The Greatest Argentinian, Irish, Spanish "Fiction" Books Since 1980

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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. A Belfast Woman by Mary Beckett

    The book is a poignant collection of short stories that delve into the lives of women from Belfast, Northern Ireland, during the tumultuous times of the Troubles. Through a series of intimate narratives, the author explores the complex emotions, daily struggles, and the resilience of women as they navigate a society riven by political conflict. The stories offer a nuanced portrayal of the female experience, highlighting themes of family, love, loss, and the quest for personal identity against a backdrop of violence and social upheaval.

    The 4118th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. 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 4380th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Days Without End by Sebastian Barry

    "Days Without End" is a historical fiction novel that follows the life of an Irish immigrant who enlists in the U.S. Army in the 1850s. The protagonist's experiences include fighting in the Indian Wars and the Civil War, as well as falling in love with a fellow soldier. The novel explores themes of identity, love, and survival in a brutal and unforgiving era of American history.

    The 4384th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. 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 4480th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. The House Of Splendid Isolation by Edna O'Brien

    The book tells the story of an old woman living in isolation in a grand but dilapidated house in rural Ireland. Her quiet life is disrupted when a fugitive on the run from the law invades her home. As she's forced to coexist with him, she begins to reflect on her own past and the history of the Irish people, leading to a complex exploration of themes such as loneliness, regret, and the struggle for national identity.

    The 4734th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. 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 4766th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne

    This novel follows the story of a young boy who moves from Berlin to a house near a concentration camp during World War II. Unaware of the grim reality of his surroundings, he befriends another boy on the other side of the camp fence. The two develop a deep friendship despite the horrific circumstances, leading to a devastating and unforgettable ending.

    The 4783rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. The Impenetrable Madam X by Griselda Gambaro

    "The Impenetrable Madam X" is a provocative play that delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations. Set against a backdrop of surrealism and absurdity, the narrative follows the titular character, a woman shrouded in mystery and power, who interacts with various other characters in a series of disjointed scenes. Through sharp dialogue and symbolic interactions, the play explores themes of identity, power dynamics, and the struggle for understanding within the confines of a world that oscillates between the real and the fantastical. The work challenges audiences to question the nature of reality and the masks people wear in their daily lives.

    The 4796th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Loving And Giving by Molly Keane

    "Loving And Giving" is a novel set in early 20th-century Ireland, revolving around the life of a young girl named Nicandra, who is raised in the grandeur of her family's estate, Ardbrack. As she matures into adulthood, Nicandra is confronted with the harsh realities of her family's cruelty and the societal expectations of her time. The story captures her journey of self-discovery and transformation as she navigates through personal betrayal, love, and loss, ultimately leading her to a profound act of generosity that reflects her growth and the novel's themes of compassion and resilience.

    The 4980th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. 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 5069th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Lantern Slides by Edna O'Brien

    "Lantern Slides" is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships and the intricacies of life in Ireland. The narratives, rich with the author's lyrical prose, explore themes of love, loss, and the struggles of the human condition. Through a tapestry of vivid characters, from young girls to old men, the stories capture the nuances of Irish society, its traditions, and the transformative power of storytelling itself. The book serves as a poignant reflection on the bittersweet nature of existence, where moments of joy and sorrow are intertwined, much like the ephemeral images of a lantern slide show.

    The 5117th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Circle Of Friends by Maeve Binchy

    The novel centers around a group of friends from a small town in Ireland who embark on their university journey in Dublin in the 1950s. As they navigate the complexities of young adulthood, their relationships are tested by love, betrayal, and societal expectations. The story primarily follows the kind-hearted Benny and the beautiful and independent Eve as they form new friendships, confront personal challenges, and experience the pain and joy of first loves. The narrative explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the transition from adolescence to adulthood, capturing the essence of Irish life and the universal intricacies of human connections.

    The 5117th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. La Dama Número Trece by José Carlos Somoza

    This novel is a thrilling blend of mystery, horror, and fantasy, revolving around a struggling writer who becomes the target of a secret society known as "The Thirteen Ladies". These shadowy figures have the ability to manipulate reality through the power of words and storytelling. As he is drawn deeper into their world, he must uncover their secrets and find a way to survive their deadly games. The narrative is a rich exploration of the power of language and mythology, with a suspenseful plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    The 5336th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. 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 5486th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Fools of Fortune by William Trevor

    "Fools of Fortune" is a tragic tale that follows the lives of the Quinton family, an Anglo-Irish family living in Ireland, during the early 20th century. The family's fortune takes a turn for the worse after a devastating fire, believed to be an act of revenge by Irish nationalists, claims the lives of several family members. The surviving members are left to grapple with their loss, guilt, and the political turmoil of their time, leading to a cycle of self-destruction and a desperate search for redemption.

    The 5665th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Collected Stories by Frank O'Connor

    "Collected Stories" is an anthology that brings together a wide range of short stories exploring the intricacies of life in Ireland. The tales delve into the human condition, often focusing on themes of childhood, family dynamics, personal freedom, and the social fabric of Irish communities. The author's keen observations and deft storytelling bring to life a cast of characters that are both unique and universal, capturing the humor, tragedy, and paradoxes inherent in everyday experiences. Through these narratives, the collection paints a rich and varied portrait of Irish society, its people, and the transformative power of storytelling itself.

