The Greatest British, Unknown "Nonfiction" Books Since 1970

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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. 51. Staying Power: The History of Black People in Britain by Peter Fryer

    "Staying Power: The History of Black People in Britain" is a comprehensive account of the African diaspora in Britain from Roman times to the present day. The book explores the various contributions of Black people to the British society, culture, and economy, challenging the traditional narrative that Black presence in Britain began with the Windrush generation. The author delves into the struggles, achievements, and resilience of Black people in Britain, offering a nuanced and detailed historical perspective.

    The 4594th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 52. In Bluebeard's Castle by George Steiner

    In this thought-provoking work, the author delves into the cultural and moral malaise that has afflicted Western civilization in the aftermath of the Holocaust. Through a series of essays, the text explores the profound impact of this historical atrocity on literature, art, and philosophy, questioning the ability of Western culture to recover from such profound moral failure. The author argues that the Holocaust represents a fundamental crisis in Western civilization, challenging its claims to moral authority and prompting a reevaluation of its cultural achievements. This work is a critical examination of the dark legacy of the 20th century and the shadows it casts on the human capacity for cruelty and the quest for understanding.

    The 4649th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 53. The New Guide To Modern World Literature by Martin Seymour-Smith

    This comprehensive guide offers an insightful overview of modern world literature, spanning a wide array of countries and cultures. It delves into the evolution of literary movements and the impact of socio-political changes on literature from the late 19th century to the late 20th century. The book categorizes works not just by geographical regions but also by thematic and stylistic developments, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of global literary trends. It serves as an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and avid readers looking to broaden their knowledge of contemporary literary landscapes and the forces shaping them.

    The 4651st Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 54. The Intellectuals And The Masses by John Carey

    This book presents a critical examination of the attitudes of early 20th-century intellectuals towards the masses, exploring the disdain and fear that writers and thinkers of the time harbored against the growing literacy and political empowerment of the working class. The author scrutinizes the elitist views and often eugenic arguments that were used to justify the exclusion of the broader population from cultural and intellectual life. By delving into the works and personal correspondences of prominent figures, the text reveals a landscape of intellectual snobbery and challenges the romantic idealization of literary giants by exposing their contempt for the 'masses' they often deemed inferior.

    The 4748th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 55. The Invisible Woman by Claire Tomalin

    The book is a compelling biography that uncovers the life of a woman who played a significant yet largely unrecognized role in literary history. It delves into the hidden narrative of the mistress and muse of a celebrated 19th-century author, exploring the challenges she faced as a woman in Victorian society. Her story, which includes clandestine love affairs, heartbreak, and resilience, is pieced together from scraps of historical evidence, shedding light on her influence on the author's work and revealing the sacrifices she made. The biography is a testament to the untold stories of women who have been overshadowed by the legacies of famous men.

    The 4756th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 56. The Places In Between by Rory Stewart

    "The Places In Between" is a memoir by Rory Stewart about his journey on foot across Afghanistan in 2002, shortly after the fall of the Taliban. He travels from Herat to Kabul, encountering a variety of people and landscapes along the way. The book provides a unique insight into the culture and history of Afghanistan, as well as the challenges faced by the country in the aftermath of war. Stewart's writing is both lyrical and informative, making for a compelling read.

    The 4803rd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 57. Landscape For A Good Woman by Carolyn Kay Steedman

    This book is a poignant exploration of the author's working-class upbringing in post-World War II Britain, intertwining personal memoir with social history. It examines the complex relationship between mothers and daughters, the impact of poverty on women's lives, and the societal expectations placed on women in the mid-twentieth century. Through a blend of historical analysis and autobiographical narrative, the author reflects on her own experiences to challenge traditional narratives about the working class, revealing the emotional and psychological landscape that shapes a woman's identity and aspirations.

    The 4809th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 58. Out Of Sheer Rage by Geoff Dyer

    In this unconventional work, the author grapples with his own writer's block and the overwhelming challenge of articulating his thoughts on a literary figure he admires. Oscillating between a travelogue, memoir, and a study in procrastination, the narrative takes the reader on a journey through various locations and states of mind. The author candidly shares his struggles with the creative process, his distractions, and his personal life, all the while reflecting on the nature of writing and the difficulties of completing a project. The book is as much an exploration of the author's internal landscape as it is an homage to the elusiveness of the artistic endeavor.

