The Greatest New Zealander, Mexican, German "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. 26. A Novel About My Wife by Emily Perkins

    "A Novel About My Wife" is a captivating exploration of a marriage on the brink of collapse. Told from the perspective of the husband, the story delves into the complexities of love, desire, and the secrets that can unravel even the strongest of relationships. As the husband grapples with his own insecurities and suspicions, he becomes consumed by the mystery surrounding his wife's past, leading him down a path of self-discovery and ultimately forcing him to confront the truth about their marriage.

    The 9596th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. The Collini Case by Ferdinand Von Schirach

    This gripping legal thriller delves into the complexities of the German legal system through the lens of a seemingly inexplicable murder case. When an elderly industrialist is found brutally murdered, the suspect, an Italian man with no apparent motive, confesses to the crime, sparking a sensational trial. The young defense attorney assigned to the case finds himself embroiled in a deep-seated legal conundrum that challenges his beliefs about justice and morality. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a dark chapter of German history that reveals the true motive behind the murder, forcing him to confront uncomfortable truths about the past and its impact on the present. This novel is a compelling exploration of guilt, redemption, and the quest for justice in the shadow of historical atrocities.

    The 9608th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. As The Earth Turns Silver by Alison Wong

    Set in early 20th century New Zealand, "As The Earth Turns Silver" is a historical novel that explores the complex relationships between Chinese immigrants and the European settlers. The story follows the lives of two characters, a Chinese immigrant named Yung, who works as a valet for a wealthy white family, and Katherine, the wife of the family's lawyer. As their lives intertwine, they navigate the societal prejudices and expectations of the time, while also confronting their own desires and secrets. Through their forbidden love affair, Wong delves into themes of identity, racism, and the struggle for acceptance in a changing world.

    The 9652nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. The Hut Builder by Laurence Fearnley

    "The Hut Builder" is a captivating novel that follows the journey of a middle-aged man named Boden Blackwood, who retreats to the remote wilderness of New Zealand to build his dream hut. As he immerses himself in the challenging task of constructing the hut, Boden's solitude is interrupted by unexpected encounters with the locals, each bringing their own stories and struggles. Through these interactions, Boden discovers the profound impact that human connections can have on one's sense of purpose and belonging. With beautiful prose and a deep exploration of solitude and community, this novel takes readers on a reflective and moving journey of self-discovery.

    The 9707th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Rangatira by Paula Morris

    "Rangatira" is a historical fiction novel set in 19th century New Zealand. The story follows the journey of a young Maori chief, who, after being chosen as a rangatira (leader) of his tribe, embarks on a voyage to England. Through his experiences in the unfamiliar Western world, the protagonist grapples with cultural clashes, identity, and the complexities of colonialism. The narrative seamlessly weaves together Maori mythology, European history, and personal reflections, offering a thought-provoking exploration of indigenous perspectives in a changing world.

    The 9776th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. The Big Music by Kirsty Gunn

    "The Big Music" is a profound and lyrical novel that explores the life of a Scottish bagpiper and his obsession with composing a piece of music that captures the essence of his family's history and the rugged landscape of the Highlands. Through a series of interwoven narratives, the book delves into themes of love, loss, and the power of music to transcend time and connect generations. With its rich prose and evocative descriptions, the novel immerses readers in a mesmerizing tale of creativity, heritage, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

    The 9845th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Sudden Death by Alvaro Enrigue

    "Sudden Death" is a historical fiction novel that revolves around a fictional tennis match between the Italian painter, Caravaggio, and the Spanish poet, Francisco de Quevedo. The narrative jumps through time and space, touching on the conquest of the Americas, the political machinations of the Vatican, and the personal lives and rivalries of historical figures. The book uses this surreal and humorous setup to explore themes of art, power, and the chaotic, violent nature of the world.

    The 9982nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. The Wish Child by Catherine Chidgey

    "The Wish Child" is a powerful and haunting novel that explores the lives of two children, Sieglinde and Erich, growing up in Nazi Germany. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story delves into the complexities of their friendship and the impact of the Nazi regime on their lives. Through vivid and evocative prose, the author skillfully captures the innocence and resilience of children in a time of darkness and uncertainty, while also shedding light on the moral dilemmas faced by ordinary individuals during a tumultuous period in history.

    The 10223rd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. The New Animals by Pip Adam

    "The New Animals" by Pip Adam is a thought-provoking and unsettling novel that explores the lives of a group of young adults navigating the complexities of modern society. Set in a futuristic world where societal norms and expectations have drastically changed, the story follows Carla, a young woman trying to find her place amidst the chaos. As she encounters various characters and situations, the book delves into themes of identity, relationships, and the blurred boundaries between humans and animals. With its raw and evocative prose, "The New Animals" challenges readers to question the constructs of society and the essence of humanity itself.

