The Greatest English, Greek, Danish "Fiction" 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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  1. 1. Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis

    In this novel, a young intellectual who is immersed in books and ideas embarks on a journey with a passionate and adventurous older man named Zorba. The two men have contrasting personalities, which leads to a series of philosophical discussions and adventures. The story is set in Crete and explores themes of life, death, friendship, love, and the struggle between the physical and intellectual aspects of existence. Zorba's zest for life and his fearlessness in the face of death inspire the young man to embrace a more physical and spontaneous way of living.

    The 334th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Smilla's Sense of Snow: A Novel by Peter Høeg

    The novel revolves around Smilla Jaspersen, a woman of Greenlandic-Inuit and Danish descent living in Copenhagen, who investigates the mysterious death of a small Inuit boy who falls from the roof of their apartment building. Despite the authorities ruling it as an accident, Smilla's understanding of the Arctic snow and ice, her intuition, and her relentless pursuit for truth lead her to uncover a much darker, dangerous conspiracy involving powerful corporations and government agencies.

    The 1044th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Mary Poppins by PL Travers

    In this beloved classic, a magical and enigmatic nanny named Mary Poppins arrives at the Banks' household to care for their mischievous children. With her peculiar and extraordinary abilities, Mary Poppins takes the children on whimsical adventures, teaching them valuable life lessons along the way. As the family learns to appreciate the wonder and joy in everyday life, Mary Poppins proves that even the most ordinary moments can be extraordinary.

    The 1095th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Last Temptation of Christ by Nikos Kazantzakis

    This novel presents an alternative interpretation of the life of Jesus Christ, who is depicted as a conflicted, all-too-human figure who struggles with his divine destiny. The book explores his journey through life, his friendships, his fears, and his ultimate temptation to avoid crucifixion and live a normal life. The narrative delves into the psychological and emotional aspects of his experiences, creating a complex, humanized portrayal of a traditionally divine figure.

    The 1135th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Ghost Stories Of An Antiquary by M. R. James

    "Ghost Stories of an Antiquary" is a collection of chilling tales that delve into the supernatural and macabre. Written by M. R. James, these stories transport readers to eerie settings, where ancient artifacts, haunted houses, and vengeful spirits lurk. With a masterful blend of suspense and atmospheric descriptions, James weaves narratives that leave readers on the edge of their seats, questioning the boundaries between the real and the supernatural. Each story is a haunting exploration of the human psyche and the terrifying unknown, making this collection a must-read for fans of classic ghost stories.

    The 1470th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Z by Vassilis Vassilikos

    "Z" is a political novel that explores the events surrounding the assassination of a prominent leftist politician in Greece. The story delves into the corruption and violence that pervades the government, with the narrative alternating between the perspectives of the victim, the assassins, the investigators, and the government officials involved. The novel is a critique of political tyranny and an exploration of the struggle for justice in a corrupt system.

    The 1562nd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Seven Gothic Tales by Isak Dinesen

    "Seven Gothic Tales" is a collection of short stories set in the 19th century, each with a unique blend of humor, horror, and romanticism. The tales, steeped in supernatural elements and psychological depth, explore themes of love, betrayal, and identity. The stories are populated by a variety of characters from different social classes and backgrounds, each facing their own moral dilemmas and existential crises. The author's vivid descriptions and atmospheric settings contribute to the gothic tone of the book.

    The 1855th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Arabian Nightmare by Robert Irwin

    "The Arabian Nightmare" is a captivating and surreal journey through the dreams and nightmares of a young scholar named Abdulla. Set in medieval Cairo, the book explores the blurred lines between reality and fantasy as Abdulla becomes entangled in a web of magical creatures, mythical beings, and supernatural occurrences. With richly descriptive prose and a deep understanding of Arabian folklore, the story delves into themes of identity, love, and the power of storytelling, leaving readers questioning the nature of dreams and the boundaries of the human imagination.

    The 1974th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Death On The Nile by Agatha Christie

    "Death On The Nile" is a thrilling murder mystery set aboard a luxurious Nile river cruise. When a young and beautiful heiress is found dead, renowned detective Hercule Poirot must navigate a web of deceit, jealousy, and hidden motives to uncover the truth behind her untimely demise. As the suspects become increasingly desperate to protect their secrets, Poirot races against time to solve the puzzle before the killer strikes again.

