The Greatest "Anthologies" 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

Anthologies

Anthologies are collections of literary works, such as short stories, poems, or essays, compiled into a single volume. These books often showcase the works of multiple authors, providing readers with a diverse range of perspectives and styles. Anthologies can be organized around a theme, genre, or time period, and are often used in classrooms or book clubs as a way to explore different literary voices and themes. They offer readers the opportunity to discover new writers and to appreciate the breadth and depth of the written word.

Add additional genre filters

Countries

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. We Tell Ourselves Stories in Order to Live: Collected Nonfiction by Joan Didion

    This book is a compilation of seven works of nonfiction that explore the themes of American culture, politics, and landscape. The author's sharp observational skills and distinctive narrative voice provide insightful commentary on a range of topics, from the counterculture of the 1960s to the breakdown of the nuclear family. Her essays are deeply personal, often reflecting on her own experiences and emotions, while also offering a broader critique of society. The collection is a testament to the power of storytelling, both in shaping our understanding of the world and in helping us navigate through life.

    The 4536th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Collected Poems by Allen Ginsberg

    "Collected Poems" is a compilation of works by a renowned poet that spans over several decades, capturing the essence of his thoughts, emotions, and observations of society. It explores a wide range of themes such as love, war, spirituality, and social issues, reflecting the poet's unique voice and perspective. The collection is a testament to the poet's literary prowess and his significant contribution to the Beat Generation and counterculture movement.

    The 4588th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. The Collected Prose by Elizabeth Bishop

    "The Collected Prose" is a compilation of non-fiction works by a renowned American poet, offering a window into her sharp observations, lyrical descriptions, and personal reflections. This collection encompasses a variety of genres, including travel writing, memoirs, and critical essays, providing readers with insights into the author's life, her thoughts on the craft of writing, and her experiences in different parts of the world. The prose complements her poetry, revealing the breadth of her talent and the depth of her intellect, and solidifying her reputation as a master of both poetic and prose forms.

    The 4588th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. 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 4602nd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. A Book of Luminous Things by Czesław Miłosz

    "A Book of Luminous Things" is a collection of international poetry, curated by a renowned poet himself. The anthology is divided into thematic sections, each prefaced by a brief introduction from the editor. The poems cover a wide range of themes such as nature, love, history, and the essence of human existence. The book serves as a testament to the power of poetry in illuminating the complexities and beauty of human life.

    The 4741st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Retold African American Folktales by David Haynes

    This book is a collection of African American folktales that have been retold and adapted for a modern audience. The stories are diverse and filled with magic, wisdom, and humor, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of African American communities. They present a variety of characters and situations, from tricksters outwitting their foes to heroes overcoming great odds, teaching lessons about resilience, courage, and the importance of community.

    The 4742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Hitchhiking: Twelve German Tales by Gabriele Eckart

    This collection of short stories offers a vivid tapestry of life in East Germany before the fall of the Berlin Wall, exploring the everyday experiences, dreams, and struggles of ordinary people. Through a series of engaging narratives, the book delves into the complexities of life under a socialist regime, capturing the human spirit in a society rife with political tension and personal longing. Each tale serves as a poignant vignette, revealing the nuances of East German culture and the universal quest for identity, purpose, and connection amidst a backdrop of political oppression and social change.

    The 4800th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. The Works Of Alice Dunbar Nelson by Alice Dunbar-Nelson

    "The Works of Alice Dunbar-Nelson" is a compilation of the literary output of a pioneering African American woman writer from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The collection showcases a diverse range of writing styles, including poetry, short stories, and essays, which often explore themes of race, gender, and identity. Dunbar-Nelson's work is celebrated for its lyrical beauty and its insightful commentary on the complexities of life as a woman of color during a time of significant social and cultural change in America. Her contributions to literature reflect both the struggles and the resilience of the African American community, as well as her own personal experiences and observations.

