The Greatest Czech, Israeli, Multiple "Fiction" Books Since 1980

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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. The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera

    Set against the backdrop of the Prague Spring period of Czechoslovak history, the novel explores the philosophical concept of Nietzsche's eternal return through the intertwined lives of four characters: a womanizing surgeon, his intellectual wife, his naïve mistress, and her stoic lover. The narrative delves into their personal struggles with lightness and heaviness, freedom and fate, love and betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships, all while offering a profound meditation on the nature of existence and the paradoxes of life.

    The 114th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. I Served The King Of England by Bohumil Hrabal

    "I Served The King Of England" is a captivating novel that follows the life of a young Czech waiter named Ditie, who dreams of becoming a millionaire and serving the highest-ranking clientele. Set against the backdrop of World War II and the Communist regime, the story takes readers on a journey through Ditie's experiences in various hotels and restaurants, his encounters with eccentric characters, and his pursuit of love and success. With humor, wit, and a touch of satire, the book explores themes of ambition, identity, and the impact of historical events on an individual's life.

    The 1916th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Black Box by Amos Oz

    "Black Box" is a novel that explores the complex dynamics of a broken family. The story revolves around a divorced couple who are forced to reconnect after their son begins to display troubling behavior. The husband, a stern and disciplined judge, and the wife, a free-spirited Holocaust survivor, must navigate their personal differences, past hurts, and current relationships to address their son's issues. The book is written in the form of letters, revealing the characters' inner thoughts and struggles, making it a profound exploration of human relationships, regret, and reconciliation.

    The 3270th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. A Tale of Love and Darkness by Amos Oz

    This book is a poignant memoir that explores the complexities of love, darkness, loss, and the endurance of the human spirit. Set against the backdrop of the end of the British Mandate for Palestine and the early years of the State of Israel, the author recounts his childhood in Jerusalem, the suicide of his mother, and his path to becoming a writer. The narrative is both a personal account and a portrait of a society in turmoil, providing a profound exploration of the individual and collective psyche.

    The 3705th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Waiting for the Dark, Waiting for the Light by Ivan Klíma

    The novel is set in the twilight of Communist rule in Czechoslovakia and follows the life of a television cameraman named Pavel. Despite his dreams of becoming a filmmaker and capturing the truth, he is trapped in a job that requires him to distort it. As the regime starts to crumble, Pavel grapples with the opportunities and challenges that freedom brings. He is forced to confront his past, his moral choices, and his dreams, leading to a deep exploration of the human condition and the struggle for personal and artistic freedom.

    The 4050th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. City, Sister, Silver by Jáchym Topol

    This novel follows the journey of a young Czech man, Potok, as he navigates the tumultuous period of the Velvet Revolution and its aftermath. The story is filled with surreal and often disturbing imagery as it explores themes of chaos, transformation, and the struggle for identity in a rapidly changing world. Potok's adventures take him from the crumbling infrastructure of post-communist Czechoslovakia to the burgeoning world of Western Europe, and his experiences reflect the larger societal upheaval of the time.

    The 4105th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Twilight And Other Stories by Shulamith Hareven

    "Twilight and Other Stories" is a collection of evocative short stories that delve into the complexities of human experience, exploring themes of love, loss, identity, and the passage of time. The narratives, set against diverse backdrops, from ancient times to modern-day Israel, weave together a tapestry of characters each confronting their own moral dilemmas and emotional struggles. With a poetic and introspective style, the stories in this anthology invite readers to reflect on the subtle shades of humanity and the profound impact of seemingly ordinary moments.

    The 4969th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Identity: A Novel by Milan Kundera

    "Identity: A Novel" is a philosophical exploration of the complexities of love, identity, and the human psyche. It revolves around the lives of two lovers, Chantal and Jean-Marc, who are living in Paris. As their relationship progresses, they grapple with existential questions, the nature of identity, and the fear of oblivion. The novel delves into their individual and shared insecurities, their perceptions of each other, and how these perceptions shape their identities. The narrative offers a profound reflection on the intricacies of human relationships, the concept of self, and the role of memory and imagination in identity formation.

    The 6211th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. 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
  10. 10. 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
  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. Arabesques by Anton Shammas

    "Arabesques" is a novel that intricately blends autobiography, fiction, and historical narrative to explore the complexities of identity and heritage. Set primarily in the Arab village of Fassuta in northern Israel, the story delves into the life of the narrator and his extended family, tracing their roots and experiences across generations and borders. Through a tapestry of memories, stories, and shifting perspectives, the novel examines themes of displacement, belonging, and the cultural and political tensions in the Middle East, all while challenging the boundaries between history and memory, and truth and fiction.

