Last collection of books

The One Before

2015, Juan José Saer

The novel explores the intricate layers of memory and perception through the experiences of its protagonist, a writer reflecting on his past. As he navigates through fragmented recollections and encounters with various characters, the narrative delves into themes of identity, time, and the elusive n

Zurita

1979, Raul Zurita

This book is a profound and evocative exploration of trauma, memory, and resilience, reflecting on the personal and collective suffering experienced during the Chilean dictatorship. Through a blend of poetry and prose, the narrative delves into the depths of human pain and the enduring spirit of hop

Cremation

2007, Rafael Chirbes

The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the moral ambiguities of modern life through the lens of its protagonist, a disillusioned art restorer named Rubén. Set against the backdrop of Spain's economic crisis, the story explores themes of decay, both physical and moral, as R

Summertime

2009, J. M. Coetzee

The book is a fictionalized memoir that explores the life of a deceased South African writer through a series of interviews conducted by a biographer. These interviews with people who knew him—former lovers, colleagues, and family members—paint a complex and often unflattering portrait of the writer

Borges

2006, Adolfo Bioy Casares

This book is a rich and intimate portrait of the Argentine literary giant, Jorge Luis Borges, as seen through the eyes of his close friend and fellow writer. The narrative is a blend of personal anecdotes, reflections, and conversations that reveal Borges' wit, intellect, and the profound influence

Empire Of Pain

2021, Patrick Radden Keefe

The book delves into the rise and fall of the Sackler family, whose pharmaceutical empire, built on the success of OxyContin, played a pivotal role in the opioid crisis. It explores the family's history, their aggressive marketing tactics, and the devastating impact of their actions on public health

The Bee Sting

2023, Paul Murray

The novel follows the lives of the Barnes family, who are grappling with the aftermath of financial ruin and personal loss. Imelda, the matriarch, struggles to maintain a semblance of normalcy while her husband, Dickie, retreats into a world of his own making. Their children, Cass and PJ, each cope

Braiding Sweetgrass

2013, Robin Wall Kimmerer

The book intertwines indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and the teachings of plants to explore the relationship between humans and the natural world. Through a series of essays, the author, a botanist and member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, reflects on the ways in which traditional ecolog

Caste

2020, Isabel Wilkerson

The book explores the deeply entrenched system of social stratification in the United States, drawing parallels between the caste systems of India, Nazi Germany, and America's own racial hierarchy. It delves into the hidden and overt mechanisms that perpetuate inequality and examines how these rigid

O Guarani

1857, José de Alencar

Set in the Brazilian wilderness during the 17th century, the story follows the romance between a Portuguese nobleman's daughter, Cecília, and a brave indigenous warrior named Peri. Their love faces numerous challenges, including cultural differences and external threats from hostile tribes and treac

Os Sertoes

1902, Euclides da Cunha

The book provides a detailed account of the War of Canudos, a conflict in the late 19th century between the Brazilian government and a group of settlers led by the charismatic Antonio Conselheiro in the arid backlands of Bahia. It delves into the harsh environment of the sertão, the complex social a

Jamila

1958, Chingiz Aĭtmatov

Set in a rural Kyrgyz village during World War II, the story follows the blossoming love between Jamila, a spirited young woman, and Daniyar, a quiet, enigmatic soldier who returns home from the front. Narrated by Seit, Jamila's brother-in-law, the tale captures the tension between traditional expec

The Secret Book Of Kings

2008, Yokhi Brandes

Set in the tumultuous period of ancient Israel, the story follows a young man named Shlom’am who discovers his true heritage as the son of King Saul. As he navigates the political and social upheavals of the time, he becomes entangled in the power struggles between the House of Saul and the House of

Last Kingdom Series

2004, Bernard Cornwell

The series follows the life of Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a dispossessed nobleman who is captured and raised by Danes in 9th-century England. Torn between his Saxon heritage and his Danish upbringing, Uhtred navigates a tumultuous world of shifting allegiances, brutal battles, and political intrigue. As

When Victims Become Killers

2001, Mahmood Mamdani

The book provides an in-depth analysis of the Rwandan genocide, exploring the historical, political, and social factors that led to the mass violence. It delves into the colonial legacy, the construction of ethnic identities, and the role of the state in orchestrating and perpetuating conflict. The

