The Greatest Hungarian, Belgian, Multiple "Fiction" Books Since 1990

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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. Celestial Harmonies by Peter Esterhazy

    "Celestial Harmonies" is a historical novel that tells the story of the aristocratic Esterházy family, tracing their lineage from the late Middle Ages to the present day. The narrative is divided into two parts, with the first part featuring a series of vignettes about the family's ancestors, while the second part focuses on the experiences of the narrator's father under the Communist regime in Hungary. The novel is characterized by its intricate structure, complex themes, and lush, poetic language, offering a rich exploration of Hungarian history, family dynamics, and the human condition.

    The 2369th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Margot en de engelen by Kristien Hemmerechts

    "Margot and the Angels" is a poignant story about a woman who, after losing her husband and children in a car accident, is left to navigate life on her own. As she grapples with her grief, she finds solace in the company of three angels who appear to her. The angels help her make sense of her tragedy, guiding her towards acceptance and healing. The book explores themes of loss, grief, resilience, and the power of faith, offering a compelling exploration of the human capacity to endure and find hope amidst despair.

    The 4566th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Jadviga Párnája by Pál Závada

    "Jadviga Párnája" is a historical novel set in a Hungarian village at the turn of the 20th century. It delves into the life of a young woman named Jadviga, who is of Polish descent, and her marriage to a Hungarian man, András. The narrative unfolds through a series of letters, diary entries, and other documents, painting a vivid picture of rural life, social norms, and the personal struggles of the characters. The novel explores themes of love, fidelity, identity, and the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a society grappling with change and the influences of modernity.

    The 6297th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Hygiene And The Assassin by Amélie Nothomb

    The book revolves around the final days of a Nobel Prize-winning author who, after being diagnosed with a terminal illness, agrees to a series of interviews having shunned public attention for decades. Known for his misanthropy and biting intellect, the author engages in verbal sparring with the journalists, each encounter more intense than the last. However, when a particularly astute and persistent female journalist enters the fray, the conversation takes an unexpected turn, leading to startling revelations about the author's past and the true nature of his controversial works. The narrative delves into themes of truth, deception, and the power dynamics inherent in the creation and interpretation of literature.

    The 6573rd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Book Of Fathers by Miklós Vámos

    "The Book of Fathers" chronicles the lives of twelve generations of men from a Hungarian family, spanning over 300 years from the 18th century to the modern day. Each chapter focuses on one descendant, capturing the historical and personal challenges they face, from the rise and fall of empires to the intimate struggles of love and loss. The novel weaves a tapestry of Hungarian history and the family's legacy, marked by a mystical diary that is passed down from father to son, which possesses the power to influence the fate of its keeper. Through the generations, the book becomes a symbol of the family's heritage and the enduring connection between the past and the future.

    The 6603rd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Yo Yo Boing! by Giannina Braschi

    This book is a groundbreaking literary piece that blends various genres, including poetry, fiction, and drama, to explore the complexities of life as a Latino/a in the United States. It presents a series of conversations, debates, and reflections that delve into the cultural and linguistic tensions experienced by the characters. The narrative is characterized by its energetic and playful use of Spanglish, the hybrid language of English and Spanish, and it addresses themes of identity, politics, and the creative process. The work is notable for its experimental structure and its vibrant portrayal of the immigrant experience, capturing the dynamic and often chaotic essence of New York City life.

    The 6684th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Animalinside by László Krasznahorkai, Max Neumann

    "Animalinside" is a haunting and surreal novella that delves into the mind of a narrator who becomes consumed by an animalistic alter ego. As the protagonist's thoughts and actions blur the line between human and animal, the narrative takes on a dark and disorienting tone, exploring themes of identity, violence, and the primal instincts that lie within us all. Through the collaboration of Krasznahorkai's mesmerizing prose and Neumann's striking illustrations, "Animalinside" offers a mesmerizing and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche.

    The 6935th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. La Charte Du Mandé Et Autres Traditions Du Mali by Aboubakar Fofana, Jean-Louis Sagot

    "La Charte Du Mandé Et Autres Traditions Du Mali" is a comprehensive exploration of the rich historical and cultural heritage of Mali, focusing on the ancient Mandé Charter, also known as the Manden Charter. This seminal text delves into the origins and implications of this 13th-century document, which is one of the earliest forms of human rights charters. The book not only examines the charter's principles of social justice, equality, and political ethics but also contextualizes it within a broader spectrum of Malian traditions, shedding light on the country's profound historical narratives and the enduring cultural practices that continue to shape its identity.

    The 6945th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Fear And Trembling by Amélie Nothomb

    The book is a psychological exploration of the clash between Western and Eastern business cultures, as seen through the eyes of a young Belgian woman working for a major Japanese corporation in Tokyo. The protagonist's initial fascination with the company's traditional Japanese corporate culture turns into a harrowing psychological ordeal as she confronts extreme work ethic, rigid hierarchies, and the challenge of maintaining her identity in the face of overwhelming conformity. Through her experiences, the novel delves into themes of alienation, the search for self, and the often surreal nature of cross-cultural encounters.

