The Greatest Books of All Time on Identity

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 410 '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. Last Afternoons With Teresa by Juan Marsé

    Set in 1950s Barcelona, the story revolves around Manolo, a young working-class man who becomes infatuated with Teresa, a beautiful and affluent girl from a different social stratum. As Manolo navigates the complexities of their relationship, he grapples with issues of identity, class disparity, and the illusion of upward mobility. The narrative delves into the contrasting worlds of the rich and the poor, highlighting the societal tensions and personal conflicts that arise from their intersection. Through Manolo's eyes, the novel paints a vivid picture of post-war Spain, marked by dreams, disillusionment, and the harsh realities of life.

    The 835th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Notebook Of A Return To The Native Land by Aimé Césaire

    This book is a powerful, lyrical exploration of identity, colonialism, and the African diaspora. Through a blend of surrealist imagery and impassioned prose, the narrative delves into the author's personal journey of self-discovery and his reflections on the cultural and political struggles of his homeland. The work is a poignant meditation on the pain of displacement and the enduring quest for belonging and empowerment in the face of historical oppression.

    The 1108th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Los Gozos Y Las Sombras by Gonzalo Torrente Ballester

    El Señor Llega

    Set in a small Galician town in the early 20th century, the novel intricately weaves the lives of its inhabitants, focusing on the power struggles, social dynamics, and personal ambitions that shape their destinies. Through a rich tapestry of characters, the story explores themes of tradition versus progress, the influence of the church, and the complexities of human relationships. The narrative delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals as they navigate love, betrayal, and the pursuit of power, painting a vivid portrait of a community in transition.

    The 1690th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Our Ancestors by Italo Calvino

    The Cloven Viscount, The Baron in the Trees, The Nonexistent Knight

    The book is a trilogy of allegorical novellas that explore the human condition through fantastical narratives. Each story delves into themes of identity, duality, and the struggle for personal integrity. The first novella follows a nobleman who becomes split into two halves, each representing different aspects of his personality. The second tale features a young man who chooses to live in the trees, rejecting societal norms to find his own path. The final story centers on a knight who exists only as an empty suit of armor, symbolizing the quest for self and the essence of being. Together, these stories weave a rich tapestry of philosophical inquiry and imaginative storytelling.

    The 1690th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Celtic Tales by Hugo Pratt

    The Legend of the Irish King

    The book weaves together a series of interconnected stories set in the early 20th century, following the enigmatic adventurer Corto Maltese as he navigates the mystical and tumultuous landscapes of Ireland and Great Britain. Through encounters with a diverse cast of characters, including revolutionaries, mystics, and mythological beings, the narrative explores themes of freedom, destiny, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Richly illustrated and imbued with a sense of historical and cultural depth, the tales blend reality with folklore, creating a captivating tapestry of adventure and intrigue.

    The 2389th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Holy Week by Louis Aragon

    A Novel of the French Resistance

    Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous final days of the Paris Commune in 1871, the narrative follows the journey of a disillusioned aristocrat, who, after abandoning his privileged life, navigates the chaos and moral complexities of a city in revolt. As he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each embodying different facets of society and revolution, he grapples with questions of identity, loyalty, and the true cost of freedom. The story weaves together historical events and personal introspection, offering a poignant exploration of the human condition amidst political upheaval.

    The 2437th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Le Roman Inachevé by Louis Aragon

    This book is a poignant and introspective collection of poems that delves into the author's personal experiences, emotions, and reflections on life. It explores themes of love, loss, memory, and the passage of time, blending autobiographical elements with broader social and historical contexts. The work is characterized by its lyrical beauty and emotional depth, offering a rich tapestry of the author's inner world and his observations of the changing world around him. Through its unfinished nature, the book invites readers to contemplate the ongoing journey of life and the ever-evolving nature of human existence.

    The 2437th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Wound by Malick Fall

    Set in post-colonial Senegal, the story follows the life of a young boy named Nalla who grapples with the complexities of his cultural identity and the lingering effects of colonialism. As he navigates the challenges of growing up, Nalla witnesses the struggles of his community, including the generational conflicts and the clash between traditional values and modern influences. Through his eyes, the narrative explores themes of resilience, identity, and the enduring scars left by historical injustices.