    The 4986th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Dancing At The Edge Of The World by Ursula K. Le Guin

    "Dancing at the Edge of the World" is a thought-provoking collection of essays, talks, and reviews by a renowned speculative fiction author, which delves into a wide array of topics ranging from feminism, social responsibility, and the author's perspectives on writing and storytelling to broader reflections on humanity's place in the natural world. The book is a testament to the author's eloquence, intellectual curiosity, and profound insights into the human condition, offering readers a unique blend of literary criticism, personal narrative, and cultural commentary that challenges and inspires. Through her exploration of alternative realities and the power of imagination, the author invites readers to consider new possibilities and the transformative potential of fiction.

    The 5051st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. The Oxford Book Of Comic Verse by John Gross

    This anthology is a comprehensive collection that spans several centuries, showcasing the wit, humor, and satire that have been a part of English poetry. Compiled with a discerning eye for both the amusing and the poignant, it brings together a diverse range of poets, from the well-known to the obscure, each contributing to the rich tapestry of comic verse. The selection not only highlights the evolution of English comedic poetry but also offers readers an insight into the social and cultural contexts that shaped these works. Through its carefully curated content, the anthology invites readers to explore the lighter side of poetry, proving that verse can be both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.

    The 5083rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. 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 5083rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Dark Feasts: The World Of Ramsey Campbell by Ramsey Campbell

    "Dark Feasts: The World Of Ramsey Campbell" delves into the eerie and captivating mind of renowned horror author Ramsey Campbell. This book offers a comprehensive exploration of Campbell's unique writing style, his inspirations, and the themes that permeate his works. Through interviews, essays, and analysis, readers are taken on a journey through the dark and unsettling worlds that Campbell has masterfully crafted, revealing the depths of his imagination and the impact he has had on the horror genre.

    The 5107th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. Selected Poems II: 1976 - 1986 by Margaret Atwood

    "Selected Poems II: 1976 - 1986" is a collection of poems that explores a wide range of themes such as love, loss, the passage of time, the nature of nature, and - zestfully - the nature of humans. The author's unique voice, characterized by a strong commitment to feminism and environmental issues, shines through in each piece. The poems are known for their vivid imagery, emotional depth, and exploration of complex topics.

    The 5107th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Lantern Slides by Edna O'Brien

    "Lantern Slides" is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships and the intricacies of life in Ireland. The narratives, rich with the author's lyrical prose, explore themes of love, loss, and the struggles of the human condition. Through a tapestry of vivid characters, from young girls to old men, the stories capture the nuances of Irish society, its traditions, and the transformative power of storytelling itself. The book serves as a poignant reflection on the bittersweet nature of existence, where moments of joy and sorrow are intertwined, much like the ephemeral images of a lantern slide show.

    The 5123rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. A Bag Of Stories by Edla Van Steen

    "A Bag of Stories" is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships and emotions, exploring themes such as love, loss, and the intricacies of family dynamics. The narrative weaves through the lives of various characters, each story offering a glimpse into their personal struggles and triumphs, often revealing the unexpected ways in which people's lives intersect. With a blend of poignancy and humor, the book captures the essence of everyday experiences, highlighting the profound impact of seemingly ordinary moments and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

    The 5192nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. John Wesley's Sermons: An Anthology by Albert C. Outler

    This anthology is a compilation of sermons by John Wesley, a renowned theologian and co-founder of Methodism. The sermons cover a wide range of theological and moral themes, offering a comprehensive insight into Wesley's spiritual teachings and beliefs. They reveal his profound understanding of Christian faith and his commitment to the application of religious principles in daily life. The anthology serves as a valuable resource for those interested in Wesleyan theology, Methodism, and Christian spirituality.

    The 5192nd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Revenge: Eleven Dark Tales by Yoko Ogawa

    This collection delves into the unsettling corners of the human psyche through eleven interconnected stories that explore themes of desire, pain, and retribution. Each tale weaves a haunting narrative where characters confront peculiar incidents and twisted relationships, often finding themselves entangled in situations where the line between reality and the surreal blurs. The stories, set against the backdrop of everyday life in Japan, reveal the quiet horror lurking beneath the surface of ordinary encounters, as the protagonists grapple with the consequences of their dark obsessions and the inexorable pull of vengeance.

