The Greatest Ghanaian, French, South African Nonfiction and Poverty 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 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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Nonfiction

Poverty

The category of "Poverty" in books refers to stories that explore the experiences of individuals or communities living in poverty. These books may examine the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to poverty, as well as the personal struggles and triumphs of those living in poverty. They may also shed light on the inequalities and injustices that exist within society and the impact they have on marginalized communities. Overall, books in this category aim to raise awareness and understanding of poverty and its effects on individuals and society as a whole.

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  1. 1. Born A Crime by Trevor Noah

    Stories from a South African Childhood

    "Born A Crime" is a captivating memoir that chronicles the life of Trevor Noah, a South African comedian and television host. Set during the apartheid era, the book explores Noah's experiences as a mixed-race child growing up in a society where interracial relationships were illegal. With humor and insight, Noah recounts his struggles with identity, poverty, and racism, while also highlighting the resilience and strength of his mother who played a pivotal role in his life. This thought-provoking memoir offers a compelling and personal perspective on race, family, and the power of laughter in the face of adversity.

    The 4994th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Seed Is Mine by Charles Van Onselen

    The Life of Kas Maine, a South African Sharecropper 1894-1985

    "The Seed Is Mine" is a historical non-fiction book that explores the life of a black South African named Klaas, who lived through the tumultuous years of apartheid. Through extensive research and interviews, the author delves into Klaas' personal experiences, struggles, and aspirations, shedding light on the complex dynamics of race, class, and power during this period. The book offers a poignant and intimate portrayal of one man's fight for dignity and justice amidst a system designed to suppress and oppress.

    The 5774th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Shirley, Goodness & Mercy by Chris van Wyk

    A Childhood Memoir

    The book is a poignant and humorous memoir that captures the author's childhood experiences growing up in a vibrant, yet challenging, community during apartheid in South Africa. Through a series of vivid anecdotes, the narrative explores themes of family, friendship, and resilience, as well as the impact of political and social upheaval on everyday life. The author reflects on his relationships with family members, particularly his mother, and the colorful characters that populate his neighborhood, offering a heartfelt and insightful look into the complexities of life under a repressive regime.

    The 9832nd Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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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.

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