The Greatest Australian, Chinese, German, French "Nonfiction" 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. Schindler's List by Thomas Keneally

    The book tells the true story of a German businessman who saves more than a thousand Polish Jews during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories. The protagonist's transformation from a greedy high living war profiteer to a savior of lives forms the crux of the narrative. It offers a chilling yet inspiring account of the horrors of the Holocaust, human resilience, and the power of one individual to make a significant difference.

    The 412th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Rings of Saturn by W. G. Sebald

    "The Rings of Saturn" is a richly detailed travelogue that follows the narrator's journey along the coast of Suffolk, England. The narrative weaves together history, literature, and personal anecdotes, exploring topics as diverse as the decline of the herring industry, the horrors of colonialism in the Congo, and the life of philosopher Sir Thomas Browne. The book is characterized by its melancholic tone, its digressive style, and its meditative reflections on memory, time, and decay.

    The 1004th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China by Jung Chang

    This book is a biographical account of three generations of women in China, spanning the years 1909 to 1991. The narrative follows the lives of the author's grandmother, a warlord's concubine; her mother, a high-ranking official in the Communist Party; and the author herself, who grew up during the Cultural Revolution before moving to the West. The book presents a vivid portrayal of the political and social changes in China during the 20th century, as seen through the eyes of these three women.

    The 1025th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Emigrants by Winfried Georg Sebald

    "The Emigrants" is a novel that explores the experiences and memories of four different emigrants, each with a unique and complex history. The narrative primarily focuses on the psychological impact of displacement and the haunting nature of the past. The author delves deep into their lives, revealing their struggles with identity, loss, and the persistent influence of their roots. The narrative is interwoven with historical events, photographs, and other documents, creating a rich tapestry that blurs the line between fact and fiction.

    The 1229th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Road from Coorain by Jill Ker Conway

    "The Road from Coorain" is a memoir that chronicles the author's journey from her childhood on a remote sheep station in Australia, through her adolescence in war-ravaged Sydney, and finally, to her departure for America. The narrative explores themes of self-discovery, gender roles, and the power of education while providing a vivid portrayal of life in the Australian outback. The memoir also delves into the author's complex relationship with her mother and the impact of her father's death on their family.

    The 1857th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Shock of the New by Robert Hughes

    "The Shock of the New" is an insightful exploration of modern art from the late 19th century to the present day. The book examines the cultural, social, and political forces that shaped and influenced the development of various art movements such as Cubism, Futurism, Surrealism, and Pop Art. It also provides an in-depth analysis of the works of prominent artists who played pivotal roles in these movements. The book serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the complexities and nuances of modern art.

    The 2045th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. A Fortunate Life by A.B. Facey

    "A Fortunate Life" is a memoir that chronicles the extraordinary life of a man who overcame immense hardships and adversity to find happiness and contentment. From his humble beginnings in rural Australia to his experiences as a soldier in World War I, the author shares his remarkable journey filled with poverty, loss, and resilience. Despite facing numerous challenges, he remains optimistic and grateful for the opportunities life has presented him, ultimately proving that a fortunate life is not defined by material wealth, but by the strength of the human spirit.

    The 2190th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Tracks by Robyn Davidson

    "Tracks" is a memoir that recounts the author's extraordinary journey across the Australian desert on camelback. The narrative provides vivid descriptions of the harsh desert landscape, the challenges faced during this nine-month, 1,700-mile trek, and the transformation of the author's personal character along the way. The book also explores her interactions with the indigenous Aboriginal people and their culture, and includes her reflections on solitude, self-discovery, and the human connection to nature.

    The 2300th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. To The Friend Who Did Not Save My Life by Hervé Guibert

    The book is a candid and harrowing autobiographical novel that chronicles the life of a man grappling with the devastating impact of AIDS during the early years of the epidemic. Through a blend of fact and fiction, the narrative delves into the protagonist's personal experiences with illness, the medical establishment, and the emotional complexities of friendship and mortality. As he confronts his own declining health, the protagonist reflects on the relationships with those around him, including a close friend who is also facing the disease, and the betrayal he feels when a promised miracle cure fails to materialize. The novel is a raw and poignant exploration of the human condition in the face of an unforgiving illness.

