The Greatest Polish, Hungarian, Norwegian "Nonfiction" Books of All Time

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

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.

Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
Follow on:

Genres

Nonfiction

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Polish

Hungarian

Norwegian

Add additional country filters

Date Range

Filter

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
  1. 1. On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres by Nicolaus Copernicus

    This book presents the revolutionary astronomical model that places the sun, rather than the earth, at the center of the universe. The author challenges the geocentric model of the cosmos, which had been widely accepted since the time of Aristotle, and instead proposes a heliocentric system, where the planets orbit the sun. This revolutionary idea transformed the way we understand our place in the universe, paving the way for modern astronomy and science.

    The 1520th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Captive Mind by Czesław Miłosz

    "The Captive Mind" is a thought-provoking exploration of the intellectual and moral dilemmas faced by artists and intellectuals living under oppressive regimes. Through a series of powerful and insightful essays, the author delves into the psychological and ideological transformations experienced by individuals who compromise their values and conform to the demands of totalitarianism. With a blend of personal anecdotes, historical analysis, and philosophical reflections, this book offers a profound examination of the complexities of intellectual freedom and the power of ideology.

    The 1662nd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Shah Of Shahs by Ryszard Kapuscinski

    This book is a compelling blend of history and personal narratives, set against the backdrop of Iran's 1979 revolution. The author, a seasoned journalist, delves into the complex tapestry of Iranian society, exploring the rise and fall of the last monarch. Through a series of vignettes and interviews with Iranians from all walks of life, the narrative captures the atmosphere of fear and hope that defined the era. The work is as much an examination of the mechanics of power and the ease with which a society can be manipulated as it is a chronicle of a pivotal moment in Iran's history. The author's lyrical prose and sharp insights offer a timeless reflection on the nature of tyranny and the human struggle for freedom.

    The 2239th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Kon-Tiki by Thor Heyerdahl

    This book is a captivating real-life adventure story about a Norwegian explorer and his crew who set out on a daring voyage across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa wood raft. The journey, undertaken to prove a controversial anthropological theory about the settlement of Polynesian islands, is filled with danger, excitement, and discovery. The author's vivid descriptions of the perilous journey, the magnificent sea life they encounter, and the ultimate success of their expedition make this a thrilling and inspiring read.

    The 2687th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Bookseller of Kabul by Asne Seierstad

    This book provides an intimate and eye-opening look into the everyday life of an Afghan family. The narrative follows a bookseller in Kabul, who despite the oppressive Taliban regime, courageously continues his trade. The story delves into his family dynamics, the struggles of his two wives, his children's lives, and the societal norms and customs they navigate. It paints a vivid picture of life in Afghanistan, exploring the themes of love, courage, resilience, and the power of literature.

    The 2822nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. My Struggle by Karl Ove Knausgaard

    The book in question is an autobiographical novel that delves deeply into the minutiae of the author's life, exploring his personal relationships, emotions, and the everyday experiences that shape his identity. It is a candid and introspective narrative that spans across various stages of his life, from childhood to adulthood, and examines themes such as family, death, love, and ambition. The author's unflinching honesty and detailed prose invite readers to reflect on the complexities of their own lives, as he scrutinizes the ordinary moments that, collectively, define who we are.

    The 3065th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Alchemy Of The Word by Jan Parandowski

    This book is a profound exploration of the transformative power of language and literature. Through a series of essays, the author delves into the essence of storytelling, the nuances of translation, and the enduring impact of classical texts on modern writing. By examining the works of various literary giants and the myths that have shaped human culture, the narrative underscores the alchemical process through which words can transcend time, evoke emotions, and alter perceptions. It is a tribute to the written word's ability to enchant, educate, and inspire, serving as a testament to literature's role in the continuous shaping of human civilization.

    The 3269th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Main Currents Of Marxism by Leszek Kolakowski

    This comprehensive work is a critical analysis of the development and influence of Marxist thought throughout history. It delves into the origins of Marxist theory, tracing its evolution from the philosophical foundations laid by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, through various interpretations and schools of thought, including Leninism, Stalinism, and Trotskyism, up to its impact on political movements and intellectual debates in the 20th century. The author scrutinizes the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of Marxism, exploring both its contributions to social science and its shortcomings, ultimately providing a thorough examination of its role in shaping modern political and economic landscapes.

