The Greatest Polish, Israeli "Fiction" Books Since 1910

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

Polish

Israeli

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. Twilight And Other Stories by Shulamith Hareven

    "Twilight and Other Stories" is a collection of evocative short stories that delve into the complexities of human experience, exploring themes of love, loss, identity, and the passage of time. The narratives, set against diverse backdrops, from ancient times to modern-day Israel, weave together a tapestry of characters each confronting their own moral dilemmas and emotional struggles. With a poetic and introspective style, the stories in this anthology invite readers to reflect on the subtle shades of humanity and the profound impact of seemingly ordinary moments.

    The 4986th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Cinnamon Shops by Bruno Schulz

    "Cinnamon Shops" is a collection of short stories that takes readers on a whimsical journey through the author's childhood memories. Set in a small town in Eastern Europe, the stories are filled with vivid descriptions and surreal elements, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. Through the eyes of the narrator, readers are transported to a world of enchantment, where everyday objects and experiences become magical and extraordinary. With its lyrical prose and evocative imagery, this book captures the essence of childhood wonder and the power of storytelling.

    The 5106th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. A Crown of Feathers and Other Stories by Isaac Bashevis Singer

    "A Crown of Feathers and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that delve into the human condition, often through the lens of Jewish culture and history. The tales are filled with elements of fantasy and folklore, exploring themes such as morality, love, loss, and the struggle between good and evil. The characters grapple with ethical dilemmas, personal identities, and the complexities of relationships, while the narrative style often combines realism with the supernatural, creating a unique blend of the mundane and the mystical.

    The 5758th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Collected Stories by Isaac Bashevis Singer

    The anthology is a compilation of short stories that delve into the complexities of human nature, morality, and faith, often through the lens of Jewish life in Eastern Europe and the immigrant experience in America. The tales, rich with folklore, mysticism, and philosophical introspection, explore themes of love, temptation, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The author's masterful storytelling weaves together the mundane with the supernatural, creating a tapestry of narratives that reflect the author's own Yiddish heritage and his keen observations of the human condition.

    The 5852nd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Flights by Olga Tokarczuk

    "Flights" is a fragmented and philosophical novel that explores the theme of travel and movement. Through a series of interconnected stories and reflections, the book delves into the nature of human existence, the complexities of modern life, and the desire for freedom and escape. With its poetic language and unconventional structure, "Flights" invites readers to contemplate the transient nature of time, the significance of journeys, and the search for meaning in a world constantly in motion.

    The 6158th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. The Cyberiad by Stanislaw Lem

    "The Cyberiad" is a collection of science fiction short stories that take place in a futuristic universe where robots and artificial intelligence are prevalent. The book follows the adventures of two master inventors, Trurl and Klapaucius, as they encounter various challenges and engage in extraordinary feats of engineering and problem-solving. Through witty and imaginative storytelling, the book explores themes of technology, creativity, and the nature of humanity, offering a captivating and thought-provoking reading experience.

    The 6648th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. The Island by Gustaw Herling

    "The Island" is a novel that delves into the psychological and moral complexities faced by individuals in a Soviet labor camp during World War II. Set on an isolated island in the White Sea, the narrative follows the protagonist, a Polish prisoner, as he grapples with the harsh realities of camp life, including brutal work conditions, the struggle for survival, and the moral dilemmas posed by collaboration and resistance. Through its vivid depiction of human endurance and the exploration of themes such as freedom, human dignity, and the nature of evil, the novel offers a profound commentary on the human condition under extreme duress.

    The 6651st Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Blood Of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski

    This novel is the first in a series that delves into a richly imagined fantasy world, where the fate of the realms hangs in the balance. It follows the story of a young girl who is destined for great power and the group of protectors, including a famed witcher, who must safeguard her from numerous forces seeking to control or destroy her. As political turmoil, ancient magic, and personal vendettas intertwine, the characters are drawn into a complex web of alliances and conflicts. The narrative explores themes of destiny, the nature of good and evil, and the impact of past choices on the present, all set against a backdrop of intricate world-building and vividly described battles.

