The Greatest Magical Realism Books of 2017

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Genres

Magical Realism

Magical realism is a literary genre that weaves elements of fantasy into realistic settings, creating a narrative that exists in a harmonious balance between the ordinary and the extraordinary. In magical realist literature, the supernatural is not presented as something to be questioned or explained, but rather as an accepted part of everyday life. Characters might encounter ghosts, engage in telepathy, or experience time in non-linear ways, yet these occurrences are treated as mundane aspects of the world. This genre often explores complex themes such as identity, time, and the interconnection of reality and illusion, blurring the lines between the conceivable and the incredible. Magical realism is rooted in Latin American literature but has become a beloved and diverse genre worldwide, offering readers a lens through which the complexities of life are viewed with wonder and a subtle touch of magic.

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  1. 1. Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders

    The novel is set in a graveyard over the course of a single night and is narrated by a dazzling chorus of voices. The story is centered around the death of President Lincoln's 11-year-old son Willie, who resides in the Bardo, a transitional state between life and rebirth in Tibetan tradition. As Willie interacts with the other spirits stuck in this realm, his father visits the crypt to mourn, causing a struggle among the ghosts over the boy's soul. The narrative explores themes of grief, the impermanence of life, and the unresolved issues that keep us from moving on.

    The 1022nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 2. Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward

    The novel explores the journey of a 13-year-old boy, his drug-addicted mother, and his baby sister as they travel through Mississippi to pick up their white father from the state penitentiary. The story is steeped in the harsh realities of poverty, racism, and struggle, and is further complicated by the presence of a ghost from the family's past. It's a haunting tale about the legacy of trauma and the power of family ties.

    The 1650th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 3. Exit West by Mohsin Hamid

    "Exit West" is a novel that follows the journey of two young lovers, Nadia and Saeed, who are forced to leave their war-torn city through mysterious doors that transport them to different locations around the globe. The couple navigate their relationship while grappling with displacement, loss, and the challenges of adjusting to new cultures. The novel explores themes of migration, identity, love, and the concept of home.

    The 2227th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  4. 4. Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado

    Stories

    "Her Body and Other Parties: Stories" is a collection of short stories that weave elements of psychological realism and science fiction to explore the realities of women's lives and the violence inflicted upon their bodies. The narratives range from a woman refusing to let her husband remove a green ribbon from around her neck, to a salesclerk in a mall making a horrifying discovery within the seams of the store's prom dresses. The book centers on women's experiences in their bodies, touching on themes of sexuality, gender, and the dynamics of power.

    The 3542nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  5. 5. The Changeling by Victor LaValle

    The novel is a dark fairy tale that explores themes of parenthood, identity, and the impact of technology on modern life. It follows Apollo Kagwa, an antiquarian book dealer from New York City, whose life is turned upside down when his wife, Emma, commits a horrific act and then disappears. As Apollo searches for answers, he is drawn into a world filled with mythical creatures, secretive societies, and ancient folklore. Along his journey, he must confront his own past and the dark history of his family while navigating a city that seems to harbor magical secrets. The story blends the fantastical with the everyday to create a narrative that examines the fears and anxieties of being a parent in the 21st century.

    The 7050th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  6. 6. Beasts Made Of Night by Tochi Onyebuchi

    In a dark and fantastical city, the young and impoverished are employed as sin-eaters, known as aki, who consume the sins of the wealthy, manifesting them as beasts made of night. These sins take the form of Inisisa—sin-beasts that the aki must slay to absolve the guilt of the sin's original owner, at the cost of bearing the sin's tattooed image on their own skin. The story follows one such sin-eater, a talented but troubled young man, who finds himself embroiled in political intrigue and a deeper, more dangerous plot that threatens the very fabric of his society. As he grapples with his own identity and purpose, he must navigate a treacherous world of power, magic, and monsters—both human and created.

    The 9699th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  7. 7. The Black Tides Of Heaven by Neon Yang

    Tensorate Series, Book 1

    In a fantastical Asian-inspired world where the forces of magic and technology intertwine, two twins are born to the Protector, a tyrannical ruler with a powerful grip over the realm. The twins, Mokoya and Akeha, are gifted with prophetic and magical abilities, respectively, and are sent to a monastery to hone their skills. As they grow older, they find themselves at the heart of a rebellion against their mother's oppressive regime. The story explores themes of destiny, freedom, and the complex bonds of family, all while the twins grapple with their identities and the paths they choose to take in a society where gender is fluid and self-determined.

