Recommended Novels for your Travels
As anyone can attest from reading The Agony & the Ecstasy before a trip to Michelangelo-land or Trinity before visiting the Emerald Isle, recreational reading can make your sightseeing a lot more fun and meaningful. Which books carbonated your travel experience best?
- Please don't post questions here. Use our Travelers Helpline.
Italy, India, and Indonesia
Maybe this one has already been mentioned but "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert is an inspiration to seek life renewal through travel.
Jakara
Baltimore, MD USA 11/13/2008
The Historian is a must-read
The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova is fun, mysterious, romantic, and literary. It looks huge, but will go quickly once you are into it. It's a good read after your travels when you get home from Europe and want to relive the places you've been (or still want to go). The narrator and her father travel throughout Europe and their descriptions are enough to make you want to buy another plane ticket across the Atlantic. Davinci-Code-esque in that it leads you on a chase throughout Europe, but I think it's much better.
Heather <email>
SLC/London, UT/UK USA/UK 10/13/2008
recommended novels. The Etruscan by Lappin
I am reading Linda Lappin's The Etruscan now, and loving it.It's set in Tuscany and in the Etruscan areas north of Rome. Though it may sound like a historical novel of ancient times, it takes place in the 1920s, when DH Lawrence was exploring the area and writing his Etruscan Places.
Lappin's description of rural Tuscany is superb, complete with superstitions and recipes, and wonderful descriptions of the countryside and Etruscan sites The heroine is a feminist photographer in trousers and the hero is a count in decline who claims to be descended from The Etruscans. There's a cultural clash between the two. It's a tale of suspense, and you learn something about Etruscan myths as well
Elsie
St. Petersburg, Fla USA 10/08/2008
Venice and Barcelona
I always try to read novels set in the place I'm visiting. I recommend "The Stone Virgin" by Barry Unsworth, set in Venice in three different time periods, and "The Shadow of the Wind" by Carlos Ruiz Zafon, set in Barcelona. I don't read typical "mystery" fiction, but both of these do have aspects of a mystery being pursued and resolved and they are fantastic literature as well.
Sue Ann <email>
Seattle, WA USA 10/07/2008
French reads
France: 1) Les Miserable (Hugo). Yes, it's long, but it's great. It's OK to skip some of Hugo's lengthier digressions (e.g. the chapter on argot). 2) Suite Francaise by Nemirovsky.
Tim Wilson
IL USA 09/29/2008
Venice
For those traveling to Venice, I'd pick up "City of Falling Angels" by John Berhendt. It is a non-fiction (but reads like fiction) about the author's time and the interesting cast of Venician characters that he meets in the city in the months following the fire that destroyed the Fenice Theater Opera House. A great read!
Erica <email>
Boston, MA USA 09/25/2008
recommended reading/listening- Harry Potter
I suggest any of the Harry Potter books. You can either read them or listen to the audio books. I would suggest to start off with the first book, Harry Potter & the Philosophers' Stone, & work your way to the last book!
Quaocity <email>
Sunny Southern California, CA USA 09/22/2008
Going to Crete? Here's a good read
If you're going to Crete, you can take a boat tour to Spinalonga island, the last leper colony in Greece. You might also enjoy "The Island" by Victoria Hislop, which revolves around life in the leper colony. Excellent read - my husband and I both enjoyed it!
Carrie
Toronto, ON Canada 09/08/2008
Concentration camps
Before visiting Mauthausen, Auschwitz or any other camp, "Night" by Eli Wiesel, a survivor, is a short but powerful read.
Anne McLeod
Halifax, NS Can 08/24/2008
Venice - Gritty Suspense
Take a look at the gritty underbelly of Venice.. I very much enjoy Donna Leon's novels (15 or so) centering on the somewhat suave Police Inspector, Guido Brunetti. Chilling crime, depavity, greed, revenge & murder. These novels (I've read 10 so far) always give a humorous view of the "pecking order" within the politics the police force, the region and country; as well as the way the Venetians view themselves, Countrymen from other regions, their news sources, weather, rising tides, and families. Pull out your map and follow Guido as he walks through the labyrinth of narrow streets and over the many bridges, often putting himself in danger as his investigations unfold. My favorite so far, ""Dressed for Death"".
Lois Schmitt
Fullerton, CA USA 08/21/2008
Russia & England
If going to Russia read "Russka" by Edward Rutherfurd. For England read his novels set in England: "London;" "Sarum;" and "The Forest."
Patricia Johnston <email>
Atlanta, 30318 USA 08/03/2008
All Creatures Great and Small
I read James Herriot's All Creatures Great and Small while I was in England. It's a memoir of the author's early years as a country vet in Yorkshire. I thought it was a beautifully written story, and you can really visualize what he's describing if you read it while you're there.
Emily
Gainesville, FL USA 07/17/2008
Travel to Poland
Anyone interested in travelling to Poland should pick up a copy of James Michener's novel entitled "Poland". It's a great read and brings the history of Poland to life.
Shawn Clark <email>
Tifton, GA USA 07/14/2008
Is Paris Burning?
"Is Paris Burning?" by Collins & Lapierre--not a novel but a really moving companion for a visit to Paris. How "the world's most beautiful city" was saved from distruction in WWII.
Mike Richardson <email>
Denver, CO USA 07/09/2008
Anything by Bill Bryson
Anything by Bill Bryson...his books will make you smile and laugh and that translates to any language! He is known for semi-autobiographical stories about his ramblings.
Kristy
Tacoma, WA USA 06/27/2008
Mann and Hesse
Thomas Mann or Herman Hesse for Switzerland. These two great authors wrote 100's of letters to each other from 1910-1955! These were great letters and they really supported each other. Hesse was very pro-peace, and choose to stay in Switzerland durin WWII. Mann lived and taught at Priceton and then moved on to Californis to live during the war as he was German, and very much on the Nazi black list. Hesse lived in the lugano area of Switzerland.
Joe Jobson <email>
Longview, Washin USA 06/15/2008
Books To Read in situ
Reading a novel where it takes place is my favorite way to travel. Better yet, loading them on an iPod and walking. Some personal highlights:
Paris: The Three Musketeers; Pere Goriot; The Counterfeiters; A Moveable Feast; Paris to the Moon; Panama (really).
London: Mrs. Dalloway
London & Paris: A Tale of Two Cities
Scotland: Kidnapped; To The Lighthouse
Bath: Persuasion
Dorset: any Thomas Hardy
Mexico: Stones for Ibarra
Istanbul: Stamboul Train; A Coffin for Dimitrios
Johannesburg: Cry, The Beloved Country
Mike M.