    The 7016th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Character Of Rain by Amélie Nothomb

    The book is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the early years of a young girl born in Japan to Belgian parents. It delves into the protagonist's experiences and perceptions from her infancy through her toddler years, presenting a philosophical and introspective look at the development of consciousness and identity. The narrative is characterized by its exploration of the Japanese concept of 'the third brother,' which symbolizes the child's pre-linguistic state of purity and potential, and the transition from this state to becoming a sentient individual with a unique character shaped by cultural and familial influences. The story is a blend of whimsy and depth, reflecting on the nature of being and the transformative journey of self-discovery from the earliest moments of life.

    The 7114th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. In Other Rooms, Other Wonders by Daniyal Mueenuddin

    "In Other Rooms, Other Wonders" is a collection of interconnected short stories that delve into the lives of various characters connected to a wealthy landowner in Punjab, Pakistan. The narrative spans different levels of society, from the landowner himself to his managers, servants, and peasants, weaving a tapestry of tales that reveal the complexities of power, influence, and relationships in Pakistani society. Each story explores themes of love, betrayal, and social mobility, offering a poignant look at the struggles and aspirations of individuals trying to navigate a world governed by tradition and changing socio-economic landscapes.

    The 7768th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Gergő és Az álomfogók by Gyula Böszörményi

    In this enchanting tale, a young boy named Gergő discovers a mysterious world of dream catchers who are responsible for protecting dreams from the nightmares that seek to disrupt them. As Gergő embarks on a thrilling adventure, he learns about the delicate balance between the dream world and reality, and the importance of confronting one's fears. With the help of new friends and his own courage, Gergő must navigate through this fantastical realm to ensure that the harmony of dreams is preserved for himself and others. Along the way, he gains insights into bravery, friendship, and the power of imagination.

    The 7805th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Japanese Philosophy by John C. Maraldo, Thomas P. Kasulis, James W. Heisig

    This book provides a comprehensive overview of Japanese philosophy, exploring its unique characteristics and its evolution through history. It delves into the diverse intellectual traditions of Japan, including both well-known philosophical schools and lesser-known but equally significant ideas. The text examines how Japanese philosophy has been influenced by and has interacted with other philosophical traditions, particularly Western philosophy, while also highlighting its distinct approach to fundamental philosophical issues such as ethics, aesthetics, and the nature of reality. Through a detailed analysis, the book offers insights into how Japanese philosophical thought has contributed to broader philosophical discourse and how it reflects the cultural and historical context of Japan.

    The 8424th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. War And Turpentine by Stefan Hertmans

    "War and Turpentine" by Stefan Hertmans is a historical novel that follows the life of the author's grandfather, Urbain Martien, who lived through both World War I and II. The book is divided into three parts: Urbain's childhood in poverty-stricken Belgium, his experiences as a soldier in WWI, and his life as a struggling artist after the war. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the impact of war on individuals and society. Through Martien's story, Hertmans paints a vivid picture of a bygone era and the struggles faced by those who lived through it.

    The 8453rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Philosophical Works Of Al Kindi by Peter E. Pormann, Peter Adamson

    This book is a comprehensive compilation and analysis of the works of Al-Kindi, often regarded as the first of the Muslim peripatetic philosophers. The text delves into Al-Kindi's extensive contributions to various fields of knowledge, including philosophy, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine, highlighting his role as a pivotal figure in the translation and transmission of ancient Greek philosophy to the Islamic world. Through translations of his works and insightful commentary, the book provides a critical exploration of Al-Kindi's synthesis of philosophical thought and his influence on subsequent Islamic and Western intellectual traditions.

    The 8518th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Tokyo Fiancée by Amélie Nothomb

    The book is a semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the complexities of cultural identity and love. It follows a young Belgian woman who, infatuated with Japanese culture, returns to Tokyo with the intention of immersing herself in the language and lifestyle. She begins a romantic relationship with a Japanese man, which becomes a conduit through which she explores the nuances of cross-cultural understanding and personal identity. As their relationship deepens, the couple navigates the challenges posed by their different backgrounds, leading to a poignant exploration of the intersection between desire, belonging, and the search for self amidst the backdrop of a bustling, enigmatic Tokyo.

    The 8615th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. This Is How You Lose The Time War by Amal El Mohtar, Max Gladstone

    In this epistolary science fiction novel, two rival agents, Red and Blue, find themselves on opposite sides of a sprawling temporal conflict known as the Time War. As they carry out missions to manipulate the strands of history for their respective factions, their paths cross in unexpected ways. Through a series of secret letters left across time and space, what begins as taunting correspondence evolves into a deep, forbidden connection. The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of time-travel and intrigue, exploring themes of love, identity, and the consequences of actions within the ever-shifting sands of time. As their bond deepens, Red and Blue must ultimately decide where their loyalties lie and what sacrifices they are willing to make for a chance at a future together.

