The Greatest Nigerian, Dutch, Unknown "Nonfiction" 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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  1. 1. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

    This book is a real-life account of a young Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis during World War II, written in diary format. The girl and her family are forced to live in a secret annex in Amsterdam for two years, during which she writes about her experiences, fears, dreams, and the onset of adolescence. The diary provides a poignant and deeply personal insight into the horrors of the Holocaust, making it a powerful testament to the human spirit.

    The 60th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Waning of the Middle Ages by Johan Huizinga

    "The Waning of the Middle Ages" is a historical analysis of the cultural life of the late Middle Ages, particularly in France and the Low Countries, during the 14th and 15th centuries. It delves into the period's modes of thought, forms of expression, religious beliefs, and social norms. The book argues that the era was characterized by a highly stylized and overwrought civilization, marked by an excessive emphasis on chivalry and courtly love, a religious mindset dominated by the fear of death and the afterlife, and a cultural milieu that was both highly imaginative and deeply pessimistic.

    The 915th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Ake: The Years Of Childhood by Wole Soyinka

    "Ake: The Years of Childhood" is a memoir that chronicles the early years of a Nigerian boy growing up in the town of Ake. Set in the 1940s, the book vividly captures the author's experiences, from his close-knit family life to his encounters with colonialism and the struggle for independence. Through his insightful and lyrical prose, the author takes readers on a nostalgic journey filled with rich cultural traditions, humorous anecdotes, and poignant reflections on the complexities of childhood.

    The 2188th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Letters Of Vincent Van Gogh by Vincent van Gogh

    "The Letters of Vincent van Gogh" is a compilation of correspondence that provides a deep and personal insight into the mind of one of the world's most famous and influential painters. Through these letters, primarily written to his brother Theo, the reader gains an intimate understanding of Van Gogh's thoughts on art, his emotional struggles, his aspirations, and the profound relationships he maintained throughout his turbulent life. The collection not only sheds light on his creative process but also reveals his reflections on existence, his financial difficulties, and his relentless pursuit of his artistic vision, offering a poignant look at his world from his own perspective.

    The 3669th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The History Of The Yorubas by Reverend Samuel Johnson

    "The History of the Yorubas" is a comprehensive account of the rich cultural heritage and historical development of the Yoruba people, a major ethnic group in Nigeria. Written by Samuel Johnson, the book delves into the origins, traditions, and societal structures of the Yoruba, exploring their religious beliefs, political systems, and significant historical events. Through meticulous research and detailed storytelling, Johnson provides valuable insights into the Yoruba civilization, making this book an essential resource for anyone interested in African history and culture.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Homo Ludens: A Study of the Play-Element in Culture by Johan Huizinga

    "Homo Ludens: A Study of the Play-Element in Culture" is a comprehensive exploration of the significance of play in human culture. The author argues that play is not just a childhood activity but a crucial component of societal development and cultural evolution. He delves into various aspects of culture such as law, war, knowledge, poetry, and philosophy, demonstrating how each has been influenced by elements of play. The author's thesis is that understanding the role of play in our culture is essential to understanding human nature itself.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Padārthatattvanirūpaṇam Of Raghunātha śiromaṇi by Karl H. Potter

    "The Padārthatattvanirūpaṇam of Raghunātha Śiromaṇi" is a critical examination and translation of a seminal work in Indian philosophy by Raghunātha Śiromaṇi, who was a prominent figure in the Navya-Nyāya school. This book, authored by Karl H. Potter, provides an in-depth analysis of Raghunātha Śiromaṇi's thoughts on metaphysics, focusing on the nature of reality and categorization of existence. Potter's work not only translates the original text but also contextualizes it within both historical and philosophical frameworks, offering insights into the development of Indian philosophical thought and its intricate argumentative techniques.

    The 4688th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Male Daughters, Female Husbands by Ifi Amadiume

    "Male Daughters, Female Husbands" is an anthropological exploration of gender roles and power dynamics within the Igbo society of Nigeria. The book challenges traditional Western notions of gender and sexuality, focusing on the concept of "female husbands" - women who assume the roles and responsibilities typically associated with men. Through extensive research and personal narratives, the author examines the historical and cultural context of these gender roles, shedding light on the complex intersections of gender, power, and identity in Igbo society.

    The 5090th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. 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 5405th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Works Of The People Of Old by Samuel Manaiakalani Kamakau

    "The Works of the People of Old" is an insightful compilation of traditional Hawaiian knowledge and practices, meticulously gathered from native elders and historical sources. The book delves into various aspects of pre-contact Hawaiian culture, including social customs, religious beliefs, and practical skills such as fishing, farming, and medicine. Through detailed descriptions and narratives, it preserves and shares the rich heritage of the Hawaiian people, offering readers a deep understanding of the wisdom and ingenuity embedded in their ancestral ways of life.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali

    The book is a powerful memoir of a woman who was born into a traditional Muslim family in Somalia. She recounts her experiences of growing up in a strict Islamic culture, female genital mutilation, civil war, fleeing to the Netherlands as a refugee, and her eventual rejection of her faith after witnessing its violent and oppressive nature. The book also follows her journey into politics and advocacy for women's rights and her efforts to reform Islam. It's a tale of courage, resilience, and the quest for freedom and truth.

