The Greatest Norwegian, Canadian "Biography" Books of All Time

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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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Biography

Biography is a genre of literature that focuses on the life story of a person, typically a historical figure or a celebrity. It provides a detailed account of the subject's life, including their upbringing, achievements, struggles, and personal relationships. Biographies can be written in various formats, including memoirs, autobiographies, and third-person narratives. This category of books offers readers an opportunity to gain insight into the lives of notable individuals and their impact on society.

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  1. 1. Farthest North by Fridtjof Nansen

    "Farthest North" is a riveting firsthand account of a polar expedition undertaken in the late 19th century. The author, a Norwegian explorer, recounts his daring attempt to reach the North Pole by allowing his specially designed ship to be frozen into the Arctic ice and carried by the drift. The narrative includes fascinating descriptions of the Arctic environment, thrilling tales of survival against harsh conditions, and scientific observations. The expedition, although it did not reach the North Pole, achieved the highest latitude to that date and contributed significantly to Arctic exploration.

    The 3623rd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Glenn Gould Reader by Glenn Gould

    "The Glenn Gould Reader" is a compilation of writings by a renowned Canadian pianist, known for his unique and insightful perspectives on music and culture. This collection offers a window into the artist's mind, featuring a diverse range of essays, articles, reviews, and interviews that explore his philosophies on performance, the intricacies of musical interpretation, and the role of technology in the arts. His articulate and often provocative commentary extends beyond classical music to touch upon a variety of subjects, reflecting his broad intellectual interests and distinctive voice in the world of music and beyond.

    The 4035th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Boy In The Moon: A Father’s Journey To Understand His Extraordinary Son by Ian Brown

    "The Boy in the Moon" is a memoir written by Ian Brown, a Canadian journalist, about his life with his severely disabled son, Walker. The book chronicles Brown's struggles to understand and care for his son, who suffers from a rare genetic disorder that leaves him unable to walk, talk, or even eat on his own. Brown's journey is one of heartbreak, frustration, and ultimately, acceptance, as he learns to love and appreciate his son for who he is, rather than who he might have been. Through his compelling and deeply personal narrative, Brown sheds light on the challenges faced by families with disabled children, and offers a poignant meditation on the nature of love, family, and the human condition.

    The 7922nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. My Life As an Explorer (Amundsen) by Roald Amundsen

    This autobiography tells the story of a Norwegian explorer who led the first expeditions to reach the South Pole, traverse the Northwest Passage, and fly over the North Pole in a dirigible. The book provides a detailed account of his adventures, including his experiences with the indigenous peoples of the Arctic, his struggles with harsh weather conditions, and his insights on leadership and survival in extreme environments. The author's love for exploration and his respect for the natural world shine through in his writing.

    The 8673rd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Conversations With Glenn Gould by Jonathan Cott

    "Conversations with Glenn Gould" is an insightful exploration into the mind of one of the twentieth century's most enigmatic and fascinating classical pianists. Through a series of interviews, the book delves into Gould's thoughts on a range of subjects, from his radical interpretations of Bach and his decision to abandon live performances, to his preferences in music, art, and life. The dialogues reveal Gould's complex personality, his intellectual rigor, and the idiosyncratic philosophies that guided both his musical career and personal life, offering readers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of a genius.

    The 9282nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Louis Riel by Chester Brown

    This graphic novel chronicles the life of a controversial Métis leader in 19th-century Canada, focusing on his role in the Red River and North-West Rebellions. Through detailed illustrations and a compelling narrative, the book explores his complex personality, his struggle for Métis rights, and his ultimate execution. It delves into themes of identity, resistance, and the clash between indigenous and colonial forces, providing a nuanced portrayal of a historical figure often viewed through polarized lenses.

    The 9495th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Railroader by Howard Green

    This biography provides an in-depth look into the life and career of one of North America's most influential railroad executives, chronicling his journey from his early days to his position at the helm of a major railway company. The narrative delves into his strategic vision, leadership style, and the transformative impacts he had on the rail industry, highlighting both his successes and the controversies that surrounded him. Through interviews, personal insights, and a detailed examination of his professional decisions, the book paints a comprehensive portrait of a man who was as complex as the industry he helped shape, offering readers a unique glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of modern railroading.

    The 9955th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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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.

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