The Greatest Italian, German, British "Folklore" Books of All Time

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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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Folklore

Folklore is a category of books that encompasses traditional stories, beliefs, and customs of a particular culture or community. These stories are often passed down through generations and are deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the people. Folklore books may include myths, legends, fables, fairy tales, and other forms of storytelling that reflect the values, beliefs, and experiences of a particular group of people. They offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of a community and provide insight into their way of life, beliefs, and customs.

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  1. 1. Household Tales by Brothers Grimm

    "Household Tales" is a collection of German fairy tales that includes popular stories such as "Cinderella", "Little Red Riding Hood", "Hansel and Gretel", and "Snow White". These narratives, often featuring magical elements and moral lessons, have been influential in shaping Western popular culture. The tales range from the whimsical and humorous to the dark and cautionary, reflecting a wide array of human experiences and emotions.

    The 316th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Le Morte d'Arthur by Thomas Malory

    This classic work is a compilation of stories and legends about the legendary King Arthur, his knights, and the Round Table. It tells of Arthur's rise to power, his quest for the Holy Grail, and his tragic downfall. The book, written in the 15th century, is considered one of the most influential pieces of Arthurian literature and has significantly shaped the modern perception of Arthur, Merlin, Guinevere, Lancelot, and other iconic characters.

    The 362nd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Nibelungenlied by Anonymous

    "The Nibelungenlied" is a Middle High German epic poem that narrates the story of dragon-slayer Siegfried at the court of the Burgundians, his murder, his wife Kriemhild's revenge, and the destruction of the Burgundians. The narrative is set in the early medieval period and combines elements of Norse mythology, courtly love, and heroic legend. The poem explores themes of honor, loyalty, love, betrayal, and revenge, and is considered one of the most important works of German literature.

    The 612th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter

    This children's classic tells the story of a mischievous young rabbit who disobeys his mother's warning and ventures into Mr. McGregor's garden. After indulging in the garden's bountiful offerings, the young rabbit finds himself chased by Mr. McGregor, narrowly escaping capture. He eventually makes his way back home to his mother, who scolds him for his disobedience and sends him to bed without supper.

    The 695th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Golden Bough by James George Frazer

    "The Golden Bough" is a comprehensive study on mythology and religion, exploring the common themes found in different cultures around the world. The author uses a wide range of sources to argue that human belief progressed through three stages: primitive magic, replaced by religion, which in turn was replaced by science. The book delves into various rituals and customs, including the concept of the dying god in mythology and the role of fertility rites in agriculture. The author's theories have had a profound influence on both literature and anthropology.

    The 832nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Tristan by Gottfried von Strassburg

    "Tristan" is a medieval romance that tells the tragic tale of the noble knight Tristan and the beautiful princess Isolde. The story is filled with themes of love, betrayal, and honor, as Tristan is sent to Ireland to bring back Isolde for his uncle, King Mark, to marry. However, on their journey back, they accidentally consume a love potion, causing them to fall deeply in love with each other. Their illicit affair eventually leads to their downfall, resulting in a tale filled with sorrow and heartbreak.

    The 946th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Bloody Chamber And Other Stories by Angela Carter

    "The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that reimagines and deconstructs traditional fairy tales. The narratives are filled with strong female characters, sexual exploration, and violent and gothic themes. Each story presents a unique spin on classic tales, such as Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast, and Bluebeard, challenging the typical gender roles and expectations found in the original stories.

    The 1246th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Mythago Wood by Robert Holdstock

    In "Mythago Wood," a man named Steven Huxley delves into the mysterious depths of Ryhope Wood, a forest that holds ancient and mythical creatures known as mythagos. As he explores the ever-changing landscape, Steven encounters his deceased father's mythago, a powerful and seductive woman named Guiwenneth. Drawn into a world of magic and danger, Steven must confront his own desires and confront the dark secrets that lie within the heart of the wood.

    The 1307th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. The Adventures Of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi

    "The Adventures of Pinocchio" is a classic children's novel that follows the mischievous adventures of a wooden puppet named Pinocchio. As he strives to become a real boy, Pinocchio encounters a series of trials and temptations, learning valuable life lessons along the way. From encounters with talking animals to being swallowed by a giant fish, Pinocchio's journey is filled with humor, excitement, and moral dilemmas. With themes of honesty, bravery, and the consequences of one's actions, this timeless tale captivates readers of all ages.