    The 4831st Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 59. The Mongol Empire by Peter Ludwig Brent

    The book provides a comprehensive examination of the rise and expansion of the Mongol Empire, detailing the life and conquests of Genghis Khan and his successors. It explores the military strategies, political maneuvers, and cultural impacts that allowed the Mongols to create one of the largest contiguous empires in history. The narrative delves into the administrative innovations and the integration of diverse cultures within the empire, highlighting both the brutal conquests and the sophisticated governance that characterized Mongol rule. Through meticulous research, the book paints a vivid picture of how the Mongol Empire reshaped the medieval world.

    The 4834th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 60. Concerning Computers, Minds, And The Laws Of Physics by Roger Penrose

    In this thought-provoking book, a renowned physicist challenges the widely held belief that artificial intelligence can ever truly replicate the complexities of the human mind. Delving into the realms of mathematics, physics, and philosophy, the author argues that consciousness and understanding are fundamentally non-algorithmic processes that cannot be captured by machines. By examining the laws of physics and the nature of computation, he presents a compelling case for the unique qualities of human thought, suggesting that there are aspects of reality and our understanding of it that transcend what can be computed by mechanical means.

    The 4851st Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 61. Napoleon by Vincent Cronin

    This biography provides a detailed account of the life of Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military and political leader. It covers his rise to power during the French Revolution, his rule as the First Consul of France, and his reign as the Emperor of the French. The book also delves into Napoleon's personal life, his relationships, and his eventual downfall and exile. The author offers a balanced and nuanced portrayal of Napoleon, highlighting both his genius and his flaws.

    The 4942nd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 62. Nora by Brenda Maddox

    This biography provides an in-depth look at the life of the woman who was the muse and wife of one of the 20th century's most influential writers. It explores her unconventional relationship with her husband, her role in his creative process, and how she challenged the norms of her time. The book delves into her personal struggles, her husband's literary fame, and the impact she had on his work, offering a nuanced portrait of a complex and often misunderstood figure who played a crucial role in the shaping of modern literature.

    The 4995th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 63. The World Of Economics by John Eatwell, Murray Milgate, Peter Newman

    "The World of Economics" is a comprehensive reference book that serves as an essential guide to the field of economics, offering a wide-ranging compilation of entries penned by an international group of economists and scholars. The work covers key concepts, theories, and figures that have shaped economic thought, providing readers with a deep understanding of both historical and contemporary economic issues. Its encyclopedic format presents a wealth of information on various topics, including economic policy, market structures, and foundational principles, making it a valuable resource for students, professionals, and anyone interested in the complexities of how economies function and evolve.

    The 5034th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 64. An Unfinished History Of The World by Hugh Thomas

    "An Unfinished History of the World" offers a comprehensive overview of human civilization, tracing the development of societies from ancient times through the 20th century. The book explores the evolution of political, economic, and social structures across different cultures and continents, highlighting the interconnectedness of global events and the impact of technological and ideological advancements on human progress. Through a detailed narrative, the author provides insights into the forces that have shaped historical epochs and the ongoing challenges that continue to influence the modern world.

    The 5035th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 65. Reasons And Persons by Derek Parfit

    This philosophical work challenges traditional notions of self-interest, rationality, and ethics, arguing that our conventional understanding of these concepts is deeply flawed. The author proposes that the boundaries of personal identity are less clear-cut than we might think, leading to profound implications for moral responsibility and the ethics of future generations. Through rigorous analysis and thought experiments, including the famous "repugnant conclusion," the book pushes readers to reconsider the basis of morality and the ways in which we consider the interests of ourselves and others, ultimately suggesting that reasons and persons are intricately connected in the fabric of ethical reasoning.

    The 5101st Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 66. Dark Feasts: The World Of Ramsey Campbell by Ramsey Campbell

    "Dark Feasts: The World Of Ramsey Campbell" delves into the eerie and captivating mind of renowned horror author Ramsey Campbell. This book offers a comprehensive exploration of Campbell's unique writing style, his inspirations, and the themes that permeate his works. Through interviews, essays, and analysis, readers are taken on a journey through the dark and unsettling worlds that Campbell has masterfully crafted, revealing the depths of his imagination and the impact he has had on the horror genre.

    The 5116th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 67. H Is For Hawk by Helen MacDonald

    "H Is For Hawk" is a memoir by Helen MacDonald about her experiences training a goshawk named Mabel after the sudden death of her father. MacDonald reflects on her grief and the challenges of training a wild bird while also delving into the history of falconry and the life of T.H. White, the author of "The Once and Future King" who also trained a goshawk. The book explores themes of loss, nature, and the complexities of human-animal relationships.

