The Greatest Scottish, Australian "Fiction" Books Since 1990

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 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.

Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
Follow on:

Genres

Fiction

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Scottish

Australian

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. 1. True History of the Kelly Gang by Peter Carey

    This historical novel is a fictionalized account of the life of Australian outlaw Ned Kelly, told in the form of a journal written to his daughter. The narrative explores Kelly's life from childhood, his family's struggles with poverty and the law, his involvement in horse thievery, and his eventual formation of the Kelly Gang. The story culminates with the gang's infamous standoff with the police at Glenrowan, providing a humanizing perspective on a figure often portrayed as a ruthless criminal.

  2. 2. Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh

    This novel is a gritty, raw portrayal of a group of heroin addicts living in Edinburgh, Scotland. The narrative is non-linear and told from multiple perspectives, providing a deep dive into the minds and lives of these characters. The story explores themes of poverty, addiction, friendship, and the struggle to escape one's circumstances, all set against the backdrop of a bleak urban landscape. It is known for its strong Scottish dialect, graphic content, and dark humor.

  3. 3. How Late It Was, How Late by James Kelman

    The novel is a stream-of-consciousness narrative told from the perspective of Sammy, a shoplifter and ex-convict from Glasgow who wakes up in an alley after a two-day drinking binge to find he is completely blind. As Sammy struggles to navigate his new reality, he contends with bureaucratic systems, confronts his past, and grapples with his relationships, all while trying to understand and adjust to his sudden loss of sight. The story is a gritty exploration of working-class life, the human condition, and the nature of reality.

  4. 4. Cloudstreet by Tim Winton

    "Cloudstreet" is a sweeping family saga set in post-World War II Australia, following two families, the Pickles and the Lambs, who come to live together in a large, ramshackle house on Cloud Street over two decades. The story explores their struggles, triumphs, and the ways they are haunted and blessed by a mysterious spiritual presence. The novel is a celebration of endurance, unity, and the many forms of love, set against the backdrop of a changing Australia.

  5. 5. Remembering Babylon by David Malouf

    The novel explores the life of a young man who, after being shipwrecked, is raised by Aboriginals in 19th century Australia. After sixteen years, he attempts to reintegrate into European society, but is met with suspicion and hostility due to his adopted culture and lifestyle. The book delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the clash between Aboriginal and European cultures.

  6. 6. The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

    The book follows the story of Precious Ramotswe, a woman in Botswana who opens the country's first and only female-run detective agency. She uses wisdom, intuition, and her understanding of human nature to solve various cases, from missing husbands to wayward daughters and con men. The story is not just about solving mysteries, but also provides a deep insight into the culture, landscape and people of Botswana.

  7. 7. Morvern Callar by Alan Warner

    The novel follows the story of Morvern Callar, a young woman living in a small Scottish port town, who wakes up one Christmas morning to find her boyfriend has committed suicide. Instead of reporting his death, she decides to erase all evidence of it, appropriates his unpublished novel as her own, and uses his money to go on a holiday in Spain. The book explores themes of grief, identity, and personal transformation, as Morvern navigates her way through life with a detached and indifferent attitude.

  8. 8. Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts

    The novel follows the life of a convicted Australian bank robber and heroin addict who escapes from prison and flees to India. Settling in the bustling city of Mumbai, he assumes a new identity and immerses himself in the local culture, forming a close bond with the people in a slum. As he navigates his new environment, he becomes entangled in various criminal activities, including running a free health clinic, working for the Bombay mafia, and fighting in Afghanistan. Throughout his journey, he grapples with love, forgiveness, and his quest for redemption, all while exploring themes of good and evil, friendship, and the complexities of the human spirit.

  9. 9. Use Of Weapons by Iain Banks

    "Use of Weapons" is a gripping science fiction novel that follows the life of a skilled and enigmatic mercenary named Cheradenine Zakalwe. The story alternates between two timelines, exploring Zakalwe's dangerous missions and his troubled past. As the narrative unfolds, secrets are revealed, and the true nature of Zakalwe's character is gradually unveiled, leading to a shocking and thought-provoking conclusion. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and philosophical undertones, this book offers a thrilling and introspective exploration of war, morality, and the human condition.

