The Greatest Books of All Time Set in Jordan
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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 400 '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. The Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T. E. Lawrence
A Triumph
"The Seven Pillars of Wisdom" is an autobiographical account of the experiences of a British soldier serving in the Middle East during World War I. The narrative offers an insider's perspective of the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire, detailing the author's role in the guerrilla warfare, his interactions with various tribal leaders, and his deep understanding and appreciation of the Arabic culture. The book is also known for its philosophical reflections on war, politics, and the author's personal struggles.
The 688th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Men In The Sun by Ghassan Kanafani
The story follows three Palestinian refugees—Abu Qais, Assad, and Marwan—who are desperately trying to escape the harsh realities of their lives in refugee camps by seeking work and a better future in Kuwait. Their journey is fraught with danger and uncertainty as they place their trust in a smuggler named Abul Khaizuran, who promises to transport them across the desert in a water tanker. The narrative poignantly explores themes of displacement, loss, and the human cost of political turmoil, culminating in a tragic and powerful ending that underscores the profound sense of hopelessness and despair experienced by the characters.
The 6996th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. The Descent Of Man by Charles Darwin
and Selection in Relation to Sex
The book explores the theory of evolution, focusing on the idea that humans share a common ancestry with other animals. It delves into the concept of natural selection and how it applies to human development, examining the similarities between humans and other species in terms of physical and psychological traits. The work also addresses the role of sexual selection in shaping human characteristics and behaviors, proposing that many aspects of human nature have evolved to enhance reproductive success. Throughout, it challenges prevailing views of human uniqueness and superiority, suggesting that humans are part of the broader tapestry of life on Earth.
The 8340th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. No Turning Back by Rania Abouzeid
Life, Loss, and Hope in Wartime Syria
"No Turning Back" provides a gripping and intimate portrayal of the Syrian war through the eyes of four individuals whose lives are transformed by the uprising against the Assad regime. The narrative delves deep into the personal stories of a young revolutionary, a child refugee, a jihadist, and a disillusioned government soldier, offering a nuanced and humanizing perspective on the complex conflict. The book captures the brutal realities and emotional depths of the Syrian struggle, highlighting the enduring human spirit amidst chaos and destruction.
The 8470th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. Lawrence Of Arabia by Jeremy Wilson
The Authorized Biography of T.E. Lawrence
This biography provides a comprehensive look at the life of T.E. Lawrence, a British archaeologist, military officer, and diplomat, who played a crucial role in the Middle Eastern theater during World War I. The book delves into his instrumental efforts in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire, exploring his complex character, his strategies in guerrilla warfare, and his lasting impact on the region. It also examines his post-war years and the struggles he faced, including his attempts to find peace and anonymity, shedding light on the enigmatic figure known for his leadership and his legendary exploits in the desert.
The 8829th Greatest Book of All Time -
6. Confessions Of A Silencer by Mu’nis al-Razzaz
The book delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil of a man who grapples with the oppressive political environment of his country. Through a series of introspective monologues and fragmented memories, the protagonist reveals his internal conflicts, fears, and the heavy burden of silence he carries. The narrative explores themes of repression, identity, and the struggle for personal and political freedom, painting a poignant picture of life under authoritarian rule. The protagonist's confessions serve as a powerful commentary on the human cost of living in a society where speaking out can have dire consequences.
The 9033rd Greatest Book of All Time -
7. Sultanah by Ghalib Halasa
The novel tells the story of Sultanah, a strong-willed and resilient woman navigating the complexities of life in a traditional Middle Eastern society. Through her journey, the narrative explores themes of love, power, and resistance against societal norms. Sultanah's personal struggles and triumphs are set against a backdrop of political and social upheaval, highlighting the tension between tradition and modernity. Her character embodies the spirit of defiance and the quest for self-determination, making her a symbol of empowerment and change in a patriarchal world.
The 9090th Greatest Book of All Time -
8. Black Flags by Joby Warrick
The Rise of ISIS
This book provides a detailed account of the rise of the terrorist group ISIS. The narrative delves into the history of the group, tracing its roots back to a Jordanian street thug, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, who morphed into a jihadist leader. It also explores the geopolitical conditions and missteps by world leaders that allowed the group to grow in power and influence. The book offers an in-depth look at the personalities and events that contributed to the emergence of one of the most notorious terrorist organizations in the world.
The 9956th Greatest Book of All Time -
9. Essential Pillars by Elias Farkouh
The novel delves into the intricate lives of a diverse group of characters in a small Jordanian village, exploring themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. Through a series of interconnected stories, the narrative captures the essence of human experience, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of individuals as they navigate personal and societal challenges. The rich tapestry of village life is depicted with vivid detail, offering a poignant reflection on the universal quest for meaning and connection.
The 10091st Greatest Book of All Time -
10. A Prince of Our Disorder by John E. Mack
The Life of T.E. Lawrence
This biography provides a comprehensive look into the life of T.E. Lawrence, a British archaeologist, army officer, diplomat, and writer renowned for his role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I. The book delves into Lawrence's complex personality, his struggles with identity and his quest for personal growth amidst the backdrop of war, politics and diplomacy. It provides an in-depth analysis of his experiences and their impact on his psychological state, revealing the man behind the legend.
The 12497th Greatest Book of All Time -
11. The Poetry Of Arab Women by Nathalie Handal
A Contemporary Anthology
This anthology brings together a diverse collection of voices from Arab women poets, offering a rich tapestry of themes that explore identity, culture, love, and resistance. The poems reflect the complex realities and varied experiences of Arab women, capturing their struggles, hopes, and resilience. Through a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, the anthology provides a platform for these poets to express their unique perspectives, challenging stereotypes and celebrating the depth and diversity of Arab women's literary contributions.
The 12497th Greatest Book of All Time -
12. Language For A New Century by Nathalie Handal, Tina Chang, Ravi Shankar
Contemporary Poetry from the Middle East, Asia, and Beyond
This anthology brings together a diverse collection of contemporary poetry from Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, showcasing the rich tapestry of voices and cultures that define the modern landscape. The poems explore themes of identity, displacement, love, and the human condition, offering readers a window into the personal and political struggles faced by individuals across these regions. Through a blend of traditional and innovative forms, the anthology celebrates the power of language to transcend borders and connect people from different backgrounds, fostering a deeper understanding of the shared human experience.
The 12497th 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