The Greatest "Fiction, Folklore" Books Since 1950

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 '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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Fiction

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.

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  1. 1. The Palm Wine Drinkard And His Dead Palm Wine Tapster In The Dead's Town by Amos Tutuola

    This novel follows the surreal and fantastical journey of an African man with an insatiable thirst for palm wine, who, after the death of his skilled tapster, embarks on a quest to the land of the dead in hopes of bringing him back to the world of the living. Along the way, he encounters a myriad of bizarre and supernatural obstacles, including ghosts, witches, and other mythical creatures, each presenting their own challenges and moral lessons. The narrative, rich with the oral tradition of Nigerian folklore and written in a distinctive pidgin English, weaves a tale that explores themes of desire, loss, and the intersection of the living and the spiritual realms.

    The 1168th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Bloody Chamber And Other Stories by Angela Carter

    "The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that reimagines and deconstructs traditional fairy tales. The narratives are filled with strong female characters, sexual exploration, and violent and gothic themes. Each story presents a unique spin on classic tales, such as Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast, and Bluebeard, challenging the typical gender roles and expectations found in the original stories.

    The 1237th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Mythago Wood by Robert Holdstock

    In "Mythago Wood," a man named Steven Huxley delves into the mysterious depths of Ryhope Wood, a forest that holds ancient and mythical creatures known as mythagos. As he explores the ever-changing landscape, Steven encounters his deceased father's mythago, a powerful and seductive woman named Guiwenneth. Drawn into a world of magic and danger, Steven must confront his own desires and confront the dark secrets that lie within the heart of the wood.

    The 1299th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Italian Folktales by Italo Calvino

    This book is a comprehensive collection of 200 traditional Italian folktales, meticulously gathered from different regions of Italy. The stories range from humor to horror, from fairy tales to moral lessons, from whimsical to deeply symbolic, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Italy. These tales, translated and retold, provide a fascinating insight into the folklore, traditions, and beliefs of Italian people.

    The 1955th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. King Arthur And His Knights Of The Round Table by Roger Lancelyn Green

    This book is a retelling of the classic Arthurian legends, weaving together the tales of the legendary King Arthur and his noble knights. It chronicles Arthur's ascent to the throne after pulling the enchanted sword Excalibur from a stone, the establishment of the Round Table, and the various quests undertaken by his knights, including the search for the Holy Grail. The narrative also delves into the personal stories of key figures such as Sir Lancelot, Guinevere, and Merlin the wizard, exploring themes of chivalry, honor, and betrayal. Rich in medieval mythology and adventure, the book captures the imagination with its depiction of a romanticized, yet perilous, world of knights and their code of ethics.

    The 2942nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight by Simon Armitage

    The book is a modern translation of a 14th century alliterative poem, which tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur's Round Table. The story begins when a mysterious Green Knight arrives at Arthur's court, challenging the knights to a beheading game. Gawain accepts the challenge and beheads the Green Knight, who surprisingly survives and tells Gawain to seek him out a year later to return the blow. The book follows Gawain's journey, filled with trials and temptations, as he tries to fulfill his promise to the Green Knight, maintaining his honor and chivalry.

    The 3063rd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson

    This children's book tells the story of a clever mouse who uses his wits to avoid being eaten by various predators in the woods. The mouse invents a monster, the Gruffalo, to scare away a fox, an owl, and a snake, only to discover that the creature actually exists. Using his quick thinking, the mouse manages to convince the Gruffalo that he is the most feared creature in the forest, thus avoiding becoming the Gruffalo's meal.

    The 3232nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts by Amos Tutuola

    The book is a phantasmagorical narrative that follows the harrowing journey of a young boy who, while fleeing from slave traders, becomes lost in a supernatural realm known as the Bush of Ghosts. This mystical forest is inhabited by a myriad of spirits and creatures drawn from Yoruba folklore. As the boy navigates through this eerie landscape, he encounters a series of ghostly domains, each ruled by its own peculiar entities. Throughout his surreal odyssey, which spans several years, he is subjected to bizarre and often terrifying experiences, all the while yearning for a return to his human family and the normal world. The story is a blend of traditional African folklore, myth, and the author's own rich imagination, offering a vivid exploration of the themes of survival, bravery, and the clash between the natural and supernatural worlds.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Soundjata Ou L'épopée Mandingue by Djibril Tamsir Niane