    The 2078th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Anecdotes of Destiny by Isak Dinesen

    "Anecdotes of Destiny" is a collection of five short stories, each with a unique exploration of human nature, destiny, and the complexities of life. The tales range from a woman who must choose between three suitors, to a young man who gambles his fortune on a single pearl, to a couple who make a pact with the devil. The stories are rich in symbolism and metaphoric language, offering profound insights into the human condition and the mysterious workings of fate.

    The 2348th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Third Wedding by Kōstas Tachtsēs

    "The Third Wedding" is a powerful exploration of love, passion, and societal expectations set in mid-20th century Greece. The story revolves around a strong-willed and independent woman who has been married twice and is about to enter her third marriage. The narrative delves into her past love affairs, her struggle with the societal norms of the time, and her quest for personal freedom. The book is a poignant commentary on the condition of women in a patriarchal society and the sacrifices they make in the name of love and duty.

    The 2443rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Long Journey by Johannes V. Jensen

    This novel is a sweeping historical narrative that follows the adventurous life of a young Danish man, from his humble beginnings in a rural village to his travels across the globe. Set against the backdrop of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it explores themes of evolution, human progress, and the quest for knowledge. Through vivid descriptions and a richly detailed plot, the protagonist's journey is a metaphor for the human experience, reflecting the struggles, discoveries, and aspirations of an era on the brink of modernity. The narrative is both a personal coming-of-age story and a broader commentary on the forces shaping human history.

    The 2845th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. The Sheep Look Up by John Brunner

    "The Sheep Look Up" is a dystopian science fiction novel that presents a grim and polluted future where environmental degradation and overpopulation have reached catastrophic levels. The story follows various characters as they navigate a world plagued by toxic pollution, food shortages, and rampant disease outbreaks. With a sharp critique of corporate greed and government negligence, the novel explores the consequences of humanity's disregard for the environment and the urgent need for change.

    The 3041st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. The Dangerous Age by Karin Michaelis

    "The Dangerous Age" is a reflective epistolary novel that delves into the emotional and psychological journey of a middle-aged woman who, upon reaching her forties, confronts the societal pressures and personal disillusionments that come with aging. Through a series of candid letters, she shares her experiences of estrangement from her husband, the challenges of maintaining her identity and desires, and her struggle to navigate the expectations placed upon women of her age. The protagonist's introspective correspondence reveals the inner turmoil and liberation that accompany her quest for self-discovery and authenticity in a world that often marginalizes women as they grow older.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Daughter by Pavlos Matesis

    "The Daughter" is a powerful novel set in Greece during the Second World War. The narrative follows the life of a young girl who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war. Her father, a communist, is executed by the Germans, and the girl is left to navigate the complexities of life, politics, and love in a world that is rapidly changing. The book offers a poignant exploration of the human capacity for resilience, survival, and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

    The 3605th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Astradeni by Eugenia Fakinou

    "Astradeni" is a coming-of-age novel set in post-World War II Greece. The story follows the life of a young girl named Astradeni, who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war and poverty. Despite the hardships she faces, Astradeni maintains a hopeful and imaginative spirit, often escaping into a world of myths and legends. The novel explores themes of resilience, the power of storytelling, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

    The 3681st Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Uncle Petros and Goldbach's Conjecture by Apostolos Doxiadis

    The novel follows the story of a young man who becomes fascinated by his reclusive and eccentric Uncle Petros. As he delves into his uncle's past, he uncovers Petros' obsession with proving Goldbach's Conjecture, a famous unsolved problem in number theory. This obsession led to Petros' alienation from society and ultimately his downfall. The book explores themes of mathematical obsession, family relationships, and the fine line between genius and madness.

