The Greatest Nigerian, German Books Since 2000

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 '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. 1. Austerlitz by W. G. Sebald

    The novel follows the story of Jacques Austerlitz, an architectural historian who was brought to England on a Kindertransport from Czechoslovakia during World War II. As an adult, Jacques embarks on a journey to uncover his past, including his original identity, his parent's fate, and his own lost history. The narrative is a haunting exploration of memory, identity, and the lasting impact of the Holocaust.

    The 463rd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

    Set in Nazi Germany during World War II, the novel follows the story of a young girl who finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others. In the midst of the horrors of war, she forms a bond with a Jewish man her foster parents are hiding in their basement. The story is narrated by Death, offering a unique perspective on the atrocities and small acts of kindness during this period. The girl's love for books becomes a metaphor for resistance against the oppressive regime.

    The 550th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    The novel is set in Nigeria during the Biafran War, exploring the impact of the conflict on the lives of its characters. The story is told from the perspective of three characters: a young houseboy, a radical university professor, and the professor's wealthy lover. The narrative delves into themes of love, race, and war, offering a vivid depiction of the horrors of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.

    The 651st Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    The novel follows a young Nigerian woman who emigrates to the United States for a university education. While there, she experiences racism and begins blogging about her experiences as an African woman in America. Meanwhile, her high school sweetheart faces his own struggles in England and Nigeria. The story is a powerful exploration of race, immigration, and the complex nature of identity, love, and belonging.

    The 866th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    "Purple Hibiscus" follows the story of a 15-year-old Nigerian girl, Kambili, and her older brother Jaja, who live a privileged life in Enugu. However, their father is a religious fanatic and a domestic tyrant. The siblings are sent to their Aunty Ifeoma's home, a university professor, who provides them a taste of freedom and shows them a different way of life outside their father's oppressive rule. The novel explores themes of colonialism, religious fanaticism, and the post-colonial political situation in Nigeria.

    The 3038th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Swarm by Frank Schatzing

    "The Swarm" is a science fiction novel that explores the disastrous consequences of mankind's exploitation of the world's oceans. The narrative follows a group of scientists around the world as they try to understand a series of inexplicable, catastrophic natural disasters. They eventually discover that these events are not random but are the result of a collective intelligence in the sea, a swarm of marine life that has decided to fight back against humanity's destruction of their habitat. The book combines elements of ecological thriller, disaster novel, and speculative fiction as it explores the potential consequences of human interference with the natural world.

    The 3151st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

    The book revolves around a young girl named Meggie and her father Mo, who possesses a unique ability to bring characters from books to life by reading aloud. This gift, however, comes with a price, as they are entangled in a dangerous adventure when a villain from a fantasy book called "Inkheart" is accidentally summoned into the real world. As they struggle to fix the chaos caused by this crossover, they must navigate a treacherous world of magic and betrayal, while attempting to thwart the villain's sinister plans and protect the balance between reality and the fantastical realms of literature.

    The 3173rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Children Of Blood And Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

    In a world where magic has been suppressed and the maji people have been oppressed, Zélie, a young maji girl, embarks on a dangerous quest to restore magic and bring justice to her people. Alongside her brother and a rogue princess, Zélie must confront her own powers and face formidable enemies, navigating a treacherous landscape of betrayal and sacrifice. As they race against time, Zélie discovers that she may hold the key to not only saving her people, but also to changing the destiny of their entire nation.

    The 3182nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor

    This novel is a coming-of-age narrative set in a post-apocalyptic Africa. It follows the journey of a young woman born from a violent act, who is prophesied to bring an end to a brutal regime. As she grows, she discovers her magical abilities and must learn to control them in order to fulfill her destiny. The narrative explores themes of race, gender, and power, while incorporating elements of African mythology and culture.