    The 2437th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Gemini by Michel Tournier

    The novel explores the intertwined lives of twin brothers, Jean and Paul, who grow up in post-World War II France. Their bond is both profound and complex, as they navigate their individual identities while remaining deeply connected. The story delves into themes of duality, identity, and the human condition, examining how their relationship evolves over time and the impact of external influences on their lives. The narrative is rich with philosophical reflections and vivid descriptions, offering a deep exploration of the nature of human connections and the quest for self-understanding.

    The 2484th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Three To Kill by Jean-Patrick Manchette

    A Noir Novel

    The novel follows Georges Gerfaut, a disillusioned Parisian businessman who becomes embroiled in a violent and chaotic series of events after witnessing a murder. As he is pursued by relentless hitmen, Gerfaut is forced to abandon his mundane life and confront his own survival instincts. The story delves into themes of existential dread, the randomness of violence, and the thin veneer of civilization, all while maintaining a gripping, fast-paced narrative that explores the transformation of an ordinary man into someone capable of extraordinary actions.

    The 2531st Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Prose Of The Trans Siberian by Blaise Cendrars

    A Poem in Prose

    The book is a poetic travelogue that captures the essence of a journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway, blending vivid imagery, personal reflections, and historical context. It intertwines the narrator's experiences with the vast, often harsh landscapes of Siberia, creating a tapestry of emotions and observations that reflect both the external environment and the internal state of the traveler. The narrative is rich with symbolism and explores themes of adventure, displacement, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.

    The 2573rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Oriental Tales by Marguerite Yourcenar

    "Oriental Tales" is a collection of short stories that delve into the rich tapestry of Eastern folklore and mythology, blending elements of fantasy, history, and human emotion. Each tale is a journey through different cultures and epochs, exploring themes of love, fate, and the quest for meaning. The stories are imbued with a sense of timeless wisdom and poetic beauty, offering readers a glimpse into the profound and often mystical aspects of the human experience. Through evocative prose and vivid imagery, the collection captures the essence of the Orient, inviting readers to reflect on the universal truths that transcend time and place.

    The 2611th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Ellis Island by Georges Perec

    An Attempt at Exhausting a Place in Paris

    The book explores the historical and emotional significance of Ellis Island, the gateway through which millions of immigrants passed on their way to a new life in America. Through a blend of personal reflections, historical accounts, and poignant imagery, it delves into the hopes, dreams, and struggles of those who sought refuge and opportunity in the United States. The narrative captures the essence of the immigrant experience, highlighting the island's role as a symbol of both hope and hardship in the journey toward the American dream.

    The 2671st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. The Spirits Of The Earth by Catherine Colomb

    The novel delves into the intricate lives of a Swiss family, exploring themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time. Through a series of fragmented and non-linear narratives, the story unfolds in a dreamlike manner, revealing the complex relationships and hidden secrets that bind the characters. The prose is rich and evocative, capturing the haunting beauty of the Swiss landscape and the ephemeral nature of human existence. The book challenges traditional storytelling, offering a deeply introspective and poetic meditation on the human condition.

    The 2722nd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Place Of The Star by Patrick Modiano

    The narrative explores the life of Raphael Schlemilovitch, a young Jewish man navigating the complexities of identity and survival in Nazi-occupied Paris. Through a series of surreal and fragmented episodes, the protagonist grapples with his heritage, the pervasive anti-Semitism of the time, and his own sense of self. The story delves into themes of memory, history, and the haunting presence of the past, painting a poignant and often disorienting picture of a man caught between worlds.

    The 2722nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Ego Monster by Sayd Bahodine Majrouh

    The book explores the psychological and philosophical journey of a man grappling with his inner self and the concept of ego. Through a series of introspective reflections and encounters, the protagonist delves into the complexities of human nature, identity, and the often-destructive power of the ego. The narrative weaves together elements of mysticism, existential inquiry, and personal revelation, ultimately offering a profound meditation on the struggle for self-awareness and the quest for inner peace.

    The 2895th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Oppermanns by Lion Feuchtwanger

    Set in 1933 Berlin, the story follows the affluent and cultured Oppermann family as they face the rising tide of Nazi persecution. As the political climate becomes increasingly hostile, the family members grapple with their identities, moral choices, and the harsh realities of anti-Semitism. Their once-secure lives unravel, revealing the devastating impact of totalitarianism on individuals and communities. Through their struggles, the narrative poignantly captures the loss of freedom and humanity in the face of relentless oppression.