  10. 10. The Arrival by Shaun Tan

    "The Arrival" is a wordless graphic novel that tells the story of a man who leaves his troubled homeland to seek a better life in an unknown country. The man's journey is filled with strange, surreal experiences as he navigates a new culture, language, and way of life, all while missing his family. The book explores themes of immigration, displacement, and hope in a beautifully illustrated, silent narrative.

  11. 11. The House Tibet by Georgia Savage

    "The House Tibet" is a novel that explores the complex tapestry of family life, identity, and the enduring impact of history on personal lives. The story follows a woman who, after the death of her mother, inherits a house filled with mysterious artifacts and echoes of the past. As she delves into her mother's secretive history, she uncovers connections to Tibet and a family legacy shaped by love, loss, and the struggle for freedom. The narrative weaves together the present and the past, revealing how the political turmoil of Tibet has rippled through generations, affecting the lives of those far removed from its borders. The protagonist's journey is one of self-discovery and reconciliation, as she comes to terms with her heritage and the threads that bind her to the enigmatic House Tibet.

  12. 12. Personality by Andrew O'Hagan

    "Personality" by Andrew O'Hagan is a thought-provoking exploration of identity and fame in the digital age. The book follows the story of a famous actress who decides to create a digital replica of herself to preserve her legacy. As the replica interacts with fans and becomes more popular, it raises questions about authenticity, privacy, and the blurred lines between reality and virtuality. With O'Hagan's sharp writing and insightful observations, "Personality" delves into the complexities of modern fame while challenging readers to reflect on the nature of self in an increasingly interconnected world.

  13. 13. Carry Me Down by M.J. Hyland

    The novel is a coming-of-age story about a young boy named John Egan who lives in Ireland with his parents. John possesses an unusual gift for detecting lies, which he believes makes him a "human lie detector." As he navigates the complexities of adolescence, his family's financial struggles, and his own emotional turmoil, John's unique ability begins to cause more harm than good. The story explores themes of truth, deception, and the lengths one will go to preserve self-identity.

  14. 14. The Great Fire by Shirley Hazzard

    "The Great Fire" is a historical novel set in the aftermath of World War II. The story follows a British war hero, Aldred Leith, who is sent to occupied Japan to research the effects of the war on the country's culture. During his stay, he falls in love with a young girl, Helen, who is the daughter of the Australian camp commander. Despite the age difference and societal expectations, the two form a deep bond. The book explores themes of love, war, cultural change, and personal transformation.

  15. 15. Kieron Smith, Boy by James Kelman

    "Kieron Smith, Boy" is a novel that explores the life and mind of a young boy growing up in a working-class family in post-war Glasgow. The narrative is presented from the boy's perspective and is marked by his unique voice and thought process. The story follows his experiences at home, at school, and in the larger world, his struggles with societal expectations, and his dreams of becoming a shipbuilder. The book is a poignant portrayal of childhood, exploring themes of class, identity, and the complexities of growing up.

  16. 16. Trumpet by Jackie Kay

    "Trumpet" is a novel that explores the complexities of identity and love through the life of Joss Moody, a celebrated jazz trumpeter who, upon his death, is revealed to have been biologically female. The revelation shocks his public and his family, particularly his wife Millie, who had kept his secret for decades, and their son Colman, who feels betrayed and angry. The narrative delves into the perspectives of various characters, including a tabloid journalist eager to exploit the story, as they grapple with their memories of Joss and their own identities in light of the truth. The novel poignantly addresses themes of gender, secrecy, and the intricate dynamics of familial relationships.

  17. 17. Tomorrow, When The War Began by John Marsden

    The book follows a group of teenagers who return from a camping trip to discover that their country has been invaded and their families taken prisoner. As they grapple with the harsh reality of their situation, they must transform from carefree adolescents into resourceful and determined fighters, struggling to survive and launch a guerrilla war against the occupying forces. The story explores themes of friendship, survival, and the loss of innocence, as the characters are thrust into a brutal conflict that forces them to confront the complexities of adulthood and warfare.