    The 1546th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Parzival by Wolfram Eschenbach

    "Parzival" is a medieval epic poem that tells the story of a young man's journey from ignorance and folly to wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. The titular character, raised in isolation by his mother, ventures out into the world completely unaware of its ways. His journey leads him to King Arthur's court, where he becomes a knight and embarks on various adventures, including the quest for the Holy Grail. The narrative explores themes of chivalry, courtly love, and the struggle between faith and reason.

    The 1788th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Italian Folktales by Italo Calvino

    This book is a comprehensive collection of 200 traditional Italian folktales, meticulously gathered from different regions of Italy. The stories range from humor to horror, from fairy tales to moral lessons, from whimsical to deeply symbolic, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Italy. These tales, translated and retold, provide a fascinating insight into the folklore, traditions, and beliefs of Italian people.

    The 1981st Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Marriage Of Cadmus And Harmony by Roberto Calasso

    "The Marriage of Cadmus and Harmony" is a unique exploration of Greek mythology. The narrative follows the journey of Cadmus, a Phoenician prince, and his marriage to Harmony, a goddess. The book delves deep into the complex and rich tapestry of Greek myths, presenting them as a continuous and ever-evolving story. It offers fascinating insights into the gods, heroes, and monsters of ancient Greece, while also drawing connections to modern life and thought.

    The 1998th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. King Arthur And His Knights Of The Round Table by Roger Lancelyn Green

    This book is a retelling of the classic Arthurian legends, weaving together the tales of the legendary King Arthur and his noble knights. It chronicles Arthur's ascent to the throne after pulling the enchanted sword Excalibur from a stone, the establishment of the Round Table, and the various quests undertaken by his knights, including the search for the Holy Grail. The narrative also delves into the personal stories of key figures such as Sir Lancelot, Guinevere, and Merlin the wizard, exploring themes of chivalry, honor, and betrayal. Rich in medieval mythology and adventure, the book captures the imagination with its depiction of a romanticized, yet perilous, world of knights and their code of ethics.

    The 2962nd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight by Simon Armitage

    The book is a modern translation of a 14th century alliterative poem, which tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur's Round Table. The story begins when a mysterious Green Knight arrives at Arthur's court, challenging the knights to a beheading game. Gawain accepts the challenge and beheads the Green Knight, who surprisingly survives and tells Gawain to seek him out a year later to return the blow. The book follows Gawain's journey, filled with trials and temptations, as he tries to fulfill his promise to the Green Knight, maintaining his honor and chivalry.

    The 3084th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson

    This children's book tells the story of a clever mouse who uses his wits to avoid being eaten by various predators in the woods. The mouse invents a monster, the Gruffalo, to scare away a fox, an owl, and a snake, only to discover that the creature actually exists. Using his quick thinking, the mouse manages to convince the Gruffalo that he is the most feared creature in the forest, thus avoiding becoming the Gruffalo's meal.

    The 3252nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Treasure Chest by Johann Peter Hebel

    "The Treasure Chest" is a collection of engaging short stories and moral fables that delve into the lives of common people, their challenges, and their triumphs. Each story is crafted to impart wisdom and moral lessons, often featuring unexpected twists and insights into human nature. The tales are set in a variety of locales and historical contexts, providing a rich tapestry of social commentary that remains relevant and thought-provoking. Through its accessible and entertaining narratives, the book encourages reflection on virtues, vices, and the everyday decisions that shape our lives.

    The 3812th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Weirdstone Of Brisingamen by Alan Garner

    In this fantasy novel, two children staying in a rural English village stumble upon an ancient magical stone that is the key to a struggle between good and evil forces. As they are drawn into a world of myth and legend, they encounter a host of magical creatures and characters from local folklore. With the help of a wizard, the children must navigate treacherous landscapes and battle dark forces to keep the powerful stone out of the hands of the malevolent Morrigan and her minions, who seek to use it to dominate both the magical and human worlds. The children's courage, loyalty, and resourcefulness are tested as they fight to protect the stone and maintain the balance between light and darkness.