San Francisco, CA USA 05/26/2008
Recommended Novel
If going to Rome and the Vatican, I would HIGHLY suggest "Basilica: The Splendor and the Scandal: Building St. Peter's" by R. A. Scotti. It was fantastic!
Madonna Kramer
Spring Lake, MI USA 05/25/2008
Novels to read before trip
If you're going to England read Jane Austen. They will help you understand the class system and appropriate behavior. Also, any of the shorter George Eliot books, Gatskill and Trollope: what fun!
Anita Paul
Scotia, NY USA 05/23/2008
Rome
A trilogy by Christian author Francine Rivers is set in Rome. The series is called The Mark of the Lion. It was difficult for me to get into at first but soon I couldn't stop reading it. It inspired me spiritually and I enjoyed the historical nature of it as well. It is actually one of my favorite books of all time.
Joli Beasley <email>
Tulsa, OK USA 05/22/2008
A Must Read for Southern Italy
If you are planning on heading south of Naples and braving the tourism wilds of Southern Italy, you should read George Gissing's "By the Ionian Sea" before you leave (or on the flight).
Tyler
Calgary, AB Canada 05/21/2008
Great read for Paris
Murder in the White City by Erik Larson. Although mainly about the Colombian Exposition a.k.a. Chicago World's Fair, it does reference the previous World's Fair in Paris and the introduction of the Eiffel Tower.
Amanda
Denver, CO USA 05/18/2008
Another great read for Italy
Can't tell the difference between Dante, Petrarch, and Boccaccio? Monteverdi from the Medici? Sprezzatura: 50 Ways Italian Genius Shaped the World (D'Epiro and Pinkowish) is a collection of 50 short, readable essays covering milestones of Italian culture from ancient times (the Julian calendar, double entry bookkeeping) to modern (fashion and Ferrari). Enjoyably written and a real eye-opener. The extent of Italian influence on history and culture is truly amazing.
Karen <email>
Cleveland, OH USA 05/17/2008
Agathe
Agathe Christie - especially if you are traveling in the Newquay (England) area, where she spent much of her time living and writing.
Julie
Chicago, IL USA 05/10/2008
Hemingway lifestyle
A must read if you are travelling in France and Spain - The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway - My trip followed the journey of the ex-pats (not planned that way) in this novel from Pamplona and then to San Sebastian to recover from the fiesta of San Fermin...It made the experience extremely vivid and friends made along the way started to seem fit into molds of charcaters from the book (in my imagination anyway). A great time, especially for vagabonds at heart, and being in the places where the events in the book were taking place made it so real, yet at the same time an elaborate game of pretend.
Jinny <email>
New York, NY USA 05/08/2008
Great Reading for paris
I always pack the latest Cara Black Aimee Leduc mystery, "Murder in the ______(insert name of Paris quartier)." My favorites todate are "Murder in the Bastille," "Murder in the Marais," and "Murder on Ile St. Louis."
A few years back, I bought Thad Carhart's "The Piano Shop on the Left Bank" - not a novel - at Shakespeare & Co. and read that while staying just blocks away for Carhart's Latin Quarter neighborhood.
Mimi <email>
Northern Wisconsin, USA 05/01/2008
Novels
Headed to Italy you might enjoy Grisham's Playing For Pizza about a down on his luck football quarterback (a lot of those around)who winds up playing for an Italian team and learns about himself as well as Italy. And you may be done by the time the plane lands.
Erv
Chicago, IL USA 04/28/2008
John Rain Novels by Barry Eisler
The 'John Rain' novels by Barry Eisler. Fantastic espionage yarns that are hard to put down. Best read in order, as the story develops from one book to the next.
http://www.barryeisler.com/
Minty Clinch
Santa Maria, CA USA 04/23/2008
Fascinating novel about ancient Rome
Roma by Steven Saylor is a fascinating work of historical fiction about Roma (Rome) from 1000 BC to 1BC. I wish I had read it before I went to Rome instead of afterwards.
Jeanne
Lutz, FL USA 04/12/2008
Hilarious for Paris
While not for everyone, I love short stories by David Sedaris. While in Paris last Christmas my father-in-law passed us "Me Talk Pretty One Day" with various stories that will have you rolling in the aisles, especially if you are a novice French speaker.
K. Strange <email>
Newcastle, UK 04/07/2008
York England
Came across a novel in the York Hostel and it was thrilling because it was set in 14th century York ---bought some of the other ones while I was there
Owen Archer mysteries by Candace Robb
Great to be reading about York in York!!
Destiny
Park City, UT USA 04/02/2008
Italy? EAT Pray Love!!
If you're traveling through Italy, *definitely* bring along EAT PRAY LOVE by Elizabeth Gilbert. Even if you only read the first third of the book, you will have enhanced your travels 10-fold. The book is the (non-overbearing and non-arduous) telling of one woman's journey to learn to experience the best in life and marry that with a spiritual peace. Her goal in Italy? Experience pleasure! Her anecdotes will not only provide for a fun read while you're on a long train ride or before going to bed, but they'll also provide fun facts, recommendations, and another person's view (non-guidebook view, that is) of some of the best aspects of Italy. In the book she lives in Rome so a lot of her focus is there, but her travels also take you to Venice, Florence, and Naples. I visited a few of the places she mentions in the book so if you need help finding them feel free to email me!
Nia <email>
Pasadena, CA USA 03/28/2008
If you're going to Paris, read A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway.
Annie
Round Rock, TX USA 03/23/2008
War and Peace
I spent 1 month riding trains around Europe reading War and Peace. Greatest novel ever, perfect if you plan to spend a long time on trains or waiting for trains, and great to read about European history while traveling around the continent.
Clint
St. Louis, MO USA 03/21/2008
great book
I read Travels by Michael Crichton it is a great true story of places all over the world he has traveled. He is the author of Jurassic Park in case you don't know the name... I have read it twice, it is excellent.
cam
NY, NY USA 03/13/2008
KRAKOW
anyone heading to krakow should read the novel, winter under water by James Hopkin. i've been to the city and this book reminded me of all its beauty and magic.
Karen Weave
london, uk USA 03/09/2008
Re: Travel books
Middle-east - perhaps in the military?!
A MUST READ especially if you are a woman: 'A Thousand Spendid Suns' by Khaled Musseini FASCINATING & RIVETING!(Author of the Kite Runner)
Scottland & Greece - 'Three Junes' by Julia Glass Engrossing and entertaining.
