The Greatest Mexican, Spanish Books Since 1980

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

Mexican

Spanish

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. 1. Like Water For Chocolate by Laura Esquivel

    This novel is a romantic, magical realism tale set in turn-of-the-century Mexico. It chronicles the life of Tita, the youngest daughter in a traditional Mexican family, who is forbidden to marry due to a family custom that mandates the youngest daughter must care for her mother until death. Tita falls in love with Pedro, who in turn marries her elder sister to stay close to her. The story is uniquely structured around the twelve months of the year, each beginning with a traditional Mexican recipe. The protagonist's emotions become infused with her cooking, leading to strange effects on those who consume her culinary creations.

    The 799th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

    The novel follows the story of a young boy in post-war Barcelona, who discovers a mysterious book in a hidden library that his father takes him to, which houses forgotten books. The boy becomes captivated by the book and its author, but as he grows older, he realizes that someone is destroying all books written by this author. As he delves deeper into the mystery, the boy's life becomes intertwined with the author's, revealing a dark and tragic past that someone wants to be kept hidden. The story is a mix of romance, mystery, and a historical narrative set against the turbulent backdrop of a city recovering from war.

    The 1061st Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. A Heart So White by Javier Marías

    The novel delves into the complexities of relationships, secrets, and communication as the protagonist, a translator and interpreter, grapples with the mysterious suicide of his father's first wife and the pervasive silence surrounding it. Through his own marriage and his observations of others', he contemplates the unsaid and the power of words, both spoken and unspoken. The narrative weaves through time and memory, exploring the impact of the past on the present and the intricate ways in which people understand and misunderstand each other.

    The 1527th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Club Dumas by Arturo Pérez-Reverte

    The book follows Lucas Corso, a book detective who is hired to authenticate a rare manuscript by Alexandre Dumas. As he delves into the investigation, he finds himself entangled in a mystery involving two other books: a rare edition of "The Three Musketeers" and a satanic text, "The Book of Nine Doors of the Kingdom of Shadows". The narrative becomes a complex puzzle as Corso uncovers connections between the books, while also dealing with a seductive woman who seems to have stepped out of a Dumas novel, a mysterious killer, and a group of bibliophiles obsessed with Dumas. The lines between fiction and reality blur as he gets closer to the truth.

    The 2359th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Bartleby & Co by Enrique Vila-Matas

    "Bartleby & Co" is a metafictional work that explores the theme of "writers of the No," authors who cease to write or never start at all. The narrator, an office worker on sick leave, uses footnotes to a nonexistent text to delve into the stories of these authors, including famous real-life figures. The book serves as a meditation on silence, refusal, and the nature of literature itself.

    The 2449th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Your Face Tomorrow: Fever and Spear by Javier Marías

    The novel explores the life of a Spanish expatriate in England who is recruited by a secretive organization due to his unique ability to interpret people's behavior. As he becomes entangled in a world of espionage, he grapples with moral and ethical dilemmas, questioning the validity of his work and the consequences of his actions. Through a blend of introspective musings and suspenseful narrative, the protagonist's life unravels, revealing a complex web of deceit, betrayal, and violence.

    The 2598th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Larva: Midsummer Night's Babel by Julián Ríos

    "Larva: Midsummer Night's Babel" is a complex and innovative novel that explores the nature of language and the power of words. It's a narrative labyrinth that follows a group of characters through the streets of London on a midsummer night, as they engage in a series of intellectual debates and discussions. The story is filled with puns, word games, and literary references, and is written in a unique style that blends poetry and prose. The novel is also a satire of the literary world, with the characters often critiquing and parodying various literary styles and authors.

    The 3034th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Years with Laura Diaz by Carlos Fuentes

    "The Years with Laura Diaz" is a historical novel that centers around the life of a woman named Laura Diaz, a member of the Mexican upper class. The book explores the political and social changes in Mexico throughout the 20th century, as seen through Laura's eyes. Her journey includes a loveless marriage, a passionate affair, and a career as a photographer during the Mexican Revolution. The story weaves together personal, political, and cultural threads, creating a rich tapestry of Mexican history and the indomitable spirit of its women.