    The 4634th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Edmund Dulac's Fairy-Book by Edmund Dulac

    This book is a collection of traditional fairy tales from around the world, beautifully illustrated by a renowned artist. The stories include tales from the folklore of various cultures, including French, Russian, Japanese, and Arabian. Each story is accompanied by stunning, full-color illustrations that bring the tales to life and transport readers into the magical worlds of the stories. The book is not only a delight for children but also an artistic treasure for adults.

    The 4942nd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Hauff's Fairy Tales by Wilhelm Hauff

    This collection brings together a captivating array of fairy tales written in the early 19th century, showcasing a blend of the magical, moral, and fantastical. The stories, rich in narrative and moral lessons, transport readers to worlds where the lines between reality and enchantment blur, featuring characters ranging from the noble-hearted to the cunning, and settings that span from the familiar to the utterly fantastical. Through tales of adventure, love, and wisdom, the collection not only entertains but also imparts valuable life lessons, reflecting the author's knack for storytelling and his ability to explore the depths of human nature and the complexities of the world through the lens of fairy tales.

    The 5539th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Robin Hood by Henry Gilbert

    This classic tale follows the adventures of Robin Hood, a legendary hero who steals from the rich to give to the poor. Living in the Sherwood Forest with his band of Merry Men, Robin Hood is a skilled archer and swordsman who outwits the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham and other adversaries. His acts of bravery and generosity, along with his love for the fair Maid Marian, have cemented his place as a symbol of resistance against tyranny. Through a series of daring escapades, Robin Hood fights for justice, showcasing his unwavering commitment to helping those in need.

    The 5540th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman

    The protagonist, a middle-aged man, returns to his childhood home for a funeral and is drawn to the farm at the end of the road where he encounters a pond that was once an ocean in his childhood memories. He recalls a series of strange and terrifying events that occurred when he was seven, involving the mystical Hempstock women who live on the farm and their battle against malevolent supernatural entities that threatened his existence. The book explores themes of memory, magic, and the darkness that lies beneath the surface of everyday life.

    The 5893rd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. The Greek Myths by Robert Graves

    The book is a comprehensive and detailed guide to the ancient myths of Greece, presented in a narrative format. It explores the origins and histories of Greek gods, goddesses, heroes, and heroines, providing interpretations of the myths and discussing their variations. The author combines elements of archaeology, comparative mythology, and classical literature to offer insights into the historical and cultural contexts of these stories, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in classical mythology or the ancient world.

    The 5973rd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Goblin Market by Christina Georgina Rossetti

    "Goblin Market" is a narrative poem that explores themes of temptation, sacrifice, and salvation through the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who encounter goblin merchants selling a variety of luscious, enchanted fruits. Despite warnings, Laura succumbs to the temptation and indulges in the fruit, leading to a decline in her health and spirit. Lizzie, determined to save her sister, bravely confronts the goblins and resists their temptations, ultimately purchasing the antidote with her courage and purity. The poem culminates in a powerful act of sisterly love and redemption, as the bond between the siblings triumphs over the malevolent forces.

    The 6108th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Italian Folktales by Italo Calvino

    "Italian Folktales" is a collection of enchanting and timeless stories from Italy's rich folkloric heritage. Compiled and retold by a prominent 20th-century writer, the book brings together a diverse array of tales filled with whimsy, wisdom, and magical elements. Each story transports readers into a world of brave heroes, cunning creatures, and fantastical events, reflecting the cultural traditions and social mores of different Italian regions. This anthology not only entertains but also preserves the folkloric legacy of Italy, showcasing the art of storytelling and the universal themes that connect humanity across time and space.

    The 6651st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Ballads And Songs by John Davidson

    "Ballads and Songs" is a collection of lyrical poetry that delves into themes of love, mortality, and the human condition, reflecting the author's fascination with both the romantic and the macabre. The poems often employ vivid imagery and rhythmic verse to explore the complexities of life and the nature of reality, drawing on both traditional ballad forms and the author's unique, modern sensibility. The work is known for its emotional depth, intellectual rigor, and the ability to capture the spirit of its time through a blend of classical and contemporary influences.

    The 7191st 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