Kenya - Africa: 'Dreams of My Fathers' by Barack Obama Fascinating story of Barack's life with some insightful passages about the history of Kenya tribes and their English take over.
ENJOY!
Jennifer Wilkes <email>
Frazeysburg, OH USA 03/08/2008
books
Some selections; for Italy The Dark Heart of Italy by Tobias Jones. Not a novel but a series of essays by a British author who lived in Italy for four years. Also the Renaissance novels of Sarah Dunant, The Birth of Venus and In the Company of the Courtesan and of course Donna Leon's books set in Venice. All of these books show a somewhat darker side to Italy.
Edward Rutherfurd's sweeping novels about the UK and Ireland. Sarum for the Stonehenge and Salisbury area; London; The Forest for the New Forest and Hampshire; he has also written books about Ireland and Russia.
Going to Egypt? Try and find a copy of Amelia Edwards A Thousand Miles Up the Nile. Written in 1877, yes 1877, it's a delightful travelogue, illustrated by woodcuts, by a woman who as well as being an author went on to hold England's first chair of Egyptology.
Lesley Nicholls
Sidney , BC USA 03/05/2008
For kids who read 'chapter books' or adults who like a good story, I recomend The Thief Lord by Arron Johnson. It takes placein Venice. My sister read it before she came to visit me in Venice and she really enjoyed looking for the sights mentioned in the book.
Michelle
Venice, Italy 03/03/2008
Recommended Novels
For anyone going to Venice, read any (or all) of the Guido Brunetti series by Donna Leon.
Laurie Willard <email>
Edina, MN USA 03/03/2008
On-the-Go-Book-Bargains
Source: Womans World Feb 25/08
Buy a book at one of 500 Paradies Shops in US Airports and when you're done return it to any location and get 50% back of the purchase price! Up to 6 months to cash in!
Flight Attendant
YYZ, Canada 03/01/2008
For a great adventure book pickup Into Thin Air by John Krakauer.
Bobby
Macon, GA USA 03/01/2008
Books for Paris Prep
Diane Johnson is my favorite for novels set in Paris. Le Divorce is very funny. If you want a good non-fiction book to feed your fantasies of moving to Paris, C'est La Vie by Suzy Gershman is great.
Lisa <email>
Landover, MD USA 02/25/2008
Paris to the Moon
If you're going to Paris, you MUST read "Paris to the Moon." It's not exactly a story, but a bunch of little tales written by a man who moved to paris with his family in the 90's. Totally hilarious but really insightful at the same time.
Anne
Anchorage, Alaska USA 02/10/2008
London
For London, a super novel to read is "Maisie Dobbs" by Jacqueline Winspear. The time frame is 1930 between the wars. She has written several books with Maisie as her protagonist...all are a great read! Her latest Maisie is coming out in February...I can hardly wait. The first book should be made into a movie!
mollie <email>
camano island, WA USA 02/06/2008
Video
For those going to the Provence area of France, rent the video A GOOD YEAR. You'll enjoy it.
Larry <email>
Pearland, TX USA 02/04/2008
Novel Set in Madrid
Hi while living in Madrid for a few weeks I read the novel What's the Girl Worth by Christina Fitzpatrick. I loved how dead-on all of the "Madridlinos" excentricities and tendancies were portrayed. This book captures Madrid perfectly, even down to the type of ice that seems to be the only type used in the whole city!
Brianna <email>
Ft. Lauderdale, FL USA 01/30/2008
Eat, Pray, Love
Only one third of the book is set in Europe, and it really is more of a "spiritual" book more than an account of a particular location but one that does show how travel can transform you, how "meeting locals" is so interesting and enlightening.
Erica
DuPont, WA USA 01/28/2008
Traveling to Paris, France
The movie I found inspiration toward traveling to Paris is called "Before Sunset" Also Rick Steve's travel book on Paris is very good. Asking people who have been to France is a great idea or talking to someone from there who could give you good pointers. (of course I went to Paris before I used any of these recommendations) the Rick Steve's book I did use and they are great!happy travels
B.. McGettigan
USA 01/15/2008
Great read if traveling to Paris
"Almost French" by Aussie journalist Sarah Turnbull gave me insight into all aspects of Parisian nuances and French culture in general. I wish I had read it before my trip to France.
Natasha Price
Anchorage, AK USA 01/13/2008
Traveling to the UK
"1984" by George Orwell seems appropriate.
USA 01/11/2008
Traveling to Vienna
"A Nervous Splendor" by Frederick Morton provides a glimpse into the lives of the Viennese during the period 1888-1889. From the Emporer Franz Josef to Johann Strauss to the tragedy at Mayerling, Morton makes history come alive in a relaxed, narrative form. You will truly enjoy this book!
singfree
Orwigsburg, PA USA 01/08/2008
Book about an Ireland / Italy Connection
I just finished "The Lost Painting" by Jonathan Harr - about a long lost Carravaggio painting called "The Taking of Christ". It ended up found in a Jesuit house in Dublin after a nearly 400 year journey from Italy. It's non-fiction, but written in a narrative style. Interesting and quick read.
CL
Salem, OR USA 01/07/2008
Italy
Two suggestions for those who like something a little different:
Fiction: Cornelia Funke's The Thief Lord. By a popular German author, written for older kids, but thoroughly enjoyable for adults. Set in Venice and its outlying islands with a wealth of description and atmosphere. About a gang of juvenile art thieves living in an abandoned movie theater who search for a mythical, magical carousel. An amazing, one-of-a-kind book.
Nonfiction: Beppe Severgnini's La Bella Figura - A Field Guide to the Italian Mind. By a well-known Italian journalist; quirky, very contemporary insight into Italian culture and social mores (his commentary on cell phone mannerisms is a hoot). A refreshing, tart antidote to "starry-eyed-American" memoirs.
Karen
Cleveland, OH USA 01/02/2008
Whoops! One more Italy suggestion
Rome: The "Didius Falco" mystery series by Lindsey Davis. The very funny exploits of a hardboiled gumshoe ("Sam Spade in a ratty toga" according to one reviewer) in ancient Rome. Davis really knows her stuff - makes daily life there feel contemporary. Begins with Silver Pigs - best to read in order.
Karen
Cleveland, OH USA 01/02/2008
Polish history
I have not read this book completly yet but if your intrested in Polish world war two history I would recomend Survival in Auschwitz. This story is about the the Polish, Jewish and some other races how they have to escape the death camp and yes this one is non fiction.