    The 4856th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Measuring the World by Daniel Kehlmann

    "Measuring the World" is a historical novel that reimagines the lives of two brilliant and driven men, German mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss and German geographer Alexander von Humboldt. The narrative alternates between the two protagonists, exploring their individual quests to quantify and understand the world. Gauss, a child prodigy from a poor family, rises to become one of the greatest mathematicians in history, while Humboldt, a wealthy and ambitious explorer, embarks on a five-year journey across South America. Their paths converge in a humorous and touching manner, highlighting the contrast between their approaches to knowledge and discovery.

    The 4994th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Blind Side of the Heart by Julia Franck

    "The Blind Side of the Heart" is a historical novel that explores the life of a German woman before, during, and after World War II. The story begins with her abandonment of her young son at a railway station, then flashes back to her own childhood, her experiences during the war, and her tumultuous relationships. The narrative provides a deep and unflinching look at the psychological effects of war and the struggle for survival, as well as the profound impact of trauma and loss.

    The 5821st Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Essays On Music by Theodor Adorno

    This collection is a comprehensive anthology of critical essays on the subject of music, written by one of the 20th century's most influential philosophers and social critics. The work delves into the complexities of musical composition, performance, and reception, offering a profound exploration of the social, political, and cultural dimensions of the musical experience. The author critiques the commodification of music in capitalist societies and the way this impacts artistic authenticity and the listener's experience. Through a series of essays, the author examines various genres and eras, from classical to jazz to popular music, applying a rigorous theoretical framework that draws from Marxist thought, sociology, and psychoanalysis to dissect the role of music in modern life.

    The 5879th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Crabwalk by Günter Grass

    This novel delves into the tragic sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff, a German ship, during World War II, through the eyes of a journalist investigating the event's historical and personal ramifications. The narrative weaves together past and present, exploring the intergenerational impact of the catastrophe on survivors and their descendants. The author employs a unique storytelling technique, the "crabwalk," moving backward and forward in time to reveal the complexities of guilt, memory, and the reinterpretation of history. Through its intricate plot and deep character exploration, the book addresses the themes of nationalism, the repercussions of war, and the struggle to come to terms with one's heritage.

    The 6119th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    The book explores the importance of feminism in today's society and argues that gender equality is not just a women's issue, but a concern for everyone. Drawing from personal experiences and anecdotes, the author highlights the various ways in which gender inequality manifests itself and offers insightful perspectives on how we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable world for all.

    The 6395th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Binti by Nnedi Okorafor

    "Binti" is a science fiction novella that follows the journey of a young Himba girl named Binti, who defies her family's wishes and leaves her home to attend the prestigious Oomza University. As the first of her people to be accepted, Binti faces various challenges and cultural clashes as she navigates the complexities of interstellar travel and encounters an alien race known as the Meduse. Through her unique abilities and determination, Binti becomes a bridge between two civilizations, ultimately transforming her own identity and challenging societal norms.

    The 6632nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

    In this darkly comedic novel, a nurse named Korede finds herself repeatedly cleaning up after her sister Ayoola, who has a disturbing habit of killing her boyfriends. As Ayoola's murderous tendencies escalate, Korede is torn between her loyalty to her sister and her growing concern for the next potential victim. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, the sisters' bond is put to the ultimate test, leading to a gripping and unexpected conclusion.

    The 6699th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Duck, Death And The Tulip by Wolf Erlbruch

    "Duck, Death And The Tulip" is a poignant and thought-provoking illustrated book that explores the themes of life, death, and friendship. The story follows a duck who unexpectedly befriends Death, and together they embark on a journey of contemplation and acceptance. Through their conversations and experiences, the book delicately tackles the existential questions surrounding mortality, while offering a tender and comforting perspective on the inevitability of death.

    The 6865th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Stillness Speaks by Eckhart Tolle

    The book is a guide to discovering profound inner peace and serenity through the power of mindfulness and stillness. It delves into the transformative potential of living in the present moment and disengaging from the constant chatter of the mind. The author presents a series of meditative insights and wisdom that encourage readers to connect with the depth of the present moment, transcending ego-driven thoughts and emotions. By embracing stillness, the book suggests that individuals can access a deeper sense of self-awareness, leading to a more fulfilling and enlightened existence.

