The Greatest French Books Since 1970

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 '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.

Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
Follow on:

Genres

Countries

French

Add additional country filters

Date Range

Filter

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
  1. 26. Le Jeune Homme De Sable by Williams Sassine

    "Le Jeune Homme De Sable" is a thought-provoking novel that follows the journey of a young man named Sissoko, who is torn between his traditional African roots and the allure of the Western world. Set in postcolonial Africa, the book explores themes of cultural identity, colonialism, and the impact of globalization on the younger generation. Through Sissoko's experiences and encounters, the author delves into the complexities of modernity and the challenges faced by individuals striving to find their place in a rapidly changing society.

    The 4442nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Childhood by Nathalie Sarraute

    "Childhood" is a memoir that delves into the fragmented memories of the author's early years, exploring the complexities of growing up and the formation of identity. Through a series of vignettes, the narrative captures the nuanced emotions and experiences of a young girl navigating her way through the challenges of family dynamics, societal expectations, and self-discovery. The author employs an innovative literary style, characterized by introspection and a stream-of-consciousness approach, to reflect on the elusive nature of memory and the ways in which our childhood experiences shape who we become.

    The 4504th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Ernest And Celestine by Gabrielle Vincent

    "Ernest And Celestine" is a heartwarming children's book about an unlikely friendship between a bear named Ernest and a young mouse named Celestine. Despite societal expectations and prejudices, the two form a deep bond and defy the norms of their respective worlds. Through their adventures and challenges, they teach readers the importance of acceptance, friendship, and the power of love.

    The 4558th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Spurs by Jacques Derrida

    "Spurs," also known by its subtitle "Nietzsche's Styles," is a philosophical exploration by Jacques Derrida that delves into Friedrich Nietzsche's writings, focusing particularly on the motif of the "spur" and the complexities of Nietzsche's style. Derrida examines the themes of femininity, identity, and writing in Nietzsche’s work, using his signature deconstructive approach to interrogate the interplay between Nietzsche’s textual strategies and his philosophical insights. The book challenges traditional interpretations of Nietzsche, presenting a nuanced analysis that highlights the inherent contradictions and the interdependence of absence and presence in his philosophy.

    The 4813th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Essential Cuisine by Michel Bras

    "Essential Cuisine" is a comprehensive guide to gourmet cooking, written by a renowned French chef. The book provides readers with recipes that highlight the chef's innovative and unique approach to cooking, focusing on the use of fresh, local ingredients. The book also includes stunning photography of the dishes and the chef's home region, making it as much a visual feast as a culinary one. It is a must-have for anyone interested in haute cuisine and the art of fine dining.

    The 4824th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Segu by Maryse Condé

    "Segu" is a historical novel that delves into the lives of the Traore family, a noble lineage within the Bambara Empire of Segu (present-day Mali) during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. As the region faces the pressures of colonialism, the slave trade, and religious upheaval from both Islam and Christianity, the family members experience profound transformations in their personal identities and loyalties. Through their diverse and often conflicting paths, the novel explores the complex interplay of social, political, and cultural forces shaping West Africa during a period of intense turmoil and change.

    The 4844th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Fantasia: An Algerian Cavalcade by Assia Djebar

    "Fantasia: An Algerian Cavalcade" is a multifaceted novel that intertwines personal narratives with the history of Algeria's resistance against French colonialism. Through a blend of autobiography, historical documentation, and fictional reimaginings, the book explores the complex layers of identity, memory, and struggle from the perspective of Algerian women. The narrative shifts across time, recounting both the 19th-century French invasion and the 20th-century war for independence, while delving into the author's own experiences and the broader cultural and linguistic challenges faced by Algerian society. The novel stands out for its poetic style and its innovative use of language to capture the voices of those often silenced in historical discourse.

    The 4912th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. The Long Way by Bernard Moitessier

    The book is a captivating narrative of a sailor's solo circumnavigation of the globe during a historic yacht race. Rejecting the trappings of fame and competition, the sailor chooses to continue sailing beyond the finish line, embracing the sea's vastness and his deep connection with nature. His journey becomes not just a test of physical endurance but a spiritual quest, as he reflects on life, the modern world, and the harmony found in simplicity. Through storms, wildlife encounters, and the solitude of the open ocean, the sailor's tale is a profound meditation on the human spirit and our relationship to the Earth.

