Books by Native American authors offer insights into the histories, cultures, and contemporary realities of Indigenous peoples across the Americas. From fiction that weaves together cultural myths and modern narratives to deeply personal non-fiction that explores identity, history, and resilience, these works represent a critical and growing body of literature.
From the harrowing realities of war to the quiet beauty of everyday life, packing a couple of these books about Vietnam in your suitcase for your trip offers a window into this unique nation.
Laos is one of favourite countries in the world. I first travelled to Laos for just a week, as part of a wider Southeast Asia backpacking trip, but quickly realised I had not left myself nearly enough time in this beautiful place. I returned to Luang Prabang a few years later (it was just as magical as I remembered!) and
I’ve been exploring some of France this summer; attending the Paris Olympics, spending a month in the French Riviera, and… well… watching the latest season of Emily in Paris. So, I’ve needed some books set in France to add to my to-read list.
I spent 4 months in Mexico, had some incredible and harrowing experiences (and ate more tacos al pastor than I could count), yet always felt like I barely even scratched the surface. I also had some dark days in Mexico, which was apt because it’s a place that doesn’t shy away from the dark. With this in mind, the following
Italy has a special place in my heart and it’s never a bad idea to take a trip there. I’ve spent more than a year living in Italy in total, but when I can’t be there, I love to be transported back through books set in Italy.
I’ve been living in Bangkok for two years and it’s taken me just as long to compile this list of the best books about Thailand. Why? Because I didn’t want it to be weighted toward novels set in Thailand by predominantly white, Western authors, yet great Thai literature that resonates in English and is available in good translation is hard
The best of both worlds (that is, physical journeys and those undertaken through chapters) can be found in travel books about social isolation – a bit of an oxymoron, but nonetheless a relatable one during these “uncertain times.” Some are intrepid tales of solo adventures, while others are impressive feats of survival. Some of the examples of isolation are voluntary
So, I recently made Southeast Asia my home by officially moving to Bangkok! I’ve celebrated in the only way I know how – adding the best books about Southeast Asia to my ever-growing reading wish list and further expanding on my knowledge of Asian literature. Here, I’m recommending one novel set in each country in Southeast Asia (available in English)
When I read Haruki Murakami’s Norwegian Wood during a trip to Japan, both the trip and the book sparked a fascination with Japanese novels that has stayed with me ever since. This list was meant to be a top five, but I simply couldn’t choose! So instead, here are 11 great Japanese writers and the their books, available in English,