The Greatest Ghanaian, Norwegian "Fiction" Books Since 1990

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 '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. Sophie's World: A Novel About the History of Philosophy by Jostein Gaarder

    "Sophie's World" is a unique and intriguing novel that intertwines the narrative of a young girl named Sophie with a comprehensive history of Western philosophy. Sophie begins receiving mysterious letters from an unknown philosopher and gradually becomes engrossed in the world of philosophy. The book uses Sophie's journey to explore philosophical concepts and theories, from ancient to modern times, in an accessible and engaging way, making it an excellent introduction to the subject for readers of all ages.

  2. 2. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

    This epic novel traces the lineage of two half-sisters from 18th century Ghana to present day America. One sister is sold into slavery and shipped to America, while the other is married off to a British slaver and remains in Africa. The book follows their descendants through the generations, exploring the lasting impact of slavery and colonialism on Black lives. The narrative showcases the struggles, resilience, and triumphs of each generation, providing a deep and personal view into the historical events and societal changes that shaped their lives.

  3. 3. Out Stealing Horses by Per Petterson

    The novel is a poignant exploration of a man's relationship with his father and his own identity. Set in Norway, it follows the protagonist's decision to live in solitude after the death of his wife and sister. Through a series of flashbacks, he recalls his childhood, particularly the summer of 1948 when he lived with his father in the country. As he delves into his past, he uncovers his father's involvement in the resistance during World War II and the lasting impact it had on their relationship and his own life. The narrative intertwines the past and the present, reflecting on themes of loss, betrayal, and the complexity of human relationships.

  4. 4. Changes by Ama Ata Aidoo

    "Changes" is a novel that explores the complexities of modern African life, particularly for women, through the story of its protagonist, a young woman named Esi. After enduring an unhappy marriage, Esi decides to divorce her husband in pursuit of independence and personal fulfillment. She then enters into a polygamous marriage with a man named Ali, believing it will allow her more freedom and respect. However, as the narrative unfolds, Esi confronts the realities and challenges of her choices, including societal expectations, the intricacies of love, and the struggle for a sense of identity amidst the changing cultural landscape of contemporary Ghana. The novel delves into themes of feminism, tradition, and the evolving roles of women in society.

  5. 5. Selected Short Stories Of Cora Sandel by Cora Sandel

    The collection of short stories by the Norwegian author offers a rich tapestry of human experience, capturing the subtle nuances of everyday life with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the human condition. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Scandinavia, the stories delve into themes of love, loss, identity, and the struggle for self-expression. The author's lyrical prose and empathetic character portrayals invite readers into intimate worlds where ordinary moments reveal profound truths, and the quiet struggles of her characters resonate with universal significance.

  6. 6. Cutting The Rose by Efua Doorkenoo

    "Cutting The Rose" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, culture, and the power dynamics within a Ghanaian community. Set in the 1960s, the story follows the life of a young woman named Akosua, who must navigate the expectations placed upon her as a woman in a patriarchal society while also grappling with her own desires and ambitions. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the author explores themes of tradition, love, and the pursuit of self-discovery in a changing world.

  7. 7. Sosu's Call by Meshack Asare

    "Sosu's Call" tells the story of a young boy named Sosu, who is born without the ability to walk. Despite this physical limitation, Sosu possesses a remarkable talent for carving beautiful objects out of wood. When his village is hit by a devastating storm, Sosu's bravery and resourcefulness are put to the test as he must find a way to save his community from the aftermath of the disaster. Through determination and the power of his artistic gift, Sosu becomes a symbol of hope and inspiration for his village.

  8. 8. The Redbreast by Jo Nesbø

    "The Redbreast" is a gripping thriller that follows the life of Detective Harry Hole as he investigates a series of mysterious murders that seem to be connected to events from World War II. As he delves deeper into the case, Hole uncovers a web of conspiracy, betrayal, and political intrigue that spans decades and threatens to shake the foundations of his own life. With its complex characters, intricate plot, and atmospheric setting, "The Redbreast" keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the final page.

  9. 9. The Half Brother: A Novel by Lars Saabye Christensen

    "The Half Brother" is a compelling narrative that follows the life of a young man named Barnum Nilsen. Born into a Norwegian family with a mysterious past, Barnum navigates through life with a half-brother, Fred, who is both his best friend and his rival. As Barnum grows older, he becomes a successful writer, but his personal life is marked by loss, loneliness, and the weight of his family's secrets. The book is a profound exploration of identity, love, and the bonds of family.

  10. 10. Wife Of The Gods by Kwei Quartey

    In a small village in Ghana, a young woman's body is found in a sacred forest, sparking an investigation led by Detective Inspector Darko Dawson. As he delves into the case, Darko uncovers a web of secrets and corruption that reaches high into the country's political elite. Along the way, he must confront his own personal demons and navigate the complexities of his culture and beliefs. With vivid descriptions of Ghanaian life and a gripping plot, "Wife Of The Gods" is a compelling crime novel that explores themes of tradition, power, and the clash between modernity and ancient customs.

  11. 11. A Death in the Family by Karl Ove Knausgaard

    "A Death in the Family" is a deeply personal and introspective narrative that delves into the complexities of familial relationships, childhood, death, and memory. The protagonist, a writer, is forced to confront his past and his relationship with his alcoholic father after his death. The novel explores the impact of this death on the protagonist's life and his struggle to come to terms with his complicated feelings of love, resentment, and guilt. The narrative is a profound exploration of the human condition, the intricacies of family dynamics, and the lasting impact of grief and loss.

  12. 12. Melancholy by Jon Fosse

    This book delves into the life of Lars Hertervig, a young and impoverished painter from Norway in the 19th century, who grapples with the torment of unrequited love and the burgeoning realization of his own mental illness. Set against the backdrop of his studies at the Düsseldorf Academy of Art, the narrative explores Hertervig's descent into madness, interweaving his intense relationship with nature, his struggles with societal expectations, and his profound isolation. Through a lyrical and fragmented prose, the novel poignantly captures the essence of melancholy and the artist's tumultuous journey towards understanding his own mind and art.

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