    The 3418th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Hannah Senesh by Hannah Senesh

    This book is a collection of the diaries, letters, and poems of a young Jewish woman who emigrated from Hungary to Palestine in the 1930s, driven by her Zionist beliefs. She joined the Haganah and later volunteered for a daring military operation to parachute into Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II, with the aim of aiding Allied forces and rescuing Hungarian Jews from the Holocaust. Her writings reflect her courage, literary talent, and the depth of her commitment to her cause. Tragically captured, tortured, and eventually executed by the Nazis, she became an enduring symbol of bravery and sacrifice in the face of tyranny.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Farthest North by Fridtjof Nansen

    "Farthest North" is a riveting firsthand account of a polar expedition undertaken in the late 19th century. The author, a Norwegian explorer, recounts his daring attempt to reach the North Pole by allowing his specially designed ship to be frozen into the Arctic ice and carried by the drift. The narrative includes fascinating descriptions of the Arctic environment, thrilling tales of survival against harsh conditions, and scientific observations. The expedition, although it did not reach the North Pole, achieved the highest latitude to that date and contributed significantly to Arctic exploration.

    The 3623rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Kon-Tiki Expedition: By Raft Across the South Seas by Thor Heyerdahl

    The book is a thrilling account of a daring and adventurous expedition across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa wood raft named Kon-Tiki. The journey, led by a Norwegian explorer, is an attempt to prove that South Americans could have settled Polynesia in pre-Columbian times. The narrative is filled with descriptions of dangerous encounters with marine life, harsh weather conditions, and the challenges of surviving on the open sea. The expedition's success provides compelling evidence in support of the author's theory.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Emperor by Ryszard Kapuscinski

    "The Emperor" is a non-fiction account of the final years of Haile Selassie's reign as the Emperor of Ethiopia. It is based on interviews with his former courtiers and officials, providing a unique and intimate portrayal of a regime marked by lavishness, intrigue, and corruption. This work also explores the dramatic events leading up to the Emperor's downfall and the Ethiopian revolution.

    The 4029th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. A Journey Round My Skull by Frigyes Karinthy

    "A Journey Round My Skull" is a deeply personal narrative that takes the reader through the author's own experiences with a brain tumor and the subsequent neurosurgery. Written with a blend of humor, introspection, and medical detail, the book explores the author's changing perceptions and emotions as he confronts his mortality and the intricacies of his own mind. It is a pioneering work in the genre of medical memoirs, offering a unique window into the psychological and physical journey of a patient in the early 20th century, as well as the evolving field of neurosurgery.

    The 4465th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Bezzeg Az én Időmben by Klára Fehér

    "Bezzeg Az én Időmben" is a reflective work that delves into the generational differences and societal changes in Hungary, offering a nostalgic look at the past through the lens of personal anecdotes and cultural observations. The book contrasts contemporary life with the experiences of previous generations, exploring themes of family, education, and social norms. It serves as a commentary on the evolution of Hungarian society, inviting readers to consider the implications of progress and the value of tradition in a rapidly changing world.

    The 4471st Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Confessions Of A Haut Bourgeois by Sándor Márai

    "The Confessions of a Haut Bourgeois" is a memoir that delves into the life and reflections of a man born into the Hungarian upper middle class at the turn of the 20th century. The narrative explores the author's formative years, education, and experiences that shaped his worldview, set against the backdrop of a fading Austro-Hungarian Empire and the tumultuous changes sweeping through Europe. It is a poignant examination of the cultural and social mores of the time, as well as a personal reckoning with the loss of the author's own privileged world and the search for identity in a society undergoing profound transformation.

    The 4482nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. My Happy Days In Hell by György Faludy

    The book is an autobiographical account of a Hungarian poet's life during the mid-20th century, chronicling his experiences from his carefree youth through the rise of fascism and his subsequent imprisonment in a brutal labor camp. It is a tale of intellectual passion, political upheaval, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of totalitarianism. The narrative captures the author's journey through a Europe ravaged by war and political strife, his encounters with notable literary figures, and his unyielding commitment to his beliefs and to poetry, even as he endures the hardships and absurdities of a communist regime.

