Books Like...

The Encyclopedia of the Dead by Danilo Kis is a collection of short stories that touch upon the topic of death, weaving together legends, myths, historical events, and fables. The writing style is often compared to that of Jorge Luis Borges, with imaginative and quasi-mythical premises intertwined with minutiae and historical references. The stories in the book evoke a sense of mystery and contemplation, exploring themes of religion, philosophy, folklore, and living history.

One of the standout stories in the collection is "The Encyclopedia of the Dead," where a woman discovers volumes in a library dedicated to the lives of ordinary people after her father's death, prompting reflections on the significance of each individual in shaping history. Each story in the book offers a unique perspective on human nature, beliefs, and the complexities of life and death, making it a thought-provoking and engaging read for those interested in philosophical fiction.

Death and the Dervish by Mesa Selimovic is a dense and philosophical novel set in Ottoman era Bosnia. The story follows Sheikh Ahmed Nuruddin, a dervish, as he navigates the injustice of his brother's arrest, facing a corrupt bureaucracy and his own moral dilemmas. The writing style is complex and beautiful, delving deep into the protagonist's thoughts and struggles, creating a sense of claustrophobia and constant questioning. The narrative is characterized by internal monologues, philosophical musings, and insights into human behavior, making it a challenging but rewarding read.

'April Fool's Day' by Josip Novakovich is described as a unique and poignant tale about a man named Ivan Dolinar, who encounters mind-altering obstacles in his pursuit of high-minded ideals. The story is told with bold and evocative imagery, reminiscent of Bulgakov's 'The Master and Margarita,' and with character arch similar to Coelho's 'The Alchemist.' Novakovich skillfully portrays Ivan's journey through life, touching on his experiences in love, politics, and personal struggles, all with a sense of humor seeped in truth. The narrative follows Ivan's wants and what he actually gets, highlighting the universal struggle of an individual against society's expectations and inevitable demise.

is praised for its well-written, historically informative narrative with a touch of dark humor. It is noted for its compelling mix of pathos and absurdity, keeping readers engaged with its ambiguous themes and philosophical ponderings. Novakovich's writing style is lauded for its ability to blend satire, contemporary angst, and the lifetime struggle of an individual into an interesting and compelling novel that transcends local politics to resonate on a universal level.

'The Ministry of Pain' by Dubravka Ugresic explores the theme of exile and the struggle of individuals from the former Yugoslavia who have been displaced to Amsterdam. The protagonist, Tanja, navigates the complexities of identity, language, and memory while teaching a group of students who share a common history but are now fragmented by new nationalisms. Through Tanja's teaching methods and interactions with her students, the novel delves into the concept of Yugonostalgia, the longing for a past culture that has been erased by nationalism. Ugresic's writing style is described as intelligent, witty, and thought-provoking, blending elements of dark humor and irony to convey the existential loneliness and dislocation experienced by the characters.

'Cafe Europa: Life After Communism' by Slavenka Drakulic provides a detailed and insightful look at the post-communist Eastern Europe, especially in the Balkans. Through a collection of related articles, Drakulic reveals the attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors of individuals who have experienced both the communist era and the post-communist period. offers a perspective on history that remains valid, highlighting the challenges and changes faced by the region after the fall of the Soviet Union. Drakulic's writing style is engaging and captivating, offering a unique glimpse into the minds of people living in Southeast Europe.

Diary of Interrupted Days by Dragan Todorovic is a compelling fiction that explores the complexities of a young man's life in Belgrade during the turbulent times of the Yugoslav wars. The story revolves around Boris, who returns to his homeland for his father's funeral amidst the chaos of war. In his journey back, he confronts memories of his past and the stark realities of the conflict that has torn his country apart. The plot captures a triangle of relationships involving Boris, his friend Johnny, who faces the horrors of war, and Sara, Johnny's girlfriend, as they navigate love and loss while trying to find their way in a shattered world.

Todorovic's writing style stands out for its vivid imagery and emotional depth. He presents a sardonic yet poignant view of life in Serbia and the immigrant experience in Canada. Through Boris's interactions and reflections, readers feel the weight of history and personal struggle. The prose is engaging, managing to convey complex themes with clarity. It successfully opens the reader's eyes to the human aspect of a country often defined by turmoil, making the novel a worthy experience despite some criticisms.

In Zoran Zivkovic's novel "Hidden Camera," the reader is taken on a surreal journey as a neurotic undertaker is led through a mysterious scavenger hunt tailored solely to him, encountering bizarre spectacles at every turn. The narrative unfolds with hidden camera views into the mind of the unnamed narrator, exploring themes of existentialism, metafiction, and surrealism. The story is filled with symbolism, parallel worlds, and uncanny events that challenge the protagonist's perception of reality, leading to a haunting and suspenseful experience.

Zivkovic's writing style in "Hidden Camera" is described as a blend of science fiction, existentialism, and metafiction, drawing comparisons to literary giants like Borges and Calvino. The novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns, culminating in a climax that is abstract yet rewarding. The author's ability to create indelible images, harrowing suspense, and haunting settings makes this book a thought-provoking exploration of themes that require interpretation and close attention to detail.

Noli Me Tangere by Jose Rizal is a critique on Filipino society during the Spanish colonial era, capturing concepts of privilege and injustices of the time. The novel delves deep into the social and political dynamics of the Philippines, addressing topics such as clerical abuses, racism against the Philippine people, and the need for political reform. The writing style is described as sarcastic, with every word dripping with sarcasm and every sentence hiding a secret insult, making it a fascinating and impactful read that started a revolution against the corrupt church and government of the time.

El Filibusterismo is a sequel to Rizal's earlier work, Noli Me Tangere. The novel introduces Simoun, a dark character, whose obsession reflects a shift from the optimism of the protagonist in the first book. This story explores themes of nationalism and corruption among the ruling clergy in the Philippines, set against the backdrop of Spanish colonialism. The novel is political in nature, addressing the struggles of a conquered people and the oppressive regime they face.

Rizal's writing style is influenced by Victorian literature, with a mix of satire and romance. He uses vivid prose to illustrate the emotional turmoil of characters while critiquing society's injustices. The narrative is compelling and interspersed with humor, making it engaging despite its serious themes. Through rich character interactions and societal commentary, El Filibusterismo becomes more than just a story; it's a powerful political treatise reflecting Rizal's views on oppression that resonate across time.