The Greatest American, British "Contemporary, Modernist, 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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Contemporary

Contemporary books are a genre that focuses on stories set in the present day, often exploring current social, cultural, and political issues. These books are typically written in a modern style and often feature relatable characters dealing with real-life situations. Contemporary books can cover a wide range of topics, from romance and family drama to coming-of-age stories and thrillers. The genre is constantly evolving to reflect the changing world we live in, making it a popular choice for readers who want to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and issues.

Modernist

Modernist literature is a category of books that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by a break from traditional literary forms and a focus on individual experience and perception. Modernist writers experimented with language, form, and structure, often using stream-of-consciousness narration and fragmented storytelling to convey the complexity and ambiguity of modern life. Themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the search for meaning are common in modernist literature, which reflects the cultural and social upheavals of the time. Overall, modernist literature is a challenging and thought-provoking genre that continues to influence contemporary literature and culture.

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  1. 1. Rabbit, Run by John Updike

    The novel follows the life of a 26-year-old former high school basketball star, who is dissatisfied with his current life. He impulsively leaves his wife and son and embarks on a journey in the hopes of finding a more meaningful existence. His decisions, however, lead to a series of tragic events that impact the lives of those around him. This mid-20th-century novel explores themes of freedom, responsibility, and the tragic consequences of impulsive decisions.

    The 131st Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Unconsoled by Kazuo Ishiguro

    The book follows a renowned pianist who arrives in a Central European city to give a concert. However, his time there becomes increasingly surreal and disjointed as he is pulled in different directions by the demands of the locals, his own past, and his responsibilities. The narrative explores themes of memory, time, and self-delusion, creating a dream-like atmosphere that blurs the lines between reality and illusion.

    The 1340th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Nothing by Henry Green

    The novel explores the intertwined lives of a group of affluent, idle Londoners between the World Wars, focusing on the adulterous affairs and complex relationships within their circle. As the characters navigate love, boredom, and the search for meaning in their privileged existence, the narrative delves into the nuances of communication and the subtleties of social interaction. The story unfolds through a series of conversations and encounters, revealing the characters' inner lives and the emptiness that pervades their world of leisure and luxury.

    The 3400th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. White Mule by William Carlos Williams

    The novel follows the story of an immigrant family's struggle to adapt to life in America during the early 20th century. Focusing on the Stecher family, the narrative centers around their infant daughter, nicknamed White Mule, who symbolizes the family's resilience and determination. As they navigate the complexities of assimilation, cultural identity, and the pursuit of the American Dream, the family's experiences reflect the broader challenges faced by immigrants of that era. The book delves into themes of strength, perseverance, and the clash between old-world traditions and new-world opportunities.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Wolf Solent by John Cowper Powys

    The novel follows the journey of its eponymous protagonist, a man who retreats from the chaos of London to the rural tranquility of Dorset in an attempt to find solace and meaning in life. Throughout his introspective quest, he grapples with complex relationships, the haunting presence of the past, and the mystical allure of nature. As he navigates through a series of personal and philosophical dilemmas, he encounters a rich tapestry of characters, each embodying different aspects of the human condition, ultimately leading him to confront the profound questions of existence and his own inner turmoil.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Forgetting Elena by Edmund White

    The novel presents a surreal and allegorical tale set on an enigmatic island, where the amnesiac protagonist struggles to navigate a society governed by intricate and arbitrary social codes. As he attempts to reconstruct his identity and understand his past, he encounters a cast of eccentric characters who embody the peculiar customs and rituals of the island's culture. The narrative, rich with metaphor and satire, explores themes of memory, identity, and the search for self amidst the bewildering constraints of a highly stylized community.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Nocturnes For The King Of Naples by Edmund White

    The book is a lyrical and introspective novel that explores the themes of love, loss, and desire through the lens of a man reflecting on his past relationship with an older, enigmatic lover. The narrative unfolds in a series of evocative vignettes and musings, blending reality with fantasy, as the protagonist grapples with the enduring impact of this deeply transformative affair. Set against the backdrop of various locations, including Naples, the novel delves into the complexities of memory and the haunting nature of longing, weaving a tapestry of emotion and poetic imagery that captures the essence of romantic yearning and the pain of its inevitable dissolution.

    The 7937th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. In This Our Life by Ellen Glasgow

    This novel tells the story of the Timberlake family, focusing on two sisters, Stanley and Roy. Stanley is a selfish, manipulative woman who abandons her husband for her sister Roy's husband, causing a series of tragic events. Meanwhile, Roy, the more responsible and virtuous sister, must navigate the fallout of Stanley's actions. The book explores themes of family, morality, and the destructive power of selfishness, all set against the backdrop of the American South in the early 20th century.

    The 10138th 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