    The 10285th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Dreamers by Yuyi Morales

    "Dreamers" by Yuyi Morales is a heartfelt and visually stunning picture book that tells the story of a young mother and her son who immigrate to the United States. Through captivating illustrations and poetic language, the book explores their journey of adapting to a new country, learning a new language, and finding solace and hope in the power of books and imagination. It celebrates the resilience and courage of immigrants while emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity and the universal language of dreams.

    The 10331st Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. This Mortal Boy by Fiona Kidman

    Set in 1950s New Zealand, "This Mortal Boy" tells the gripping true story of Albert "Paddy" Black, a young Irish immigrant who finds himself caught up in a tragic turn of events. When Paddy is accused of murder, his fate rests in the hands of the justice system and the public's perception of him as an outsider. As the trial unfolds, the novel explores themes of prejudice, class division, and the power of love and hope in the face of adversity.

    The 10331st Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Auē by Becky Manawatu

    "Auē" is a powerful and heartbreaking novel that explores the lives of three individuals in a small New Zealand town. It delves into the themes of family, loss, and resilience as the characters navigate their troubled pasts and search for redemption. With vivid storytelling and raw emotions, the book offers a profound examination of the human spirit and the impact of trauma on individuals and communities.

    The 10390th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. The Hunger Angel by Herta Müller

    "The Hunger Angel" is a poignant novel that explores the harrowing experiences of a young man deported to a Soviet labor camp after World War II. The narrative delves into the psychological and physical toll of life in the camp, where the protagonist grapples with extreme hunger, harsh conditions, and the struggle to maintain a sense of identity and humanity. Through lyrical and evocative prose, the book captures the intense emotions and survival mechanisms of those ensnared in the brutal realities of historical political oppression.

    The 10437th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Bug Week & Other Stories by Airini Beautrais

    "Bug Week & Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that explores the complexities of human relationships and the impact of everyday occurrences on individuals. From a woman's obsession with bugs to a couple's struggle with infertility, the book delves into various themes such as love, loss, and the search for identity. With its vivid storytelling and diverse characters, the collection offers a captivating glimpse into the intricacies of human nature.

    The 10450th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Kurangaituku by Whiti Hereaka

    "Kurangaituku" by Whiti Hereaka is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into the life of a young Maori girl named Te Arepa. Set in New Zealand, the story follows Te Arepa as she navigates the challenges of her cultural identity, family dynamics, and the impact of colonization. Through her journey, the book explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of storytelling. With its rich cultural backdrop and engaging narrative, "Kurangaituku" offers a compelling exploration of identity and the complexities of the human experience.

    The 10533rd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. The Axeman's Carnival by Catherine Chidgey

    "The Axeman's Carnival" is a gripping historical novel set in 1918 New Orleans, during the height of the Spanish flu pandemic. As the city grapples with fear and uncertainty, a serial killer known as the Axeman terrorizes its inhabitants. The story follows three main characters—a jazz musician, a young girl, and a detective—as their lives intertwine amidst the chaos. With vivid descriptions and a suspenseful narrative, the book explores themes of resilience, identity, and the power of music in the face of darkness.

    The 10573rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. The Story Of My Teeth by Valeria Luiselli

    "The Story of My Teeth" is a unique and imaginative novel centered around Gustavo Sánchez Sánchez, also known as Highway, a world-traveling auctioneer with a penchant for storytelling and a set of teeth he claims once belonged to Marilyn Monroe. Set in Mexico City, the narrative unfolds through a series of bizarre and humorous episodes, where Highway auctions off not just objects, but stories about them, enhancing their value through his inventive tales. The novel explores themes of identity, value, and the power of narrative, blending elements of philosophy, dental history, and literary theory, all while questioning the nature of truth and the art of storytelling.

    The 10578th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. Alberta empfängt einen Liebhaber by Birgit Vanderbeke

    "Alberta empfängt einen Liebhaber" is a German novel that explores the life of Alberta, a woman in her forties who lives a routine life with her husband and children. Her world is turned upside down when she begins an affair with a much younger man. The novel delves into her internal struggle as she tries to reconcile her traditional values with her newfound passion and freedom. The story is a profound exploration of middle age, femininity, and the complexities of desire.

    The 10646th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The Tower by Uwe Tellkamp

    The novel is an intricate exploration of life in Dresden, East Germany, before the fall of the Berlin Wall, focusing on the lives of an aristocratic family. Through a detailed narrative, it delves into the complexities of living under a repressive regime, highlighting the struggles of the intellectual elite as they navigate censorship, surveillance, and the moral compromises required to maintain their status and beliefs. The story, rich in detail and character development, paints a vivid picture of a society on the brink of change, capturing the tension between personal ambition and political ideology.

    The 10654th 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