Terra Nostra by Carlos Fuentes

This sprawling, complex novel is a rich tapestry of historical, philosophical, and literary references that explores the identity and culture of Latin America through a fantastical lens. Set primarily in 16th-century Spain during the reign of Philip II, the narrative weaves together the lives of historical figures and fictional characters, blending reality with myth and time travel. The story delves into themes of creation and destruction, the cyclical nature of history, and the quest for a utopian society, all while examining the consequences of colonialism and the search for a Latin American identity that reconciles its indigenous, African, and European heritage. The novel's intricate structure and dense prose challenge the reader to consider the past's impact on the present and future of a region with a tumultuous history.

The 2930th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 130

Since this book was first published in 1975, there is a penalty of 1.6%. The age adjusted score is 127.92.

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.