The Greatest Hungarian, Indian "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. 26. The Shadow Lines by Amitav Ghosh

    "The Shadow Lines" is a novel that explores themes of memory, family, and national identity through the eyes of a young boy and his experiences growing up in Calcutta, India. The narrative is framed by two major historical events: the 1964 Dhaka Riots and the 1942 World War II. The protagonist's relationships with his family and his personal experiences are juxtaposed with these events, highlighting the complexities of identity, memory, and the lasting impacts of historical events on individual lives. The novel also delves into the arbitrary nature of national borders and the shadow lines they draw between people and their histories.

    The 2689th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Family Life by Akhil Sharma

    Family Life is a poignant, semi-autobiographical novel that follows the experiences of an Indian family that immigrates to America in the late 1970s. Their dream of a better life is shattered when the older son suffers a terrible accident that leaves him brain-damaged. The story is narrated by the younger son, who struggles with the pressures of his parents' expectations, the trauma of his brother's condition, and the cultural dislocation of being an immigrant in America. The novel explores themes of family, love, loss, and the immigrant experience.

    The 2753rd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Epepe by Ferenc Karinthy

    The book revolves around a linguist who finds himself inexplicably trapped in a nightmarish city where he cannot understand the language or communicate with the inhabitants. Despite his expertise in languages, the protagonist's skills are rendered useless in this alien environment, leading to a series of Kafkaesque encounters as he desperately tries to make sense of his surroundings and find a way back home. His isolation is compounded by the city's indifferent bureaucracy and the strange, often absurd, customs of its citizens, turning his ordeal into an existential struggle for identity and understanding in the face of an incomprehensible world.

    The 2942nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. The Golden Gate by Vikram Seth

    Set in the 1980s, the novel follows the life of a group of friends living in San Francisco. The protagonist, a successful yet lonely executive, is persuaded by his former girlfriend to place a personal ad, leading to a relationship with a musician. The narrative delves into their relationship, their friends' lives, and the various complications they face, including issues of love, friendship, sexuality, and death. The unique aspect of this book is that it is written entirely in verse, specifically in sonnet form.

    The 3421st Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. River of Fire by Qurratulain Hyder

    "River of Fire" is an expansive novel that spans over 2,500 years of Indian history. The narrative unfolds through the intertwined lives of four characters who are reincarnated in different eras: a Buddhist monk in 400 B.C., a court poet in the Mughal Empire, a British colonial administrator, and a modern Indian intellectual. This literary masterpiece is a reflection on the cyclical nature of history, the continuity of life and the human spirit, and the eternal quest for freedom and identity, providing a panoramic view of the socio-political evolution of the Indian subcontinent.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Memories of Rain by Sunetra Gupta

    The novel explores the crumbling marriage of a Bengali woman and her Greek husband. The narrative alternates between Kolkata, India, and London, England, and spans over a decade, capturing the protagonist's emotional turmoil, her struggle to reconcile her Indian heritage with her Western lifestyle, and her eventual decision to leave her unfaithful husband. The novel is rich in poetic language and imagery, and it delves deep into themes of identity, cultural displacement, and the complexities of love and betrayal.

    The 3757th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. The Skeleton by Amrita Pritam

    "The Skeleton" is a poignant tale of a woman named Chandi who, in her pursuit of love, ends up becoming a prostitute. The narrative explores her struggle to maintain her dignity and self-respect in a society that looks down upon her profession. The book delves into themes of love, betrayal, and societal norms, offering a powerful commentary on the hypocrisy and double standards of society.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Holder of the World: A Novel by Bharati Mukherjee

    The novel explores the life of Hannah Easton, a woman born in 17th century Salem, who gets married to a British adventurer and travels to India. In India, she becomes the concubine of a local ruler and takes on the name "The Holder of the World". The story is narrated by a 20th-century woman who discovers Hannah's story through a virtual reality device. The narrative weaves together the historical and the contemporary, the East and the West, and the real and the virtual, to create a rich tapestry of a woman's life and the cultural clashes she experiences.

    The 4050th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. The Paul Street Boys by Ferenc Molnár

    The book is a classic coming-of-age tale set in Budapest, Hungary, at the turn of the 20th century. It follows a group of adolescent boys who are engaged in a territorial battle over a vacant lot they call the "grund," which they use as their playground. The story highlights themes of loyalty, camaraderie, and the struggles of youth as the boys defend their cherished space against a rival group. The narrative focuses on the experiences of the protagonist, who is faced with difficult moral choices and the harsh realities of growing up, as the boys' conflict mirrors the larger social and economic tensions of their time.