The River Of Doubt

2005, Candice Millard

The book chronicles the harrowing journey of Theodore Roosevelt and his team as they navigate the uncharted and perilous River of Doubt in the Amazon rainforest. Facing extreme challenges such as treacherous rapids, disease, starvation, and hostile indigenous tribes, Roosevelt and his men endure a g

The Days Of Abandonment

2002, Elena Ferrante

The novel follows Olga, a woman in her late thirties, who is abruptly abandoned by her husband after fifteen years of marriage. Struggling to cope with the sudden betrayal and the collapse of her family life, Olga descends into a state of emotional turmoil and despair. As she grapples with her inten

Detransition, Baby

2021, Torrey Peters

The novel explores the intricate lives of three women—Reese, a transgender woman; Ames, who has detransitioned from being Amy; and Katrina, Ames's boss and lover—who find themselves unexpectedly connected by an unplanned pregnancy. As they navigate their complex relationships and identities, the sto

Hurricane Season

2017, Fernanda Melchor

The novel delves into the dark and turbulent lives of residents in a small Mexican village, where the discovery of a murdered witch sets off a chain of events that exposes the community's deep-seated violence, poverty, and superstition. Through a series of interconnected narratives, the story explor

The Story Of The Lost Child

2014, Elena Ferrante

In the final installment of the Neapolitan Novels, the complex and evolving friendship between Elena and Lila reaches its culmination against the backdrop of a changing Naples. As both women navigate personal and professional challenges, their lives intertwine in unexpected ways, revealing deep-seat

Septology

2019, Jon Fosse

The book is a contemplative and introspective narrative that delves into the life of an aging painter living in a small Norwegian village. Through a series of interconnected reflections and memories, the protagonist grapples with themes of faith, identity, and the passage of time. The story unfolds

All Aunt Hagar’s Children

2006, Edward P. Jones

The book is a collection of fourteen interconnected short stories that explore the lives of African American residents in Washington, D.C., spanning from the early 20th century to the present day. Each story delves into themes of family, community, and the struggle for identity and belonging, often

Custody Of The Eyes

1994, Diamela Eltit

The novel delves into the intense and often harrowing experiences of a woman living in a convent, exploring themes of isolation, repression, and the search for identity. Through a fragmented narrative and introspective prose, the protagonist grapples with her inner turmoil and the rigid confines of

The African Shore

1999, Rodrigo Rey Rosa

The novel unfolds in the Moroccan port city of Tangier, where the lives of two strangers intersect: a young Moroccan shepherd and a Colombian tourist stranded after losing his passport. As they navigate their respective challenges, the story delves into themes of displacement, cultural encounters, a

Arturo, La Estrella Más Brillante

1984, Reinaldo Arenas

"Arturo, La Estrella Más Brillante" tells the poignant story of Arturo, a young boy with an extraordinary talent for singing, who dreams of becoming a star. Set against the backdrop of a small, impoverished village, Arturo's journey is marked by both triumphs and challenges as he navigates the compl

Tear This Heart Out

1985, Ángeles Mastreta

Set against the backdrop of post-revolutionary Mexico, the story follows the life of Catalina Guzmán, a young woman who marries the powerful and charismatic General Andrés Ascencio. As she navigates the complexities of her marriage, Catalina evolves from a naive girl into a strong, independent woman

La Guerra De Galio

1991, Héctor Aguilar Camín

The novel delves into the turbulent political landscape of Mexico during the 1970s, focusing on the life of a journalist named Galio. As he navigates the complexities of power, corruption, and personal ambition, Galio becomes entangled in a web of intrigue and danger. The story explores themes of in

The Luminous Novel

2005, Mario Levrero

The novel is a metafictional exploration of the creative process, chronicling the protagonist's struggle to write a novel over the course of a decade. Through a series of diary entries, the narrator delves into his daily life, distractions, and existential musings, revealing his inner turmoil and th

Ella Cantaba Boleros

1992, Guillermo Cabrera Infante

The book is a collection of stories that explore the vibrant and often tumultuous lives of characters in Havana, weaving together themes of love, music, and the complexities of human relationships. Through a rich tapestry of narrative voices and styles, the author captures the essence of Cuban cultu

Desolation Island

2014, Adolfo García Ortega

The novel delves into the harrowing experiences of individuals who find themselves trapped in a remote and desolate environment, exploring themes of isolation, survival, and the human capacity for resilience. As the characters confront the harsh realities of their surroundings, they are forced to gr

