The Greatest Nigerian, Hungarian, Scottish "Fiction" Books Since 2000

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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. Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    The novel is set in Nigeria during the Biafran War, exploring the impact of the conflict on the lives of its characters. The story is told from the perspective of three characters: a young houseboy, a radical university professor, and the professor's wealthy lover. The narrative delves into themes of love, race, and war, offering a vivid depiction of the horrors of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.

    The 652nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    The novel follows a young Nigerian woman who emigrates to the United States for a university education. While there, she experiences racism and begins blogging about her experiences as an African woman in America. Meanwhile, her high school sweetheart faces his own struggles in England and Nigeria. The story is a powerful exploration of race, immigration, and the complex nature of identity, love, and belonging.

    The 867th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. 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
  4. 4. Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    "Purple Hibiscus" follows the story of a 15-year-old Nigerian girl, Kambili, and her older brother Jaja, who live a privileged life in Enugu. However, their father is a religious fanatic and a domestic tyrant. The siblings are sent to their Aunty Ifeoma's home, a university professor, who provides them a taste of freedom and shows them a different way of life outside their father's oppressive rule. The novel explores themes of colonialism, religious fanaticism, and the post-colonial political situation in Nigeria.

    The 3048th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Children Of Blood And Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

    In a world where magic has been suppressed and the maji people have been oppressed, Zélie, a young maji girl, embarks on a dangerous quest to restore magic and bring justice to her people. Alongside her brother and a rogue princess, Zélie must confront her own powers and face formidable enemies, navigating a treacherous landscape of betrayal and sacrifice. As they race against time, Zélie discovers that she may hold the key to not only saving her people, but also to changing the destiny of their entire nation.

    The 3194th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor

    This novel is a coming-of-age narrative set in a post-apocalyptic Africa. It follows the journey of a young woman born from a violent act, who is prophesied to bring an end to a brutal regime. As she grows, she discovers her magical abilities and must learn to control them in order to fulfill her destiny. The narrative explores themes of race, gender, and power, while incorporating elements of African mythology and culture.

    The 4868th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Personality by Andrew O'Hagan

    "Personality" by Andrew O'Hagan is a thought-provoking exploration of identity and fame in the digital age. The book follows the story of a famous actress who decides to create a digital replica of herself to preserve her legacy. As the replica interacts with fans and becomes more popular, it raises questions about authenticity, privacy, and the blurred lines between reality and virtuality. With O'Hagan's sharp writing and insightful observations, "Personality" delves into the complexities of modern fame while challenging readers to reflect on the nature of self in an increasingly interconnected world.

    The 5452nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Kieron Smith, Boy by James Kelman

    "Kieron Smith, Boy" is a novel that explores the life and mind of a young boy growing up in a working-class family in post-war Glasgow. The narrative is presented from the boy's perspective and is marked by his unique voice and thought process. The story follows his experiences at home, at school, and in the larger world, his struggles with societal expectations, and his dreams of becoming a shipbuilder. The book is a poignant portrayal of childhood, exploring themes of class, identity, and the complexities of growing up.

    The 6070th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. 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
  10. 10. Binti by Nnedi Okorafor

    "Binti" is a science fiction novella that follows the journey of a young Himba girl named Binti, who defies her family's wishes and leaves her home to attend the prestigious Oomza University. As the first of her people to be accepted, Binti faces various challenges and cultural clashes as she navigates the complexities of interstellar travel and encounters an alien race known as the Meduse. Through her unique abilities and determination, Binti becomes a bridge between two civilizations, ultimately transforming her own identity and challenging societal norms.

    The 6640th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart

    "Shuggie Bain" is a heart-wrenching tale set in 1980s Glasgow, Scotland, centered on a young boy, Shuggie, who is struggling with his mother's deteriorating mental health and alcoholism. As he tries to navigate his own burgeoning sexuality in a harsh, unforgiving environment, he also strives to care for his mother, who is trapped in a cycle of addiction and abusive relationships. The book gives a stark portrayal of poverty, addiction, love, and the human spirit's resilience.

    The 6662nd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

    In this darkly comedic novel, a nurse named Korede finds herself repeatedly cleaning up after her sister Ayoola, who has a disturbing habit of killing her boyfriends. As Ayoola's murderous tendencies escalate, Korede is torn between her loyalty to her sister and her growing concern for the next potential victim. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, the sisters' bond is put to the ultimate test, leading to a gripping and unexpected conclusion.

