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Top 15 Bolano Books
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Top 15 Bolano Books

Top 15 Bolano Books

Welcome to our book roundup article featuring the best of Bolano Books! Prepare to delve into the literary world of this renowned author as we highlight his most captivating works. From thrilling narratives to thought-provoking novels, Bolano's books are sure to captivate and transform. Get ready to explore these literary gems!

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by-night-in-chile-2534249-1

"By Night in Chile" is a captivating novel by the talented Chilean author, Roberto Bolaño. This 129-page book, published by New Directions Publishing, delves deep into the mind of Father Sebastian Urrutia Lacroix, a Chilean priest and member of Opus Dei, who finds himself in a life or death situation.

Over the course of an intense, surreal night, Father Lacroix relives pivotal events from his past, as he grapples with his fate. In his fevered delirium, he encounters an array of characters - both real and imaginary - including renowned poet Pablo Neruda, German novelist Ernst Junger, and General Augusto Pinochet. As a meditation on the intricacies of life and power, Father Lacroix instructs General Pinochet in Marxist doctrine, creating a thrilling and unexpected alliance.

With a cast of characters that reaches across the Chilean intelligentsia, father and son, lovers, and political leaders of both the past and present, "By Night in Chile" weaves together a suspenseful tale of power, art, and the human experience. This short yet impactful novel will leave you questioning the boundaries between reality and fiction while immersing you in the world Bolaño has created.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: New Directions Publishing

  • Published Date: December 17, 2003

  • Page Count: 129

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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Nazi Literature in the Americas, a masterfully crafted work by renowned author Roberto Bolaño, takes readers on a whimsical journey through the imagined realm of nonexistent Nazi literature. This imaginative novel is an enthralling tale told in the format of a mini-encyclopedia, filled with dark humor that will leave readers both entertained and puzzled.

Bolano's writing stands out as one of the most captivating and original approaches to fiction, with this book being no exception. As a unique take on the genre, it will challenge conventional norms and expectations, inviting readers to question the boundaries of literature and the nature of art.

With 229 pages of thought-provoking content, Nazi Literature in the Americas is a must-read for lovers of fiction, comedy, and the unexpected. Delve into this imaginative treasure trove of nonexistent Nazi literature and be prepared to experience a tour de force of black humor like no other. Discover the intriguing world that Roberto Bolaño creates in this ingenious novel, published by New Directions Publishing on May 29, 2009.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: New Directions Publishing

  • Published Date: May 29, 2009

  • Page Count: 229

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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"The Skating Rink" by Roberto Bolaño is a captivating, thrilling, and suspenseful three-way murder mystery set in the seaside town of Z. With its atmospheric and intriguing narrative, the novel weaves together a story of a murder that has intrigued the endlessly talented author. The murder serves as the centerpiece of this crime novel, set in a summer season against the backdrop of vacationers, businessmen, immigrants, bureaucrats, social workers, and drifters.

Through the eyes of three male narrators, the novel unfolds in short, suspenseful chapters that transport readers into the mesmerizing world of the seaside town. At the heart of this intricate plot is a beautiful figure skating champion, Nuria Martí, whose life becomes intertwined with a ruined mansion, knife-wielding women, political corruption, sex, and jealousy. Bolaño masterfully crafts each chapter, revealing intriguing layers of the story, leaving readers eager for more.

"The Skating Rink" is a must-read for fans of crime novels and those who appreciate Bolaño's distinctive storytelling style. With a page count of 185, this engaging novel offers a thrilling and unique narrative experience that is sure to leave readers breathless, eager for more.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: New Directions Publishing

  • Published Date: February 28, 2011

  • Page Count: 185

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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the-third-reich-749620-1

A Novel


The Third Reich by Roberto Bolaño is a gripping, suspenseful novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through memory and violence. Set in a small Spanish resort town, the story follows Udo, a German war games champion, who returns with his girlfriend, Ingeborg, to the town where he spent his childhood summers. They soon meet another German couple, Charly and Hanna, who introduce them to a group of locals: The Wolf, The Lamb, and El Quemado.

