intricate web of emotions and experiences that define the human condition, including love, hate, friendship, courtship, and marriage. The characters are rendered with depth and nuance, their lives marked by moments of profound change and subtle transformation. The stories are set against the backdrop of rural and urban landscapes, offering a rich, evocative portrayal of life in all its complexities and contradictions.

    The 3076th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. The First Garden by Anne Hébert

    "The First Garden" is a historical fiction novel set in 17th-century Canada. It tells the story of a young woman who is sent to New France (now Quebec) to be a "Filles du roi" or "King's Daughter" - a program where women were sent to marry the men of New France in order to populate the colony. The protagonist struggles to adapt to her new life, facing harsh winters, cultural differences, and the challenges of frontier life while grappling with her feelings for a local trapper. The book explores themes of survival, love, and the clash of cultures.

    The 3382nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. The Pegnitz Junction by Mavis Gallant

    "The Pegnitz Junction" is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships and the nuances of life's experiences. The narratives, set in various European locales, explore themes of memory, identity, and the passage of time through the eyes of characters often caught between cultures and histories. The title story, which stands out in the collection, focuses on a young girl's coming-of-age during a train journey, symbolizing the transitions and connections that define the human condition. The stories are marked by their psychological depth, sharp observation, and the author's skillful prose, which captures the subtleties of her characters' inner worlds and the intricacies of their interactions with the world around them.

    The 3469th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. The Daughter by Pavlos Matesis

    "The Daughter" is a powerful novel set in Greece during the Second World War. The narrative follows the life of a young girl who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war. Her father, a communist, is executed by the Germans, and the girl is left to navigate the complexities of life, politics, and love in a world that is rapidly changing. The book offers a poignant exploration of the human capacity for resilience, survival, and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

    The 3613th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Astradeni by Eugenia Fakinou

    "Astradeni" is a coming-of-age novel set in post-World War II Greece. The story follows the life of a young girl named Astradeni, who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war and poverty. Despite the hardships she faces, Astradeni maintains a hopeful and imaginative spirit, often escaping into a world of myths and legends. The novel explores themes of resilience, the power of storytelling, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

    The 3690th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. The Censors by Luisa Valenzuela

    "The Censors" is a satirical short story that delves into the life of a man who takes a job as a censor at a government agency in an attempt to intercept and approve his own letter, which he had previously sent abroad. As he becomes increasingly absorbed in his role, he starts to censor letters with zeal, losing sight of his original purpose. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of power and the ease with which one can become complicit in oppressive systems, ultimately leading to a grim and ironic conclusion where the protagonist falls victim to the very system he sought to manipulate.

    The 3705th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Brown Girl In The Ring by Nalo Hopkinson

    Set in a dystopian future Toronto that has been abandoned by the government and cordoned off from the rest of Canada, the novel follows a young, spirited woman of Caribbean descent who must navigate the perilous, gang-ruled cityscape while harnessing her newfound, ancestral spiritual powers. As she grapples with her identity and the demands of the community that relies on her, she is drawn into a dangerous quest to save her dying grandmother and confronts a malevolent spirit. The story is a rich tapestry of Afro-Caribbean culture, folklore, and tradition, exploring themes of resilience, heritage, and the transformative power of love and family.

    The 3734th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Uncle Petros and Goldbach's Conjecture by Apostolos Doxiadis

    The novel follows the story of a young man who becomes fascinated by his reclusive and eccentric Uncle Petros. As he delves into his uncle's past, he uncovers Petros' obsession with proving Goldbach's Conjecture, a famous unsolved problem in number theory. This obsession led to Petros' alienation from society and ultimately his downfall. The book explores themes of mathematical obsession, family relationships, and the fine line between genius and madness.

    The 3768th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen

    In this humorous and cleverly illustrated children's book, a bear searches for his missing hat, asking various animals along the way if they have seen it. As the bear's frustration grows, readers are left to wonder if the bear will ever find his hat and what might happen when he does.

    The 4027th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay

    In a land where a ruthless sorcerer has erased the name and history of a once-proud province, a group of rebels fights to reclaim their identity and homeland. The story unfolds in a richly detailed fantasy world where magic and political intrigue intertwine, and the power of memory and the resilience of the human spirit are central themes. The rebels, each with their own personal vendettas and dreams, must navigate complex alliances and confront their own pasts as they strive to restore the name of their province and free it from the grip of tyranny. Their quest is fraught with challenges, as they face not only the sorcerer's formidable powers but also the difficulties of uniting a fractured people under a forgotten banner.

    The 4039th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. De Niro's Game by Rawi Hage

    The novel delves into the lives of two childhood friends navigating the treacherous landscape of war-torn Beirut. As the city crumbles under the weight of the Lebanese Civil War, the young men find themselves drawn into the violence and chaos that surrounds them. One chooses the path of emigration, seeking a new life abroad, while the other becomes embroiled in the militia warfare that dominates the streets. Their friendship is tested by the brutality of their environment, as they grapple with the moral complexities of survival, loyalty, and the devastating impact of conflict on the human spirit.