    The 3222nd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Dora Bruder by Patrick Modiano

    The book is a poignant exploration of memory and loss, centered around the true story of a young Jewish girl who went missing in Nazi-occupied Paris. Through meticulous research and personal reflection, the narrator pieces together fragments of Dora Bruder's life, uncovering the harsh realities of the time and the impact of the Holocaust on individual lives. The narrative intertwines the past and present, revealing the enduring scars left by history and the importance of remembering those who were lost.

    The 3225th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Stone Of Laughter by Hoda Barakat

    Set against the backdrop of the Lebanese Civil War, the novel follows Khalil, a young, introspective man grappling with his identity and sexuality amidst the chaos and violence surrounding him. As he navigates his relationships with friends and lovers, Khalil becomes increasingly isolated, retreating into a world of books and fantasies. The narrative delves into themes of alienation, the search for meaning, and the impact of war on the human psyche, painting a poignant and often stark portrait of life in a conflict-ridden Beirut.

    The 3230th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. A Man's Place by Annie Ernaux

    The book is a poignant exploration of the author's relationship with her father, delving into themes of class, identity, and the passage of time. Through a blend of personal narrative and social commentary, the author reflects on her father's life as a working-class man in rural France, his aspirations, and the societal constraints that shaped his existence. The narrative captures the complexities of familial bonds and the profound impact of socio-economic factors on individual lives, offering a deeply intimate yet universally resonant portrayal of a man's place in the world.

    The 3282nd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. The Scorpion Fish by Nicolas Bouvier

    A Mediterranean Journey

    The book is a reflective travel narrative that delves into the author's experiences and inner thoughts during his stay in Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka). It captures the essence of the island's vibrant culture, the beauty of its landscapes, and the complexity of its social fabric. Through a series of poetic and introspective passages, the author explores themes of solitude, the passage of time, and the search for meaning in a foreign land. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions and philosophical musings, offering a deep and contemplative look at the interplay between the external world and the inner self.

    The 3339th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Deliver Us by Luigi Meneghello

    A Memoir of Italy's War of Liberation

    The book is a poignant and evocative memoir that captures the essence of a small Italian village during the early 20th century. Through a series of vivid and nostalgic vignettes, the author reflects on his childhood experiences, the local customs, and the close-knit community that shaped his formative years. The narrative intertwines personal anecdotes with broader historical and cultural observations, offering a rich tapestry of life in rural Italy. The prose is both lyrical and introspective, providing a deeply personal yet universally resonant exploration of memory, identity, and the passage of time.

    The 3374th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Decolonising The Mind by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o

    The Politics of Language in African Literature

    The book explores the profound impact of colonialism on African languages, cultures, and identities, arguing that the imposition of European languages has led to a form of mental colonization. It advocates for the reclamation and revitalization of indigenous languages as a crucial step towards cultural liberation and self-determination. Through a blend of personal narrative, historical analysis, and literary critique, the author underscores the importance of language in shaping thought and consciousness, urging a return to native tongues to foster genuine decolonization and cultural renaissance.

    The 3559th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. The Lament Of The Linnet by Anna Maria Ortese

    Set in post-World War II Naples, the story follows the lives of a diverse group of characters grappling with the harsh realities of poverty, loss, and disillusionment. Through a series of interconnected vignettes, the narrative delves into the emotional and psychological struggles of individuals striving for dignity and meaning amidst the chaos of a city in ruins. The poignant and lyrical prose captures the essence of human resilience and the enduring hope for a better future, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

    The 3602nd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. The Queen Of The South by Arturo Pérez-Reverte

    The novel follows Teresa Mendoza, a young woman from Mexico who rises from a life of poverty and danger to become a powerful drug cartel leader. After her boyfriend, a drug smuggler, is murdered, Teresa flees to Spain, where she uses her intelligence and resilience to navigate the perilous world of drug trafficking. Over time, she builds a vast and influential empire, facing numerous challenges and betrayals along the way. The story is a gripping tale of survival, ambition, and transformation, highlighting the complexities of power and the human spirit's capacity for reinvention.

    The 3641st 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