    The 5325th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. After Henry by Joan Didion

    "After Henry" is a collection of essays that delve into the cultural, political, and social landscapes of America during the late 20th century. The book reflects on the author's personal experiences and observations, offering a poignant critique of the media, the political process, and the shifting dynamics of contemporary society. Through incisive prose, the author explores themes of memory, place, and the complexities of personal relationships, all while paying tribute to a significant personal loss, which serves as a touchstone for the broader exploration of the ways in which personal and public histories intertwine.

    The 5349th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The Collected Poems of Audre Lorde by Audre Lorde

    This collection of poems serves as an exploration of a variety of themes including love, war, race, and feminism. The author uses her personal experiences as an African-American woman to shed light on societal issues. The anthology is a reflection of the author's life journey and her fight against injustice, and it seeks to empower and inspire readers through its raw and powerful narrative.

    The 5402nd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. Ganado Red: A Novella And Stories Of The Southwest by Susan Lowell

    This collection presents a tapestry of tales set in the American Southwest, blending the region's rich cultural heritage with its rugged landscape. The novella and accompanying stories weave together the lives of diverse characters, from cowboys and Native Americans to modern-day women, all navigating the challenges and triumphs of life in this unique part of the United States. The narratives explore themes of identity, tradition, and resilience, painting a vivid portrait of the Southwest and the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants.

    The 5424th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. All The Women Are White, All The Blacks Are Men, But Some Of Us Are Brave by Gloria T. Hull, Patricia Bell Scott, Barbara Smith

    This book is a seminal anthology that explores the complex intersection of race and gender, particularly focusing on the experiences of Black women who have been historically marginalized and rendered invisible in both feminist and civil rights discourses. It brings together a diverse collection of essays, stories, and poems that highlight the unique struggles of Black women, challenging the monolithic narratives that often dominate discussions about feminism and race. The work serves as a foundational text in Black feminist thought, calling for the recognition of Black women's voices and their contributions to the broader movements for social justice and equality.

    The 5498th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Home Girls by Barbara Smith

    "Home Girls" is a groundbreaking collection of essays and writings that delve into the complex experiences of Black women, feminism, and lesbian activism. The anthology brings together a diverse array of voices from African American women who share their personal narratives, theoretical analyses, and literary works. Addressing issues such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and classism, the book serves as a powerful exploration of the intersections of identity and the political dimensions of Black women's lives. It highlights the importance of solidarity and the need for inclusive movements that recognize the unique challenges faced by Black women in a society structured by multiple and overlapping oppressions.

    The 5645th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. The Stories of Vladimir Nabokov by Vladimir Nabokov

    This collection showcases the unique storytelling abilities of a renowned author, exploring a variety of themes and settings through 65 different tales. The stories range from brief, whimsical observations and elaborate fantasies to deeply emotional narratives and intellectual puzzles. The author's distinctive style, marked by rich imagery, intricate plots, and playful language, is evident throughout, making the collection a testament to his literary prowess and creativity.

    The 5731st Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. Collected Stories by Frank O'Connor

    "Collected Stories" is an anthology that brings together a wide range of short stories exploring the intricacies of life in Ireland. The tales delve into the human condition, often focusing on themes of childhood, family dynamics, personal freedom, and the social fabric of Irish communities. The author's keen observations and deft storytelling bring to life a cast of characters that are both unique and universal, capturing the humor, tragedy, and paradoxes inherent in everyday experiences. Through these narratives, the collection paints a rich and varied portrait of Irish society, its people, and the transformative power of storytelling itself.

    The 5752nd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. Selected Stories by William Trevor

    "Selected Stories" is a collection of short stories by acclaimed author William Trevor. The book features some of Trevor's most memorable and haunting tales, exploring themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. With his signature style of understated elegance and quiet, observant prose, Trevor creates characters that are both ordinary and extraordinary, capturing the subtle nuances of their lives and the emotions that drive them. From the Irish countryside to London's bustling streets, these stories offer a glimpse into the human experience and the ways in which we navigate the world around us.

    The 5837th 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