    The 8942nd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. állítsátok Meg Terézanyut! by Zsuzsa Rácz

    "Állítsátok meg Terézanyut!" is a comedic novel that delves into the complexities of family life through the lens of Hungarian culture. The story centers around a middle-aged woman whose children have grown up and are leading their own lives, leaving her to navigate the challenges of an empty nest. As she attempts to maintain control over her family and their affairs, her overbearing nature leads to a series of humorous and heartwarming misadventures. The novel explores themes of motherhood, independence, and the evolving dynamics of familial relationships, all while offering a satirical look at the generational gaps and societal expectations within a modern family setting.

    The 8967th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Weird by Ann VanderMeer

    "The Weird" is a comprehensive anthology that delves into the strange and uncanny realms of speculative fiction, featuring a diverse collection of stories spanning over a century. This tome curates a wide array of tales from various authors around the world, each contributing their unique voice to the genre of weird fiction. The stories within its pages explore the eerie, the surreal, and the bizarre, often blurring the lines between reality and the fantastical. The anthology serves as both a celebration of the genre's rich history and an introduction to its most compelling voices, offering readers a labyrinthine journey through the many facets of weird literature.

    The 9514th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. The Three Golden Keys by Petr Sis

    "The Three Golden Keys" is a beautifully illustrated children's book that blends a magical adventure with a deep sense of nostalgia. Set in the author's hometown of Prague, the story follows a man who returns to the city of his childhood only to find it deserted and his old house locked by three padlocks. Guided by a mysterious cat, he embarks on a quest through the city's storied streets, encountering various mythical and historical figures as he searches for the three golden keys that will unlock his past and restore the vibrant life of Prague. This enchanting tale is both a personal journey and a celebration of Czech folklore and history.

    The 9742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Giants And Heroes by Dianne Tittle De Laet

    "Giants and Heroes" is a captivating collection of mythological tales that explores the timeless themes of strength, courage, and adventure through the stories of giants and heroic figures from various cultures around the world. The book delves into the lives and exploits of these larger-than-life characters, examining their battles, quests, and the moral lessons they impart. Richly woven with folklore and tradition, this anthology not only entertains but also illuminates the cultural significance of these mythical beings and their impact on the human spirit.

    The 9775th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Only The Longest Threads by Tasneem Zehra Husain

    "Only The Longest Threads" is a novel that creatively explores the evolution of major scientific theories through the eyes of fictional characters who experience these paradigm shifts firsthand. Each narrative thread is woven around pivotal moments in the history of physics, such as the formulation of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, general relativity, quantum mechanics, and string theory. The characters, ranging from a scribe during Newton's era to a modern-day graduate student, provide personal and often poetic insights into the intellectual and emotional upheavals brought about by groundbreaking discoveries. Through their interconnected stories, the book illustrates the deeply human endeavor of scientific inquiry and the relentless pursuit of understanding the universe.

    The 9791st Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Babel by R. F. Kuang

    This novel is a dark academic fantasy set in an alternate 19th-century Oxford, where translation is the key to harnessing magical power. It follows the journey of an orphan from Canton, who, after a tragic loss, is brought to England and later admitted into the prestigious Royal Institute of Translation, known as Babel. There, he discovers the true cost of the empire's linguistic dominance and magical control. As tensions rise and loyalties are tested, the protagonist must navigate a complex web of colonialism, power, and rebellion, ultimately confronting the oppressive structures of the institute and the empire it serves. The narrative weaves together themes of language, knowledge, and resistance, challenging the foundations of power and the price of progress.

    The 10467th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Parallel Stories by Péter Nádas

    This novel is a vast and intricate narrative that weaves together the lives of characters across different generations and locations, primarily in Hungary and Germany, spanning from the 1930s to the 1980s. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book explores themes of identity, history, sexuality, and politics, delving deep into the personal and collective experiences of its characters. The narrative structure is complex, with a rich tapestry of details and a deep psychological insight into human nature, reflecting on the impact of historical events on individual lives and the interconnectedness of human experiences across time and space.

    The 10602nd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman

    The book is a poignant and humorous collection of interconnected stories that revolve around the staff of an English-language international newspaper based in Rome. It delves into the personal and professional lives of the reporters, editors, and executives who are struggling to keep the paper—and their own lives—afloat amidst the changing landscape of journalism. Each chapter focuses on a different character, painting a vivid portrait of the quirky and flawed individuals behind the headlines, while subtly weaving in themes of love, ambition, and the relentless march of technological change. The narrative captures the bittersweet reality of the imperfections that define us all, set against the backdrop of the declining newspaper industry.

    The 10707th 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