As the story unfolds, Charly mysteriously disappears, leaving Udo's life in complete disarray. In the midst of chaos, he becomes obsessed with the game Third Reich, a World War II strategy game that he cherishes. As Udo and El Quemado become more entangled in the game, they discover that the game's consequences may be all too real.

Written in 1989 and discovered among Bolaño's papers after his death, The Third Reich offers a captivating glimpse into the early days of a literary genius. This riveting novel, with its exploration of memory and violence, foreshadows the themes that would define Bolaño's other masterpieces, The Savage Detectives and 2666. A suspenseful and thought-provoking read, The Third Reich is a must for fans of Bolaño and aficionados of engaging literature, alike.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux

  • Published Date: November 22, 2011

  • Page Count: 289

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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And Other Conversations


Roberto Bolaño: The Last Interview and Other Conversations provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and mind of one of Latin America's most influential writers. This collection includes Bolaño's last interview, which delves into the themes of truth and consequences in his works, as well as conversations with reporters from throughout Latin America. The interviews offer a wealth of insight into the author's literary influences and personal concerns, making it an essential read for fans of Bolaño and those interested in Latin American literature.

With a page count of 130, this book is a concise but invaluable peek into Bolaño's world, revealing the thoughts and inspirations behind some of the most celebrated works in modern literature.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: Melville House

  • Published Date: December 06, 2011

  • Page Count: 130

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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the-secret-of-evil-2534239-1

"The Secret of Evil, " a posthumous collection by renowned author Roberto Bolaño, gathers together the writer's unfinished works and fragments left behind before his untimely death. This diverse anthology features a North American journalist in Paris receiving an urgent, mysterious call, along with an exploration of Argentina's political climate as seen through the lens of V. S. Naipaul's observations.

We also meet Daniela de Montecristo, a character familiar to readers of Bolaño's other works, who recounts her personal story and loss of innocence. Arturo Belano returns to Mexico City, encountering the last disciples of Ulises Lima, who perform in a band called The Asshole of Morelos. Gerónimo, Belano's son, disappears in Berlin during the infamous Days of Chaos in 2005, adding another layer to the complex web of memories and experiences contained within these pages.

The Secret of Evil further showcases Bolaño's talent for weaving intricate narratives that blur the line between reality and fiction. The book also explores the power of allegory and symbolism through the lens of zombie literature and the dark underbelly of Argentine culture. As a testament to Bolaño's genius, this posthumous collection is a must-read for fans and newcomers alike, immersing readers in the labyrinthine world that the author has so artfully crafted.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: New Directions Publishing

  • Published Date: April 30, 2012

  • Page Count: 161

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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Experience the mastery of Roberto Bolaño's lyrical genius in his deluxe edition, The Unknown University. For those who may be familiar with Bolaño's renowned novels, this collection will offer a fresh perspective on his artistic talents.

The Unknown University showcases Bolaño's ability to seamlessly blend genres, with poems written in prose, stories in verse, and flashes of writing that defy categorization. As Bolaño believed, "Poetry is braver than anyone. " This expansive volume, spanning 839 pages, serves as a testament to Bolaño's unrivaled poetic prowess.

The Unknown University, published by New Directions Publishing on June 24, 2013, is not to be missed by fans of poetry.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: New Directions Publishing

  • Published Date: June 24, 2013

  • Page Count: 839

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Poetry

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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8. 2666

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A Novel


From the celebrated and influential author "one of the greatest and most influential modern writers" (James Wood, The New York Times Book Review), comes the riveting 2666. This masterpiece, composed as a final testament in the last years of Roberto Bolaño's life, is acclaimed for its sheer audacity, strange beauty, and grand epic scope, even surpassing the greatness of his previous works.

This sprawling narrative delves into the lives of a diverse and unforgettable cast of characters - think academics, convicts, journalists, and a mysterious German novelist, all converging in the shadowy urban sprawl of Santa Teresa, a fictional stand-in for the real-life Juárez on the US-Mexico border. The novel unfolds against a backdrop of eerie disappearances, with hundreds of young factory workers - both in the pages of the book and in real life - vanishing without a trace.