    The 5745th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Selected Stories by William Trevor

    "Selected Stories" is a collection of short stories by acclaimed author William Trevor. The book features some of Trevor's most memorable and haunting tales, exploring themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. With his signature style of understated elegance and quiet, observant prose, Trevor creates characters that are both ordinary and extraordinary, capturing the subtle nuances of their lives and the emotions that drive them. From the Irish countryside to London's bustling streets, these stories offer a glimpse into the human experience and the ways in which we navigate the world around us.

    The 5830th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. We All Love Glenda So Much And Other Tales by Julio Cortazar

    This collection of short stories delves into the surreal and the everyday with equal finesse, exploring the boundaries of reality and the quirks of human relationships. The narratives range from the titular tale, which examines the obsessive adoration of a famous actress, to more abstract and fantastical explorations of human experience. The author's masterful prose and innovative storytelling techniques invite readers to question the nature of truth and fiction, often blurring the lines between the two, while presenting a series of vignettes that are both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

    The 6098th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The Complete Dramatic Works Of Samuel Beckett by Samuel Beckett

    This book is a comprehensive collection of Samuel Beckett's dramatic works, showcasing his unique style and exploration of human existence. From the iconic "Waiting for Godot" to lesser-known plays, Beckett's works delve into themes of despair, absurdity, and the human condition. With his minimalist approach and masterful use of language, Beckett's plays continue to captivate and challenge readers, offering a profound reflection on the complexities of life.

    The 6122nd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. Lamb by Bernard MacLaverty

    The novel explores the complex relationship between a young Irish boy, Owen Kane, and Brother Michael Lamb, a priest questioning his faith and vocation at a bleak reform school in Ireland. When Lamb inherits money from his father, he decides to escape the oppressive institution with Owen, whom he sees as a victim of its harshness. The two embark on a journey to find freedom and redemption, but as they navigate the outside world, they are confronted with the harsh realities and moral dilemmas that challenge Lamb's intentions and the possibility of a new life for both of them. The story delves into themes of love, guilt, and the search for meaning in a world that often seems devoid of it.

    The 6404th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Death In Summer by William Trevor

    This novel delves into the life of a widower grappling with the sudden loss of his wife in an accident, leaving him to care for their infant daughter alone. Amidst his grief, he encounters a series of potential nannies, each bringing their own complexities and the past into his meticulously ordered world. The narrative weaves through themes of loneliness, the search for connection, and the shadows cast by past actions, as the protagonist navigates the challenges of new fatherhood and the intrusion of an obsessed stranger. Set against a backdrop of everyday English life, the story unfolds with subtlety and depth, exploring the nuances of human relationships and the quiet moments that define and disrupt our lives.

    The 6430th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. The Birds Of The Innocent Wood by Deirdre Madden

    "The Birds of the Innocent Wood" is a captivating novel that explores the intricate dynamics of family relationships and the lasting impact of past traumas. Set in Ireland, the story follows a young woman named Alice as she navigates the complexities of her family's history, uncovering long-held secrets and confronting the ghosts of her past. With beautifully crafted prose and a keen eye for detail, the author delves into themes of memory, identity, and the power of forgiveness, creating a poignant and thought-provoking narrative that will resonate with readers.

    The 6462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. The Blackwater Lightship by Colm Toibin

    This novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics, reconciliation, and the AIDS crisis in 1990s Ireland. It tells the story of a young man who, after being diagnosed with AIDS, retreats to his grandmother's house in a small Irish village to spend his final days. His estrangement from his family is challenged when his sister and mother come to care for him, leading to a poignant exploration of unresolved tensions, the power of forgiveness, and the strength of familial bonds in the face of adversity and societal prejudice. Through its intimate portrayal of a family's struggle, the narrative weaves a compelling tale of love, loss, and the search for understanding.

    The 6496th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. The South by Colm Tóibín

    "The South" by Colm Toibin is a compelling novel that follows the journey of a young Irish woman named Katherine as she leaves her troubled marriage behind and embarks on a new life in Spain. Set against the backdrop of political unrest and cultural differences, Katherine's experiences in the vibrant and mysterious south of Spain shape her identity and challenge her perceptions of love, art, and self-discovery. With rich prose and nuanced characters, Toibin explores themes of longing, transformation, and the complexities of human relationships in this captivating tale.

    The 6510th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. The Forgotten Waltz by Anne Enright

    The novel is a poignant exploration of an adulterous affair set against the backdrop of the economic downturn in Ireland. It follows the story of Gina Moynihan as she reflects on her passionate, yet complicated relationship with Sean Vallely, a man she meets at a party and with whom she embarks on an affair, despite both being married to other people. The narrative delves into themes of love, desire, and the consequences of their illicit relationship, particularly in the context of Sean's ailing daughter, Evie, who becomes a symbol of the affair's impact on the families involved. The story is a candid and lyrical examination of the intricacies of marriage, memory, and the choices that shape our lives.

    The 6561st 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