National Novel Writing Month

Last updated on June 28th, 2023 at 10:56 am

Prefer Reading to Writing?

You probably have a whole list of places you wish to visit – deciding which city to wander through next is never a problem  – but choosing the next book to get lost in often is!

We’ve put together a reading list that’ll take you through Europe. Each recommendation is either set in or written by an author of that country. Europe is now only a tale away!

This Lockdown Why Not Read Your Way Through Europe?

France – Gigi by Colette

Surrounded by those who only value money and prestige above all else, how is a girl able to stay true to herself? Find out in this classic coming of age story.

Belgium – The Man Who Watched Trains Go by Georges Simenon

A simple man with a simple life, enjoy each passing day as a devoted family man and husband. One day his life takes a dramatic turn after discovering his boss is bankrupt. Before he had watched impassively as the trains swept by on his way to and from work, now he catches the first one out of town and commits murder before the night is out.

Italy – Sun, Moon & Talia by Giambattista Basile

The classic fairy tale of the sleeping beauty. The story originates in Italy in 1634, before being widely retold in various forms around the world. Although you may think you know what happens, the original tale is told in a way you’ve never heard before!

United Kingdom – Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger

A captivating story about sisterhood, secrets interwoven with the woes of love and identity. Two American teenagers discover London after inheriting an apartment which overlooks Highgate cemetery. Understand the tenacity of life, even after death, through their eyes.

Poland – Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris

Tells the story of how Slovakian Jew, Lali Sokolov, fell in love with a girl he was tattooing at the concentration camp. What makes the story so heart- wrenching is that it is based on a true story of two lovers who lived within the camp.

Spain – The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

An antiquarian book dealer’s son finds a mysterious volume written by a mysterious Julián Carax. He soon discovers that all copies that remain of the book are being systematically destroyed.

Inspire Your Reading Journey Further This Lockdown

With plenty of extra time on our hands this lockdown, it’s no surprise that many of us have turned to books as a way to keep ourselves entertained. Although 2020 has had its downsides, it has on the upside made us all get that little be more creative and has allowed us to enjoy the creativity of others. So, to help inspire your reading list further this lockdown, we’ve put together a  list of 2020 lockdown reads.