Brazil has a rich literary tradition, with a number of famous authors and works that have made a lasting impact on the country’s culture. Here are the top 10 books to read in Brazil:
- “The Devil to Pay in the Backlands” by João Guimarães Rosa – A classic of Brazilian literature, this novel is considered a masterpiece of modernism. It explores the themes of identity and solitude in the rural interior of Brazil.
- “Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas” by Machado de Assis – This 19th-century novel is considered a classic of Brazilian literature and is renowned for its innovative narrative style and wit.
- “Grande Sertão: Veredas” by João Guimarães Rosa – Another work by Guimarães Rosa, this novel is a classic of Brazilian rural literature and explores themes of loneliness, identity, and the search for meaning in life.
- “The Hour of the Star” by Clarice Lispector – This novel is considered a classic of Brazilian modernism and explores themes of identity, existence, and the human condition through the story of a poor and struggling woman living in Rio de Janeiro.
- “Family Ties” by Ana Maria Machado – A classic of Brazilian children’s literature, this novel is a touching and humorous tale about a family and the adventures they have together.
- “Quincas Borba” by Machado de Assis – Another classic by Machado de Assis, this novel explores the themes of philosophy, morality, and the search for meaning in life through the story of the eccentric Quincas Borba.
- “The War of the End of the World” by Mario Vargas Llosa – This historical novel is based on the events of a revolt in Brazil in the late 19th century and explores themes of power, revolution, and the meaning of freedom.
- “The Underdogs” by Mariano Azuela – This novel is set during the Mexican Revolution and is considered a classic of Latin American literature.
- “The Lost City” by Jorge Amado – This novel is set in Salvador, Brazil, and explores the themes of love, loss, and the search for identity through the story of a young woman and the city she calls home.
- “Captain of the Sands” by Jorge Amado – This novel is set in Bahia and explores themes of poverty, crime, and the struggle for survival through the story of a young street urchin who rises to become the leader of a gang of thieves.
Whether you’re interested in classic literature, modernism, or contemporary works, these books offer a glimpse into Brazil’s rich and diverse literary tradition.