  18. 18. Looking For Alibrandi by Melina Marchetta

    The novel is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of a high school girl of Italian-Australian descent, living in Sydney. Throughout her final year at a prestigious Catholic school, she navigates the complexities of her family's immigrant history, her identity, and the social pressures of adolescence. As she deals with her own personal crises, including meeting her estranged father and grappling with an unexpected tragedy, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, challenging the expectations of her family and society to ultimately find her place in the world.

  19. 19. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

    In a seemingly idyllic beachside town, three women's lives become entangled when their children start kindergarten. As the school year progresses, secrets, lies, and betrayals slowly unravel, leading to a shocking incident that will change their lives forever. With a mix of humor, suspense, and poignant moments, this gripping novel explores the complexities of motherhood, friendship, and the consequences of keeping secrets.

  20. 20. The Riders by Tim Winton

    The novel follows the turbulent journey of an Australian man who travels to Ireland with his young daughter to reunite with his wife, only to discover upon arrival that she has mysteriously disappeared. As he searches across Europe for his missing wife, grappling with the uncertainty of her fate and the challenge of caring for his daughter alone, he is forced to confront his own shortcomings and the reality of his crumbling marriage. The narrative is a haunting exploration of hope, despair, and the complexities of love and identity, set against a backdrop of richly depicted landscapes that mirror the protagonist's inner turmoil.

  21. 21. The Ancient Future Trilogy by Traci Harding

    The series blends elements of fantasy, science fiction, and historical fiction, following the journey of a young woman who is transported back in time to the age of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. With her knowledge of the future and her emerging psychic abilities, she becomes a pivotal figure in the ancient world, influencing historical events and intertwining her destiny with legendary characters. As she navigates the challenges of her new life, she also uncovers mysteries that link the past, present, and future, revealing a timeless battle between light and darkness. Her adventures across time explore themes of destiny, reincarnation, and the interconnectedness of all things.

  22. 22. Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart

    "Shuggie Bain" is a heart-wrenching tale set in 1980s Glasgow, Scotland, centered on a young boy, Shuggie, who is struggling with his mother's deteriorating mental health and alcoholism. As he tries to navigate his own burgeoning sexuality in a harsh, unforgiving environment, he also strives to care for his mother, who is trapped in a cycle of addiction and abusive relationships. The book gives a stark portrayal of poverty, addiction, love, and the human spirit's resilience.

  23. 23. Ice Station by Matthew Reilly

    In this high-octane thriller, an elite team of American Marines is dispatched to a remote Antarctic research station after a distress signal indicates the discovery of an unknown entity buried deep in the ice. Upon arrival, the team finds themselves embroiled in a deadly battle with foreign commandos who are also intent on securing the mysterious find. As the soldiers navigate treacherous ice caverns and confront the harsh elements, they uncover a secret that could change the course of history, all while fighting to survive against overwhelming odds and prevent the artifact from falling into the wrong hands.

  24. 24. Jessica by Bryce Courtenay

    The novel is a gripping tale of a young Australian woman's resilience and determination in the face of overwhelming adversity. Born into a life of hardship in the bush, Jessica is a tomboy who is more at home with horses and fencing than in the kitchen. When her dreams and rights are trampled by her family's betrayal and a corrupt legal system, she must fight to clear her name and seek justice. Set against the backdrop of World War I and the harsh Australian outback, her story is one of love, loss, and the unyielding spirit of a woman who refuses to be broken by the world.

  25. 25. Deltora Quest Series by Emily Rodda

    The series is a collection of fantasy novels that follow the journey of a young boy named Lief, who is tasked with finding the seven lost gems of the Belt of Deltora. Accompanied by his companions Barda and Jasmine, he must travel across the land of Deltora, facing numerous challenges and adversaries, in order to restore the belt's magical properties and overthrow the tyrannical rule of the Shadow Lord. Each gem is hidden in a perilous location and guarded by a fearsome guardian, requiring courage, wit, and perseverance to be retrieved. The quest is not only a physical adventure but also a journey of self-discovery for the heroes as they learn the importance of friendship, trust, and bravery.

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