    The 4122nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Abigél by Szabó, Magda

    Set against the backdrop of World War II in Hungary, the novel follows a young girl sent to a strict boarding school in the countryside by her father, a high-ranking general who fears for her safety amidst the war. Struggling to fit in and feeling abandoned, she eventually discovers the school harbors deep secrets, including the mysterious "Abigél," a statue that seems to be at the center of a clandestine operation protecting those persecuted by the war. As the protagonist navigates the complexities of adolescence, authority, and the harsh realities of her time, she learns valuable lessons about trust, loyalty, and the power of community in the face of adversity.

    The 4123rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Wife by Bharati Mukherjee

    The novel explores the complexities of an arranged marriage through the eyes of a young Indian woman who relocates to New York City after marrying a man she barely knows. Thrust into a foreign culture, she struggles with her identity and the expectations placed upon her as a wife. As she navigates her new life, she faces the challenges of isolation and the pressures of traditional roles, which ultimately lead to a dramatic transformation in her character and worldview. Her journey is a poignant examination of the immigrant experience, the clash of cultures, and the personal quest for self-realization amidst societal constraints.

    The 4124th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Tüskevár by István Fekete

    The novel is a coming-of-age story that follows two city boys who spend their summer in the Hungarian countryside, near a place called Tüskevár, to learn about nature, survival, and self-reliance. Under the guidance of an old woodsman, they encounter various adventures and challenges, from learning to fish and hunt to dealing with the harsh realities of the natural world. Throughout their stay, they gain a deep appreciation for the environment and experience personal growth, ultimately leaving behind their naïve views and becoming more mature and responsible individuals.

    The 4138th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. Abel Alone by Áron Tamási

    "Abel Alone" is a poignant narrative that follows the life of a young shepherd named Abel, who lives in the isolated, pastoral landscapes of Transylvania. The story delves into Abel's solitary existence, his deep connection with nature, and his struggles with the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations. As he grapples with personal growth and the challenges of adulthood, Abel's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the search for identity and belonging in a world that often feels vast and indifferent.

    The 4139th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Indul A Bakterház by Sándor Rideg

    "Indul A Bakterház" is a Hungarian novel that follows the life of a young boy growing up in a rural village during the interwar period. The narrative centers around the boy's experiences in a strict, yet comical, educational system and his interactions with a cast of eccentric characters, including his family members and schoolmates. Through a series of humorous and poignant episodes, the novel paints a vivid picture of village life, exploring themes of adolescence, tradition, and the universal journey of growing up amidst the challenges of poverty and societal change.

    The 4141st Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Be Faithful Unto Death by Zsigmond Móricz

    The novel is a poignant coming-of-age story set in a Hungarian boarding school at the turn of the 20th century. It follows the life of a young boy from a poor family who earns a scholarship to attend the prestigious institution. His journey is marked by the struggle to fit in among wealthier peers, the harsh discipline of school authorities, and the challenges of adolescence. When a valuable violin goes missing, he is unjustly accused of theft, leading to a profound examination of morality, integrity, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of injustice and hardship.

    The 4142nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Vuk: The Little Fox by István Fekete

    The book is a captivating tale of a young fox named Vuk who, after the tragic loss of his family, embarks on a journey of survival and discovery in the wild. Under the guidance of his wise uncle Karak, Vuk learns the ways of the forest, hones his hunting skills, and navigates the perils of the natural world. As he grows, he encounters various challenges and adventures, including confrontations with hunters and other animals. The story is a poignant exploration of the circle of life, the importance of family and mentorship, and the coming-of-age of a clever and resilient protagonist.

    The 4143rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. A Funtineli Boszorkány by Albert Wass

    The novel is a sweeping historical saga set in Transylvania, focusing on the life of a young peasant girl who, despite her humble origins and the tumultuous times, rises to become a powerful figure in her community. Possessing an indomitable spirit and a mysterious gift that some consider witchcraft, she navigates the complex social hierarchies and political upheavals of her era, becoming both revered and feared. Her journey is marked by love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of her destiny, as she becomes entwined with the fates of the villagers and the land itself, reflecting the broader struggles and resilience of the human spirit.

