Soul Mountain by Xingjian Gao

The novel follows a protagonist who embarks on a journey to the remote mountains of Southwest China after being misdiagnosed with lung cancer. Along the way, he encounters a variety of characters and experiences that lead him to self-discovery and a reconnection with nature. The narrative is filled with philosophical reflections, folklore, and tales of rural China, presenting a complex exploration of the human condition and the struggle for personal freedom.

The 5297th greatest book of all time


Ranking Details:

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Total Points: 102

Since this book was first published in 1990, there is a penalty of 25.6%. The age adjusted score is 75.89.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.