    The 5166th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 68. A Short History Of Modern Philosophy: From Descartes To Wittgenstein by Roger Scruton

    This book provides a concise overview of modern philosophy, tracing its development from the early 17th century to the mid-20th century. It explores the key ideas, debates, and philosophers who have shaped modern thought, starting with René Descartes and progressing through significant figures such as Spinoza, Leibniz, Kant, Hegel, and Wittgenstein. The text examines how these thinkers addressed fundamental questions in metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics, while also considering the historical context that influenced their work. This exploration not only highlights the evolution of philosophical ideas but also illustrates the ongoing dialogue between philosophy and the broader cultural and scientific changes of the modern era.

    The 5242nd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 69. Climbing Mount Improbable by Richard Dawkins

    In this thought-provoking exploration of evolutionary biology, the book delves into the intricate mechanisms of natural selection that have sculpted the complex, seemingly improbable forms of life on Earth. Using the metaphor of a mountain to represent the vast landscape of evolutionary possibilities, the author guides readers through a series of biological marvels, from the sophisticated optics of the eye to the elaborate structures of spider webs, demonstrating how gradual, step-by-step changes can lead to the astonishing diversity of life. The book illuminates the power of cumulative selection to produce highly adapted organisms and dispels the notion that such complexity requires intelligent design, reinforcing the marvels of evolution as a process of climbing peaks of adaptive fitness in the vast terrain of biological possibility.

    The 5331st Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 70. The Age Of Extremes by Eric Hobsbawm

    "The Age of Extremes" is a historical analysis that explores the tumultuous period of the 20th century, spanning from 1914 to 1991. This work delves into the profound transformations and conflicts that defined the era, including the two World Wars, the Cold War, the rise of fascism and communism, and the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union. The book examines the impact of economic crises, technological advancements, and social changes on global societies, offering insights into how these extreme conditions shaped the modern world and its political landscapes. The narrative combines a detailed account of historical events with a critical evaluation of their economic and cultural implications, providing a comprehensive overview of a century marked by both unprecedented progress and devastating turmoil.

    The 5338th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 71. Sun Dancing by Geoffrey Moorhouse

    "Sun Dancing" presents a vivid tapestry of medieval Irish monasticism, combining historical facts with imaginative storytelling. The book delves into the austere and spiritually intense lives of monks on Skellig Michael, a remote island off the Irish coast, during the early centuries of Christianity in Ireland. Through a blend of narrative and analysis, the text explores the harsh realities of monastic life, the cultural and religious contributions of these communities, and the broader context of Irish and European history during this period. The author weaves together the daily routines, spiritual practices, and legendary tales of these monks, providing a window into a world where faith and endurance converge amidst the isolation of the Atlantic Ocean.

    The 5410th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 72. What Sort Of People Should There Be? by Jonathan Glover

    The book explores the ethical and philosophical implications of genetic and psychological modifications on human nature. It delves into the potential for these technologies to alter human characteristics such as intelligence, personality, and morality, questioning the moral boundaries and societal impacts of such changes. The author critically examines the responsibilities and decisions facing individuals and society in shaping future generations, while addressing the profound questions about the kind of people humanity should aspire to become in the light of emerging biotechnological capabilities.

    The 5390th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 73. Why Not Me? by Wendy L. Bovard

    "Why Not Me?" is a poignant memoir that delves into the author's personal journey through adversity and resilience. It explores the challenges faced when life takes unexpected turns, such as dealing with illness, loss, and the search for self-identity. The narrative is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome obstacles and find meaning in the face of hardship. With honesty and vulnerability, the author shares her experiences, offering insights and inspiration to others who may be navigating their own paths through difficult times, ultimately asking the universal question of why some are chosen to endure certain trials and how they can emerge stronger.

    The 5431st Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 74. The Anthropic Cosmological Principle by Frank J. Tipler, John D. Barrow

    The book explores the Anthropic Cosmological Principle, which posits that the universe's laws, constants, and conditions appear finely tuned to allow for the existence of life, particularly human life. It delves into various scientific disciplines, including cosmology, quantum physics, and biology, to discuss how life influences the universe's structure. The authors examine both weak and strong versions of the principle, discussing philosophical and theological implications, and argue that the universe is uniquely suited for the emergence of intelligent beings who are capable of observing and understanding it. This interdisciplinary approach offers insights into the relationship between complex life and the cosmos's fundamental characteristics.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 75. Trillion Year Spree by Brian W. Aldiss

    "Trillion Year Spree" is a comprehensive history of science fiction literature, tracing its origins from ancient times through to the modern era. The book explores the evolution of the genre, highlighting key authors, works, and thematic developments. It delves into how science fiction reflects and addresses fundamental human concerns and societal issues, using speculative scenarios to explore possible futures. The narrative also examines the impact of technological advancements on the genre and its increasing popularity and legitimacy as a significant form of literary expression.

    The 5519th 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