The Greatest Israeli, Norwegian, Russian "Nonfiction" Books Since 1980

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 301 '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.

Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
Follow on:

Genres

Nonfiction

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Israeli

Norwegian

Russian

Add additional country filters

Date Range

Filter

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
  1. 1. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari

    This book provides a comprehensive exploration of the history of the human species, tracing back from the earliest forms of Homo Sapiens to the modern day. It delves into evolutionary biology, the development of cultures and societies, and the rise of major ideologies and technologies. The book also discusses the future of the species, posing thought-provoking questions about our roles and responsibilities in a rapidly changing world.

    The 2284th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

    The book delves into the two systems that drive the way we think—System 1, which is fast and intuitive, and System 2, which is slow and deliberate. The author, a Nobel laureate, explores how these systems shape our judgments and decision-making. He presents several groundbreaking experiments that have shaped our understanding of human thought, revealing where we can trust our intuitions and how we can tap into the benefits of slow thinking. The book also discusses how our cognitive biases often lead to errors in judgment and affect our decision-making processes.

    The 2657th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Bookseller of Kabul by Asne Seierstad

    This book provides an intimate and eye-opening look into the everyday life of an Afghan family. The narrative follows a bookseller in Kabul, who despite the oppressive Taliban regime, courageously continues his trade. The story delves into his family dynamics, the struggles of his two wives, his children's lives, and the societal norms and customs they navigate. It paints a vivid picture of life in Afghanistan, exploring the themes of love, courage, resilience, and the power of literature.

    The 2816th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. My Struggle by Karl Ove Knausgaard

    The book in question is an autobiographical novel that delves deeply into the minutiae of the author's life, exploring his personal relationships, emotions, and the everyday experiences that shape his identity. It is a candid and introspective narrative that spans across various stages of his life, from childhood to adulthood, and examines themes such as family, death, love, and ambition. The author's unflinching honesty and detailed prose invite readers to reflect on the complexities of their own lives, as he scrutinizes the ordinary moments that, collectively, define who we are.

    The 3058th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Unwomanly Face Of War by Svetlana Alexievich

    "The Unwomanly Face Of War" is a powerful and poignant collection of interviews with Soviet women who fought in World War II. Through their testimonies, the author sheds light on the often overlooked and untold stories of these brave women who served as snipers, pilots, nurses, and soldiers on the front lines. The book explores their experiences, sacrifices, and the lasting impact of war on their lives, providing a unique and intimate perspective on the realities of war from a female point of view.

    The 4431st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Homo Deus by Yuval Noah Harari

    This book explores the future of humankind, building upon the foundation laid by its exploration of our past. It delves into the potential paths humanity might take as technological advancements and artificial intelligence begin to challenge the very essence of what it means to be human. The narrative posits that as we conquer famine, war, and plague, our focus shifts towards achieving happiness, immortality, and divinity, raising profound questions about our future roles and values in a world where machines and algorithms might outperform us in thinking, making decisions, and understanding the universe. Through a blend of philosophy, history, and future-gazing, the book invites readers to consider the implications of such a future, both exhilarating and daunting.

    The 5066th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. One Of Us: The Story Of Anders Breivik And The Massacre In Norway by Asne Seierstad

    One of Us by Asne Seierstad is a detailed account of the 2011 terrorist attack in Oslo, Norway, carried out by Anders Breivik. The book explores Breivik's background, motives, and planning leading up to the attack, as well as the aftermath and impact on the survivors and families of the victims. Seierstad's thorough research and interviews with those affected provide a comprehensive and emotional portrayal of the tragedy, shedding light on the complexities of extremism and the devastating consequences of hate.

    The 6430th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Ecology, Community And Lifestyle by Arne Naess

    "Ecology, Community and Lifestyle" is a philosophical text that outlines the principles of deep ecology, a movement emphasizing the intrinsic value of all living beings and the need for radical shifts in modern human societies to sustain ecological balance. The book delves into the interdependence between human life and the environment, advocating for a comprehensive transformation in our lifestyles and political systems to foster a sustainable relationship with the earth. It combines insights from ecology, philosophy, and sociology to propose a more harmonious way of living that respects the limits of the planet's resources and promotes a thriving, diverse biosphere.

    The 6591st Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. My Half Century by Anna Akhmatova

    "My Half Century" is a reflective anthology that encapsulates the personal and professional life of a prominent Russian poetess through her own writings and letters, as well as critical essays about her work. The collection spans the tumultuous periods of Russian history from the early 20th century through the Stalinist era, providing a window into the poet's profound resilience and adaptation in the face of personal and political upheaval. Her poetry, marked by its emotional depth and lyrical beauty, explores themes of love, grief, and the endurance of the human spirit, while also subtly critiquing the oppressive political climate of her time. This compilation not only celebrates her literary genius but also her role as a witness to a critical period in Russian history.

    The 7112th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Truth About Chernobyl by Grigory Medvedev

    "The Truth About Chernobyl" is a detailed account of the catastrophic 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster, written by Grigory Medvedev, a chief engineer at the plant during the 1970s. Drawing from his own experiences and extensive research, Medvedev exposes the series of events leading up to the explosion, the aftermath, and the cover-up by Soviet officials. The book provides an insider’s perspective on the failures in design, management, and operation of the reactor, and criticizes the lack of safety culture in the Soviet nuclear industry. Medvedev’s narrative not only highlights the technical aspects of the disaster but also delves into the human stories of those who lived through the tragedy, offering a poignant look at one of the worst nuclear accidents in history.

