W, or the Memory of Childhood by Georges Perec

"W, or the Memory of Childhood" is a unique blend of autobiographical recollections and fictional narrative. The novel alternates between two storylines: one describing the childhood of a Jewish boy during World War II, and the other detailing a dystopian society on a mysterious island known as "W". The book explores themes of memory, trauma, and the loss of innocence, while also offering a critique of totalitarian regimes. The two narratives gradually converge, revealing the traumatic underpinnings of the protagonist's life and the allegorical nature of "W".

The 1737th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 222

Since this book was first published in 1975, there is a penalty of 1.6%. The age adjusted score is 218.45.

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.