    The 5724th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    The book explores the importance of feminism in today's society and argues that gender equality is not just a women's issue, but a concern for everyone. Drawing from personal experiences and anecdotes, the author highlights the various ways in which gender inequality manifests itself and offers insightful perspectives on how we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable world for all.

    The 6406th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. A Month And A Day by Ken Saro-Wiwa

    "A Month and a Day" is a poignant memoir that recounts the personal and political struggles of an environmental and human rights activist in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The author details his non-violent fight against the ecological destruction and economic exploitation wrought by multinational oil companies and the Nigerian government. His narrative provides an intimate glimpse into his dedicated activism, the resulting political imprisonment, and the broader socio-political issues facing his community. Through his eyes, readers gain insight into the complex interplay between environmental degradation, ethnic and economic tensions, and the relentless pursuit of justice and sustainability.

    The 7821st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. The Philosophical Works Of Al Kindi by Peter E. Pormann, Peter Adamson

    This book is a comprehensive compilation and analysis of the works of Al-Kindi, often regarded as the first of the Muslim peripatetic philosophers. The text delves into Al-Kindi's extensive contributions to various fields of knowledge, including philosophy, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine, highlighting his role as a pivotal figure in the translation and transmission of ancient Greek philosophy to the Islamic world. Through translations of his works and insightful commentary, the book provides a critical exploration of Al-Kindi's synthesis of philosophical thought and his influence on subsequent Islamic and Western intellectual traditions.

    The 8518th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Global Health by Ann Lindstrand

    This book provides a comprehensive overview of global health, addressing the key issues, challenges, and strategies involved in improving health outcomes worldwide. It delves into the determinants of health, the burden of diseases, and the complex interplay between health, economic development, and social factors. The text emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating perspectives from epidemiology, public policy, and international relations, to tackle the global health disparities and pave the way towards achieving equity in health for all populations. Through case studies and analysis of current trends, the book offers insights into the roles of various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector, in advancing public health goals on a global scale.

    The 8640th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Walls Came Tumbling Down by Henriette Roosenburg

    "The Walls Came Tumbling Down" is a gripping memoir that recounts the experiences of a Dutch resistance fighter during World War II who was captured and imprisoned by the Nazis. After surviving the harrowing conditions of the concentration camp, the narrative follows her and her companions' remarkable journey to freedom. The book vividly details their perilous trek across post-war Europe, navigating through a landscape scarred by destruction and chaos, as they endeavor to return home. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and receive help from unexpected allies, highlighting themes of resilience, camaraderie, and the enduring human spirit.

    The 8726th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Darwin's Dreampond by Tijs Goldschmidt

    The book explores the dramatic impact of human intervention on the ecosystems of Lake Victoria, focusing particularly on the cichlid fish species. The author, an evolutionary biologist, recounts his fieldwork in the 1980s, observing firsthand the ecological and evolutionary changes resulting from the introduction of the Nile perch, a predatory fish. This event led to the extinction of numerous cichlid species, which had been remarkably diverse and a key example of adaptive radiation. The narrative combines scientific observation with reflections on the broader implications of biodiversity loss and the complex relationship between humans and the natural world.

    The 9742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Gorgias/Gorgias : The Sicilian Orator And The Platonic Dialogue by Coleen P. Zoller, Jurgen R. Gatt, S. Montgomery Ewegen

    This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the Platonic dialogue centered on the figure of Gorgias, a renowned Sicilian orator and sophist. It delves into the philosophical conversations between Socrates and Gorgias, along with other interlocutors, exploring themes such as rhetoric, justice, and the nature of the good life. The text examines the intricacies of Socratic dialectic and the contrast between philosophical inquiry and the art of persuasion practiced by sophists. Through this exploration, the book sheds light on the enduring questions about the relationship between power, knowledge, and ethics in the context of human discourse and action.

    The 10032nd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. No Turning Back by Rania Abouzeid

    "No Turning Back" provides a gripping and intimate portrayal of the Syrian war through the eyes of four individuals whose lives are transformed by the uprising against the Assad regime. The narrative delves deep into the personal stories of a young revolutionary, a child refugee, a jihadist, and a disillusioned government soldier, offering a nuanced and humanizing perspective on the complex conflict. The book captures the brutal realities and emotional depths of the Syrian struggle, highlighting the enduring human spirit amidst chaos and destruction.

    The 10207th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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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.

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