The Greatest Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 286 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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  1. 10201. Life Debt by Chuck Wendig

    This novel continues the thrilling adventures set in the Star Wars universe, following the aftermath of the original trilogy. The story delves into the efforts of the New Republic to secure its fragile hold on the galaxy, facing threats from the remnants of the Empire. Central to the narrative is the ragtag team led by Norra Wexley, tasked with hunting down Imperial war criminals. Their mission takes an unexpected turn when they receive a distress call from Han Solo, leading them on a perilous quest to free the Wookiee homeworld of Kashyyyk from Imperial control. Alongside, the narrative explores the dark schemes of the Empire's remnants, setting the stage for new conflicts and the rise of familiar and new heroes.

  2. 10202. Nova Swing by M. John Harrison

    "Nova Swing" by M. John Harrison is a science fiction novel set in a future where interstellar travel is possible. The story follows a group of characters, including an ex-cop turned private detective, a woman searching for her missing husband, and a man who sells illegal alien artifacts. As they navigate a mysterious city called Saudade, they become entangled in a web of intrigue involving parallel dimensions, time travel, and the enigmatic phenomenon known as the "Nova Swing." With its atmospheric prose and complex plot, the book explores themes of identity, memory, and the blurred boundaries between reality and imagination.

  3. 10203. The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan

    The book is a historical account of the Dust Bowl in the 1930s, focusing on the lives of several families and individuals who chose to remain in the Great Plains despite the devastating dust storms and economic hardship. It provides an in-depth look at the environmental and human factors that led to this ecological disaster, the government's response, and the resilience of the people who lived through it. The narrative also explores the social and economic impacts of the Dust Bowl, and the lessons learned from this period of American history.

  4. 10204. The King of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner

    "The King of Attolia" is the third book in the "Queen's Thief" series by Megan Whalen Turner. The story follows Eugenides, the Queen's Thief, as he navigates the political intrigue and power struggles in the kingdom of Attolia. When the King of Attolia is betrayed and left for dead, Eugenides is tasked with bringing him back to health and restoring his rule. However, the King's mistrust of Eugenides and his own insecurities threaten to derail their efforts and plunge the kingdom into chaos. With twists and turns at every corner, "The King of Attolia" is a thrilling tale of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption.

  5. 10205. Soldier Of Sidon by Gene Wolfe

    In this historical fantasy novel, the protagonist, a soldier with a past shrouded in mystery, embarks on a perilous journey through ancient lands. Suffering from amnesia, he is guided by the gods and accompanied by a cast of diverse characters, including a necromancer and a mysterious woman who may hold the key to his forgotten identity. As they sail down the Nile into the heart of Egypt, they encounter magic, mythical creatures, and the politics of the divine, all while the soldier struggles to reclaim his memories and fulfill his destiny amidst the rich tapestry of the ancient world.

  6. 10206. In the Night Garden by Catherynne M. Valente

    "In the Night Garden" is a fantasy novel that follows the journey of a young girl named September, who is whisked away to the magical world of Fairyland. There, she meets a cast of eccentric characters, including a wyvern, a marid, and a changeling boy, as she embarks on a quest to retrieve a magical sword and save Fairyland from the evil Marquess. Along the way, September learns valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and the power of storytelling. With its whimsical prose and imaginative world-building, "In the Night Garden" is a delightful read for both children and adults alike.

  7. 10207. Solstice Wood by Patricia A. McKillip

    "Solstice Wood" by Patricia A. McKillip is a fantasy novel that follows Sylvia Lynn, a woman who returns to her childhood home in the small town of Bannen, where her grandmother owns a bookstore. Sylvia becomes entangled in the town's mysterious past and the secrets of her family as she discovers that the bookstore is a portal to a magical realm. As she navigates the world of faeries and magic, Sylvia must confront her own fears and desires to save her loved ones and the town from a dangerous force that threatens to destroy everything they hold dear.

  8. 10208. 4000 Miles by Amy Herzog

    The play follows the emotional journey of a young man who, after suffering a major loss during a cross-country bike trip, seeks solace and understanding by visiting his feisty 91-year-old grandmother in her West Village apartment. As the unlikely pair navigates the complexities of family, independence, and coming of age, their generational gaps both challenge and deepen their bond. Through a series of candid, heartfelt conversations, they explore themes of grief, connection, and the search for personal identity, revealing the profound impact of intergenerational relationships and the resilience needed to heal from life's unpredictable trials.

