1. 2666 by Roberto Bolaño
Without exception, 2666 is one of the most important novels of the past 50 years. It is a monumental work of consummate achievement, epic in scope and epitomizing the "total novel." Bolaño's masterpiece fuses many different genres and styles, and solidifies the late Chilean's reputation as a literary genius. Divided into five distinct yet synthesized parts, 2666 stands not only as the enviable acme of contemporary fiction, but also as an act of utmost tenacity and courage.
[Editor's note: Read Jeremy's interview with Natasha Wimmer, translator of 2666 and The Savage Detectives.]
2. Senselessness by Horacio Castellanos Moya
3. Nazi Literature in the Americas by Roberto Bolaño
4. Death with Interruptions by José Saramago
5. The Romantic Dogs by Roberto Bolaño
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Jeremy Garber is a used book buyer and leads events at Powell's City of Books. He reads his weight in books every few months.