The Greatest Hungarian, South African "Fiction, Historical 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 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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Fiction

Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

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Hungarian

South African

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  1. 1. Celestial Harmonies by Peter Esterhazy

    "Celestial Harmonies" is a historical novel that tells the story of the aristocratic Esterházy family, tracing their lineage from the late Middle Ages to the present day. The narrative is divided into two parts, with the first part featuring a series of vignettes about the family's ancestors, while the second part focuses on the experiences of the narrator's father under the Communist regime in Hungary. The novel is characterized by its intricate structure, complex themes, and lush, poetic language, offering a rich exploration of Hungarian history, family dynamics, and the human condition.

    The 2369th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. And They Didn't Die by Lauretta Ngcobo

    This novel explores the resilience and struggles of a group of women in a rural South African village during the apartheid era. As they grapple with oppressive laws, land seizures, and the forced labor system that sends their men to work in distant mines, the women band together to sustain their families and community. Their story is one of survival and solidarity in the face of systemic racism and sexism, highlighting the intersection of personal and political battles while showcasing the strength and endurance of women under extreme hardship.

    The 5106th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Third World Express by Mongane Serote

    "Third World Express" is a powerful and thought-provoking collection of poetry that explores the harsh realities of life in South Africa during apartheid. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, the author captures the struggles, hopes, and resilience of the marginalized communities, shedding light on the social and political injustices they face. With a blend of anger, sorrow, and determination, the poems in this book challenge the status quo and call for a more just and equal society.

    The 6110th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Jadviga Párnája by Pál Závada

    "Jadviga Párnája" is a historical novel set in a Hungarian village at the turn of the 20th century. It delves into the life of a young woman named Jadviga, who is of Polish descent, and her marriage to a Hungarian man, András. The narrative unfolds through a series of letters, diary entries, and other documents, painting a vivid picture of rural life, social norms, and the personal struggles of the characters. The novel explores themes of love, fidelity, identity, and the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a society grappling with change and the influences of modernity.

    The 6297th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. This Life by Karel Schoeman

    "This Life" is a reflective narrative that delves into the memories and experiences of an elderly South African woman as she nears the end of her life. Set against the backdrop of the 19th-century Boer society, the story unfolds through her introspective journal entries and letters, revealing the intimate details of her personal journey, her relationships, and the quiet struggles she endures. The novel poignantly explores themes of isolation, the passage of time, and the search for meaning, offering a contemplative look at the universal human condition through the lens of a solitary life lived amidst the vast landscapes of South Africa.

    The 6409th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. River God by Wilbur Smith

    Set in ancient Egypt, the novel follows the life of Taita, a multitalented and highly intelligent slave, who serves a prominent household. Taita's story is one of love, war, and intrigue, as he uses his wit and skills to navigate the complex political landscape of the time. He is deeply devoted to his mistress, Lostris, and her lover, Tanus, and becomes embroiled in their secret affair. As Egypt faces threats both from within and from invading Hyksos forces, Taita's loyalty and ingenuity are put to the test. His journey is filled with adventure, as he seeks to protect his loved ones and ensure the survival of the kingdom's legacy.

    The 6439th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Book Of Fathers by Miklós Vámos

    "The Book of Fathers" chronicles the lives of twelve generations of men from a Hungarian family, spanning over 300 years from the 18th century to the modern day. Each chapter focuses on one descendant, capturing the historical and personal challenges they face, from the rise and fall of empires to the intimate struggles of love and loss. The novel weaves a tapestry of Hungarian history and the family's legacy, marked by a mystical diary that is passed down from father to son, which possesses the power to influence the fate of its keeper. Through the generations, the book becomes a symbol of the family's heritage and the enduring connection between the past and the future.

    The 6603rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Age Of Iron by J M Coetzee

    In "Age of Iron," the narrative unfolds through the eyes of a terminally ill classics professor in apartheid-era South Africa. As she confronts her impending death, she forms an unlikely bond with a homeless alcoholic man. Through their interactions and the backdrop of a society rife with inequality and violence, the novel explores themes of morality, mortality, and the complexities of human relationships. The protagonist's personal journey is set against the harsh realities of an oppressive political system, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition and the struggle for dignity amidst chaos and decay.

    The 6898th 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