Sean
Renton, WA USA 12/22/2007
Awesome, fictional British novels
Also if your traveling to Oxford, England you should read Lord of The Rings or if your in Cambridge, England. That would be The chronicals of Naria.I hope you enjoy these fictional novels when traveling to England.
Sean
Renton, WA USA 12/22/2007
Madrid
If you are traveling to Madrid, i enjoyed the Sky Wore Red and other books in the series by Aline, Countess of Romanones. They may be out of print (havne't looked lately) but are "biographies" (with I expect some liberal license) set during WWII in Madrid. If, like me, you are are WWII history buff who likes Madrid I think you will enjoy them
Carol
Atlanta, ga USA 12/16/2007
Our Selections
Several books, dealing with different places (and some with other times)
A Year in the Merde and Merde, Actually - two very funny about France
Rubicon- Roman Republic
Seasons in Basilicata- South Italy
A Season with Verona- Football fan with wonderful insight into Italy
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport, MA USA 12/15/2007
France - Versailles
The book "To Dance with Kings" by Rosalind Laker made the palace of Versailles and times of Louis XIV through Louis XVI really come alive. It is a fictional work that follows the lives and fortunes of 3 generations of women of the times who live in the town of Versailles and at the palace.
Nancy
Kitchener, ON Canada 11/07/2007
Italy
For those who dream of buying a place in Italy - Living In A Foreign Language; A Memoir of Food, Wine and Love In Italy by Michael Tucker is a treasure.
Carrie
Maple Valley, WA USA 11/02/2007
Pillars of the Earth
I agree that Follett's book was awesome1 I read it while traveling through England, which was perfect since that is the setting for the book!
Karen
USA 11/01/2007
Reading about Serbia
As we were heading to Belgrade, Serbia, we read "With Their Backs to the World: Portraits from Serbia" by Asne Seierstad (who also wrote "The Bookseller of Kabul"). The author writes about the lives of several people during the Milosevic era and after his removal from office. The author illuminated some very interesting cultural qualities, while also showing how the citizens suffered from his leadership.
Johanna <email>
Clayton , WI USA 10/27/2007
Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follet
Ken Follet's Pillars of the Earth is not only one of the best books I've ever read, but a really good read before going anywhere in western europe. It is about what went into building a huge cathedral in the 1200's. Made me really appreciate the huge churches of europe even more.
Jill Henniger
USA 10/23/2007
It depends on where youre going!
Read something pertaining to your trip! I read Angels and Demons by Dan Brown right before I got to Rome, and of course the Da Vinci Code right before Paris. It makes it so exciting! Get into some Francis Mayes stuff before hitting up Tuscany, or anywhere else in the world, since she poetically discusses many a places in the world. A book called "Eat, Pray, Love" is highly recommended as it sheds enormous shining light on the love of food in Italy, finding your inner peace in India, and love of all life in Indonesia. Stay on the road and stay inspired! Its all about what youre reading! :) Best wishes and safe and happy travels.
Amy <email>
Monroe, WA USA 10/17/2007
A great Fiction, great writer
Ken Follet The Jackdaws, a book about the French resistance. An entertaining Novel to read as you journey anywhere in France
Barb Truscott <email>
Creston, BC canada 10/16/2007
Good reading
Talk about relevant: just finished a week in Costa Del Sol, southern Spain, including a visit to Gibraltar and Morocco. Before I left I picked the travel book "Master and Commander": surprised to see it starts out in the same area I was visiting.
Keith
St. Paul, MN USA 10/08/2007
reading Charles Dickens
Travelers, for novels read both of Charles Dicken's classic literature for England read "Great Expectations" or if you are going to both England and France read "Tale of Two Cities." Also for English travelers (going to England and specifically the town of Shakespeare's birthplace read a little of Shakespeare's plays. (if you are going to Stratford on Avon. Celeste McGettigan
Celeste McGettigan
San JosE, ca USA 10/03/2007
Books
Before we went to Italy, I read Pompeii by Robert Harris. Fictionalized version of Vesuvius eruption but pretty factual when it came to aqueduct engineering. Also, a glimpse into the politics of the tragedy. Can you say "Katrina?"
Keith
St. Paul, mn USA 09/26/2007
Italian and Scotland books
Italy:
Two "historical" ficton novels that I liked set in Florence and Naples/Rome during the Renaissance are by Jeanne Kalogridis: I, Mona Lisa and The Borgia Bride (respectively). The first book is written in the narrative of Mona Lisa and her interaction with the de Medici's. The second is about a princess of Naples who is married into the Borgia family. Both are rather like historical soap operas and they both cover all sorts of landmarks, etc., that one would see on their travels to these places. Very quick and juicy reads! And often while reading these books, I would refer back to my Italy guidebooks.
Scotland:
The other books are in a series by Alexander McCall Smith of the Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency (set in Zimbabwe) fame. They are set in Edinburgh, Scotland. The first one is Edinburgh philosopher-sleuth Isabel Dalhousie Sunday Philospher's series. The second one is the 44 Scotland Street series which chronicle the lives of residents in an Edinburgh boarding house. Although I yet to go to Scotland, these books have inspired me to want to travel there.
Lauren
Washington, DC USA 09/25/2007
Berlin novels
If you're off to Berin, you can't go wrong with picking up Lecarre's The Spy Who Came in from the Cold. Wonder story about the cold war and the wall
Pam
MADISON, WI USA 09/18/2007
Italian Heritage
I can highly recommend both books by Paul E. Paolicelli, "Dances with Luigi: A Grandson's Search for His Italian Roots" and "Under the Southern Sun: Stories of the Real Italy and the Americans It Created". You may want to check the library for copies. I was deeply moved by his writing. Also "Living La Dolce Vita: Bring the Passion, Laughter and Serenity of Italy into Your Daily Life" by Raeleen D'Agostino Mautner. Great insight in Italian ways.
Susanna <email>
Charlotte, NC USA 09/18/2007
Irish Based Stories
In preparation for my fall trip to Ireland I have read fictional and non-fictional books. The three fictional books are: Ireland (Frank Delaney), Trinity and Redemption, both by Leon Uris. Of the three the first two were my favorites. The Delaney book is centered around the tradition of 'storytelling' that was so prevalent in the history of Ireland. The other two follow members of a family as they travel through their life span during the upheavels that Ireland has experienced. All give a historical background. I think anyone who is going to Ireland or who is interested in the Irish history would enjoy these 'reads'.
Maureen
Anchorage, USA 09/14/2007
Venice Mysteries
Already mentioned for Venice, but excellent writing and great stories for Venice...Donna Leon's stories of Guido Brunetti. Can't recommend them highly enough.