Memories Of My Melancholy Whores

2004, Gabriel García Márquez

The story follows a 90-year-old journalist who, on the eve of his birthday, decides to gift himself a night with a young virgin. As he reflects on his past liaisons and the nature of love, he unexpectedly finds himself experiencing a profound and transformative affection for the girl, which leads hi

A Funny Dirty Little War

1983, Osvaldo Soriano

Set in a small Argentine town during the tumultuous period of the Dirty War, this novel explores the absurdity and chaos of political conflict through dark humor and satire. The story follows the escalating feud between two rival factions, each trying to assert control over the town, leading to a se

Camino de Perdición

2007, Luis Mateo Díez

The novel delves into the lives of a group of characters residing in a small, decaying town, exploring themes of loss, despair, and the search for meaning amidst adversity. As the town grapples with its bleak future, the characters confront their own personal struggles and past traumas, weaving a ta

Rosario Tijeras

1999, Jorge Franco

Set in the violent and turbulent streets of Medellín, the story follows the life of Rosario, a beautiful and deadly hitwoman, as narrated by her friend Antonio. The narrative delves into Rosario's tumultuous past, her rise in the criminal underworld, and the complex relationships she navigates with

Carreteras Secundarias

1996, Ignacio Martínez de Pisón

The story revolves around a father and son who embark on a journey through Spain's lesser-known roads during the 1970s. As they traverse the country in their old car, they encounter a variety of characters and situations that reflect the social and political changes of the time. The narrative delves

The Fencing Master

1988, Arturo Pérez-Reverte

Set in 19th-century Madrid, the story follows Don Jaime Astarloa, an aging fencing master who clings to his principles and the art of fencing in a rapidly changing world. His life takes a dramatic turn when a mysterious and beautiful woman named Adela de Otero seeks his expertise in mastering the ar

La Sexta Lámpara

2008, Pablo de Santis

The book delves into the intricate world of architecture through the eyes of a young apprentice who becomes entangled in a mysterious and dangerous quest. As he navigates the complexities of his craft, he uncovers a hidden history filled with secrets, rivalries, and a series of enigmatic deaths link

Birthday

2019, César Aira

The book is a reflective and introspective narrative that delves into the author's thoughts and memories as he celebrates his fiftieth birthday. It weaves together elements of autobiography, fiction, and philosophical musings, exploring themes of time, identity, and the nature of existence. Through

El Traductor

1998, Salvador Benesdra

The novel tells the story of Ricardo Zevi, a polyglot translator working for a left-wing publishing house in Buenos Aires during the politically turbulent 1990s. As he becomes increasingly entangled in the ideological battles and personal conflicts of his colleagues, Ricardo grapples with his own id

Crónica De Un Iniciado

1991, Abelardo Castillo

The novel delves into the life of a young man named Andrés, who becomes entangled in the political and social upheavals of Argentina during the 1970s. Through his journey, Andrés grapples with existential questions, personal identity, and the moral complexities of his time. The narrative explores th

The Sixty Five Years Of Washington

1983, Juan José Saer

The novel intricately weaves together the lives of several characters in a small Argentinian town, exploring themes of memory, time, and the elusive nature of truth. Through a series of interconnected narratives, the story delves into the past and present, revealing the complexities of human relatio

Al Morir Don Quijote

2004, Andrés Trapiello

The novel explores the aftermath of Don Quixote's death, delving into the lives of those who were left behind. It paints a vivid picture of the impact of his adventures on his friends, family, and the community, capturing the essence of a world grappling with the loss of a dreamer. Through rich, ref

El Tiempo De Las Mujeres

2003, Ignacio Martínez de Pisón

The novel revolves around the lives of three sisters—Mercedes, Julia, and Pili—who navigate the complexities of family, love, and personal growth in post-war Spain. After the death of their father, the sisters are left to fend for themselves under the watchful eye of their strong-willed mother. As t

Sin Remedio

1984, Antonio Caballero

Set in the turbulent political landscape of Colombia, the story follows Ignacio Escobar, a disillusioned intellectual who navigates the complexities of love, corruption, and existential despair. Through his interactions with a diverse cast of characters, including his passionate yet troubled relatio

La Vida Exagerada De Martín Romaña

1981, Alfredo Bryce Echenique

The book narrates the whimsical and often humorous life of Martín Romaña, a Peruvian writer living in Paris. Through a series of diary entries, Martín reflects on his tumultuous relationships, his struggles with writing, and his existential musings. The narrative is rich with irony and satire, captu

