ZORBA THE GREEK
Nikos Kazantzakis (1946)

Zorba the Greek is a celebrated novel that tells the story of an introspective and intellectual English writer, known as the Narrator, who moves to Crete to work on a lignite mine. There, he meets Alexis Zorba, an exuberant and free-spirited Greek who becomes his companion. Zorba's passionate approach to life, full of music, dance, and a deep appreciation for the present moment, contrasts sharply with the Narrator's reserved and philosophical nature. Through their friendship, the Narrator learns valuable lessons about embracing life’s experiences and the importance of human connection. The novel is renowned for its rich character development, vivid descriptions of Cretan culture, and philosophical reflections on the nature of happiness and existence.