Cyn2
USA 09/13/2007
Norway murder mystery
Before going to Norway, especially if you are going on the NIN (Norway in a Nutshell), read "The Body in the fjord" by Katherine Hall Page (author of several mysteries).
Elaine
Livingston, MT USA 08/28/2007
Great read!
White Chocolate by Michelle Karman has a lot of stuff about certain European cities in it...I loved it, found that it described Paris, London, French Rivieria, Amsterdam & Brussels to a T.
Lindy Cosy <email>
High Point, NC USA 08/23/2007
Irish Binchy with the Greek twist
Get your psyche ready for Greek Islands with Maeve Binchy's NIGHTS OF RAIN AND STARS. It's fiction, but fine (especially during the mid-week rutsville).
Karen
San Carlos, CA USA 08/22/2007
Florence
For a true appreciation of the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, read "Brunelleschi's Dome: How a Renaissance Genius Reinvented Architecture" by Ross King. It's a very interesting read, filled with details about the design competition, engineering and construction.
N
Philadelphia, PA USA 08/14/2007
British Isles
If you liked Philippa Gregory, try Sharon Kay Penman's series which starts by giving a view totally different to Shakespeare's Richard the Third in The Sunne in Splendour, and ranges all over early English(?)royalty. Great descriptions and characterizations. Then go back to Norah Lofts. Her Eleanor of Aquitaine is riveting- I think the actual title has to do with her fairhaired boy Richard the Loinhearted, but all her stuff is firstrate. Then change gears completely with C.S Lewis' Space Trilogy which follows his messianic philologist, Ransom from an English country ramble to Mars, Venus and ends with the return of the King ( Arthur of course )in a small university town that's been taken over by the brave new world. Speaking of Arthur, try following Merlin from boy to eternal wizard with Mary Stewart. Start with The Crystal Cave.
Kathy <email>
Tulsa, OK USA 08/07/2007
fixing poor Richard, etc.
Didn't really mean to say loinhearted, but I guess it's rather apropos. Next time I'll proofread more carefully. By the way, Austro-Hungarian travel should be preceded by Tolstoi's The Kreutzer Sonata, and the newly discovered work of Sandor Maraj.
kathy <email>
Tulsa, OK USA 08/07/2007
The Innocents Abroad
"The Innocents Abroad" by Mark Twain is an absolute must. It is a deeply refreshing antidote to political correctness, written by a master of insight and humor who was also one of the greatest 19th Century American travel writers. He's also been called the first "ugly American" There's a great Dover paperback for about $10 with all the original illustrations.
John Green <email>
Ann Arbor, MI USA 08/05/2007
English History
"An Instance of the Fingerpost" by Iain Pears.
Historical Mystery, a tale told from four viewpoints. Hard to put down, educational, and a real thriller.
Brian Young
Port Townsend, WA USA 07/29/2007
Swedish Mystery Series.
The Kurt Wallender series by Henning Mankell. They take place in southern Sweden. Most are translated into English.
karen
CA USA 07/27/2007
Norway
"Out Stealing Horses" by Per Petterson
"Nikolai's Fortune" by Solveig Torvik
lori
minneapolis, mN USA 07/26/2007
Great read for Italy/France/WWII
Traveling to Italy or Southern France? I loved "A Thread of Grace" by Maria Russell! Enthralling WWII historical novel based on 7 years of research and interviews with people who lived there during WWII.
Ann
SLC, UT USA 07/16/2007
Travel
Not a novel, but the Bible gave me comfort on the trip. I bought a tiny New Testament/Psalms NKJ version that fit in any pocket easily. Anything larger wouldn't work for me.
It also ties into a lot of the history of Europe: cathedrals, famous sights, etc.
Jeff <email>
Oakland, CA USA 07/15/2007
Armchair trip to Crete
Going to Crete? Just finished "The Pale Surface of Things" by Janey Bennett. Felt as if I've already been to the island - met the characters. This is a fast paced, modern day novel that I highly recommend. Got mine from Amazon.
Donna Walker
Cary, NC USA 07/08/2007
Fiction for Spain and France
I just read Gabriel Garcia Marquez's Twelve Strange Pilgrims. Ironically I stuffed it in my suitcase for my trip to Southern France and Catalonia. Most of the stories take place in Cadaques, Barcelonia and France. Great Stuff.
Ron Dunphy
Holbrook, Ny USA 07/06/2007
Books for Italy
Thanks for the suggestions here. I read "The Agony and the Ecstasy" before we went to Italy, and read "The City of Falling Angels" while we were in Venice (and later). Both were perfect companion books for our trip. I also read "The Secret Supper", which is a quick-read "Da Vinci Code" knockoff. It entertained me on the plane but wasn't as good as the other two.
Kevin Fairchild
San Marcos, CA USA 07/05/2007
Hereford and the Welsh Border
Before traveling to the Three Choirs Festival in Hereford, England last year, I started reading Phil Rickman's novels about a Church of England clergywoman who is an exorcist. They're mysteries with a supernatural touch, and they give you a feel for the region and its history and traditions.
Karen Sandness
Minneapolis, MN USA 07/04/2007
Ireland
For anyone traveling to Ireland I recommend "In Search of Ancient Ireland" and "In Search of Ireland's Heroes" - both by Carmel McCaffrey. The former title was the companion book to the PBS series and the DVD is also worth getting. You can get a real feel for historic places - and where they are - in both books.
Catherine <email>
Baltimore, MD USA 07/03/2007
Michaelangelo's Florence
If you're heading to Florence and Rome, but particularly Florence, you MUST read Irving Stone's "Agony and Ecstasy" - a great novel based on Michaelangelo's life. It's a beautifully written story, full of fascinating historical references with intertwined plot lines of Michaelangelo's contemporaries - Leonardo Da Vinci and Rafael. I would recommend it to anyone, but if you're going to Italy, it's a must.
Ellen
New York, NY USA 07/02/2007
Reading in Sicily
If you are heading to Sicily, try Andrea Cammilleri's books, beautifully translated by Stephen Sartarelli. They are Sicilian police fiction, (well known to Italians as the books were the basis of a TV series over there) with footnotes that clear up some of the more obscure references to the politics of the day without interrupting the flow of the stories.
Ann
Victoria, BC Canada 06/28/2007
Books/Italy
I agree with with KK's comment back in April re Marlena di Blasi's books. I've just read and highly recommend them: A Thousand Days in Venice, A Thousand Days in Tuscany and The Lady in the Palazzo. Memoirs of her experiences living in Italy and wonderful insights into the people and foods. Read them in the order above.