    The 6930th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. At The Stone Of Losses by T. Carmi

    "At The Stone Of Losses" is a poetic exploration of memory, grief, and the enduring power of language. The work delves into the depths of personal and collective history, intertwining the author's own experiences with broader historical and mythological narratives. Through a tapestry of vivid imagery and emotive verse, the poet grapples with the themes of displacement, identity, and the search for meaning amidst the ruins of the past. The collection serves as a meditation on the ways in which we confront and commemorate loss, ultimately offering a poignant reflection on the human condition and our quest for understanding in a fragmented world.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Three Novels by Witold Gombrowicz

    "Three Novels" is a collection that brings together a trio of existential and absurdist works exploring the fluidity of identity, the nature of form, and the rebellion against societal norms. The narratives delve into the lives of characters who grapple with the pressures of social conformity, the absurdity of existence, and the struggle for authenticity in a world that constantly tries to impose its own definitions and structures. Through a blend of dark humor, philosophical musings, and surreal events, the collection presents a unique and critical examination of the human condition, challenging readers to question their own perceptions of reality and the roles they play within it.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. The Investigation by Stanislaw Lem

    "The Investigation" is a philosophical detective novel that delves into the bizarre occurrences of inexplicable human body disappearances from morgues across England. The protagonist, a young Scotland Yard lieutenant, is tasked with unraveling the mystery, which challenges the boundaries of reality and the rationality of scientific explanation. As the investigation unfolds, the narrative explores themes of existentialism, the nature of the universe, and the limits of human understanding, ultimately leaving readers questioning the very fabric of existence and the possibility of supernatural phenomena.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Selected Stories by I. L. Peretz

    "Selected Stories" is a collection of tales that delve into the complexities of Jewish life, blending elements of folklore, religious tradition, and modernity. The stories are set against the backdrop of Eastern Europe and offer a rich tapestry of characters, from humble villagers to wise rabbis, all portrayed with a deep sense of humanity and a touch of humor. The author explores themes of faith, morality, and the struggle for justice, often employing allegory and parable to convey profound truths about the human condition. This anthology serves as a window into the cultural and social dynamics of a bygone era, reflecting the author's keen insight into the challenges and triumphs of his people.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. The Brothers Ashkenazi by Israel Joshua Singer

    Set in the Polish city of Lodz during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the novel chronicles the lives of twin brothers whose fates diverge sharply as they grow up. One becomes a wealthy industrialist, embodying the ruthless capitalism of the era, while the other is drawn to the labor movement and socialism. Their personal rivalry and ideological clashes mirror the broader social and economic transformations of their time, including the impact of World War I and the rise of the labor movement. The narrative explores themes of identity, ambition, and the complex interplay between individual actions and historical forces, painting a vivid portrait of Jewish life in Eastern Europe before the Holocaust.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Yoshe Kalb by Israel Joshua Singer

    Set in the interwar period in a Polish shtetl, the novel delves into the life of a young, charismatic rabbi who becomes entangled in a complex web of passion, religious fervor, and community expectations. The protagonist, revered for his piety and learning, faces a profound moral dilemma when he is drawn to a beautiful, married woman, leading to a scandal that rocks the foundations of the traditional Jewish society. The narrative explores themes of faith, sin, and redemption, painting a vivid portrait of Eastern European Jewish life before the Holocaust.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. East River by Sholem Asch

    "East River" is a poignant narrative set in New York City during the early 20th century, exploring the lives of Jewish, Irish, and Italian immigrant communities coexisting in the Manhattan neighborhood along the East River. The novel delves into the complexities of cultural assimilation, religious tensions, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Through the intertwined stories of its diverse characters, it paints a vivid portrait of the struggles and triumphs faced by immigrants as they navigate the challenges of poverty, prejudice, and the search for identity in the melting pot of America.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. In The Heart Of The Seas by Shmuel Yosef Agnon

    The book is a historical novella that follows a group of devout Jews from the Old Yishuv in Jerusalem as they embark on a perilous journey to the land of Israel in the late 19th century. Through a blend of myth, legend, and reality, the narrative explores themes of faith, longing, and the hardships of travel as the characters confront the trials of the sea and their own spiritual quests. The story delves into the lives and aspirations of these pilgrims, who are driven by a deep yearning to return to their ancestral homeland and the holy city of Jerusalem, reflecting on the enduring connection between a people and their sacred geography.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Twenty One Stories by Shmuel Yosef Agnon

    "Twenty One Stories" is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of Jewish life, blending elements of folklore, religious tradition, and modernity. The tales, set against the backdrop of Eastern Europe and the Land of Israel, explore themes of faith, identity, exile, and redemption. The author's rich prose and deep understanding of human nature illuminate the struggles and aspirations of his characters, offering a window into the soul of a people and the cultural crossroads at which they stand. Through a tapestry of narratives, the book captures the essence of a bygone era while reflecting timeless truths about the human condition.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. The Palace Of Shattered Vessels by David Shahar

