The Greatest Russian, American Folklore and Nonfiction Books Since 1980

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 401 '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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Folklore

Folklore is a category of books that encompasses traditional stories, beliefs, and customs of a particular culture or community. These stories are often passed down through generations and are deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the people. Folklore books may include myths, legends, fables, fairy tales, and other forms of storytelling that reflect the values, beliefs, and experiences of a particular group of people. They offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of a community and provide insight into their way of life, beliefs, and customs.

Nonfiction

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  1. 1. Iron John by Robert Bly

    A Book About Men

    The book is a deep exploration of modern masculinity, drawing upon an ancient fairy tale to argue that contemporary society has lost touch with traditional male archetypes. Through a blend of mythology, poetry, and psychological insight, the author examines the critical stages of male development, advocating for a return to more emotionally rich and spiritually connected forms of manhood. He encourages men to rediscover and embrace their innate masculine qualities, such as strength, passion, and purpose, while also promoting a healthy balance with the more nurturing and compassionate aspects of their personalities. The work has been influential in the men's movement, challenging men to confront their fears and wounds in order to grow into more whole and integrated individuals.

    The 5612th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Fairy Tales And The Act Of Subversion by Jack Zipes

    The Classical Genre for Children and the Process of Civilization

    The book explores the transformative power of fairy tales, examining how these stories have been used throughout history to challenge societal norms and instigate change. It delves into the ways fairy tales have been adapted and manipulated to reflect cultural and political shifts, highlighting their role as tools of subversion and social commentary. By analyzing various versions and interpretations, the book reveals how these narratives can both reinforce and undermine dominant ideologies, serving as a mirror to the evolving values and tensions within society.

    The 7347th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Grandmothers Of The Light by Paula Gunn Allen

    A Medicine Woman's Sourcebook

    This book is a collection of Native American stories focusing on the feminine aspect of the divine, exploring the central role of women in various indigenous myths and traditions. It delves into the spiritual and cultural significance of female figures in creation myths, fertility rites, and tribal ceremonies, highlighting the wisdom and power of grandmothers as keepers of knowledge and spiritual guides. Through retelling these stories, the work emphasizes the importance of the feminine perspective in understanding the world and the interconnectedness of all life, offering readers insight into the rich heritage and enduring legacy of Native American spirituality.

    The 7982nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Once Upon An Eskimo Time by Edna Wilder

    A Story of the Alaskan Eskimo

    This book is a heartfelt collection of stories and memories that offer a window into the traditional lifestyle of the Inupiat Eskimos of Alaska. The narrative, rich with cultural heritage, is a personal account from the author's own experiences growing up in a remote village. It captures the essence of a community bound by survival, tradition, and the rhythms of the Arctic environment. Through tales of hunting, fishing, and sharing, the book paints a vivid picture of the values and practices that have sustained the Inupiat people for generations, while also touching on the challenges and changes brought by contact with the outside world.

    The 8831st Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Off With Their Heads! by Maria Tatar

    Fairy Tales and the Culture of Childhood

    The book delves into the dark and often unsettling themes present in classic fairy tales, exploring how these stories have evolved over time and their impact on culture and society. It examines the psychological and moral lessons embedded within these narratives, highlighting the ways in which they reflect human fears, desires, and social norms. Through a critical analysis of well-known tales, the book reveals the complex interplay between storytelling and the human experience, offering insights into why these stories continue to captivate and resonate with audiences across generations.

    The 9587th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. A Legendary Tradition Of Kamapua’a by Lilikalā Kameʻeleihiwa

    The Hawaiian Pig God and His Epic Adventures

    The book "A Legendary Tradition of Kamapua’a" delves into the rich tapestry of Hawaiian mythology, focusing on the figure of Kamapua’a, a demi-god known for his dual nature as both a man and a pig. This work explores various legends surrounding Kamapua’a, highlighting his complex relationships with other deities, particularly his tumultuous affair with the volcano goddess Pele. The author, a respected scholar in Hawaiian history and culture, provides a deep analysis of the stories and their significance in Hawaiian society, examining themes of power, conflict, and transformation. Through these narratives, the book offers insights into the cultural and spiritual life of pre-colonial Hawaii, emphasizing the enduring impact of these myths on contemporary Hawaiian identity.

    The 10071st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Land Where the Blues Began by Alan Lomax

    A Journey into the Soul of Black America

    This book explores the origins and cultural significance of blues music in the Mississippi Delta. It provides a detailed account of the author's experiences in the 1930s and 1940s, when he traveled through the region, recording interviews and music from local blues musicians. The book vividly portrays the harsh living conditions and systemic racism that influenced the development of blues music, and celebrates the resilience and creativity of the African American musicians who created this influential music genre.

    The 10546th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Native American Folktales by Thomas A. Green

    Traditional Stories of the Indigenous Peoples of North America

    This book is a collection of traditional stories, myths, and legends from various Native American tribes. It explores the rich cultural heritage, beliefs, and customs of indigenous peoples through their oral storytelling tradition. The tales cover a wide range of themes including creation stories, tales of tricksters, moral lessons, and accounts of historical events. The book provides a unique insight into the spiritual and cultural life of Native Americans.

    The 12494th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Women Who Run With The Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés

    Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype

    This book is a collection of myths, stories, and folklore from various cultures, aimed at exploring the instinctual nature of women. Through the interpretation of these tales, the work delves into the female psyche and emphasizes the importance of embracing one's wild and natural self. The author, a Jungian psychoanalyst, uses the concept of the "Wild Woman Archetype" as a metaphor for the innate force that women possess. She encourages readers to reclaim their power and creativity, which may have been stifled by societal expectations or personal challenges, and to reconnect with the transformative wisdom that these ancient stories carry.

    The 12494th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Passing The Time In Ballymenone by Henry Glassie

    Culture and History of an Ulster Community

    "Passing the Time in Ballymenone" is an immersive ethnographic study that delves into the rich oral traditions and community life of a small, rural village in Northern Ireland. The book explores how the residents of Ballymenone, through storytelling, music, and historical narrative, preserve and shape their cultural identity amidst the backdrop of political conflict and social change. The author meticulously documents the everyday conversations and interactions among the villagers, offering a profound insight into the ways in which folklore and cultural practices are interwoven with individual lives and collective memory.

    The 12494th 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