    The 6928th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Invention Of Nature: Alexander Von Humboldt’s New World by Andrea Wulf

    "The Invention of Nature" is a biographical account of Alexander von Humboldt, a 19th-century explorer, scientist, and naturalist who revolutionized the way we understand the natural world. Andrea Wulf chronicles Humboldt's travels across South America, his encounters with indigenous peoples, and his groundbreaking scientific discoveries that challenged prevailing notions of the natural world. Humboldt's ideas about interconnectedness and the unity of nature were ahead of their time and continue to influence environmentalism and conservation today. Wulf's book is a masterful exploration of one of history's most fascinating and influential figures.

    The 7056th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Thomas Mann Heinrich Mann by Helmut Koopmann

    The book provides a comprehensive study of the lives and works of two prominent German literary figures, who were also brothers. It delves into their complex relationship, contrasting ideologies, and individual contributions to literature and culture. The author examines their personal and professional journeys, exploring how their differing views on art, politics, and society reflected the broader intellectual and historical currents of their time. Through a detailed analysis of their novels, essays, and other writings, the book offers insights into the brothers' influence on each other and on the literary world, highlighting their lasting legacy in the context of German and world literature.

    The 7115th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Crime by Ferdinand Von Schirach

    "Crime" is a collection of short stories that explores the complexities of human behavior and the legal system. Each story presents a different crime and delves into the motivations and consequences behind it, challenging readers to question their own notions of justice and morality. With a keen eye for detail and a unique perspective, the author weaves together thought-provoking narratives that expose the intricacies of the human psyche and the flaws of the legal system.

    The 8136th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Along The Ganges by Ilija Trojanow

    The book is a travelogue that takes the reader on a captivating journey along the sacred Ganges River, from its source in the Himalayas to its delta in the Bay of Bengal. The narrative is rich with descriptions of the diverse landscapes, cultures, and people encountered by the author. It delves into the profound spiritual significance of the river to millions of Hindus, as well as the contemporary challenges it faces due to pollution and modernization. Through personal reflections and encounters, the author explores the complex relationship between the river and the civilization it has nurtured for centuries, offering insights into the historical, religious, and ecological aspects of this iconic waterway.

    The 8416th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Say You’re One of Them by Uwem Akpan

    "Say You're One of Them" is a collection of five stories, each set in a different African country, that provides a heart-wrenching look into the lives of children trying to survive in the face of unimaginable hardship. The stories deal with issues such as child trafficking, religious conflict, and poverty, presenting the harsh realities of life in Africa through the innocent eyes of children. The book is a powerful exploration of the resilience and hope of these children in the face of adversity.

    The 8590th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Inkspell by Cornelia Funke

    This novel transports readers back into a mesmerizing world where the boundaries between reality and fiction blur. The story follows a young girl and her father, who possess the magical ability to bring book characters to life by reading aloud. As they navigate the challenges of the Inkworld, a place crafted from the pages of a book, they face a villain determined to exploit their powers for his own sinister purposes. Alongside a cast of vividly drawn characters, both human and otherwise, they embark on a quest to save the Inkworld from destruction, exploring themes of courage, loyalty, and the power of storytelling.

    The 8649th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Visitation by Jenny Erpenbeck

    "Visitation" is a novel that explores the history of a house located by a lake in Brandenburg, Germany, and the various inhabitants it has seen over the centuries. The narrative spans from the early 20th century to the post-war period, encompassing the tumultuous events of the Weimar Republic, the Third Reich, and the German Democratic Republic. Each chapter is dedicated to a different resident's story, including a Jewish family, an architect, a young girl, and a Soviet officer, among others, creating a tapestry of human experiences and emotions shaped by the historical and political upheavals of the time.

    The 8911th 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