The Greatest "Social & Cultural Fiction, Political, China" Books of All Time
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 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.
Genres
Social & Cultural Fiction is a literary category that encompasses novels and stories that delve into the complexities of society and culture, exploring themes such as class, race, gender, and identity within specific social contexts. These narratives often provide a lens through which readers can examine the intricacies of human relationships and the impact of cultural norms and societal structures on individuals and communities. By offering a fictional yet reflective portrayal of real-world social dynamics, this genre invites readers to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences that shape our world. Authors in this category frequently use their characters and settings to comment on contemporary issues, challenge prevailing ideologies, and provoke thought about the possibility of social change, making Social & Cultural Fiction a powerful tool for empathy and a mirror for the ever-evolving human condition.
The "Political" category of books encompasses works that explore the theory, practice, and history of government and politics. These books may cover topics such as political ideologies, political systems, political institutions, political movements, and political leaders. They may also examine the relationship between politics and other areas of society, such as economics, culture, and international relations. Political books can be both informative and thought-provoking, offering readers insights into the complexities of the political world and the challenges of governing in a democratic society.
The "China" category for books encompasses a wide range of literature that explores the history, culture, politics, and society of China. This includes works of fiction and non-fiction, spanning from ancient times to the present day. Books in this category may delve into topics such as Chinese philosophy, art, cuisine, and language, as well as contemporary issues such as economic development, human rights, and environmental concerns. Overall, the "China" category offers readers a diverse and rich collection of books that provide insight into one of the world's oldest and most complex civilizations.
Countries
Date Range
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. Half of Man is Woman by Zhang Xianliang
This novel provides a deeply personal account of the author's experiences during China's Cultural Revolution and his subsequent imprisonment in a labor camp. The protagonist struggles with the harsh realities of his imprisonment, including starvation and physical abuse, while also grappling with his own identity and the societal expectations of masculinity. His release and subsequent marriage only further complicate his quest for self-understanding, as he navigates the challenges of reintegrating into society and maintaining a relationship with a woman who has her own traumatic past.
The 3172nd Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Daughter Of Earth by Agnes Smedley
The book is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows the life of Marie Rogers, a woman born to a poor, rural American family at the turn of the 20th century. It explores her struggles with poverty, gender inequality, and political awakening as she moves from the American Midwest to the West Coast and eventually to international locations. The protagonist's journey is marked by her involvement in the labor and feminist movements, her complex relationships with men, and her unyielding quest for personal and social liberation. The narrative delves into themes of class struggle, identity, and the intersection of personal and political realities, offering a raw and poignant look at the challenges faced by women and the working class in the early 1900s.
The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time -
3. The Garlic Ballads: A Novel by Yan Mo
The novel is a harsh critique of the Chinese government's agricultural policy. Set in 1980s China, it tells the story of the farmers of Paradise County, who are encouraged by the government to plant garlic, only to find that the government can't or won't buy their crops, leading to violent protests. The narrative is centered around three characters - Gao Yang, who has been arrested for leading the protests; his blind father, Gao Ma, who continues to struggle with the garlic harvest; and Jinju, the woman both men love. The book is a powerful exploration of corruption, love, the human spirit, and the struggle for justice in an oppressive regime.
The 5154th 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