    The 4096th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Βιοτεχνία Υαλικών by Menis Koumandareas

    This novel delves into the life of a glass craftsman in Athens, exploring the intricate balance between tradition and the encroaching modernity of the 20th century. Through the protagonist's struggles and experiences, the narrative paints a vivid picture of the societal changes in Greece, highlighting the challenges faced by artisans trying to preserve their heritage and livelihoods amidst rapid industrialization and cultural shifts. The story is not just about the craft of glassmaking, but also a poignant commentary on the human condition, resilience, and the inevitable transformation of societies over time.

    The 4105th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Santa Evita by Tomás Eloy Martínez

    "Santa Evita" is a fictionalized account of the life and death of Eva Peron, the beloved First Lady of Argentina. The book delves into the mysterious journey of her embalmed corpse which was moved around the world and hidden for 16 years after her death. The narrative, interwoven with historical facts, explores the cult-like fascination and devotion that surrounded her during her life and continues after her death.

    The 4385th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. The Late-night News by Petros Markaris

    In "The Late-night News," a seasoned journalist is found murdered in his office. The investigation of the crime falls to a grizzled detective, who uncovers a web of corruption and deceit within the world of Greek media. As he delves deeper into the case, he finds that the journalist was working on a story that could have significant political implications, making the list of suspects long and dangerous. The detective must navigate through this complex world to find the killer, all while dealing with his own personal demons.

    The 4385th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. Fall On Your Knees by Ann-Marie MacDonald

    "Fall On Your Knees" is a multi-generational saga set in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, that explores themes of family, love, betrayal, and secrets. The story revolves around the Piper family, specifically four sisters, their father James, and their mother Materia. The narrative weaves through time, revealing the family's complex relationships, the impact of racial and cultural tensions, and the dark secrets that have shaped their lives. This novel is a deep exploration of family dynamics, love, and the power of secrets.

    The 4485th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The Summer Tree by Guy Gavriel Kay

    This fantasy novel is the first in a series that weaves a tale of five university students from Toronto who are transported to a magical world called Fionavar. Invited as guests to witness the celebration of a pivotal anniversary, they soon find themselves embroiled in a struggle against an ancient evil that threatens the very fabric of all worlds. Central to the story is the Summer Tree, a sacred object of sacrifice and rebirth, where one of the students must endure a harrowing trial that will affect the fate of both Fionavar and their own world. The narrative blends myth, legend, and personal growth, as each character confronts their destiny and the complex moral choices of a world filled with gods, power, and enchantment.

    The 4490th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. The Love of a Good Woman by Alice Munro

    "The Love of a Good Woman" is a collection of eight short stories, each delving into the complex nature of relationships, particularly focusing on women. The narratives explore various themes such as love, betrayal, death, and the often overlooked intricacies of everyday life. Set in small-town Canada, the stories are filled with characters grappling with their desires, secrets, and the unexpected turns of life, offering a profound and nuanced exploration of human behavior and emotions.

    The 4532nd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. The Beauty Of The Husband by Anne Carson

    "The Beauty of the Husband" is a poetic exploration of a failing marriage. Told in 29 tangos, the narrative unfolds the story of a woman who remains in love with her husband despite his numerous infidelities. The husband, a charming and deceitful character, is portrayed as a figure of magnetic attraction and revulsion, with his wife drawn to his charisma and repelled by his dishonesty. The book is a profound examination of love, betrayal, and the complex dynamics of relationships.

    The 4568th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. από το στόμα της παλιάς Remington by Giannis Panou

    This book is a captivating collection of short stories that delve into the human condition, exploring themes of love, loss, and the complexities of life through the lens of various characters and settings. Each story is meticulously crafted, offering a glimpse into the lives of individuals as they navigate their existence, with the old Remington typewriter serving as a symbolic thread that connects the narratives. The author masterfully weaves tales that are both poignant and thought-provoking, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and the universal truths that bind us all.

    The 4602nd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. Friend Of My Youth: Stories by Alice Munro

    The book is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships, memory, and the passage of time, often through the lens of women's experiences. Set primarily in small-town Canada, the narratives explore the lives of characters who confront personal betrayals, moral dilemmas, and the subtle yet profound moments that shape their identities. With a keen eye for detail and a masterful use of language, the author weaves tales that reveal the depth and nuance of ordinary life, capturing the universal truths that lie within the particularities of individual stories.

    The 4747th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. Mohawk Trail by Beth Brant

    "Mohawk Trail" is a poignant collection of stories and essays that delve into the lives and experiences of Native Americans, particularly focusing on the Mohawk community and other indigenous peoples. The narrative weaves together themes of identity, culture, and the struggles of living in a world where traditional ways are often at odds with modern society. Through a blend of personal reflection, historical accounts, and rich storytelling, the book offers a window into the resilience and complexities of Native American life, exploring the intersection of past and present, and the journey towards self-discovery and cultural preservation amidst the challenges of displacement and assimilation.

    The 4753rd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. Various Miracles by Carol Shields

    "Various Miracles" is a collection of short stories that explore the intricacies of human relationships and the unexpected events that shape our lives. With a blend of humor and poignancy, the narratives delve into the lives of ordinary individuals facing extraordinary moments, where miracles—both literal and metaphorical—occur in everyday settings. The stories examine themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of chance encounters, revealing the magic hidden within the mundane and the profound connections that can arise from the simplest of interactions.

    The 4753rd 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