    "Soundjata Ou L'épopée Mandingue" is a historical novel that tells the captivating story of Soundjata Keita, the legendary founder of the Mali Empire. Set in 13th-century West Africa, the book follows Soundjata's journey from a crippled and exiled prince to a powerful warrior king. Through battles, alliances, and encounters with mystical beings, Soundjata's determination and leadership skills are tested as he strives to unite the Mandinka people and reclaim his rightful throne. This epic tale explores themes of courage, destiny, and the enduring power of legends.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Circe by Madeline Miller

    The novel is a reimagining of the life of Circe, a minor goddess and witch from Homer's Odyssey. Born into the house of Helios, god of the sun, Circe is scorned by her family and turns to mortals for companionship, leading her to discover her powers of witchcraft. After transforming her mortal lover into a sea monster, she is banished to a deserted island by Zeus. Over the centuries, she hones her magical abilities, encounters famous mythological beings, and struggles with her immortality, loneliness, and desire for love and freedom.

    The 4021st Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Maid Of The North by Ethel Johnston Phelps

    "The Maid of the North" is a collection of feminist folktales from around the world, reimagined to emphasize the strength, intelligence, and agency of female protagonists. These stories showcase a diverse array of heroines who confront challenges, embark on adventures, and often outwit their adversaries through wit and courage. The tales are drawn from various cultural traditions and aim to provide young readers with empowering narratives that contrast with the more traditional, often passive roles of women in folklore. This anthology celebrates the resilience and ingenuity of women, offering inspirational role models and a fresh perspective on classic folklore.

    The 4113th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Weirdstone Of Brisingamen by Alan Garner

    In this fantasy novel, two children staying in a rural English village stumble upon an ancient magical stone that is the key to a struggle between good and evil forces. As they are drawn into a world of myth and legend, they encounter a host of magical creatures and characters from local folklore. With the help of a wizard, the children must navigate treacherous landscapes and battle dark forces to keep the powerful stone out of the hands of the malevolent Morrigan and her minions, who seek to use it to dominate both the magical and human worlds. The children's courage, loyalty, and resourcefulness are tested as they fight to protect the stone and maintain the balance between light and darkness.

    The 4618th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Retold African American Folktales by David Haynes

    This book is a collection of African American folktales that have been retold and adapted for a modern audience. The stories are diverse and filled with magic, wisdom, and humor, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of African American communities. They present a variety of characters and situations, from tricksters outwitting their foes to heroes overcoming great odds, teaching lessons about resilience, courage, and the importance of community.

    The 4731st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Mamy Wata Et Le Monstre by Veronique Tadjo

    "Mamy Wata Et Le Monstre" by Veronique Tadjo is a captivating tale that explores the relationship between humans and nature. Set in a coastal village, the story follows the adventures of a young girl named Mamy Wata, who discovers a mysterious monster wreaking havoc on her community. As she embarks on a journey to confront the monster, Mamy Wata learns valuable lessons about the importance of harmony and respect for the environment. With its vivid imagery and thought-provoking narrative, this book serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and the natural world.

    The 5154th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Stories From A Shona Childhood by Charles Mungoshi

    "Stories From A Shona Childhood" is a captivating memoir that delves into the author's experiences growing up in a rural village in Zimbabwe. Through a collection of poignant and vividly recounted anecdotes, the book offers a glimpse into the customs, traditions, and challenges faced by the Shona people. With a blend of humor, nostalgia, and cultural insights, the author paints a rich and heartfelt portrait of his childhood, highlighting the importance of community, family, and storytelling in shaping his identity.

    The 5310th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Painted Alphabet by Diana Darling

    "The Painted Alphabet" is a magical realist novel that weaves together Balinese mythology with the tale of a contemporary woman's journey of self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of Bali's rich cultural tapestry, the story follows the protagonist as she encounters a series of mystical events and characters drawn from traditional Balinese folklore. Through her interactions with gods, demons, and ancestral spirits, she embarks on a transformative quest that challenges her perceptions of reality and identity, ultimately leading her to a deeper understanding of herself and the world around her. The novel is a celebration of the power of myth and the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in modern life.