    The 2365th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. I Will Bear Witness by Victor Klemperer

    "I Will Bear Witness" is a chilling personal account of life in Nazi Germany from 1933-1941. The author, a Jewish professor, meticulously details the daily life under Hitler's regime, capturing the fear, oppression, and constant threat that Jews faced. The diary serves as a powerful testament to the horrors of the Holocaust and the resilience of those who endured it.

    The 3028th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Systematic Theology by Wolfhart Pannenberg

    "Systematic Theology" is a comprehensive exploration of Christian doctrine from the perspective of a renowned German theologian. It delves into the nature of God, the creation of the universe, and the essence of humanity, among other topics. The author's approach is unique in that he uses historical and scientific knowledge to interpret and explain Christian beliefs, making this a significant contribution to modern theological thought.

    The 3447th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Man Made Language by Dale Spender

    The book in question explores the concept that language is not a neutral medium of communication but rather a man-made construct that reflects and perpetuates the patriarchal structure of society. It argues that the way language is used and structured inherently privileges male perspectives and marginalizes women, influencing perceptions and reinforcing gender inequalities. Through a critical examination of linguistic practices, the text challenges readers to recognize the biases embedded in everyday language and consider the implications these have on women's experiences and the broader social power dynamics.

    The 4118th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Memoirs by Raymond Aron

    The book in question is an intellectual autobiography by a prominent French philosopher and sociologist, chronicling his life from his early years through the tumultuous events of the 20th century. It delves into his experiences during World War II, his observations on the Cold War, and his relationships with other notable intellectuals of his time. The author reflects on his philosophical and political evolution, offering insights into his analytical approach to history, politics, and society. His memoirs serve as a window into the mind of a thinker deeply engaged with the ideological and historical challenges of his era, providing a personal perspective on the broader intellectual currents that shaped the modern world.

    The 4124th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Die Totalitäre Erfahrung by Karl Dietrich Bracher

    The book in question provides a comprehensive analysis of totalitarianism, exploring the political and social conditions that give rise to such regimes. It delves into the characteristics of totalitarian states, examining how they gain and maintain power through the manipulation of ideology, the use of terror, and the control of mass communication. The work also reflects on the historical instances of totalitarian governments in the 20th century, offering insights into the dangers they pose to individual freedoms and democratic structures. Through its examination of the dynamics of total control, the book serves as a warning about the fragility of democratic institutions and the constant need to defend them against authoritarian threats.

    The 4610th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Red Scarf Girl by Ji-li Jiang

    "Red Scarf Girl" is a memoir of the author's childhood during the Cultural Revolution in China. The story follows a 12-year-old girl from a previously respected family who is labeled a class enemy and forced to turn against her own parents. The book provides a deeply personal account of the extreme political and social upheaval during this period in China's history, highlighting the fear, confusion, and courage of a young girl struggling to reconcile her loyalty to her family and her loyalty to her country.

    The 4777th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Falling Leaves by Adeline Yen Mah

    "Falling Leaves" is a heartbreaking autobiography that recounts the life of a young girl who grows up in a wealthy but abusive family in 20th century China. Despite being the daughter of a prosperous businessman, she is treated as an outcast and blamed for her mother's death, who died shortly after her birth. The story portrays her struggle for acceptance and love within her family, her journey through the cultural revolution in China, and her eventual success as a physician in the U.S. It's a poignant exploration of the themes of familial bonds, resilience, and the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity.

    The 4785th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Essential Cuisine by Michel Bras

    "Essential Cuisine" is a comprehensive guide to gourmet cooking, written by a renowned French chef. The book provides readers with recipes that highlight the chef's innovative and unique approach to cooking, focusing on the use of fresh, local ingredients. The book also includes stunning photography of the dishes and the chef's home region, making it as much a visual feast as a culinary one. It is a must-have for anyone interested in haute cuisine and the art of fine dining.