    The 3058th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Invisible Reality by Juan Ramón Jiménez

    "Invisible Reality" is a poetic exploration of the unseen dimensions of life, delving into the profound and often overlooked aspects of existence. The author weaves a tapestry of emotions and thoughts, inviting readers to contemplate the intangible elements that shape our perceptions and experiences. Through a series of lyrical reflections, the work challenges the boundaries between the visible and invisible, encouraging a deeper understanding of the world beyond the physical and the immediate, and fostering a connection with the eternal and the universal.

    The 3242nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Sonnets by Julián Olivares

    "Sonnets" is a collection of beautifully crafted poems that explore a range of themes including love, loss, and the human experience. The author's profound understanding of language and the intricacies of emotions is evident in each sonnet, making the collection a deeply moving and thought-provoking read. The traditional structures of sonnets are used to convey modern sentiments, resulting in a work that is both timeless and contemporary.

    The 3359th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Obabakoak by Bernardo Atxaga

    Obabakoak is a collection of interconnected stories that revolve around the inhabitants of a fictional Basque village named Obaba. The stories, which are a blend of the magical and the everyday, explore the complexities of human nature, as well as the rich history and culture of the Basque region. Themes of love, fear, tradition, and change are woven throughout, offering a nuanced and evocative portrait of a community and its people.

    The 3378th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. All Souls by Javier Marías

    "All Souls" is a novel that follows the experiences of a Spanish professor teaching at Oxford University. His life is filled with eccentric colleagues, a puzzling love affair, and a mysterious sense of intrigue. As the protagonist navigates through the academic world, he becomes entangled in a web of personal relationships and bureaucratic intricacies. The book is a blend of romance, suspense, and satire, with a poignant exploration of memory, longing, and the ephemeral nature of human relationships.

    The 3430th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Lost Children Archive by Valeria Luiselli

    "Lost Children Archive" by Valeria Luiselli is a novel that follows a family on a road trip from New York to Arizona. The parents are documentarians and are working on separate projects, while the children are preoccupied with their own interests. As they travel, the family becomes increasingly aware of the migrant crisis and the children's obsession with finding lost things takes on a new meaning. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and the power of storytelling.

    The 3713th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. A Light Comedy by Eduardo Mendoza

    "A Light Comedy" is a humorous tale set in Barcelona during the 1940s, centered around a middle-aged woman who, after losing everything in the Civil War, uses her wits and cunning to survive. She turns her apartment into a boarding house for single ladies, but when the business starts to falter, she decides to concoct a plan to marry a rich American. The novel is filled with a colorful cast of characters, and is a satirical commentary on the social and political climate of the time.

    The 4480th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Heretic by Miguel Delibes

    "The Heretic" is a historical novel set during the Spanish Inquisition. It follows the life of a man born in 16th century Spain, who, despite being raised in a strictly Catholic environment, begins to question the teachings and practices of the Church. As he grows older, he becomes involved in the Protestant Reformation, risking his life in a society where heresy is punishable by death. This book explores themes of faith, religious persecution, and the struggle for freedom of thought.

    The 4766th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. In Search of Klingsor by Jorge Volpi Escalante

    "In Search of Klingsor" is a historical novel that revolves around the pursuit of a mysterious Nazi scientist named Klingsor. The story is set during World War II and the Cold War, and follows two main characters, an American physicist and a Mexican mathematician, who are tasked with finding and identifying Klingsor. The novel uses real historical figures and events to explore themes of science, war, and morality, while also delving into the complex nature of truth and deception.

    The 4844th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Soldiers of Salamis by Javier Cercas

    This novel revolves around a true event during the Spanish Civil War, where a nationalist soldier spares the life of a famous poet who was about to be executed. The story is told from the perspective of a journalist who becomes obsessed with the incident and embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about what happened. As he delves deeper, he discovers the complexities of heroism, history, and memory, and is forced to question his own understanding of these concepts.

