The Greatest Hungarian, Unknown Books Since 1980

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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.

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  1. 1. The Notebook: The Proof ; The Third Lie : Three Novels by Agota Kristof

    "The Notebook: The Proof ; The Third Lie : Three Novels" is a trilogy of novels that follow the lives of twin brothers, living through the harsh realities of war, separation, and betrayal. The first novel, "The Notebook," tells the story of their survival as children in a rural town at the end of World War II. The second book, "The Proof," continues their story into adulthood, exploring the effects of their traumatic childhood. The final book, "The Third Lie," delves into the complexities of their relationship and the secrets they kept from one another. The trilogy is a poignant exploration of identity, love, and the enduring bond of brotherhood.

    The 1298th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Legend by David Gemmell

    In a post-apocalyptic world, an aging warrior known as Druss comes out of retirement to defend his homeland from invading hordes. Despite his advanced age, he is still a formidable fighter and is revered as a living legend. As he prepares for a seemingly impossible battle, he must confront not only his enemies but also his own personal demons and the specter of his own mortality. The novel is a compelling blend of action, adventure, and introspection, exploring themes of heroism, honor, and the human capacity for courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

    The 1778th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Melancholy of Resistance by László Krasznahorkai

    "The Melancholy of Resistance" is a surreal and philosophical novel set in a small Hungarian town that becomes isolated by a massive snowstorm. The arrival of a mysterious circus, featuring a stuffed whale and a silent, enigmatic leader, brings with it a wave of change and unrest. The narrative explores themes of chaos, resistance, and the struggle for power through the perspectives of various townsfolk, including a reclusive music theorist and a former political dissident. The novel is known for its complex, long-winded sentences and its bleak yet profound examination of human nature and society.

    The 2102nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Writer on Her Work by Janet Sternburg

    "The Writer on Her Work" is a collection of essays by various female authors who discuss their experiences, challenges, and perspectives on writing. The book explores the complexities of being a woman in the literary world, shedding light on topics such as gender bias, the struggle for recognition, and the balance between personal life and professional aspirations. It provides a unique insight into the creative process, revealing how these women navigate their craft amidst societal expectations and personal obstacles.

    The 2263rd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Celestial Harmonies by Peter Esterhazy

    "Celestial Harmonies" is a historical novel that tells the story of the aristocratic Esterházy family, tracing their lineage from the late Middle Ages to the present day. The narrative is divided into two parts, with the first part featuring a series of vignettes about the family's ancestors, while the second part focuses on the experiences of the narrator's father under the Communist regime in Hungary. The novel is characterized by its intricate structure, complex themes, and lush, poetic language, offering a rich exploration of Hungarian history, family dynamics, and the human condition.

    The 2369th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Door by Szabó, Magda

    "The Door" by Magda Szabo is a novel about the relationship between two women, one of whom is a writer and the other is her housekeeper. The story explores themes of class, power, and the complexities of human relationships. As the two women become increasingly intertwined, their relationship becomes more and more complicated, leading to unexpected consequences for both of them. The novel is a powerful exploration of the human condition, and a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding and empathy in our interactions with others.

    The 2379th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. E=Mc2 by David Bodanis

    The book provides a layperson-friendly explanation of the world's most famous equation, delving into the history, science, and people behind its development. It explores the biographies of the scientists who contributed to our understanding of energy and mass, including the equation's originator, and the practical and philosophical implications of the equation's assertion that energy and mass are interchangeable. The narrative also discusses the equation's role in the development of atomic energy and its impact on modern physics, offering an accessible journey through the annals of scientific thought and the revolutionizing discoveries that shape our understanding of the universe.

    The 3664th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Death And Nightingales by Eugene McCabe

    "Death and Nightingales" is a gripping and atmospheric novel set in 19th-century Ireland. The story follows Beth, a young woman trapped in a loveless marriage, who plans to escape with her lover, Liam. As the narrative unfolds over the course of a single day, tensions rise, secrets are revealed, and the characters' lives become entangled in a web of desire, betrayal, and violence. With its richly drawn characters and evocative prose, the book explores themes of love, power, and the consequences of one's choices in a society marked by oppression and turmoil.