    The 9699th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  8. 8. The Gentleman’s Guide To Vice And Virtue by Mackenzi Lee

    Set in the 18th century, this rollicking adventure follows the charming and roguish Monty, a young British lord, as he embarks on a grand tour of Europe with his best friend Percy and his sister Felicity. What begins as a journey of self-indulgence and revelry quickly spirals into a thrilling escapade filled with danger, romance, and self-discovery. As Monty grapples with his feelings for Percy and confronts societal expectations, he must navigate a world of highwaymen, alchemy, and political intrigue, ultimately learning the true meaning of courage and love.

    The 9882nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  9. 9. Le Pietre by Claudio Morandini

    Romanzo

    Set in a remote Alpine village, the narrative unfolds around the mysterious and unsettling phenomenon of stones that inexplicably move and multiply, causing chaos and fear among the inhabitants. As the villagers grapple with the bizarre occurrences, the story delves into themes of superstition, the clash between tradition and modernity, and the human tendency to seek explanations for the inexplicable. The atmospheric setting and the tension between the natural world and human intervention create a haunting backdrop for this exploration of the unknown.

    The 11291st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Ka by John Crowley

    Dar Oakley in the Ruin of Ymr

    "Ka: Dar Oakley in the Ruin of Ymr" is a novel that follows the journey of a crow named Dar Oakley as he travels through time and space, encountering various cultures and civilizations. Along the way, Dar Oakley gains a deep understanding of life, death, and the nature of existence. The novel explores themes of mortality, memory, and the interconnectedness of all things, weaving together elements of fantasy, mythology, and philosophy in a unique and thought-provoking narrative.

    The 14984th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  11. 11. My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Vol. 1 by Emil Ferris

    "My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Vol. 1" is a graphic novel that follows the story of Karen Reyes, a ten-year-old girl living in 1960s Chicago. Through her vivid imagination and artistic talent, Karen transforms herself into a monster to navigate the complexities of her life, including her brother's mysterious death and her mother's illness. As she uncovers secrets and delves into the dark underbelly of her neighborhood, Karen's journey becomes a poignant exploration of identity, family, and the power of art.

    The 14984th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  12. 12. The Enlightenment Of The Greengage Tree by Shokoofeh Azar

    Set against the backdrop of post-revolutionary Iran, this novel weaves a magical realist narrative through the eyes of a young girl named Bahar. After the tragic death of her brother, Bahar's family retreats to a remote village, where they grapple with loss, political upheaval, and the mystical forces that permeate their lives. The story explores themes of grief, resilience, and the enduring power of hope amidst the chaos of a nation in turmoil. Through lyrical prose and vivid imagery, the novel captures the intersection of reality and the supernatural, offering a poignant reflection on the human spirit's capacity to endure and transcend suffering.

    The 14984th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  13. 13. The New Animals by Pip Adam

    "The New Animals" by Pip Adam is a thought-provoking and unsettling novel that explores the lives of a group of young adults navigating the complexities of modern society. Set in a futuristic world where societal norms and expectations have drastically changed, the story follows Carla, a young woman trying to find her place amidst the chaos. As she encounters various characters and situations, the book delves into themes of identity, relationships, and the blurred boundaries between humans and animals. With its raw and evocative prose, "The New Animals" challenges readers to question the constructs of society and the essence of humanity itself.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  14. 14. How To Stop Time by Matt Haig

    The novel follows Tom Hazard, a man who appears to be an ordinary 41-year-old but has actually been alive for centuries due to a rare condition that drastically slows his aging process. As he navigates the complexities of modern life, Tom grapples with the loneliness and challenges of his prolonged existence, haunted by memories of past loves and losses. He is part of a secretive society that enforces strict rules to protect people like him, but his yearning for a normal life and connection leads him to question these constraints. The story explores themes of time, identity, and the importance of living in the present.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Reincarnation Blues by Michael Poore

    In a whimsical and thought-provoking tale, the story follows Milo, a soul who has been reincarnated nearly 10,000 times, as he navigates the complexities of life, death, and the pursuit of perfection. With the cosmic goal of achieving enlightenment, Milo's journey is intertwined with his love for Suzie, the personification of Death, adding a unique twist to his existential quest. As he experiences various lives across different eras and cultures, Milo grapples with the meaning of existence, the nature of love, and the ultimate question of what it means to truly live.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  16. 16. Animals by Eva Menasse