The narrative weaves through the intricate lives of these individuals, leaving you on the edge of your seat as their fates intertwine in unexpected ways. The 1053-page epic will leave you captivated, immersed in its rich and evocative detail. 2666 is a testament to Bolaño's extraordinary literary talent, and a must-read for fans of both modern and classic literature.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux

  • Published Date: July 09, 2013

  • Page Count: 1053

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Average Rating: 5.0

  • Ratings Count: 1.0

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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roberto-bola-os-fiction-2534243-1

An Expanding Universe


Get ready to embark on a literary adventure through the works of acclaimed Chilean author, Roberto Bolaño. Chris Andrews, an esteemed translator, delves deep into the uniqueness of Bolaño's universe in his book, "Roberto Bolaño's Fiction: An Expanding Universe. " From discussing the literary landscape in which Bolaño's fiction thrives to explaining the essence of Bolaño's style and thematic concerns, Andrews paints a vivid picture of the author's singular, unforgettable literary universe.

The journey begins with an exploration of the groundbreaking reception of Bolaño's work in English translation, and continues onwards to reveal the intricacies and unifying threads of his fictional universe. With chapters dedicated to understanding the political, ethical, and aesthetic values that shape Bolaño's work, the book delves into the intricacies of the author's prodigious creative process - chronicling aimlessness, celebrating courage, exploring the nature of evil, and championing youthful openness.

Whether you're a fan of Bolaño's work or a newcomer seeking to understand why this author has become one of the most important voices of the last thirty years, "Roberto Bolaño's Fiction" offers an invaluable, engaging guide through the labyrinth of his stories and novels, including the critically acclaimed "2666, " "The Savage Detectives, " and "By Night in Chile. " Spanning 305 pages, this captivating book is a must-read for anyone seeking to delve into the mind-bending, powerful world of Roberto Bolaño.


  • Authors: Chris Andrews

  • Publisher: Columbia University Press

  • Published Date: July 29, 2014

  • Page Count: 305

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Literary Criticism

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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the-savage-detectives-1070630-1

Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of "The Savage Detectives" by the acclaimed Roberto Bolaño. This literary masterpiece, which has won the Herralde Prize and the Rómulo Gallegos Prize, is a tale of two hunted men leaving Mexico City on a desperate quest to unravel the mystery of a missing poet. Set against the backdrop of a darkening universe, the novel spans two decades and weaves together the testimonies of lovers, rebels, and readers.

Natasha Wimmer's captivating translation was hailed as one of the ten best books of 2007 by the Washington Post and the New York Times, making this a must-read for any fiction enthusiast. Prepare to be enthralled by Bolaño's vivid storytelling in this stunningly crafted novel.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan

  • Published Date: July 16, 2015

  • Page Count: 609

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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Dive into the unforgettable world of "A Little Lumpen Novelita" by Roberto Bolaño, published posthumously in 2016 by New Directions Publishing. This captivating novel tells the story of Bianca, a resilient young woman who recounts her tumultuous upbringing in Rome. Orphaned as a teenager, Bianca navigates a harsh reality as she grapples with her family's tragic disappearance, falls into a life of crime, and discovers the darker side of human nature.

Written in a unique, jagged style, the story unfolds in propulsive, intense chapters that keep readers on the edge of their seats. As Bianca and her eclectic group of companions plot a strange and daring heist, the novel delves deep into the raw, unflinching heart of the human experience. Embrace the fractured narrative and the unexpected twists of fate as "A Little Lumpen Novelita" offers a striking tale of resilience, redemption, and the unyielding power of love.

With a page count of 68, this engrossing novel is sure to leave a lasting impression, exploring the complexities of life and love in the face of adversity. Don't miss out on this absorbing tale of triumph over the odds; "A Little Lumpen Novelita" is a must-read for fans of Bolaño and contemporary fiction alike.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: New Directions Publishing

  • Published Date: March 21, 2016

  • Page Count: 68

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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Three Novellas


"Cowboy Graves" is a collection of three riveting novellas from the mastermind, Roberto Bolaño. Dive into the mind of this iconic Latin American author as he leads you on an unforgettable journey of rebellion, surrealism, and tragic beauty.

