Anathem by Neal Stephenson

In a parallel world where intellectuals and scientists are cloistered in monastic communities called "concents," the story follows a young monk named Erasmas, who is drawn out of his secluded life by the discovery of an alien spacecraft orbiting his planet. As he and his companions are selected to interact with these extraterrestrial visitors, they are thrust into a complex web of political intrigue, philosophical debate, and existential risk. The narrative weaves together themes of mathematics, quantum mechanics, and multiple world theory, challenging the characters to question the nature of reality and their place within it as they strive to avert global catastrophe.

The 8913th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 72

Since this book was first published in 2008, there is a penalty of 54.4%. The age adjusted score is 32.83.

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.