    Animals by Eva Menasse is a captivating collection of short stories that draw parallels between the quirks of the animal kingdom and human behavior. Each tale uses an animal's unique trait to explore the complexities of human emotions and relationships. From caterpillars to sharks, these stories delve into themes of memory, identity, and morality. Readers will encounter characters grappling with personal challenges, such as an aging man facing his wife's dementia, a mother navigating cultural tensions, and a woman uncovering the impact of her father's past on her life. With a blend of humor, mystery, and poignancy, Menasse crafts a series of thought-provoking narratives.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  17. 17. The Beautiful Ones by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

    Set in a world reminiscent of the Belle Époque era, this enchanting tale weaves together themes of love, ambition, and the supernatural. The story follows Nina, a young woman with telekinetic abilities, as she navigates the social intricacies of the Grand Season, a time when the elite gather to showcase their wealth and status. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Hector, a charismatic performer with a mysterious past, who becomes both her mentor and her love interest. As their relationship deepens, they must confront societal expectations, personal betrayals, and the haunting shadows of the past, all while exploring the boundaries of their extraordinary powers.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  18. 18. Lonely Castle In The Mirror by Mizuki Tsujimura

    In a mesmerizing blend of fantasy and reality, a group of seven teenagers, each grappling with their own personal struggles and isolation, discover a magical portal in their mirrors that transports them to a mysterious castle. Within its walls, they are given the chance to escape their daily lives and confront their fears, guided by a masked figure known as the Wolf Queen. As they unravel the secrets of the castle and their own intertwined destinies, they learn invaluable lessons about friendship, courage, and the power of facing one's inner demons.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  19. 19. Strange The Dreamer by Laini Taylor

    In a world where dreams and reality intertwine, a young librarian named Lazlo embarks on a journey to uncover the mysteries of a forgotten city known only as Weep. Haunted by visions of a blue-skinned goddess and driven by an insatiable curiosity, Lazlo joins a band of adventurers led by the enigmatic Godslayer, seeking to unravel the secrets of Weep's tragic past. As he delves deeper into the city's history, Lazlo discovers the power of dreams and the enduring impact of love and loss, challenging the boundaries between myth and truth.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  20. 20. Rabbit Cake by Annie Hartnett

    In this poignant and darkly humorous novel, a young girl named Elvis Babbitt navigates the complexities of grief and family dynamics following the sudden death of her mother. As Elvis, her sister Lizzie, and their father each cope with the loss in their own unique ways, the story unfolds through Elvis's curious and insightful perspective. Set in a small Southern town, the narrative explores themes of mental health, resilience, and the quirky ways people find to heal, all while Elvis embarks on a quest to understand the circumstances surrounding her mother's death and the peculiar world around her.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  21. 21. Ghosts by Unknown

    In this poignant narrative, the protagonist grapples with the complexities of modern relationships, familial bonds, and the haunting presence of past decisions. As she navigates the challenges of her career and personal life, she is forced to confront the ghosts of her past that linger in her present, influencing her choices and shaping her future. The story beautifully intertwines themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, offering a reflective exploration of what it means to truly connect with others and oneself in an ever-changing world.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Lincoln In The Bardo By George Saunders by Instaread Summaries

    A Novel by George Saunders

    Set during the Civil War, this novel explores the poignant and surreal journey of Abraham Lincoln's deceased son, Willie, who finds himself in a transitional realm known as the "bardo." As Lincoln grapples with his profound grief, the narrative unfolds through a chorus of voices from the spirits inhabiting this liminal space, each sharing their own stories and struggles. Through a blend of historical fact and imaginative fiction, the story delves into themes of loss, love, and the human condition, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of life and death.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. My Favorite Thing Is Monsters by Emil Ferris

    Set in 1960s Chicago, this vividly illustrated coming-of-age tale is narrated by a ten-year-old who documents her life in a monster-filled sketchbook as she investigates the suspicious death of an elderly Jewish neighbor, unraveling hidden family histories, neighborhood violence, and questions of identity, grief, and otherness through a mix of childlike noir forensics, graphic imagery, and intimate memoir.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org

Reading Statistics

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