Discover the world of Arturo Belano, Bolaño's alter ego, as he fights for socialism in post-coup Chile. Experience the enigmatic allure of French Guiana on the night after an eclipse, where a teenage boy unwittingly joins the Clandestine Surrealist Group. And, witness the harrowing tale of a young poet grappling with a fascist takeover as his country spirals into chaos and the woman he loves mysteriously disappears.

These spellbinding novellas showcase Bolaño's extraordinary talent, leaving you captivated by his intricate storytelling and unparalleled imagination. Allow "Cowboy Graves" to elevate your literary horizons while immersing you in the universe of this unparalleled contemporary Latin American author.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: Penguin

  • Published Date: February 16, 2021

  • Page Count: 161

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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a-lonely-man-1174323-1

A Novel


A Lonely Man by Chris Power is a suspenseful and masterfully crafted novel that takes readers on an emotional and intriguing journey. The story follows two British men, Robert and Patrick, who meet in Berlin. Robert is struggling to complete his literary work while juggling the responsibilities of marriage and fatherhood. Patrick, a recent arrival in the city, is shrouded in mystery, revealing that he has been ghostwriting the autobiography of a Russian oligarch.

When the oligarch mysteriously dies, Patrick becomes a target, claiming to be hunted himself. Despite his doubts, Robert becomes captivated by Patrick's story, believing it may hold the key to his own failing novel. Robert attempts to win Patrick's trust, drawing out the details of his past, while becoming entangled in a potentially dangerous and intricate international plot.

The novel delves into the existential struggle of creating art amidst empathy and exploring the boundaries of what should be told. With a brilliantly woven narrative, A Lonely Man is a must-read tale of suspense, intrigue, and moral complexity.


  • Authors: Chris Power

  • Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux

  • Published Date: May 04, 2021

  • Page Count: 237

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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The Savage Detectives, by the late, acclaimed author Roberto Bolaño, follows the lives of two men in their quest to find the elusive poet, Cesárea Tinajero. Set against the backdrop of Mexico City in 1975, this mesmerizing novel takes readers through the intricacies of the literary world and the dark, complex nature of our universe.

Having escaped Mexico City in a borrowed Impala on New Year's Eve 1975, the two detectives have spent the past twenty years in pursuit of Cesárea Tinajero, a poet whose whereabouts are as mysterious as her existence. The novel weaves together the testimonies of those who have known and loved Cesárea, creating a vivid and fascinating portrait of the mythical poet and the two detectives' remarkable journey.

Bold, captivating, and unforgettable, The Savage Detectives has left a lasting impact on the literary world. As Guardian noted, "Bolaño makes you feel changed for having read him; he adjusts your angle of view on the world. "

This timeless novel is now available for readers to experience the thrills and complexities of the search for Cesárea Tinajero and the dark, mesmerizing universe that surrounds her.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: Vintage Classics

  • Published Date: April 04, 2024

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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Stories


In "The Return", Roberto Bolaño presents thirteen unforgettable stories that delve into the realm of the supernatural, exploring the haunting presence of troubled souls across society's margins. From lovers lost to time to young men struggling to recognize themselves, these tales confront the brutal realities of sex, violence, and death, juxtaposed with everyday mundanity.

Bolaño's unique voice infuses the stories with his signature wit and astute observation, shedding light on the human condition and what lies beneath our surface. As a master of the short form, Bolaño explores the intriguing interplay between stories and their narratives, weaving a spellbinding tapestry that entices readers to revisit time and again. "The Return" is a must-read for fans of thought-provoking fiction and a testament to Bolaño's undeniable storytelling genius.


  • Authors: Roberto Bolaño

  • Publisher: Picador USA

  • Published Date: September 03, 2024

  • Print Type: BOOK

  • Categories: Fiction

  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE

  • Language: en


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