1. "Stoner" by John Williams (1965):

• A quiet masterpiece, "Stoner" follows the life of an unassuming literature professor. It explores the complexities of love, work, and the human experience. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, it has gained recognition as a poignant and beautifully written novel.

2. "Stasiland" by Anna Funder (2003):

• This work of non-fiction delves into the lives of East Germans before and after the fall of the Berlin Wall. Funder's exploration of the Stasi's impact on individuals' lives is a compelling and eye-opening narrative.

3. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak (2005):

• Though relatively popular, "The Book Thief" may still be overlooked by some. It's a unique and moving story narrated by Death, set in Nazi Germany. The book captures the power of words and human resilience.

4. "The Master and Margarita" by Mikhail Bulgakov (written 1928–1940, published 1967):

• This satirical and fantastical novel, set in Soviet Moscow, weaves together multiple storylines involving the Devil, a talking cat, and a love story. It's a literary masterpiece that blends humor, philosophy, and social commentary.

5. "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt (1992):

• A dark and atmospheric novel, "The Secret History" follows a group of classics students at an elite college whose fascination with the classics takes a sinister turn. It's a psychological thriller with lush prose.

6. "The Shadow of the Wind" by Carlos Ruiz Zafón (2001):

• Set in post-World War II Barcelona, this novel is a love letter to literature. It follows a young boy who discovers a mysterious book by an obscure author, setting off a chain of events that intertwines with the city's dark past.

7. "Gilead" by Marilynne Robinson (2004):

• A quiet and contemplative novel, "Gilead" is a letter from an elderly minister to his young son. It explores themes of faith, love, and forgiveness in a beautifully written and deeply moving narrative.

8. "The Master Butchers Singing Club" by Louise Erdrich (2003):

• Erdrich weaves a rich tapestry of characters in this novel set in early 20th-century North Dakota. It explores the lives of German immigrants and their descendants, touching on love, war, and the immigrant experience.

9. "Independent People" by Halldór Laxness (1934):

• This Icelandic classic tells the story of Bjartur, a stubborn and independent sheep farmer. Laxness' writing is both lyrical and profound as he explores themes of self-sufficiency, power, and the harsh beauty of the Icelandic landscape.

10. "The Plague" by Albert Camus (1947):

• While Camus' "The Stranger" is more widely known, "The Plague" is equally powerful. It tells the story of an outbreak of bubonic plague in the Algerian town of Oran and explores philosophical questions about the nature of suffering and the human condition.

These literary gems offer rich narratives, thought-provoking themes, and masterful storytelling. Despite being somewhat overlooked, they have the potential to deeply resonate with readers who appreciate nuanced and impactful literature.