    The 8197th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Diary Of A Gulag Prison Guard 1935 6 by Ivan Chistyakov

    "The Diary Of A Gulag Prison Guard 1935-6" is a chilling and harrowing memoir that provides a firsthand account of the atrocities and cruelty witnessed by Ivan Chistyakov during his time as a guard in a Soviet Gulag prison. Through his detailed entries, Chistyakov reveals the dehumanizing conditions, brutal punishments, and constant fear that both prisoners and guards endured within the oppressive Soviet regime. This haunting narrative serves as a stark reminder of the dark realities of the Gulag system and the lasting impact it had on the lives of countless individuals.

    The 8365th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. In Confidence by Anatoly Dobrynin

    "In Confidence" is a memoir by a former Soviet ambassador that provides an insider's view of Cold War diplomacy from the perspective of the Soviet Union. The book offers detailed accounts of the ambassador's interactions with several U.S. administrations, revealing the complexities of U.S.-Soviet relations and the personal and political challenges of navigating this high-stakes diplomatic landscape. Through his unique vantage point, the author sheds light on major historical events and decisions, offering insights into the strategic thinking and interpersonal dynamics that shaped the Cold War era.

    The 8453rd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Other Russias by Victoria Lomasko

    "Other Russias" is a powerful and thought-provoking graphic novel that offers an intimate and unfiltered glimpse into the lives of marginalized individuals and communities in contemporary Russia. Through her stunning illustrations and poignant interviews, Victoria Lomasko sheds light on the struggles, hopes, and resilience of diverse groups such as LGBTQ+ activists, migrant workers, political dissidents, and the forgotten voices of rural communities. This eye-opening book challenges stereotypes and provides a humanizing portrayal of those who are often overlooked or silenced in Russian society.

    The 8480th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. A Death in the Family by Karl Ove Knausgaard

    "A Death in the Family" is a deeply personal and introspective narrative that delves into the complexities of familial relationships, childhood, death, and memory. The protagonist, a writer, is forced to confront his past and his relationship with his alcoholic father after his death. The novel explores the impact of this death on the protagonist's life and his struggle to come to terms with his complicated feelings of love, resentment, and guilt. The narrative is a profound exploration of the human condition, the intricacies of family dynamics, and the lasting impact of grief and loss.

    The 8932nd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Poor Numbers by Morten Jerven

    This book critically examines the reliability of economic statistics in Sub-Saharan Africa, revealing a significant gap between the reported data and the actual economic realities on the ground. The author delves into the systemic issues plaguing statistical offices across the continent, including underfunding, political interference, and a lack of technical capacity, which collectively contribute to the production of inaccurate economic data. By analyzing the processes and methodologies used to gather and report these statistics, the book sheds light on the profound implications these "poor numbers" have for policy-making, economic development, and international perceptions of African economies. Through this exploration, it calls for a reevaluation of how economic data in these countries is collected and used, advocating for reforms that could lead to more accurate and meaningful measurements of economic progress.

    The 9480th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Upside Of Irrationality by Dan Ariely

    The book explores the counterintuitive ways that irrational behaviors shape our lives and influence our decisions, from the workplace to personal relationships. The author, a behavioral economist, uses a mix of experiments, case studies, and anecdotes to demonstrate how understanding these irrational forces can lead to better outcomes in various aspects of life. By examining topics such as the effects of high bonuses on performance, the motivations behind revenge, and the impact of adaptation on happiness, the book provides insights into how we can harness irrationality for positive change and improved decision-making.

    The 9509th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Future Is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia by Masha Gessen

    This book provides a deeply researched examination of the resurgence of totalitarianism in Russia, focusing on the lives of four individuals born at what promised to be the dawn of democracy. The book explores how, after the fall of the Soviet Union, instead of moving towards a democratic society, Russia has seen a rise in a new form of totalitarianism under its current leadership. It delves into the psychological shift in the Russian populace, the government's use of homophobia as a method of control, and how the internet and social media have been weaponized for political purposes.

    The 9590th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. 21 Lessons For The 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari

    This book navigates through the complexities and challenges of the 21st century, offering insightful analysis and thought-provoking lessons on various pressing issues such as technology, politics, religion, and education. The author delves into the impact of artificial intelligence and biotechnology, exploring how they are reshaping the world and questioning the future of humanity in this rapidly changing landscape. Through a series of compelling essays, the book encourages readers to reflect on the values, meaning, and personal engagement in a world full of noise and uncertainty, aiming to equip society with the understanding and wisdom to navigate the unknown future.

    The 9929th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Years of Extermination by Saul Friedlander

    "The Years of Extermination" is a comprehensive historical analysis of the Holocaust, examining the genocide from 1939 to 1945. Drawing on a variety of sources, including diaries, letters, and firsthand accounts, it provides a detailed and harrowing account of the systematic extermination of the Jewish people during World War II. The book also explores the responses of various groups, including the Jewish communities in Europe, the international community, and the perpetrators themselves.

    The 10659th 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