The Greatest Swedish, Colombian "Fiction, Coming of age" Books Since 1900

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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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Fiction

Coming of age

The "Coming of age" category of books typically refers to stories that explore the transition from adolescence to adulthood. These books often focus on the challenges and experiences that young people face as they navigate the complexities of growing up, including issues such as identity, relationships, sexuality, and personal growth. Coming of age stories can be set in any time period or cultural context, and may feature protagonists of any gender, race, or background. Overall, the genre offers readers a glimpse into the universal struggles and triumphs of youth, and the process of becoming a fully realized adult.

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Swedish

Colombian

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  1. 1. Simon and the Oaks by Marianne Fredriksson

    "Simon and the Oaks" is a poignant tale set against the backdrop of World War II, depicting the life of a young Swedish boy, Simon, who comes from a working-class family but dreams of a world beyond his own. His life changes when he befriends Isak, a boy from a wealthy Jewish family fleeing from Nazi Germany. The book explores their friendship, the stark contrast between their worlds, their shared love for literature and music, and the impact of war on their lives. It also delves into themes of identity, love, loss, and the enduring power of human spirit.

    The 1636th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Road to Klockrike by Harry Martinson

    This novel tells the story of a wandering day laborer in Sweden during the early 20th century. The protagonist, who is mentally challenged, travels from farm to farm, performing odd jobs and struggling to survive. The narrative explores the harsh realities of life for the poor and disadvantaged, as well as the protagonist's interactions with various characters he meets along the way. Despite the hardships, the main character manages to maintain a sense of optimism and joy in life.

    The 2711th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. En Diciembre Llegaban Las Brisas by Marvel Moreno

    Set in the Caribbean region of Colombia, the novel weaves a tapestry of stories focusing on the lives of women from different social backgrounds, spanning several decades of the 20th century. It explores themes of love, betrayal, and the oppressive social norms that dictate women's lives. Through a series of interconnected narratives, the book delves into the personal struggles and intimate experiences of its characters, revealing the complex interplay between societal expectations and personal desires. The arrival of the December breezes serves as a metaphor for the winds of change, challenging the status quo and bringing to light the underlying tensions within this traditional society.

    The 7005th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Un Beso De Dick by Fernando Molano

    "Un Beso de Dick" is a poignant and intimate exploration of young love and self-discovery set in Colombia. The novel follows the life of a teenage boy who grapples with his emerging sexuality and the intense feelings he harbors for another boy. Amidst the backdrop of a conservative society, the protagonist navigates the complexities of friendship, passion, and the search for identity. The narrative delves into the emotional turmoil and the challenges faced by those who dare to defy societal norms, ultimately offering a narrative that is both tender and heart-wrenching as it reveals the transformative power of love and acceptance.

    The 7901st Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Dog Star by Agneta Pleijel

    "The Dog Star" is a haunting novel that explores the complexities of family relationships and the pain of growing up. Set in the mid-20th century, the story follows a young girl as she navigates through her difficult childhood in a dysfunctional family. As she grows older, she begins to question the world around her and her place in it. The narrative is interspersed with her adult reflections, providing a poignant examination of memory, regret, and the often painful journey to self-discovery.

    The 9769th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. An Orphan World by Giuseppe Caputo

    In this evocative novel, a father and son navigate the margins of a Latin American city, living in poverty and facing the dual threats of violence and social discrimination. Their bond is a source of strength and resilience as they confront the challenges of their precarious existence. The son, through a series of lyrical and poignant vignettes, explores his sexuality and seeks connection in a world that is often hostile to his desires. The narrative weaves a tapestry of love, loss, and longing, painting a portrait of a relationship that defies the darkness of their circumstances with moments of beauty and tenderness.

    The 10290th 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