Books To Read To Make You Feel Like You're Traveling

In "Next Year in Havana," Chanel Cleeton explores deep-seated emotions wrapped in the vibrant setting of Cuba during different timelines—1958 and 2017. The narrative follows Elisa Perez, part of Cuba’s high social strata, falling for a revolutionary’s ideals during a time of political unrest and Marisol Ferrera in modern times, unraveling family secrets against the compelling Havana backdrop. With a HELLO SUNSHINE x REESE WITHERSPOON endorsement, the book provides an exploration of identity and heritage. Learn more

Lola Shoneyin's "The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives" is a vivid portrayal of polygamous family life in Nigeria. The novel, filled with colorful personalities and sensational domestic revelations, follows Baba Segi and his four wives, intricately unraveling the secret behind their layered lives and challenges traditional wisdom with modern narrative strokes. Discover more

Kevin Kwan’s "Crazy Rich Asians" offers a delectable romp into the lives of Singapore’s elite. Through the eyes of Rachel Chu, exposed to unprecedented affluence and intrigue, the novel humorously critiques social class obsessions, promoting hilarity with the opulence of wealth. Explore further

Beatriz Williams’ "The Golden Hour" is a thrilling dive into espionage and scandal during the Windsor-era Bahamas. It meticulously intertwines historical facts with gripping fiction, focusing on the universe shaped around the Duke and Duchess of Windsor amidst World War II's exotic backdrop. Read more

Bill Bryson's "Down Under" is a captivating exploration of Australia, juxtaposing the natural perils with humorous narratives about the country’s charm and peculiarity. It's a delightful travelogue that reinforces Australia's untamed beauty and the wit of its people. Explore Australia

Gabriel García Márquez’s "One Hundred Years of Solitude" is an essential literary journey into the magical realism genre. Chronicling the Buendía family over generations, it provides a mythical view of Latin American history, intertwining reality and the metaphysical. Dive into the myth

"From Scratch" by Tembi Locke is an evocative memoir of love and loss set against the lush backdrop of Sicily. As heartwarming as it is heart-wrenching, the book explores cross-cultural romance and family dynamics, leading readers through a personal culinary journey. Learn more

Alex George’s "The Paris Hours" elegantly intertwines the personal stories of four individuals seeking redemption, love, and lost time within a single day in 1927 Paris. Rich with historical texture, it offers a glimpse into the City of Light's vibrant interwar period. Explore further

Emily X.R. Pan's "The Astonishing Color of After" follows Leigh, who believes her deceased mother has turned into a bird, on a journey to Taiwan. It beautifully parallels grief with a vibrant cultural exploration, filled with magical realism elements. Uncover more

Mary Ann Shaffer's "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" is a poignant epistolary novel about the power of connection and storytelling in post-World War II Guernsey. Capturing the reader’s heart with its charm, it explores the kindness and resilience born during hard times. Read further

In "The Year of Living Danishly," Helen Russell dives into Denmark’s way of life to uncover the secrets of its highly rated happiness levels. It is an insightful look at how embracing Danish culture in facets like work-life balance and hygge might be relevant for readers seeking contentment. Discover happiness

Taylor Jenkins Reid’s "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" intertwines intrigue, glamour, and heartache as it reveals the life story of an indomitable 1950s Hollywood actress. Unafraid to touch on real human emotions and ambition, it reveals secrets layered within its elegant Hollywood setting. Read on

Mohsin Hamid's "Exit West" exquisitely renders the reality of migration and conflict through a magical realism lens. Exploring the romance and courage of Nadia and Saeed, it enables readers to enter doors into unknown lands, reflecting on personal and societal change. Navigate the unknown

Julia Child’s "My Life in France" tells a delightful narrative of her culinary awakening in France. With her passion for food and teaching, the memoir chronicles the spirited journey of a now-iconic chef whose influence reshaped American cuisine. Delve into culinary history

Strange Weather in Tokyo by Hiromi Kawakami beautifully unfolds an unexpected romance between Tsukiko and her former teacher, layered with gentle nuances of Japanese culture. Set against Tokyo's seasons, it is an immersive tale of companionship and love beyond conventional bounds. Experience Tokyo

Amy Liptrot’s memoir, "The Outrun," offers a raw and compelling narrative of recovery and reconnection with nature, as she returns to her rural roots in Orkney after battling addiction. It combines vivid landscape imagery with an intimate reflection on personal struggle and renewal. Find out more

"The Far Field" by Madhuri Vijay takes the reader from bustling Bangalore to the controversial yet beautiful terrains of Kashmir, exploring themes of cultural and personal discovery with a delicate inquiry into human consciousness and lingering political tensions. Journey through Kashmir

Jess Walter's "Beautiful Ruins" deftly intertwines narratives across time and space, from 1962 Italy to contemporary Hollywood. It is a panoramic look at dreams, ambition, and chance encounters that define and transform lives, painting not just a romantic story but a vibrant tapestry of human interactions. Explore the tale

Laura Esquivel’s "Like Water for Chocolate" offers a spellbinding blend of love, tradition, and culinary art as it delves into the passionate, and oftentimes bittersweet life of Tita De la Garza. Set in early 20th-century Mexico, each chapter comes with a delicious recipe that ties into the emotional narrative. Savor the story