  9. 10209. Hunts In Dreams by Tom Drury

    In "Hunts In Dreams," the narrative follows the life of a Midwestern family over the course of a single weekend. The story delves into the complexities and quiet struggles of familial relationships, as each member of the family confronts their individual desires, fears, and disappointments. Set against the backdrop of rural America, the novel paints a poignant portrait of the family's dynamic, exploring themes of love, purpose, and the search for meaning amidst the ordinariness of everyday life. With a blend of humor and melancholy, the book captures the essence of human connection and the bittersweet nature of existence.

  10. 10210. The Hemingses of Monticello by Annette Gordon-Reed

    This book explores the complex and controversial history of Thomas Jefferson's relationship with his slave, Sally Hemings, and her family. It provides a detailed account of the Hemings family's life at Monticello, their interactions with Jefferson, and their experiences during and after his presidency. The narrative also delves into the wider context of slavery, race, and society in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, challenging traditional views and offering a fresh perspective on a well-known historical figure and his time.

  11. 10211. Men Explain Things To Me by Rebecca Solnit

    This book is a collection of essays that delve into the issues of feminism, gender inequality, and the pervasive problem of men dismissing and undermining women's voices. It opens with a now-iconic essay that recounts a personal experience where the author was patronizingly lectured to about her own book by a man who failed to recognize her as its author. The essays explore the cultural phenomenon where women's knowledge and expertise are often questioned or ignored, leading to broader discussions about power dynamics, violence against women, and the struggle for women's rights. Through incisive commentary and sharp wit, the book examines the silencing of women and calls for a more equitable social discourse.

  12. 10212. Redefining Realness by Janet Mock

    This book is a powerful and candid memoir that charts the journey of a trans woman growing up in America. It delves into her experiences of developing self-awareness, grappling with her gender identity, and navigating the challenges of transitioning, all while confronting the multilayered difficulties posed by society's expectations and norms. The narrative provides an intimate look into the life of someone who has battled with the complexities of identity, love, and acceptance, ultimately emerging as a strong advocate for the trans community and offering an inspiring testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

  13. 10213. Good People by David Lindsay-Abaire

    The play explores the struggles and complexities of class and social mobility through the lens of Margie Walsh, a sharp-tongued single mother from South Boston. After losing her job at a dollar store, Margie reaches out to an old flame, now a successful doctor, in hopes of finding employment. As their past and present collide, the narrative delves into themes of opportunity, resilience, and the challenging question of whether individuals can truly escape the circumstances of their birth. The interactions between characters reveal the intricate dynamics of old friendships, the judgments we make, and the role that luck plays in the American Dream.

  14. 10214. The Motherf**Ker With The Hat by Stephen Adly Guirgis

    The play is a dark comedy that delves into the complexities of love, addiction, and betrayal. It follows the story of Jackie, a parolee who is trying to stay clean and make a fresh start with the support of his sponsor. However, his life is thrown into turmoil when he discovers a mysterious hat in the apartment he shares with his longtime girlfriend, leading him to suspect infidelity. As Jackie confronts his demons and the relationships around him begin to unravel, the narrative takes a hard look at the challenges of maintaining trust and fidelity in a world filled with temptations and moral ambiguity.

  15. 10215. Other Desert Cities by Jon Robin Baitz

    In the play, a family reunion during Christmas in Palm Springs is disrupted when the daughter, an aspiring writer, announces her plans to publish a memoir that revives a tragic event in the family's history. The revelation threatens to tear the family apart as secrets are unearthed and differing memories and perspectives come to light. The family members, including two parents with a history in Hollywood and politics, an aunt who was a former screenwriter, and an addict brother, all must confront their past and the impact of the daughter's book on their future. The play delves into themes of family loyalty, political responsibility, and the elusive nature of truth.

  16. 10216. Ysabel by Guy Gavriel Kay

    In this contemporary fantasy novel, a teenage boy accompanies his photographer father to Provence, where he becomes entangled in an ancient, recurring struggle involving Celtic and Roman forces, as well as a love triangle that has spanned millennia. As the past and present converge, the boy discovers he has a critical role to play in this timeless conflict, with the help of a mysterious girl and a druid. The narrative weaves together historical fiction with magical elements, exploring themes of love, destiny, and the enduring power of stories.

  17. 10217. The Years of Extermination by Saul Friedlander

    "The Years of Extermination" is a comprehensive historical analysis of the Holocaust, examining the genocide from 1939 to 1945. Drawing on a variety of sources, including diaries, letters, and firsthand accounts, it provides a detailed and harrowing account of the systematic extermination of the Jewish people during World War II. The book also explores the responses of various groups, including the Jewish communities in Europe, the international community, and the perpetrators themselves.