    The book is a rich tapestry of life in Jerusalem during the British Mandate period, weaving together the stories of a diverse cast of characters, from a young Jewish boy to an aging British consul. Set against the backdrop of a city steeped in history and conflict, the narrative explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. As the characters' lives intersect in unexpected ways, the novel delves into the cultural and political tensions of the time, painting a vivid portrait of a society on the brink of monumental change. Through its lyrical prose and intricate storytelling, the book captures the essence of Jerusalem's enduring mystique and the fragile beauty of human experience.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. Arabesques by Anton Shammas

    "Arabesques" is a novel that intricately blends autobiography, fiction, and historical narrative to explore the complexities of identity and heritage. Set primarily in the Arab village of Fassuta in northern Israel, the story delves into the life of the narrator and his extended family, tracing their roots and experiences across generations and borders. Through a tapestry of memories, stories, and shifting perspectives, the novel examines themes of displacement, belonging, and the cultural and political tensions in the Middle East, all while challenging the boundaries between history and memory, and truth and fiction.

    The 7859th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. A Dress Of Fire by Dalia Ravikovitch

    "A Dress of Fire" is a poignant collection of poetry that delves into the complexities of human emotion, exploring themes of love, loss, and the enduring human spirit. The poet employs rich imagery and a deep understanding of the human condition to weave together verses that reflect on personal and collective experiences. Through a tapestry of metaphor and allegory, the poems confront the harsh realities of life, war, and mortality, while also celebrating the delicate beauty found in everyday moments. The collection serves as a testament to the resilience of the soul and the transformative power of grief and hope.

    The 7871st Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Past Continuous by Yaakov Shabtai

    The novel is a rich and intricate tapestry of life in Israel during the 1970s, following the intertwined lives of three men—Cecil, Goldman, and Israel—who are grappling with existential crises after the death of their friend, Yehuda. The narrative delves deeply into their personal histories, relationships, and the complex web of their social milieu, painting a vivid portrait of urban Israeli society. Through a stream-of-consciousness style, the book explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a world marked by political turmoil and cultural change, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition.

    The 7905th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Badenheim 1939 by Aharon Appelfeld

    The book is a haunting allegory of the Holocaust, set in a fictional Austrian resort town on the eve of World War II. As the summer progresses, the vacationers, mostly Jewish intellectuals and artists, remain oblivious to the ominous changes occurring around them, even as their freedoms are incrementally stripped away and they are eventually herded towards an unknown, but clearly grim, fate. The narrative captures the denial and complacency of the characters in the face of impending doom, serving as a chilling reminder of the dangers of ignoring the signs of societal collapse and the atrocities it can lead to.

    The 7964th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. A Late Divorce by A. B. Yehoshua

    The novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics and personal identity through the lens of an Israeli family facing the impending divorce of the elderly parents. As the estranged father returns from America to finalize the divorce, the reunion with his adult children and their mother in Israel brings to the surface long-simmering tensions, secrets, and unresolved emotional conflicts. Set against the backdrop of Passover, the narrative unfolds in a series of perspectives from each family member, revealing the intricate web of relationships and the individual struggles within the family unit. The story examines themes of love, betrayal, and the search for self amidst the trials of familial obligations and societal expectations.

    The 8239th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. A Perfect Peace by Amos Oz

    Set against the backdrop of a kibbutz in Israel during the 1960s, the novel delves into the life of a young man struggling with the expectations of his family and community. As he grapples with his own desires and the looming specter of war, the protagonist embarks on a journey of self-discovery that leads him away from the communal life of the kibbutz. The narrative explores themes of individuality, freedom, and the complexities of human relationships, all while painting a vivid portrait of Israeli society during a time of tension and change.

    The 8239th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. See Under by David Grossman

    The book is a profound exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the journey of self-discovery. Through the eyes of a young boy, the narrative delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, the pain of loss, and the quest for identity. As the protagonist embarks on a search for his missing father, he encounters a series of enigmatic clues that lead him to confront the harsh realities of adulthood and the secrets that adults keep hidden. The story is a poignant reflection on the transition from childhood innocence to the understanding of the adult world, and the ways in which our loved ones shape our perception of ourselves and our place in the world.

    The 8458th 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