Books that will broaden my horizons/show the “national psyches” of other countries?

I’m pretty utilitarian in that I like books that I feel broaden my horizons, while also being… good reads. I don’t really like heavy fantasy/sci-fi, but enjoy learning about history/foreign policy/creatively-expressed philosophy. In particular, I’ve really enjoyed books that shed light on the “great narratives”— or, the mindsets that define key ways of thinking— of other countries, societies, and social movements. This can absolutely include fiction.

I will say— I generally prefer reading about the sorts of things that influence present-day. So, the further back in history, the less I tend to like it.

A few examples:

Pachinko: 8/10.

Shantaram: 10/10. Maybe not a “great narrative” book but having spent a fair bit of time in India I found it fascinating.

Midaq Alley: 7/10

China’s Civilian Army: 9/10, fascinating.

Alone in Berlin: 8/10

Some People Need Killing: 3/10, found it repetitive and her writing style to be grating

The Jungle: 5/10

The Sympathizer: 7/10

Meditations 10/10. Not like the others, but sure as hell broadened my horizons. Feel free to suggest books that also just made you say “whoa”

by wcsib01