Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and World War II, the novel follows the life of a young woman who becomes the first female diver to repair ships at the Brooklyn Naval Yard, where her father once worked before his mysterious disappearance. As she grows into her new role, she is drawn into a complex web of underworld figures, sailors, and her father's past, all of which converge to reveal profound truths about her family and the larger world around her. The story is a rich tapestry of a bygone New York, exploring themes of resilience, the impact of war, and the quest for self-discovery amidst the tides of history.

The 7871st greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 138

Since this book was first published in 2017, there is a penalty of 68.8%. The age adjusted score is 43.06.

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.