Natalie
Cincinnati, OH USA 06/25/2007
Venice Book
For Venice, a good one is
"City of Falling Angels" by Berendt
Paul n Sara <email>
USA 06/24/2007
good books for travelers
1.Leonardo's Swans---Karen Essex---about Isabella and Beatrice d'Este and their connection to Leonardo
2.The Constant Princess---Phillippa Gregory---about Katharine of Aragon
3.The Scroll of Seduction---Gioconda Belli---Juana of Castile/Juana the Mad
Cary <email>
Hayden, ID USA 06/22/2007
Italian Artworld Mysteries
For mystery novels set in Florence, etc., I highly recommend all of the Iain Pears "art detective" books. Not only are they superbly plotted and written mysteries, you will learn a great deal about art, museums, and the people who make that their life's work.
Mike <email>
CA USA 06/15/2007
Alan Furst
For those of you with an interest in espionage novels AND Europe in the 30s through WWII, there are no finer books than those by Alan Furst. I'd start with DARK STAR, then onto THE WORLD AT NIGHT. The books are not a series (different, mostly unrelated characters) so you can start anywhere. Wonderful for those going to the Continent.
Mike <email>
CA USA 06/15/2007
That would be Seasons in Basilcata: A Year in a Southern Italian Hill Village by David Yeadon.
It;s available at Amazon.
Karen
Denver, CO USA 06/14/2007
Seasons in Basilicata
For anyone planning a trip to the south of Italy, I recommend "Seasons in Basilicata", by Yeardon (first name ??). He also has written for National Geographic. The book is a record of his experiences living for a year in a small, impoverished hill town (Aliano) in Basilicata (the ankle of the boot). An excellent book.
Robert Rieffel <email>
Okeechobee, FL USA 06/07/2007
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
One of the best books I've ever read (not just travel kind of books) was Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. It's set in Scotland, 1745, just before the Rising. The beauty of Scotland is described in just as much detail as the main characters' love for each other. Brought me right back to the Highlands. It also got me addicted to the rest of the series (there are 6 in total) and they take you to France, the Carribbean, and the American Colonies.
Betsy <email>
Pittsburgh, PA USA 06/07/2007
Books about Spain
Kathy S: Hemingway: For Whom the Bell Tolls and The Sun Also Rises are both wonderful books, and justly classics. Also read Homage to Catalonia by George Orwell, and Iberia by James Michener. On a lighter and more recent note, you might enjoy such books as Spanish Lessons, a memoir by Derek Lambert about his family's move to a small town near Valencia; or It's Not About the Tapas, by Polly Evans. I enjoyed them both. There are also books like A Traveller's Spain and Spain in Mind which have stories and excerpts about Spain; and I am currently reading Spain from a Backpack (can you tell I am also getting ready to go to Spain?!)
Happy reading and happy travels!!
Liz
Hyattsville, MD USA 06/07/2007
Spain Books
Kathy again: I just remembered there is a classic Washington Irving book which I haven't read yet, I think it's called Tales of the Alhambra. Since you're going there you might want to look for it.
Liz
Liz
Hyattsville, MD USA 06/07/2007
Moldovia
Tony Hawks is a terrific writer. Not only did her write "Around Ireland with a Fridge" but even more interesting is "Playing the Moldovans at Tennis". He makes another bet and is off around the world to challenge each Moldovan soccer team member to a game of tennis. Delightful!!
Kymm <email>
Sebastopol, CA USA 06/03/2007
Spain
Besides Don Quixote, what about books on Spain? I'm going to Madrid and down south, particularly the Alhambra.
Kathy S
Washington, DC USA 06/02/2007
Books on Italy
I read "Brunelleschi's Dome" by Ross King before I went to Florence and it really added to my appreciation of Il Duomo and the baptistry doors. I also read "Michaelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling" by the same author. I read it after I visited the Sistine Chapel in Rome and I wish I had read it before my visit.
Mary Glover
Walnut Creek, CA USA 05/25/2007
Ireland - reading
for a humorous look at life in Ireland, read Round Ireland With a Fridge by Tony Hawks. This guy had a bet that he could hitchhike around Ireland with a refrigerator and he did it. It isn't a novel though, it is a true story!
Chere <email>
Kelso, Wa USA 05/19/2007
Mysteries set in Florence
Magdalen Nabb has written 13 books about Salvatore Guarnaccia a member of the Carabinieri stationed in Florence. His headquarters is in the Pitti Palace.
AC
Los Angeles, CA USA 05/10/2007
While Reading a Novel, for example
... and you read about a street called "rue du Bac"... go to Google.com, click on Images and type in "rue du Bac, Paris". You will see many pictures of those environs ... and maybe enjoy your novel even more. Keep on traveling !
psh
USA 05/07/2007
?
Does anyone know of any authors that write mysteries or suspense that take place in Florence, Italy? I am planning a trip to Venice, Florence and Rome. I have the Venice and Rome parts covered, but would like something for Florence also.
Cheryl
Bemidji, MN USA 05/04/2007
Read in London!!
Sara Douglass' Troy Game (series of 4) follows London from the dark ages right up until WW2 with a very interesting fantasy storyline. Very real characters, and landmarks mentioned often. I myself would like to visit the little church and graveyard in one of the stories =] If you like Clan of the Cave Bear, you will like these stories!
kbar <email>
Auckland, New Zealand 05/01/2007
Southwestern US
Read any of Tony Hillerman's novels for a great read and a vitual tutorial on traditional cultures (Dine and Hopi)
Kathleen
Clarkston, MI USA 04/30/2007
I dont know about you all, but for me its more fun reading certain novels after the trip. It's so cool to be able to say "I've been there!" when reading about some wonderful foreign locale.
USA 04/30/2007
Eastern Europe and France
If you are traveling through Eastern Europe (or anywhere in Europe really) I highly reccomend "The Historian" by Elisabeth Kostova. She paints wonderful portraits of Istanbul, Romania, Hungary, Budapest, Bucharest and Sophia along with some wonderful descriptions of the pyranees and Amsterdam. Plus, the story itself (a mix of historical and fictional account of the real Vlad the Impaler a.k.a. Dracula) is so engrossing that once you get into the first 5 chapters you will never put it down.