    The 6709th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. 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
  14. 14. The Night Sessions by Ken MacLeod

    This science fiction novel delves into a future where the world has largely moved beyond religion, following devastating religious wars. Set in a technologically advanced society, the story follows a police investigation led by Detective Inspector Adam Ferguson into a series of bombings. These attacks seem to be motivated by religious extremism, a concept thought to be a thing of the past. As Ferguson digs deeper, he uncovers a conspiracy that challenges the secular foundations of his world, involving robots and artificial intelligences who have developed their own faiths. The narrative explores themes of faith, science, and the nature of belief in a society where technology has reshaped every aspect of human life.

    The 7066th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. 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
  16. 16. Say You’re One of Them by Uwem Akpan

    "Say You're One of Them" is a collection of five stories, each set in a different African country, that provides a heart-wrenching look into the lives of children trying to survive in the face of unimaginable hardship. The stories deal with issues such as child trafficking, religious conflict, and poverty, presenting the harsh realities of life in Africa through the innocent eyes of children. The book is a powerful exploration of the resilience and hope of these children in the face of adversity.

    The 8620th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. 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
  18. 18. A Kind Of Spark by Elle McNicoll

    "A Kind of Spark" tells the story of Addie, an 11-year-old girl with autism who is determined to fight for acceptance and understanding in her small town. Inspired by the historical injustices faced by those accused of witchcraft, Addie embarks on a mission to have a memorial erected in memory of the people who were wrongfully persecuted. Through her unwavering determination, Addie not only educates her community about neurodiversity but also discovers the power of her own voice. This heartfelt and empowering novel explores themes of identity, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right.

    The 9376th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi

    The novel unfolds the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of a young Nigerian named Vivek Oji. Through a non-linear narrative and multiple perspectives, the story delves into Vivek's complex identity and the struggles with gender, family expectations, and societal norms in a contemporary Igbo community. As the characters grapple with their grief and the secrets Vivek left behind, the novel explores themes of love, acceptance, and the liberating power of embracing one's true self. The poignant tale reveals the transformative impact Vivek had on the lives of those around him, even as they come to terms with the enigmatic nature of his life and untimely death.

    The 9546th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. The Girl With The Louding Voice by Abi Daré

    The novel follows the inspiring journey of a young Nigerian girl who yearns for an education and a better life beyond the confines of her small village and the oppressive customs that limit women's opportunities. Despite being trapped in a series of servitudes after being sold into marriage at a young age, she refuses to let her dreams be silenced. With indomitable spirit and determination, she navigates through a myriad of challenges, using her "louding voice"—her bold, resolute inner voice—to speak out for herself and others like her, in pursuit of her ambition to learn and to be heard in a world that often tries to quiet the voices of girls and women.

    The 10232nd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. The Deadman’s Pedal by Alan Warner

    "The Deadman's Pedal" is a coming-of-age novel set in a small Scottish town in the 1970s. It follows the life of Simon Crimmons, a young trainee signalman who becomes infatuated with a local girl, Nikki, and finds himself caught up in the complexities of adult relationships and the harsh realities of working-class life. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the struggle to find one's place in a changing world, painting a vivid picture of a community on the brink of transformation.

    The 10309th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. 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
  23. 23. Rosewater by Tade Thompson

    "Rosewater" by Tade Thompson is a captivating science fiction novel set in a future Nigeria. The story follows Kaaro, a government agent with psychic abilities who works in the town of Rosewater, built around an alien biodome that heals and grants powers to those who enter it. As Kaaro navigates the complex world of telepathy, government conspiracies, and a mysterious alien presence, he becomes entangled in a dangerous plot that could change the fate of humanity. With its rich world-building and thought-provoking exploration of power and identity, "Rosewater" is a thrilling and immersive read.

    The 10730th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Fleshmarket Close by Ian Rankin

    In this gripping crime novel, a detective inspector based in Edinburgh, Scotland is working on multiple cases simultaneously. He investigates the murder of an illegal immigrant, the disappearance of a refugee, and the murder of a local gangster. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a web of corruption, political conspiracy, and human trafficking. Throughout the story, the inspector battles personal demons and navigates the complexities of the Scottish legal system.

    The 10835th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Deep Wheel Orcadia by Harry Josephine Giles

    "Deep Wheel Orcadia" by Harry Josephine Giles is a speculative fiction novel set in a future where climate change has ravaged the world. The story follows the protagonist, a young woman named Jo, as she navigates the post-apocalyptic landscape of Orcadia, a floating city made up of interconnected wheels. Jo becomes involved in a rebellion against the oppressive ruling class, discovering secrets about the city's history and her own identity along the way. Through themes of power, resistance, and personal growth, the novel explores the complexities of a society on the brink of collapse and the resilience of the human spirit.

    The 10848th 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