Five Books from Around the World to Help You Celebrate a Love of Reading!
International Literacy Day is coming up on September 8th. It’s the perfect time to celebrate the profound impact books have on our lives and the lives of all people all over the world. To celebrate in my own way, I’m excited to share with you some of my favorite books of all time set in locations around the world. I hope you find a new book you love that transports you to a place you’ve never been.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Location: France
Why You’ll Love It: Set against the backdrop of World War II, this beautifully written novel weaves together the lives of a blind French girl and a German boy, illustrating the power of human connection amidst the chaos of war. This book held me until the very last page and still hasn’t let me go.
Click here to buy it.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Location: Afghanistan
Why You’ll Love It: This profoundly impactful novel delves into themes of friendship and betrayal, loss and love, all set against the backdrop of the rise of the Taliban. I have never read a book that helped me understand better the power of redemption and forgiveness. It’s beautiful and heartbreaking and so so good.
Click here to buy it.
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
Location: Japan
Why You’ll Love It: Immerse yourself in the world of geishas in pre-World War II Japan, as a young girl’s journey unfolds from poverty to becoming a renowned geisha, offering an intimate glimpse into a unique cultural tradition. I loved this book because of how it explores complex relationships, but it’s the love story that I still remember so clearly even after 20 years.
Click here to buy it.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
Location: Sweden
Why You’ll Love It: This gripping thriller keeps you on the edge of your seat and features a strong female protagonist: the complex and enigmatic Lisbeth Salander. I devoured this incredible page-turner and enjoyed the two sequels as well. A must read for mystery and suspense lovers.
Click here to buy it.
When We Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O'Neal
Location: United States and New Zealand
Why You’ll Love It: This emotionally-charged novel follows a woman’s quest to unravel family secrets and discover the truth about her sister’s supposed death, offering a journey of healing, redemption, and sisterhood. It’s an easy read with depth and heart, and it’s free on Kindle Unlimited!
Click here to buy it.
International Literacy Day is a time to celebrate the diversity of voices and stories from around the world. These books, each representing a different part of the globe, offer unique perspectives and fascinating characters. Dive into these literary adventures, and let them enrich your soul while expanding your understanding of the world. Happy International Literacy Day!
For more great books, check out:
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