    The 3757th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Η Σαρκοφαγος by Giorgos Ioannou

    This book delves into the complexities of human nature, society, and the existential dilemmas faced by individuals in post-war Greece. Through a series of interconnected stories, the narrative explores themes of loss, despair, and the search for meaning in a world marked by political turmoil and social change. The author masterfully portrays the struggles of ordinary people trying to find their place in a rapidly evolving society, using vivid imagery and deep psychological insight to bring his characters to life. The work is a poignant reflection on the human condition, offering a critical look at the challenges of adapting to a new reality while clinging to the remnants of the past.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Jewel Of Seven Stars by Bram Stoker

    "The Jewel of Seven Stars" is a gripping gothic horror novel that follows the story of a young archaeologist who becomes entangled in a mysterious and ancient curse. When an Egyptian mummy is brought to London, strange occurrences begin to unfold, leading the protagonist on a perilous journey to uncover the secrets of an ancient queen and her quest for immortality. As the suspense builds, the protagonist must confront supernatural forces and make a desperate attempt to break the curse before it consumes them all.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. The Great Chimera by M. Karagatsis

    This novel is a captivating tale set in the early 20th century, revolving around the life of Maroussa, a young woman from the Greek island of Hydra. After marrying an older French naval officer, she moves to France, only to find herself trapped in a loveless marriage. Her longing for passion and fulfillment leads her into the arms of another man, setting off a tumultuous series of events. The narrative explores themes of love, betrayal, and the search for identity against the backdrop of cultural and societal expectations. Rich in historical and geographical detail, the story delves into the complexities of human emotions and the eternal quest for happiness and meaning.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. The Plant, The Well, The Angel by Vassilis Vassilikos

    This novel weaves a complex narrative that explores the interconnectedness of human life, nature, and the divine. Through the symbolic elements of a plant, a well, and an angel, the story delves into themes of growth, discovery, and spiritual awakening. Set against a backdrop that blends the mundane with the mystical, the narrative follows the journey of its characters as they navigate personal and collective challenges, ultimately seeking redemption and enlightenment. The author masterfully uses these symbols to reflect on the essence of existence, the cycles of life, and the pursuit of meaning in a world filled with both beauty and hardship.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Η κρύπτη by Ε.Χ. Γονατάς

    The book unfolds within the mysterious and eerie confines of a crypt, where secrets from the past and present intertwine. As the protagonist delves deeper into the crypt's enigmatic depths, they encounter a series of cryptic clues and supernatural occurrences that challenge their understanding of reality. The narrative masterfully blends elements of horror, mystery, and historical fiction, leading readers on a suspenseful journey through time and darkness. The crypt, with its ancient allure and hidden dangers, becomes a character in its own right, revealing truths that are as unsettling as they are enlightening, ultimately confronting the protagonist with a revelation that could alter their perception of life and death.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Difficult Nights by Melpo Axioti

    This book is a poignant exploration of human emotions and experiences, delving into the depths of despair, love, and the quest for meaning in a tumultuous world. Through a series of interconnected stories, the narrative weaves together the lives of various characters, each struggling with their own inner turmoil and societal constraints. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Europe, the book captures the essence of the human condition, portraying the complex interplay between personal desires and the harsh realities of life. With its rich, lyrical prose, the novel invites readers to reflect on the nature of difficulty, the nights of the soul we all must navigate, and the glimmers of hope that sustain us through our darkest hours.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. The Story Of Andreas Kordopatis by Thanassis Valtinos

    This novel unfolds the life journey of Andreas Kordopatis, tracing his odyssey from his origins in the Peloponnese, through his ventures in the United States and his return to Greece. Set against the backdrop of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the narrative weaves through the personal and historical, exploring themes of migration, identity, and the pursuit of a better life. Through a blend of personal accounts, letters, and third-person narration, the reader is immersed in the struggles and aspirations of a man navigating the complexities of diaspora and the relentless quest for home and belonging amidst the turbulent tides of history.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Η Τιμη Και Το Χρημα by Konstantinos Theotokis

    This novel delves into the moral and social decay of Corfiot society through the story of a family torn apart by greed and the pursuit of wealth. The narrative focuses on the protagonist's struggle to uphold his integrity and moral values in the face of societal pressure to prioritize financial gain over personal honor. Set against the backdrop of late 19th-century Corfu, the book offers a critical examination of the impact of materialism on human relationships and the corrosive effect of money on traditional values and ethics. Through its vivid portrayal of the protagonist's internal and external conflicts, the novel presents a timeless exploration of the human condition and the choices individuals must make between material wealth and moral virtue.

    The 3791st 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