The Greatest Japanese, South African "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 300 '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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  1. 1. Long Walk To Freedom by Nelson Mandela

    "Long Walk to Freedom" is a powerful autobiography that chronicles the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela. From his humble beginnings in a rural village to becoming the first black president of South Africa, Mandela's journey is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Through his personal experiences, he provides a vivid account of the struggle against apartheid, his 27 years of imprisonment, and the eventual triumph of democracy. This book serves as an inspiring testament to Mandela's unwavering spirit and his lifelong fight for freedom and human rights.

  2. 2. Kaffir Boy by Mark Mathabane

    This autobiography tells the story of a young boy growing up in apartheid-era South Africa. Despite enduring extreme poverty, brutal police raids, and constant racial discrimination, the protagonist manages to escape his harsh reality through education and tennis. His determination and resilience eventually lead him to receive a scholarship to an American university, providing him a chance to escape the oppressive system of apartheid.

  3. 3. The Body by Yasuo Yuasa

    "The Body" explores the intricate relationship between the mind and body from the perspective of Eastern philosophies and medicine, particularly focusing on Japanese thought. The book delves into how cultural differences between the East and West influence the understanding and treatment of the body. It discusses the historical and philosophical evolution of body concepts in Japan, integrating theories from Western psychoanalysis and philosophy to challenge the often dualistic approach seen in Western thought. The author proposes a more holistic, integrated view of the body-mind connection, emphasizing the importance of understanding this relationship in the context of human health and well-being.

  4. 4. Born A Crime by Trevor Noah

    "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.

  5. 5. The Seed Is Mine by Charles Van Onselen

    "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.

  6. 6. Country Of My Skull by Antjie Krog

    "Country Of My Skull" is a powerful and deeply personal account of the author's experiences as a journalist covering the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in post-apartheid South Africa. Through her vivid and introspective narrative, the author explores the complexities of forgiveness, justice, and the collective healing process of a nation grappling with its painful past. This thought-provoking book offers a unique perspective on the complexities of reconciliation and the enduring impact of trauma on individuals and societies.

  7. 7. The Gardens Of Japan by Teiji Itoh

    "The Gardens of Japan" explores the art and aesthetics of Japanese gardens, tracing their development from ancient times to the modern era. The book delves into various garden styles, from the serene rock gardens of Zen Buddhism to the ornate tea gardens and expansive stroll gardens. Richly illustrated and detailed, it examines the philosophical and cultural underpinnings that have shaped garden design in Japan, highlighting the intricate interplay of nature, spirituality, and art. The author provides insights into the symbolic elements of these gardens, their use of space and natural materials, and the meticulous care that goes into their creation and maintenance, offering readers a deep appreciation of this enduring art form.

  8. 8. The Life Changing Magic Of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo

    "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" is a practical guide that offers a fresh perspective on decluttering and organizing one's home. The author introduces the KonMari Method, a systematic approach to tidying that encourages individuals to keep only items that truly spark joy in their lives. Through insightful anecdotes and step-by-step instructions, the book provides valuable insights on how tidying can lead to a transformative and joyful lifestyle.

  9. 9. Boyhood: Scenes from provincial life by J M Coetzee

    "Boyhood: Scenes from Provincial Life" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the author's childhood in South Africa during the apartheid era. The narrative delves into the complexities of family dynamics, racial tension, and the struggle of a young boy trying to understand his place in a divided society. The protagonist grapples with his identity, torn between his Afrikaner heritage and his English schooling, while also navigating the trials of adolescence. The book offers a poignant and often painful reflection on the formative years of a boy growing up in a fraught and turbulent time.

  10. 10. Totto Chan, The Little Girl At The Window by Tetsuko Kuroyanagi

    The book is a charming autobiographical memoir of a young girl's experiences at an unconventional school in Tokyo during World War II. The narrative focuses on the unique educational approach of the school's headmaster, who values freedom, creativity, and individuality in the educational process. Through a series of heartwarming episodes, the book illustrates how the school becomes a delightful haven for the girl, fostering her curiosity and love of learning amidst the backdrop of a society facing the challenges of war. The story is a testament to the impact of progressive education on young minds.

  11. 11. The Power To Compete by Hiroshi Mikitani, Ryoichi Mikitani

    This book delves into the economic challenges facing Japan, offering a dialogue between a father, an economist, and his son, a successful entrepreneur. Together, they explore the reasons behind Japan's stagnation and propose solutions to revitalize its economy. They argue that Japan needs to embrace innovation, deregulation, and entrepreneurship to regain its competitive edge in the global market. The book combines a deep understanding of economic principles with practical insights from the business world, making a compelling case for structural reforms and a new mindset to power Japan's comeback on the world stage.

  12. 12. Honouring High Places by Junko Tabei

    "Honouring High Places" is a compelling collection of autobiographical stories chronicling the remarkable life of the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest. The book offers a deeply personal account of the challenges she faced, from societal expectations in Japan and the physical demands of climbing to the joys and tragedies encountered on her expeditions. Through her vivid storytelling, the author paints a picture of her groundbreaking climbs, her dedication to environmental issues, and her commitment to encouraging women to embrace adventure and challenge gender norms in the world of mountaineering.

  13. 13. The Beauty Of Everyday Things by Soetsu Yanagi

    The book is a reflective exploration of the philosophy and appreciation of craftsmanship, particularly in the context of Japanese folk art. It delves into the aesthetic and spiritual qualities of ordinary objects, emphasizing the beauty found in simplicity, imperfection, and the natural patina that comes with age and use. The author argues for the value of handcrafted items, suggesting that they possess an inherent life and character often absent in mass-produced goods. Through a series of essays, the work invites readers to reconsider their relationship with the everyday items that surround them, fostering a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of artisanal practices.

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