Rachelle
Seattle , WA USA 04/27/2007
Angels & Demons
It would be really cool to read Angels and Demons by Dan Brown when traveling around Italy. You could follow the story around, ndm if you're a real history buff, see if you can follow the trail and solve the clues before Langdon does. (And trust me, for those of you who hate Dan Brown, Angels and Demons is much much better than the DaVinci Code.)
anne
USA 04/26/2007
A Thousand Days in Venice
I read A Thousand Days in Venice by Marlena De Blasi just before going to Venice at Easter and LOVED it. I'd highly recommend it!
KK
Madison, WI USA 04/23/2007
France
"A Year in the Merde" and "In the Merde for Love" both by Stephen Clarke, are 2 of the most hilarious books I have ever read. Don't read on the plane or you may disturb your neighbors with constant laughing! This author also has a non-fiction book called "Talk to the Snail" that contains his more "practical" description of French people & society that is very amusing too.
BG
San Francisco, CA USA 04/20/2007
London
"Foreign Affairs" by Alison Lurie is rather topical, especially if you're going to London
Laurel
Canandaigua, New Yo USA 04/19/2007
swiss trip
La Place de la Concorde Suisse, by John Mc Phee-it is in English, despite the title, is key before a trip to Switzerland. It's all about the Swiss army.
Laurel
Canandaigua, NY USA 04/19/2007
Romantic in Rome
For all the girls, reading the very romantic "The Ruby Ring" about Raphael before my trip to Rome was an amazing way to see the city. Be sure to visit la Fornarina's house in Trastevere!
Montreal
Canada 04/17/2007
London
My bookclub recently read and loved "The Other Boleyn Girl" and "The Queen's Fool" by Philippa Gregory--read them in that order.
Mary Ann
Finksburg, MD USA 04/06/2007
Novels for Travel
If you are going to Venice, read "The City of Falling Angles" by John Berendt, the author of "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil". It gives a lot of insight into the city and society of Venice.
Ron <email>
Dalton, GA USA 04/02/2007
European mysteries
I second Joanne Silverman's recommendation of Cara Black's mystery series set in Paris. She's written seven so far featuring PI Aimee Leduc and the four I've read are wonderful. I'm saving the last three for my trip to Paris in June.
For other mystery lovers, the last time I was in Europe I got hooked on Peter Lovesey, whose books are set in Bath and London for the most part. Also, Donna Leon's, whose Commissario Brunetti solves crimes in Venice and just brings the charming Italian city to life.
Jennifer <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 03/28/2007
Bill Bryson
Anything by Bill Bryson
Natalie
Southern, ca USA 03/27/2007
Paris mystreies
Two wonderful mysteries set in Paris and written by American,Cara Black, "Murder in the Marais" and "Murder on the Ile Saint-Louis", will give the traveller a sense of Paris not likly to be gotten from guide books.
Joanne Silverman <email>
New York, NY USA 03/27/2007
Hungary - a great read
The Bridge at Andau by Michener, published just after the Hungarian uprising in 1956. I just came back from a trip thru Budapest and was given this book by a friend. I devoured it while I was there and learned lots about the sorry communist days in what is a marvellous culture. Don't miss this if you are going to Hungary. The old AVO headquarters is now a museum.
Katmanpu <email>
Altamonte Springs, FL USA 03/26/2007
Novels
Re: England, Brenda Rickman Vantrease wrote The Illuminator and most recently The Mercy Seller. Both are excellent fictional portrayals of 13th century England. Anything by Philippa Gregory, but especially The Queen's Fool, and The Other Boleyn Girl, for Henry VIII settings. Also, Margaret George's The Autobiography of Henry VIII with notes by his Fool, Will Somers. The book is as long at the title suggests. But a wonderfully complete depiction of King Henry's Court, from his youngest days until his last. Also, sitting on my bookshelf is Ken Follett's Pillars of the Earth. Have not read it yet, but plan to before I head back to UK this summer. Am told I will never look at all those cathedrals in the same way.
Laurie
NJ USA 03/19/2007
Wodehouse
Before I went to England I read "Leave it to Psmith" by P.G. Wodehouse one of a series of books set in a fictitious stately home called Blandings in Shropshire. It is the funniest of the series and has some very nice descriptions. When I was driving round the English countryside I was mentally comparing the homes that I visited to Blandings.
Ted
Sydney, Australia 03/17/2007
Paris
Anyone who has spent time at Shakespeare&Co in Paris will love "Time Was Soft There" by Canadian, Jeremy Mercer.
Joanne Silverman
New York, NY USA 03/16/2007
Venice - Gritty Suspense
Take a look at the gritty underbelly of Venice.. I very much enjoy Donna Leon's novels (15 or so) centering on the somewhat suave Police Inspector, Guido Brunetti. Chilling crime, depavity, revenge & murder. These novels (I've read 7 so far) always give a humorous view of the "pecking order" within the politics the police force, region and country; as well as the way the Venetians view themselves, their news sources, weather, rising tides, and families.
Pull out your map and follow Guido as he walks through the labyrinth of narrow streets and over the many bridges, often putting himself in danger as his investigations unfold.
Lois Schmitt
Fullerton, CA USA 03/10/2007
Tuscany/Montalcino
"Vanilla Beans and Brodo: Real Life in the Hills of Tuscany" by Isabella Dusi. This book describes the real life of the author throughout the four seasons in Montalcino. The author emigrated with her husband to Italy from Australia. The book tells of their life in Montalcino and gives wonderful insight into that town, its' lifestyle and its' history. Highly recommended before travelling to Tuscany. I'm going to Tuscany in June with my family and this has given me a good feel for the people and their customs.
Susan Weber <email>
Chicago, IL USA 03/09/2007
Renaissance Italy
i neglected to include the following since i posted several novels with the historical background of renasancce Italy-The Secret Book of Grazia dei Rossi by Jacqueline Park gives a brilliant picture of that era.
judith brautman <email>
naples, Fl. USA 03/05/2007
Renaissance Italy
THe Borgia Bride, I,Mona Lisa,both by Jeanne Kalogridis, Lucrezia Borgia by Sarah Bradford, Galileo,s Daughter by Dava Sobel
judith brautman <email>
naples, fl. USA 03/04/2007
Before you visit England
A friend who previously lived in England recommended that I read the Tudor series of novels by Philippa Gregory prior to a trip to London. I am so happy I did! The main characters are real and Gregory does a lot of research regarding the respective eras so they are 'historical fiction.' Regardless, understanding a little about King Henry VIII, Queen Mary, the Boleyn family, etc definitely added dimension when I toured the Tower of London, saw the Crown Jewels, ate dinner at Hatfield Palace, etc. Look for, "The Other Boleyn Girl," "The Queen's Fool," and "The Virgin's Lover" but start with "The Other Boleyn Girl."