    The 4023rd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. An Imagined World by June Goodfield

    "An Imagined World" is a poignant exploration of the human condition, set against the backdrop of World War II. The narrative delves into the life of a young woman who, amidst the chaos and destruction of the war, finds herself in a remote English village. There, she grapples with the complexities of love, loss, and the search for personal identity. As she interacts with the villagers and refugees who have also sought sanctuary, the protagonist confronts the harsh realities of the world outside while navigating the intricate web of human relationships and the enduring hope for a better future. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of imagination as a source of comfort and escape in times of turmoil.

    The 4358th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Satantango by László Krasznahorkai

    "Satantango" is a bleak and atmospheric novel set in a small Hungarian village, where a group of desperate and disillusioned characters become entangled in a web of deception, corruption, and despair. As they navigate through the decaying landscape and their own inner demons, the novel explores themes of power, greed, and the human capacity for both cruelty and redemption. With its rich prose and intricate storytelling, "Satantango" offers a haunting and thought-provoking reflection on the human condition.

    The 4439th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Helping Verbs Of The Heart by Peter Esterhazy

    "Helping Verbs Of The Heart" by Peter Esterhazy is a thought-provoking and introspective novel that delves into the complexities of love and relationships. Through a series of interconnected stories and characters, the book explores the various ways in which love can shape and define our lives. With lyrical prose and deep emotional insight, Esterhazy examines the power of love to both heal and wound, and ultimately leaves readers pondering the profound impact that love can have on the human heart.

    The 4439th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Cellar by Richard Laymon

    "The Cellar" is a chilling and suspenseful novel that follows the story of a young woman named Donna who finds herself trapped in a horrifying nightmare. After being kidnapped and locked in a dark cellar by a sadistic and deranged man, Donna must navigate the twisted and dangerous world she has been thrust into. With her life hanging in the balance, she must summon all her strength and courage to escape the clutches of her captor and survive the terrifying ordeal.

    The 4526th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. The Ceremonies by T. E. D. Klein

    "The Ceremonies" is a chilling horror novel that follows the lives of two academics who stumble upon an ancient evil lurking beneath a small town. As they uncover a series of disturbing rituals and dark secrets, they become entangled in a battle against an otherworldly force that threatens to consume them and unleash chaos upon the world. With its atmospheric writing and spine-tingling suspense, this book delves into themes of ancient mythology, the power of belief, and the terrifying consequences of meddling with forces beyond human comprehension.

    The 4577th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. The Dark Country by Dennis Etchison

    "The Dark Country" is a collection of haunting and atmospheric short stories that delve into the depths of human nature and the supernatural. From a man who becomes trapped in a nightmarish town to a woman who discovers a mysterious painting with a sinister secret, each tale is filled with suspense, dread, and a sense of unease. With its masterful storytelling and vivid imagery, this collection takes readers on a chilling journey through the dark corners of the human psyche.

    The 4591st Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Paper Children by Mariana Marin

    "Paper Children" is a heart-wrenching tale that follows the lives of three orphaned siblings as they navigate the harsh realities of living on the streets of a war-torn city. With their parents gone and no one to rely on, the children resort to selling handmade paper dolls to survive. As they face hunger, violence, and loss, their unbreakable bond and resilience become their only source of hope in a world that seems determined to break them. This poignant story explores themes of family, survival, and the indomitable spirit of children in the face of adversity.

    The 4604th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Land Of Look Behind by Michelle Cliff

    The book is a poignant exploration of identity, history, and the enduring impact of colonialism in Jamaica. Through the eyes of its protagonist, a Jamaican woman who returns to her homeland after years in the United States, the narrative delves into the complexities of her personal journey and the island's tumultuous past. As she reconnects with her roots and confronts the ghosts of slavery and oppression that haunt the landscape, the story weaves a rich tapestry of memory, culture, and the search for belonging in a land marked by beauty and scarred by injustice.

    The 4742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. I Have Lived a Thousand Years by Livia Bitton-Jackson

    This memoir tells the harrowing story of a 13-year-old Jewish girl's survival during the Holocaust. The narrative follows her life from her quiet existence in Hungary through the horrors of Auschwitz and other concentration camps, and finally to her liberation and the struggle to rebuild her life in the aftermath of such trauma. The memoir is a powerful testament to human resilience and the will to survive against all odds.