    The 7833rd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Judge On Trial by Ivan Klima

    "Judge on Trial" is a novel that delves into the life of Adam Kindl, a judge in Communist Czechoslovakia who is struggling with the moral dilemmas of his profession and personal life. As he presides over a politically charged case, Kindl grapples with the oppressive regime's influence on justice and his own sense of integrity. The narrative explores themes of power, corruption, and the quest for truth, while also examining the complexities of love, fidelity, and the human condition. Through Kindl's introspective journey, the novel provides a poignant critique of the judicial and political systems of the time.

    The 8204th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. A Perfect Peace by Amos Oz

    Set against the backdrop of a kibbutz in Israel during the 1960s, the novel delves into the life of a young man struggling with the expectations of his family and community. As he grapples with his own desires and the looming specter of war, the protagonist embarks on a journey of self-discovery that leads him away from the communal life of the kibbutz. The narrative explores themes of individuality, freedom, and the complexities of human relationships, all while painting a vivid portrait of Israeli society during a time of tension and change.

    The 8214th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. A Late Divorce by A. B. Yehoshua

    The novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics and personal identity through the lens of an Israeli family facing the impending divorce of the elderly parents. As the estranged father returns from America to finalize the divorce, the reunion with his adult children and their mother in Israel brings to the surface long-simmering tensions, secrets, and unresolved emotional conflicts. Set against the backdrop of Passover, the narrative unfolds in a series of perspectives from each family member, revealing the intricate web of relationships and the individual struggles within the family unit. The story examines themes of love, betrayal, and the search for self amidst the trials of familial obligations and societal expectations.

    The 8214th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Largo Desolato by Vaclav Havel

    "Largo Desolato" is a play that delves into the psychological turmoil of a dissident intellectual living under an oppressive regime. The protagonist, who has gained notoriety for a political essay, faces the paralyzing fear of being constantly watched and the possibility of arrest. As various friends, admirers, and government officials visit him, he grapples with the moral and existential dilemma of whether to stand by his beliefs or succumb to the pressures of the authorities. The play explores themes of identity, responsibility, and the nature of freedom, capturing the protagonist's struggle with his conscience and the surreal experience of living in a society where personal integrity is under siege.

    The 8393rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. 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
  18. 18. See Under by David Grossman

    The book is a profound exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the journey of self-discovery. Through the eyes of a young boy, the narrative delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, the pain of loss, and the quest for identity. As the protagonist embarks on a search for his missing father, he encounters a series of enigmatic clues that lead him to confront the harsh realities of adulthood and the secrets that adults keep hidden. The story is a poignant reflection on the transition from childhood innocence to the understanding of the adult world, and the ways in which our loved ones shape our perception of ourselves and our place in the world.

    The 8435th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. 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
  20. 20. The Immortal Bartfuss by Aharon Appelfeld

    The book is a poignant exploration of the life of a Holocaust survivor grappling with the weight of his past and the struggle to find meaning in the aftermath of unimaginable trauma. The protagonist, a man who has outlived the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp, finds himself in a small Israeli town, where he is haunted by memories and the loss of his family. His survival comes with the burden of guilt and the challenge of reconnecting with a world that has been irrevocably changed. Through his journey, the narrative delves into themes of memory, identity, and the complex process of healing from psychological scars, offering a stark examination of the enduring impact of the Holocaust on individual lives.

    The 8549th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. His Daughter by Yoram Kaniuk

    The novel explores the complexities of identity, memory, and the human condition through the story of a man who, after losing his daughter to a tragic accident, becomes obsessed with a young woman he believes to be her reincarnation. As he delves deeper into this conviction, his life intertwines with those of Holocaust survivors and the young woman's own troubled past, revealing a tapestry of narratives that question the nature of truth, the weight of history, and the possibility of redemption amidst profound loss. The narrative weaves together personal and collective histories, creating a poignant meditation on grief and the enduring impact of trauma across generations.

    The 8549th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. A Horse Walks Into A Bar by David Grossman

    In this novel, a stand-up comedian, during a performance in a small Israeli city, veers from his routine into a confessional monologue. Throughout the evening, he reveals layers of his troubled past, including childhood traumas and a complex relationship with his parents, to a mixed audience that includes figures from his own history. The narrative unfolds as a blend of dark humor and poignant drama, exploring themes of memory, pain, and the redemptive power of storytelling. As the comedian's act progresses, the audience's reactions shift from amusement to discomfort to intense engagement, mirroring the emotional journey he compels them to take with him.

    The 8655th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. 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
  24. 24. 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
  25. 25. 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

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