    The 5329th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman

    The protagonist, a middle-aged man, returns to his childhood home for a funeral and is drawn to the farm at the end of the road where he encounters a pond that was once an ocean in his childhood memories. He recalls a series of strange and terrifying events that occurred when he was seven, involving the mystical Hempstock women who live on the farm and their battle against malevolent supernatural entities that threatened his existence. The book explores themes of memory, magic, and the darkness that lies beneath the surface of everyday life.

    The 5867th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Always Coming Home by Ursula K. Le Guin

    This novel is a combination of fiction, folklore, poetry, and anthropology set in a post-apocalyptic future in Northern California. It revolves around a tribal society known as the Kesh, who have developed a sustainable lifestyle and a rich cultural heritage after the fall of our current civilization. The narrative is interspersed with the Kesh's myths, poems, and rituals, and is primarily seen through the eyes of a woman named Stone Telling, who recounts her journey from her tribal home to a patriarchal dystopian city and back.

    The 6477th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark by Alvin Schwartz

    This book is a collection of spooky tales designed to thrill and chill young readers. Drawing from folklore and urban legends, the stories range from eerie to downright terrifying, often accompanied by haunting illustrations that amplify the text's macabre atmosphere. Each story is crafted to be read aloud, making it a popular choice for campfires and sleepovers. The tales are short and accessible, yet they pack a punch with their creepy premises and twist endings, ensuring that the shivers they provoke linger long after the pages are closed.

    The 6509th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney

    This wordless picture book tells the classic Aesop's fable of a tiny mouse and a mighty lion. When the mouse accidentally disturbs the lion, the lion spares the mouse's life. Later, when the lion is caught in a hunter's trap, the grateful mouse gnaws through the ropes to free him. The story is a beautiful depiction of kindness and reciprocity, showing how even the smallest creature can help someone much bigger and stronger.

    The 6583rd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James

    "Black Leopard, Red Wolf" is a gripping and fantastical tale set in a mythical and ancient African world. The story follows Tracker, a skilled hunter with a keen sense of smell, who is hired to find a missing boy. As Tracker embarks on his dangerous journey, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, including witches, giants, and shape-shifters. Amidst the treacherous landscapes and political turmoil, Tracker's search for the truth becomes intertwined with his own personal quest for identity and redemption. With its richly imagined world and lyrical prose, this epic fantasy explores themes of love, power, and the blurred boundaries between good and evil.

    The 6601st Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. La Charte Du Mandé Et Autres Traditions Du Mali by Aboubakar Fofana, Jean-Louis Sagot

    "La Charte Du Mandé Et Autres Traditions Du Mali" is a comprehensive exploration of the rich historical and cultural heritage of Mali, focusing on the ancient Mandé Charter, also known as the Manden Charter. This seminal text delves into the origins and implications of this 13th-century document, which is one of the earliest forms of human rights charters. The book not only examines the charter's principles of social justice, equality, and political ethics but also contextualizes it within a broader spectrum of Malian traditions, shedding light on the country's profound historical narratives and the enduring cultural practices that continue to shape its identity.

    The 6945th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Once Upon An Eskimo Time by Edna Wilder

    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 7006th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Selected Stories by I. L. Peretz

    "Selected Stories" is a collection of tales that delve into the complexities of Jewish life, blending elements of folklore, religious tradition, and modernity. The stories are set against the backdrop of Eastern Europe and offer a rich tapestry of characters, from humble villagers to wise rabbis, all portrayed with a deep sense of humanity and a touch of humor. The author explores themes of faith, morality, and the struggle for justice, often employing allegory and parable to convey profound truths about the human condition. This anthology serves as a window into the cultural and social dynamics of a bygone era, reflecting the author's keen insight into the challenges and triumphs of his people.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Uprooted by Naomi Novik

    The book is a captivating fantasy novel that weaves a tale of a young woman from a quiet village, chosen by a mysterious and powerful wizard to live with him in his tower, away from her home. As she learns about her own latent magical abilities and the malevolent force of the corrupted Wood that threatens her world, she must navigate a complex relationship with her enigmatic mentor and ally herself with the kingdom's prince to save her people. Drawing on Eastern European folklore, the story is a rich tapestry of magic, politics, and the struggle between tradition and change, ultimately exploring themes of identity, friendship, and the courage to fight for one's home.

    The 9714th 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