    The 4773rd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. The Threshing Floor by Barbara Burford

    "The Threshing Floor" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, sexuality, and the intersections of science and personal ethics. Set against the backdrop of a futuristic society, the narrative follows the journey of a geneticist who grapples with the moral implications of her work in genetic engineering. As she navigates the challenges of her profession, she also embarks on a quest for self-discovery, exploring her own desires and the nature of human connection. The book raises profound questions about the manipulation of life, the essence of individuality, and the price of progress, all while weaving a story of love, ambition, and the search for truth.

    The 4787th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Pete Pite by Gábor Nógrádi

    "Pete Pite" is a children's book that follows the adventures of a young boy named Pete, who is known for his insatiable curiosity and inventive spirit. Living in a small village, Pete's inquisitive nature often leads him into amusing and sometimes challenging situations. With his trusty sidekick, a dog named Pite, Pete embarks on a series of escapades that teach him valuable life lessons about friendship, responsibility, and the importance of imagination. Through his experiences, Pete not only solves problems and helps his friends but also grows and learns about the world around him.

    The 5016th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. A Nest Of Nightmares by Lisa Tuttle

    "A Nest of Nightmares" by Lisa Tuttle is a chilling and suspenseful psychological thriller that follows the life of a young woman named Sarah, who moves into a seemingly idyllic small town to start afresh. However, as she settles into her new home, she begins to experience a series of inexplicable and terrifying events that unravel the town's dark secrets. With each twist and turn, Sarah finds herself questioning her sanity and the true nature of the people around her, leading to a shocking climax that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

    The 5019th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Maps by Nuruddin Farah

    "Maps" by Nuruddin Farah is a compelling novel that delves into the complex themes of identity, exile, and the search for belonging. Set in Somalia during a time of political turmoil, the story follows Askar, a young boy who is caught between conflicting cultural and political forces. As he grows older, Askar becomes increasingly aware of the divisions within his society and struggles to navigate the shifting landscapes of his own identity. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, Farah explores the power of maps as both physical representations of territory and metaphorical symbols of personal and national boundaries.

    The 5019th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Real Farm by Patricia Tichenor Westfall

    "Real Farm" is a poignant memoir that delves into the author's personal journey growing up on a mid-20th-century American farm. The narrative captures the essence of rural life, with its close-knit family dynamics, the hard work and challenges of farm living, and the deep connection to the land. Through vivid storytelling, the book reflects on the transformation of agricultural practices, the impact of modernization, and the loss of traditional farming ways, all while celebrating the resilience and spirit of the farming community. The memoir serves as a tribute to a bygone era and a reflection on the universal themes of change, nostalgia, and the enduring value of heritage.

    The 5034th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Blue Taxis by Eileen Drew

    "Blue Taxis" is a novel that delves into the lives of expatriates living in an unnamed Middle Eastern country, exploring themes of cultural dislocation, personal identity, and the complexities of human relationships. Through the eyes of its protagonist, a Western woman who drives a blue taxi, the narrative weaves together the stories of various characters she encounters, including other expats and locals. The book examines the intersections of East and West, the challenges of adapting to a foreign culture, and the search for belonging in an environment marked by transience and the often harsh realities of expat life.

    The 5034th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. The Englishwoman's Diary: An Anthology by Harriet Blodgett

    This anthology is a curated collection of diary entries penned by English women over several centuries, offering a unique and intimate glimpse into the private lives, thoughts, and experiences of women from various walks of life. Through these personal writings, readers are transported across different periods of history, witnessing the evolution of women's roles, societal expectations, and personal aspirations. The editor has meticulously selected entries that not only highlight the rich inner lives of these women but also reflect the broader historical and cultural shifts of their times, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in women's history, diary literature, or the social history of England.

    The 5066th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Ualalapi by Ungulani Ba Ka Khosa

    "Ualalapi" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complex history and cultural identity of Mozambique. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book explores themes of colonialism, war, and the struggle for independence, as well as the impact of these historical events on individuals and society. With lyrical prose and vivid imagery, the author skillfully weaves together folklore, mythology, and real-life experiences to create a captivating narrative that challenges readers to reflect on the legacy of the past and its influence on the present.

    The 5090th 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