  18. 10218. In the Cities of Coin and Spice by Catherynne M. Valente

    "In the Cities of Coin and Spice" is a fantasy novel that follows the adventures of a young girl named September as she travels through various magical cities. Along the way, she meets a variety of fascinating characters and faces numerous challenges, including a war between two powerful queens and a journey to the underworld. Through it all, September learns important lessons about love, loss, and the power of imagination. Valente's vivid prose and imaginative world-building make this a must-read for fans of fantasy and fairy tales.

  19. 10219. Black Man by Richard Morgan

    "Black Man" by Richard Morgan (also published as "Thirteen" in the United States) is a futuristic science fiction novel set in a world where genetically engineered humans, known as "variants," exist alongside regular humans. The story follows Carl Marsalis, a former variant soldier who is now working as a private investigator. As he gets caught up in a series of murders, Carl must confront his own troubled past while navigating a society that fears and discriminates against him. This gripping and thought-provoking novel explores themes of identity, prejudice, and the consequences of scientific advancements.

  20. 10220. Flesh and Spirit and Breath and Bone by Carol Berg

    "Flesh and Spirit and Breath and Bone" is a fantasy novel by Carol Berg. The story follows Valen, a young man who has been trained since birth to become a "lector," a person who can read and manipulate the minds of others. However, when Valen discovers a dark secret about his past, he is forced to flee his home and embark on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth about his identity. Along the way, he must confront powerful enemies and grapple with his own inner demons in order to save himself and those he loves.

  21. 10221. The Great Man by Kate Christensen

    "The Great Man" is a novel that revolves around the life of a renowned painter, Oscar Feldman, who was known for his portraits of nude women. The story is told through the perspectives of the women in his life, including his wife, his mistress, and his sister, after his death. As two competing biographers try to document his life, the women reflect on their relationships with him, revealing a complex man who was both a loving father and a serial adulterer. The novel explores themes of art, love, infidelity, and the ways in which people are remembered after their death.

  22. 10222. Legacy of Ashes: The History of the CIA by Tim Weiner

    This book is a comprehensive history of the Central Intelligence Agency from its inception in 1947 to 2007. It provides an in-depth look at the agency's triumphs and failures, revealing a pattern of poor intelligence analysis, covert operations gone awry, and bureaucratic mismanagement. The author utilizes more than 50,000 documents, primarily from the archives of the CIA itself, and hundreds of interviews with CIA veterans, including ten Directors of Central Intelligence. It's a critical examination of the CIA, questioning its effectiveness and its role in both the Cold War and the War on Terror.

  23. 10223. Empire's End by Chuck Wendig

    This novel concludes a thrilling trilogy set in the iconic Star Wars universe, following the aftermath of the original film trilogy. It centers on the final stand of the Galactic Empire, led by the cunning and ruthless Grand Admiral Rae Sloane, against the fledgling New Republic. As the Empire retreats to the remote planet of Jakku, characters from both sides of the conflict, including the intrepid Norra Wexley and her band of Imperial hunters, converge for a climactic showdown. The story weaves together personal vendettas, political intrigue, and the fate of the galaxy, culminating in a battle that sets the stage for the emergence of the First Order.

  24. 10224. The Hainish Novels And Stories by Ursula K. Le Guin

    This collection brings together the seminal works set in the Hainish Universe, a speculative fiction series that explores complex themes of sociology, anthropology, and psychology within a richly imagined interstellar setting. Through a variety of planets and cultures, the series delves into the intricacies of human nature, the concept of gender, and the consequences of technological and social evolution. The narratives, while diverse in their storytelling, are unified by their exploration of the potential paths of human development and the interconnectedness of all life across the cosmos, challenging readers to reconsider their perspectives on society, identity, and the environment.

  25. 10225. Tiamat's Wrath by James S. A. Corey

    In this science fiction epic, humanity is embroiled in an interstellar conflict with an authoritarian regime seeking to control ancient alien technology. The story follows a band of renegade heroes who struggle against the oppressive Laconian Empire, which has harnessed the power of the mysterious protomolecule to assert its dominance over the human colonies. As the empire faces an unforeseen threat from the alien entities that created the protomolecule, the protagonists must navigate political intrigue, personal loss, and the complexities of human and alien morality to protect humanity's future and unravel the secrets of the universe itself.

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download