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It’s always a great time to escape with a good book. But when the cold winds begin to blow I find myself looking for a story to draw me in and really take me away. It’s a hallmark of a good book, I think, when you continue to think about a story and the characters long after the last page is read. And I found that with each of these international stories.
Favorite International Books:
A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Child Soldier
(Sierra Leone) A gripping, heart wrenching true story and so well done. This is Ishmael Beah’s first-hand account of his childhood in war-torn Sierra Leone. First on the run for survival and then being turned into a child soldier. You have to keep reminding yourself he had to have made it out to write this amazing story.
Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight: An African Childhood
(Rhodesia/Malawi/Zambia) Born in England, Alexandra Fuller grew up in in Africa. Her parents were unconventional to say the least. She is able to write about them without judgement but with brutal honesty. She learned to depend on herself in a land that can be harsh (think snakes, hippos, disease). But what also comes across is her love for Africa and you will feel like you are there with her.
A Fine Balance
(India) An epic, sweeping story of the human condition under extreme circumstances. It is 1975 India, “The Emergency” is declared by the government which gives them sweeping powers amid unrest. A feisty widow, a young student and two tailors find themselves living under the same roof amid all the country’s upheaval. How they navigate through turbulent times and their strength of spirit will touch your heart.
The Lowland
(India) I love Jhumpa Lahiri novels. I’ve read several of her books and would recommend any of them but her newest may be my favorite. The Lowland is the story of a family in India, two very different brothers, a brilliant woman, a country in unrest and a move to America. The story spans decades and her characters unforgettable.
Stolen Lives
(Morocco) Another memoir, this is the true life tale of Malika Oufkir. Adopted by the king as a young child, her life of luxury soon turns to fear, deprivation and imprisonment after an assasination. After many years spent in a desert prison this is the story of her escape and survival.
The Kite Runner
(Afghanistan) I simply couldn’t create a list like this without including The Kite Runner. It is such a powerful story and one of my favorite books of all time. I hope you’ve read it and loved it. It’s a story of family, love, betrayal, violence and possible atonement. It’s a glimpse at the beauty that once existed in Afghanistan and the depth of a friendship.
I hope if you’ve read some of these and liked them, you’ll give the rest a try. A powerful story, unforgettable characters and an exotic setting make for a great escape. Any recommendations for me? Let me know below.
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