    The 4487th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Literary Work Of Art by Roman Ingarden

    "The Literary Work of Art" is a philosophical exploration into the ontology of literature, examining how a literary work exists as a multilayered structure, comprising of sounds, meanings, and the phenomenological experiences they evoke. The book delves into the intricacies of how these layers interact to create a dynamic and immersive aesthetic object, which is both a creation of the author and an interpretation by the reader. Through a detailed analysis, the work discusses the role of ambiguity, intentionality, and the reader's involvement in actualizing a text, offering a comprehensive framework for understanding the complexity and richness of literary art.

    The 4688th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. I Have Lived a Thousand Years by Livia Bitton-Jackson

    This memoir tells the harrowing story of a 13-year-old Jewish girl's survival during the Holocaust. The narrative follows her life from her quiet existence in Hungary through the horrors of Auschwitz and other concentration camps, and finally to her liberation and the struggle to rebuild her life in the aftermath of such trauma. The memoir is a powerful testament to human resilience and the will to survive against all odds.

    The 4773rd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. 89 Poems by Zbigniew Herbert

    "89 Poems" is a collection of profound and thought-provoking poems that explore various themes such as history, art, nature, and the human condition. Through his exquisite use of language and vivid imagery, the author invites readers on a journey of introspection and contemplation, delving into the complexities of existence and the timeless questions that define our humanity. With each poem, "89 Poems" offers a unique perspective on life, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for the power of poetry to illuminate the world around us.

    The 4897th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. A World Apart by Gustaw Herling-Grudziński

    "A World Apart" is a powerful memoir that recounts the author's experiences as a political prisoner in a Soviet labor camp during World War II. Through vivid and harrowing descriptions, the book exposes the brutality and inhumanity of the camp system, as well as the resilience and strength of the prisoners. It serves as a haunting reminder of the atrocities committed during this dark period of history and the enduring human spirit.

    The 4968th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Alicia by Alicia Appleman-Jurman

    The book is a harrowing memoir of a young Jewish girl's survival during the Holocaust. It recounts her life from a peaceful childhood in a small Polish town to the unspeakable horrors of Nazi occupation. As her family is decimated and her world is torn apart, she becomes a courageous messenger for the Jewish resistance, risking her life to help others while on a relentless quest for survival. Her story is one of remarkable resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

    The 4969th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Imperium by Ryszard Kapuscinski

    "Imperium" is a gripping account of the author's travels through the Soviet Union during the final years of its existence. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of power, the author delves into the lives of ordinary people and high-ranking officials alike, revealing the oppressive nature of the Soviet regime and the profound impact it had on the lives of its citizens. Through vivid descriptions and insightful observations, the book offers a compelling narrative that sheds light on the inner workings of a crumbling empire.

    The 5149th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. The South Pole by Roald Amundsen

    The book is a detailed firsthand account of the first successful expedition to the South Pole, led by the author, a noted Norwegian explorer. It chronicles the meticulous planning, the journey's challenges, and the strategic decisions that enabled the team to reach the pole on December 14, 1911, ahead of their British rivals. The narrative combines personal reflections, vivid descriptions of the harsh Antarctic environment, and insights into the teamwork and innovation crucial for survival and success in one of the most extreme climates on Earth.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Shakespeare Our Contemporary by Jan Kott

    "Shakespeare Our Contemporary" is a critical analysis that explores the relevance of Shakespeare's plays to modern society. The book argues that Shakespeare's themes are timeless and universal, delving into the ways his works address fundamental human issues and conflicts that resonate even in the contemporary world. Through a series of essays, the author examines various plays by Shakespeare, reinterpreting them through modern philosophical and psychological lenses, and demonstrating how they reflect the political and social realities of the twentieth century. The book has been influential in shaping modern interpretations of Shakespeare, particularly in the realm of theater, influencing directors and actors to approach the plays with new perspectives.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. The Long Walk by Slavomir Rawicz

    "The Long Walk" is a harrowing narrative of a group of prisoners who escape from a Siberian gulag during World War II, and undertake a treacherous journey through the harsh Siberian wilderness, the Gobi desert, the Himalayas, and finally to India. The story is based on the author's own experiences and portrays the indomitable human spirit, survival against all odds, camaraderie, and the will to freedom.

    The 5878th 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