Open City by Teju Cole

The novel follows a young Nigerian-German psychiatrist in New York City who embarks on solitary walks after a breakup. Through his meandering strolls, he encounters a diverse array of characters and reflects on his life, identity, and the complex layers of history embedded in the urban landscape. The protagonist's introspective journey intertwines his personal history with musings on culture, art, and the immigrant experience, revealing the multifaceted nature of his own consciousness and the city itself. As he delves into the depths of his memories and observations, the narrative becomes a poignant exploration of the intersections between the personal and the universal, the past and the present.

The 8069th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 102

Since this book was first published in 2011, there is a penalty of 59.2%. The age adjusted score is 41.62.

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.