    The 4917th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Mamy Wata Et Le Monstre by Veronique Tadjo

    "Mamy Wata Et Le Monstre" by Veronique Tadjo is a captivating tale that explores the relationship between humans and nature. Set in a coastal village, the story follows the adventures of a young girl named Mamy Wata, who discovers a mysterious monster wreaking havoc on her community. As she embarks on a journey to confront the monster, Mamy Wata learns valuable lessons about the importance of harmony and respect for the environment. With its vivid imagery and thought-provoking narrative, this book serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and the natural world.

    The 5155th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Species Of Spaces And Other Pieces by Georges Perec

    This book is a collection of essays and musings that explore the concept of space in its myriad forms, from the intimate to the vast, the mundane to the conceptual. The author employs a variety of literary styles and devices to dissect the spaces we inhabit, such as the page upon which one writes, the bed one sleeps in, the apartment, the street, and the city. Through this examination, the work delves into themes of memory, absence, and the everyday, encouraging readers to perceive the spaces around them in new and thought-provoking ways. The text is both playful and philosophical, inviting a deeper reflection on the spaces we often take for granted and the ways in which they shape our experiences.

    The 5243rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. The Straight Mind by Monique Wittig

    The book is a collection of feminist essays that challenge the conventional understanding of gender and sexuality, positing that the concept of "woman" is a social construct created by a heterosexual society to uphold a binary gender system. The author argues that this system perpetuates the oppression of women and LGBTQ+ individuals by reinforcing the straight mind, a heteronormative way of thinking that marginalizes any form of difference. Through a radical rethinking of language, literature, and social structures, the essays advocate for a new feminist perspective that seeks to dismantle the straight mind and create a society where all forms of identity and expression are valued equally.

    The 5328th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Camera Lucida by Roland Barthes

    The book in question is a seminal work in the field of photography theory, blending personal reflection with philosophical investigation. The author delves into the nature of photography, exploring the medium's ability to capture the essence of a moment and its subjects. Through a two-part analysis, the author introduces concepts such as the studium and punctum to articulate the layers of meaning and emotional response elicited by photographs. The work is also a meditation on loss and memory, inspired by the author's search for the essence of his late mother in her photographs. The text is both an intimate journey and a critical examination of the power of images to evoke and preserve the fleeting nature of existence.

    The 5376th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. Le Pavillon Des Enfants Fous by Valérie Valère

    The book is a harrowing autobiographical novel that delves into the experiences of a teenage girl confined in a psychiatric hospital. Through her eyes, readers are exposed to the stark and often disturbing realities of mental health treatment in the institution, as she grapples with her own mental illness. The narrative provides a raw and poignant exploration of the protagonist's struggle for identity and understanding amidst the challenges of her environment, shedding light on the often misunderstood world of psychiatric care and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 5465th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Jerome by Jean-Pierre Martinet

    "Jerome" is a dark and unsettling novella that delves into the life of its eponymous protagonist, a reclusive, grotesque, and morbidly obese librarian who lives in a decrepit apartment. His existence is one of grim routine and perverse fantasies, as he harbors an unhealthy obsession with the young daughter of his landlord. The narrative explores the depths of Jerome's alienation and psychological torment, painting a bleak portrait of a man consumed by his own depravity and the suffocating confines of his solitary world. The book is a stark examination of loneliness, despair, and the human condition, rendered with a visceral intensity that leaves a lasting impression.

    The 5483rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Orson Welles by André Bazin

    This book provides an in-depth analysis of Orson Welles, a seminal figure in cinematic history, whose innovative techniques and storytelling prowess left an indelible mark on the world of film. The author meticulously examines Welles' entire oeuvre, from his groundbreaking work in "Citizen Kane" to lesser-known projects, highlighting his artistic evolution, thematic interests, and the distinctive use of sound and visuals. Through a critical lens, the book explores how Welles challenged conventional filmmaking norms and discusses his lasting influence on both contemporary directors and the broader cinematic landscape.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. How Democracies Perish by Jean François Revel

    This book provides a deep analysis of the threats faced by democracies, specifically from totalitarian regimes. The author argues that democracies are often their own worst enemies, being too tolerant and indecisive, which can lead to their downfall. He further discusses how democracies can be manipulated by totalitarian regimes through propaganda and misinformation. The book serves as a warning and a call to action for democratic societies to recognize these threats and take steps to defend their values and institutions.

    The 5628th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Footsteps by Richard Holmes

    "Footsteps" is a captivating blend of biography and travel literature, where the author retraces the journeys of various literary figures to better understand their lives and works. Through his explorations, he follows in the footsteps of authors such as Robert Louis Stevenson, Mary Wollstonecraft, and Percy Bysshe Shelley, visiting the places they lived and wrote about. This immersive approach allows the author to delve deeply into the historical and emotional landscapes that shaped these writers, blending rich narrative with scholarly insights to offer a unique perspective on both the subjects and their settings.