    The 4150th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. Vendor Of Sweeets by R. K. Narayan

    The book centers around Jagan, a sweet vendor in India who lives by the principles of Gandhi, and his relationship with his westernized son, Mali. Despite Jagan's efforts to provide a traditional upbringing, Mali rejects his father's values and moves to America to pursue a career in writing. The novel explores the generational and cultural clashes between father and son, as Jagan struggles to understand his son's choices and the tension between tradition and modernity in post-colonial India.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The English Teacher by R. K. Narayan

    The book revolves around an English teacher living in India who is struggling with the death of his wife. After her passing, he begins to communicate with her through a medium, which brings him peace and helps him cope with his loss. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the spiritual connection between the living and the dead. It also delves into the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and his eventual acceptance of his wife's death.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. They Were Counted by Miklos Banffy

    This novel, set in the twilight years of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, weaves a tale of aristocratic decadence, political intrigue, and personal downfall. It follows two cousins, navigating the treacherous waters of high society, politics, and love in Transylvania and Budapest. Through their eyes, the reader experiences the lavish balls, the rural estates, and the corridors of power, all set against the backdrop of an empire on the brink of collapse. The story masterfully portrays the complex interplay between personal ambitions, romantic entanglements, and the shifting sands of political alliances, capturing the essence of a bygone era with vivid detail and emotional depth.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Kincskereső Kisködmön by Ferenc Móra

    "Kincskereső Kisködmön" is a classic Hungarian children's tale that follows the adventures of a young, clever boy from a poor family who sets out on a quest to find a hidden treasure. Along his journey, he encounters various characters and obstacles, using his wit and resourcefulness to solve riddles and overcome challenges. The story is a celebration of ingenuity and perseverance, as the protagonist demonstrates that with courage and cleverness, even someone from humble beginnings can achieve great things. The book is not only a treasure hunt but also a moral tale that imparts valuable lessons to its young readers.

    The 4365th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Give Me Back My Mountains by Albert Wass

    "Give Me Back My Mountains" is a poignant historical novel that delves into the struggles and resilience of a Transylvanian noble family during the tumultuous period of World War II and the subsequent communist takeover. The narrative explores themes of loss, identity, and the unyielding human spirit, as the family confronts the confiscation of their ancestral lands and the erosion of their cultural heritage. Through vivid characters and rich descriptions, the book paints a picture of a bygone era, highlighting the personal and collective challenges faced by those who lived through the seismic political shifts of the 20th century in Eastern Europe.

    The 4373rd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. Árvácska by Zsigmond Móricz

    The book is a poignant tale of a young orphan girl navigating the hardships of life in early 20th-century Hungary. Thrust into a world of poverty and struggle, she is passed from one exploitative guardian to another, each more neglectful and abusive than the last. Despite the relentless adversity and the loss of her innocence, the protagonist's resilience and spirit shine through as she endures the cruelties of her existence, searching for a place to call home and a family to love her. The narrative serves as a powerful social commentary on the plight of the vulnerable in a society indifferent to their suffering.

    The 4380th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. Dirty Fred The Captain by Jenő Rejtő

    The book is a humorous adventure set in the 1930s, following the misadventures of Dirty Fred, a lovably roguish sea captain, and his sidekick, a former Foreign Legionnaire. Together, they navigate through a series of comical escapades involving treasure hunts, mistaken identities, and run-ins with a colorful cast of characters, including criminals, spies, and femme fatales. The story is known for its witty dialogue, satirical take on classic adventure tropes, and the endearing camaraderie between the two main characters as they try to outsmart their adversaries and survive the perils of their swashbuckling lifestyle.

    The 4392nd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. Slave Of The Huns by Géza Gárdonyi

    "Slave of the Huns" is a historical novel that transports readers to the tumultuous era of Attila the Hun's reign, seen through the eyes of a Greek captive. The protagonist, a young man of noble birth, is taken as a slave and must navigate the perilous world of the Hunnic Empire, where brutality and barbarism reign supreme. His journey is one of survival, resilience, and adaptation as he witnesses the fearsome power of the Huns, experiences the complexities of their society, and encounters love amidst the chaos of war. The novel blends adventure, romance, and a richly detailed historical backdrop to explore themes of freedom, cultural clash, and the indomitable human spirit.

    The 4393rd Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

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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.

Download