The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender

A young girl discovers she has a magical ability to taste people's emotions in the food they cook. As she navigates through her life, she learns more about her family's secrets and struggles, especially those of her mother and her genius brother. The novel explores the complexities of family life, the burdens of extraordinary abilities, and the meaning of taste in a literal and metaphorical sense.

The 8235th greatest book of all time


Ranking Details:

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Total Points: 87

Since this book was first published in 2010, there is a penalty of 57.6%. The age adjusted score is 36.89.

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.