Jana Wallace <email>
Grand Rapids, MI USA 03/02/2007
books, France
One of the best "travel" books for France: The Road from the Past by Ina Caro travels through French history from Provence to Paris. It connects history with sightseeing seamlessly.
Jacqueline Every
Wyckoff, NJ USA 02/26/2007
Good European Reads
When traveling trough europe, I cant recommend Bill Bryson books enough! I read Notes On a Small Island, when I was in England, and Neither Here nor There, when traveling through Europe. The best part of these books is that they are funny, intersting, and you can jump around in the book to read the chapter on the country you are in. When reading about Rome, I read out about an interesting historical site I had not seen in any guide books, and it turned out to be a highlight of the trip. He is a wonderful author, who really captures the countries he is writing in.
adventuregirl
Minneapolis, MN USA 02/24/2007
Novels for travel
On my last trip to Paris, I read "The Count of Monte Christo" by Alexandre Dumas. It is a very fun book and it was neat to imagine the luxurious world of Paris post-Napolean.
JF <email>
San Francisco, CA USA 02/20/2007
Novels for travel
Rutherfurd's novels The Princes of Ireland or The Rebels of Ireland are a wonderful read for Ireland.
Sarum or London for The British Isles.
Michener's Iberia for Spain.
Kathy
Casper, WY USA 02/20/2007
Greek travel books
I'll second the recommendation of Pat Storace's "Dinner with Persephone". I read it during my last trip to Greece. Brought some stuff to life that we wouldn't have otherwise understood or realized. I LOVE the first sentence. (No spoiler here.)
Kevin
Longmont, CO USA 02/17/2007
Novels for Travel
"Katherine" by Anya Seton for England. It's historical fiction about a common girl who ends up with the Duke of Lancaster.
Tracy <email>
NP, CA USA 02/15/2007
Sharing novels across Europe
At many small hotels or B&B's, you will find a pile (or a shelf) of English novels left by other travelers. I often take one and leave one. Since I often travel alone, and I really like to read, I can go through a lot of books in a few weeks. This way, I never have to carry more than one novel at a time. Sometimes local guidebooks are left behind, too.
Marjorie <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 02/14/2007
Atmosphere Enhancers
France: A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle; Les Miserables by Victor Hugo (or listen to the Broadway soundtrack); Le Divorce by Diane Johnson
Italy: The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco and William Weaver; A Room With a View by E. M. Forster
Spain: The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Marjorie <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 02/14/2007
A Roman Read
When I was in Italy I read Nathanial Hawthorne's The Marble Faun. A beautiful book that takes place in Rome and Tuscany,
about American ex-pat artists. It is absolutely beautiful and describes many of the places you see while in Rome.
Tami
CA USA 02/13/2007
Greece - General
An excellent book to read before (or during) travels to Greece is "Dinner with Persephone" by Patricia Storace. The author lived for a year in Athens and her insight on history, language, culture, food, etc. is fascinating and incredibly informative.
And a great resource for an amazing selection of travel-related books is Longitude Books:
http://www.longitudebooks.com/
Heather
Chicago, IL USA 02/12/2007
Pick a fun light read to distract you - esp. on plane and when going to bed...
I read a lot and fast. I also really need a book on vacations... traveling light causes a few problems with that. So, with my 3 week trip to Europe in '04, I compromised by only allowing myself ONE book, but a thick one... I ended up taking the paperback of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Took care of the late night "I can't get my brain to shut down" and totally absorbed me on the plane. I had to keep telling myself that if I finished it, I was spending my last few days in Europe in London, and would be able to find a book there.
If you are goin to go visit Paris, I also recommend Paris to the Moon by Adam Gopnik, and for a great laugh Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris.
Erica
DuPont, WA USA 02/04/2007
London
"London" by Rutherford is a massive book that I wish I'd read before going over there. It's a great historical-fictional account of that great city.
Steven Phillips <email>
Corpus Christi, TX USA 01/29/2007
Italy
I loved "A Thousand Days in Venice", followed by "A Thousand Days in Tuscany" by Marlena de Blasi. She is a food writer who married a Venetian and moved to Italy in later life. Enchanting story accompanied by recipes. Will definitely get you in the mood to travel to Italy!
Donna
San Anselmo, CA USA 01/21/2007
Paris
If you are going to Paris, a good book to read (which I currently can't put down!) is 'C'est la Vie' by Suzy Gershman. It is a true story of her move to Paris from the US, and is witty and cute and just a great read!
Ashley
Victoria, BC Canada 01/20/2007
Great book for Italy
My friend gave me "Angels and Demons" by Dan Brown (the book before DaVinci Code) when we were going to Italy in 2005. It was so cool to read about scenes occurring in Rome while we were sightseeing there. Plus, the book was very good and kept me occupied during our long trainrides between cities!
Amy
Clarksville, TN USA 01/20/2007
Novels for Travels
Sarum by Edward Rutherford is also fanatastic. It's historical fiction centered around southern England.
Julia Chambers
Rome, GA USA 01/17/2007
Good reading...
White Chocolate is a goodie. My friend wrote it, and about half the novel is set in Europe amongst glittering royalty
and nobility. Tres bien!
Carmen <email>
Winston Salem, NC USA 01/17/2007
Parisian inspiration
For a trip to Paris, Les Miserables by Hugo, Hemingway's A Moveable Feast, or Stein's The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas are inspiring, classic, and will leave you with many places you'll want to visit.
Joy <email>
Manistee, MI USA 01/14/2007
Recommended Novels
James Michener's books are excellent. Fictional charachters but historically accurate.
Laura
Netherlands 01/13/2007
A Farewell to Arms
If you are going along the Italian/Slovenian border, "A Farewell to Arms" may be in order. Hemingway writes about Gorizia, Italy and much of the fighting is in Slovenia and along the border.
Mike
La Salle, Il USA 01/09/2007
England or Cathedrals anywhere
Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett is a captivating historical novel about the building of Gothic cathedrals in 12th century England. I couldn't put it down throughout Europe and gained insight of not only cathedrals, but of the political, economic, and practical problems in building them.
Kathy <email>
Tustin, CA USA 01/08/2007
books
If you want to read something similar in style as "a year in merde" or almost french" try "cest le vie" and if your interested in a fun read about italy try "the reluctant tuscan" it is a GREAT story
Andrea
Chicago, IL USA 01/01/2007