    The 5636th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. The Roman Empire by Paul Veyne

    "The Roman Empire" delves into the intricate and expansive history of Rome, exploring its political, social, and cultural dynamics. The book provides a detailed examination of how Rome evolved from a small city-state to a vast empire, influencing the Western world profoundly. The author analyzes the mechanisms of power and governance within the empire, the role of military conquests and political alliances, and the complex interactions between Roman and other cultures. Additionally, the narrative discusses the daily lives of Roman citizens, the economic frameworks, and the philosophical and artistic contributions that shaped the legacy of the Roman Empire.

    The 5663rd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The Films In My Life by Francois Truffaut

    "The Films In My Life" is a collection of essays and reviews by a celebrated French filmmaker, offering insights into the world of cinema from the 1950s through the 1970s. In this book, the author discusses a wide range of films, from classics to lesser-known works, providing personal and critical perspectives that reflect his experiences as both a filmmaker and a film critic. The essays not only delve into the artistic and technical aspects of the films but also explore the influence of cinema on society and the individual, showcasing the author's deep love for and understanding of the medium.

    The 5663rd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. Montaillou by Emmanuel Le Roy Ladurie

    The book is a detailed historical study of the lives of the inhabitants of Montaillou, a small village in the French Pyrenees, during the early 14th century. Based on the meticulous records of Jacques Fournier, the Bishop of Pamiers who later became Pope Benedict XII, the book explores the daily lives, beliefs, and social structures of a medieval community. It particularly focuses on how the villagers, including peasants and shepherds, interacted with the Cathar heresy and the Inquisition's efforts to suppress it. The work provides an in-depth look at medieval European rural life, religious practices, and the impact of ecclesiastical authority on individual lives.

    The 5663rd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Desert by J. M. G. Le Clezio

    "Desert" is a sweeping narrative that spans across time and continents, telling the story of a young nomadic woman from the North African desert and her tribe's struggle against the encroaching forces of modernization and colonialism. Intertwined with her tale is the story of a descendant living in France, grappling with his own sense of identity and belonging. The novel paints a vivid picture of cultural erosion and the loss of traditional ways of life, while also exploring themes of resilience, memory, and the enduring connection to one's heritage amidst the relentless march of progress and change.

    The 5668th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

    The novel is a profound contemplation of life as seen through the eyes of two female protagonists: a 54-year-old concierge and a precocious 12-year-old girl, both living in the same upscale Parisian apartment building. The concierge, who conceals her intelligence and passion for literature and philosophy from the wealthy tenants, and the girl, who plans to commit suicide on her 13th birthday due to her disillusionment with the world, form an unlikely friendship. Their lives are forever changed when a wealthy Japanese man moves into the building.

    The 5684th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. Three by Georges Perec

    This book is a unique exploration of human experience and memory, weaving together three distinct narratives that delve into the intricacies of loss, identity, and the passage of time. Through a meticulous and innovative use of language, the author crafts a multifaceted examination of life's fleeting moments and the ways in which they are remembered and forgotten. The narratives, though seemingly disparate, converge in their shared themes of absence and the search for meaning within the mundane, challenging readers to reflect on the nature of existence and the connections that bind the past to the present.

    The 5700th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. The History Of Sexuality by Michel Foucault

    "The History of Sexuality" explores the complex relationship between power and sexual discourse, arguing that since the 17th century, Western societies have not repressed sexuality but rather incited it, making it an object of public discourse. The author examines how power operates through the production of knowledge about sex and uses this perspective to challenge the conventional narrative that society has been progressively liberating sexuality from repression. The book delves into the ways in which sexual norms and power relations are intertwined, suggesting that the discourse on sexuality is a tool of power used to regulate both individual bodies and entire populations.

    The 5715th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. The Pleasure of the Text by Roland Barthes

    "The Pleasure of the Text" is a philosophical and literary exploration of the act of reading. The author presents the idea that there are two types of pleasures associated with reading: "pleasure of the text" and "bliss." The former is a comfortable enjoyment derived from the familiar, the latter a disruptive and challenging joy that comes from the new and unexpected. The book delves into the interaction between reader and text, highlighting the role of the reader in interpreting and creating meaning, and challenges traditional notions of authorship and textual authority.

    The 5739th Greatest Book of All Time

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