La Orilla Oscura

1985, José María Merino

The novel explores the intricate and often surreal interplay between reality and imagination through a series of interconnected stories. Set against the backdrop of Spain's historical and cultural landscape, the narrative delves into the lives of various characters who grapple with existential quest

Death as a Side Effect

1997, Ana María Shua

The novel explores a dystopian world where healthcare has become a bureaucratic nightmare, and the protagonist, Ernesto, navigates the complexities of a dehumanized medical system while grappling with his father's terminal illness. As Ernesto confronts the cold, impersonal nature of modern medicine,

Angosta

2003, Héctor Abad Faciolince

Set in a dystopian city divided by social and economic barriers, the story follows a diverse cast of characters navigating the complexities of love, identity, and survival. The narrative delves into themes of inequality, corruption, and the human spirit's resilience, painting a vivid picture of a so

The History of Silence

1995, Pedro Zarraluki

The novel explores the intricate dynamics of a family grappling with the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War, delving into themes of memory, silence, and the unspoken bonds that tie individuals together. As the characters navigate their personal traumas and secrets, the story unfolds against the back

Temblor

1990, Rosa Montero

In this gripping novel, the protagonist navigates a dystopian world marked by environmental collapse and societal decay. As she embarks on a perilous journey, she encounters a series of complex characters and faces moral dilemmas that challenge her understanding of humanity and survival. The narrati

The Eagle's Throne

2002, Carlos Fuentes

Set in a near-future Mexico, the narrative unfolds through a series of letters exchanged among the country's political elite after a U.S. cyber-attack disables all electronic communications. The story delves into the intricate power struggles, personal ambitions, and secret alliances that shape the

The Fourth World

1988, Diamela Eltit

The novel explores the complex dynamics of family and identity through the intertwined narratives of a brother and sister living in a marginalized community. As they navigate the challenges of their environment, the siblings grapple with issues of poverty, societal expectations, and personal aspirat

Shadows

1993, Osvaldo Soriano

In this evocative novel, a journalist returns to his hometown in Argentina after years of exile, only to find it shrouded in mystery and haunted by the shadows of its past. As he delves into the lives of the town's residents, he uncovers a web of secrets, betrayals, and unresolved conflicts that mir

Hot Moon

1994, Mempo Giardinelli

Set in the politically charged atmosphere of 1970s Argentina, the story follows the intertwining lives of a diverse group of characters as they navigate love, betrayal, and the quest for justice. Amidst the backdrop of social upheaval and government repression, the narrative delves into the personal

No Me Esperen En Abril

1994, Alfredo Bryce Echenique

The novel is a coming-of-age story set in 1950s Lima, Peru, following the life of Manongo Sterne, a young boy navigating the complexities of adolescence. Through his experiences with friendship, love, and family, Manongo grapples with the societal expectations and cultural norms of his time. The nar

La Cuadratura Del Círculo

1995, Álvaro Pombo

The novel explores the intricate dynamics of a family living in post-war Spain, delving into themes of love, loss, and the search for identity. Through the perspectives of various family members, the narrative weaves a complex tapestry of personal and collective struggles, highlighting the tension b

Ladrón De Lunas

1990, Isaac Montero

The story follows the life of a young man named Juan, who navigates the complexities of love, ambition, and identity in post-war Spain. As he grapples with his personal dreams and the harsh realities of his environment, Juan encounters a series of characters that shape his journey, each reflecting d

Twenty Years And A Day

2003, Jorge Semprún

The novel explores the harrowing experiences of a Spanish Republican who survives the Nazi concentration camps during World War II. It delves into the psychological and emotional aftermath of his ordeal, examining themes of memory, trauma, and the struggle to reclaim a sense of identity and purpose

In A State Of Memory

1990, Tununa Mercado

The book delves into the complexities of memory and identity through the experiences of an Argentine woman who returns to her homeland after years of political exile. As she navigates the emotional and psychological landscape of her past and present, she grapples with the fragmented nature of her me

La Otra Mano De Lepanto

2004, Carmen Boullosa

The novel is a historical fiction that intertwines the lives of two women, one a Spanish nun and the other a Turkish concubine, during the 16th century. Their stories unfold against the backdrop of the Battle of Lepanto, a significant naval conflict between the Holy League and the Ottoman Empire. Th