    The 4833rd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Pavel's Letters by Monika Maron

    "Pavel's Letters" is a poignant narrative that explores the personal journey of a novelist who uncovers her family's past in war-torn Poland. After receiving a collection of letters from her grandfather, Pavel, the protagonist delves into the history of her family, their experiences during World War II, and the hardships they faced under Stalin's regime. The book is a compelling blend of personal memories, historical facts, and the exploration of the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.

    The 4844th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Theory Of Communicative Action by Jürgen Habermas

    The book is a seminal work in social theory that explores the concept of communicative action, where individuals interact based on mutual understanding and pursue rational arguments, consensus, and cooperation rather than merely acting for individual success. The author critiques the instrumental and strategic action in modern societies and argues that communicative action is essential for maintaining the rationality and democratic nature of human interactions. The work delves into the structures of how language and social interaction form the basis of society and how distortions in communication can lead to social issues, emphasizing the importance of transparent and undistorted communication in achieving genuine understanding and societal cohesion.

    The 4852nd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. My Place by Sally Morgan

    "My Place" is a poignant autobiographical account that traces the personal journey of an Aboriginal woman in Australia as she uncovers her family's past and her own cultural identity. Through a series of interviews and personal reflections, the narrative delves into the experiences of her mother, grandmother, and great-uncle, revealing the hidden stories of displacement, suffering, and resilience that were kept secret due to the shame and stigma associated with their Aboriginal heritage. The book is a powerful exploration of the impact of colonialism and racism on individual lives and serves as a testament to the strength of family bonds and the reclaiming of one's history and sense of self.

    The 4864th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah

    This book is a memoir of a young girl growing up in China during the 1940s and 1950s. The protagonist is considered unlucky by her family after her mother dies giving birth to her. She is mistreated by her stepmother and largely ignored by her father, leading to a lonely and challenging childhood. Despite these difficulties, she finds solace in her academic achievements and her Aunt Baba's support. The story is a testament to the power of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.

    The 5022nd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. The Straight Mind by Monique Wittig

    The book is a collection of feminist essays that challenge the conventional understanding of gender and sexuality, positing that the concept of "woman" is a social construct created by a heterosexual society to uphold a binary gender system. The author argues that this system perpetuates the oppression of women and LGBTQ+ individuals by reinforcing the straight mind, a heteronormative way of thinking that marginalizes any form of difference. Through a radical rethinking of language, literature, and social structures, the essays advocate for a new feminist perspective that seeks to dismantle the straight mind and create a society where all forms of identity and expression are valued equally.

    The 5341st Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Camera Lucida by Roland Barthes

    The book in question is a seminal work in the field of photography theory, blending personal reflection with philosophical investigation. The author delves into the nature of photography, exploring the medium's ability to capture the essence of a moment and its subjects. Through a two-part analysis, the author introduces concepts such as the studium and punctum to articulate the layers of meaning and emotional response elicited by photographs. The work is also a meditation on loss and memory, inspired by the author's search for the essence of his late mother in her photographs. The text is both an intimate journey and a critical examination of the power of images to evoke and preserve the fleeting nature of existence.

    The 5390th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. The Private Life of Chairman Mao by Li Zhi-Sui

    This book is a memoir written by a personal physician who served Chairman Mao for over two decades. It offers an unprecedented and intimate look into the life and character of the powerful Chinese leader. The book reveals Mao's personal habits, manipulative nature, political maneuvers, and his disregard for human life in the pursuit of his goals. It also uncovers the power struggles within the Chinese Communist Party, providing a unique perspective on China's political history.

    The 5483rd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. How Democracies Perish by Jean François Revel

    This book provides a deep analysis of the threats faced by democracies, specifically from totalitarian regimes. The author argues that democracies are often their own worst enemies, being too tolerant and indecisive, which can lead to their downfall. He further discusses how democracies can be manipulated by totalitarian regimes through propaganda and misinformation. The book serves as a warning and a call to action for democratic societies to recognize these threats and take steps to defend their values and institutions.

    The 5639th 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