    The 5069th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. La Dama Número Trece by José Carlos Somoza

    This novel is a thrilling blend of mystery, horror, and fantasy, revolving around a struggling writer who becomes the target of a secret society known as "The Thirteen Ladies". These shadowy figures have the ability to manipulate reality through the power of words and storytelling. As he is drawn deeper into their world, he must uncover their secrets and find a way to survive their deadly games. The narrative is a rich exploration of the power of language and mythology, with a suspenseful plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    The 5336th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. My Last Sigh by Luis Buñuel

    "My Last Sigh" is an autobiography that offers a candid and vivid account of the life and career of one of cinema's most groundbreaking and influential directors. The book delves into his early years in Spain, his deep friendships with prominent artists and intellectuals, and his experiences in the surrealist movement. It also explores his creative process, the making of his major films, and his philosophical and personal reflections. Rich with anecdotes and insights, the memoir provides a unique window into the artistic, social, and political climates of his times, revealing the complex and often contradictory nature of a fiercely original filmmaker.

    The 6237th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Four Agreements : A Calendar For Wisdom And Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz

    The book presents a framework for personal growth and freedom based on four fundamental principles that encourage individuals to live with integrity, love, and happiness. These agreements are: to be impeccable with your word, to not take anything personally, to not make assumptions, and to always do your best. By adopting these agreements, the book suggests that one can break free from limiting beliefs that create suffering and instead, lead a life filled with peace, grace, and empowerment. The author draws upon ancient Toltec wisdom to offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love.

    The 6541st Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

    In "Mexican Gothic," a young woman named Noemí travels to a remote mansion in the Mexican countryside to rescue her cousin who has seemingly fallen under the spell of her new husband. As Noemí delves deeper into the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of the house, she uncovers dark family secrets and confronts a malevolent force that threatens their lives. Blending elements of gothic horror and Mexican folklore, this atmospheric tale explores themes of colonialism, racism, and female empowerment in a captivating and chilling narrative.

    The 6609th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Tear This Heart Out by Ángeles Mastretta

    Set in Mexico during the early 20th century, this novel follows the tumultuous life of a young woman named Catalina Guzmán. From her arranged marriage to the abusive and philandering General Andrés Ascencio to her passionate affair with the revolutionary Carlos Vives, Catalina's journey is one of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. As she navigates through political turmoil and personal hardships, Catalina's strength and resilience are tested, ultimately leading her to make difficult choices that will shape her destiny. With vivid storytelling and vivid characters, this book explores themes of love, passion, and the pursuit of freedom in a time of social and political unrest.

    The 6632nd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Mexico: Biography of Power by Enrique Krauze

    This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the political and social evolution of Mexico, tracing the country's history from the pre-Columbian era to the late 20th century. It delves into the lives and legacies of Mexico's influential leaders, examining how their exercise of power shaped the nation's identity and destiny. The narrative weaves through the complexities of Mexico's revolutions, reforms, and relationships with external powers, providing a deep understanding of the forces that have defined the country's path and the characters who have stood at the helm of its journey. Through a blend of biography and historical analysis, the work presents a vivid portrait of a nation's struggle for sovereignty, stability, and self-definition.

    The 6668th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Tell Me How It Ends: An Essay in 40 Questions by Valeria Luiselli

    This book is a powerful exploration of the critical issue of child immigration, focusing on the experiences of Central American children who arrive in the United States without their parents. The narrative is structured around 40 questions that the author, as a court interpreter, must ask the children to help determine their fate. The book provides a deeply personal and moving account of the human stories behind the ongoing debate over immigration and asylum laws.

    The 6866th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Shadows Of Tender Fury by Subcomandante Marcos

    "Shadows of Tender Fury" is a compilation of letters and communiqués written by Subcomandante Marcos, the spokesperson for the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN) in Chiapas, Mexico. The book documents the period following the 1994 Zapatista uprising, providing insights into the ideological motivations, social justice issues, and the demands for indigenous rights that define the movement. Through these writings, Marcos articulates the struggles and philosophies of the Zapatistas, blending political analysis with poetic eloquence, and offers a compelling voice in the fight against global economic inequality and for the empowerment of marginalized communities.

    The 7011th 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