I have always loved reading. When I was young, I mostly read fantasy – tales of dragons, knights, feisty princesses, and evil sorcerers. My tastes morphed into the science fiction genre – generation ships, aliens, far away planets with exotic ecosystems and cultures. Now I read more broadly – everything ranging from poetry to non-fiction, touted classics, and self-help to chick lit! Reading is a powerful way to explore the world from our homes. I’ve actually heard it referred to as “armchair traveling.”

Many books beautifully capture the essence of a location, providing a strong sense of place, the distinct and unique quality of certain locations and regions. Through travel and literature, it’s possible to develop a deep affinity and attachment for certain locales. Through the immersive experience of the written word and a strong sense of place, we can explore a city or country long before we go there and long after we’ve left.

I truly think that some of my desire to travel came from reading about different places, cultures, and history. I remember wanting to travel to England after reading Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Her books brought to life England’s landed gentry and graceful country houses. M.M. Kaye’s historical romance Shadow of the Moon traces the Sepoy Mutiny, a failed rebellion that took place in India under the British Raj. Her words conjure palace gardens, lush jungles, and the sounds of tropical birds. 

You might also find it fascinating to read a location based book while you’re traveling in the same locale. What would it be like to explore the ruins of Uxmal and Chichen Itza during the day, and read Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s novel Gods of Jade and Silver, evoking memories of the jungle ruins, at night? I don’t know about you, but I get excited when I realize I’ve been in the same place as the characters in my book!

Some of the places I’ve seen are so amazing I can’t bear to leave them behind completely. Once I’m home, location based books and books with a strong sense of place help me recall travel memories and recapture some of the magic I felt when I was there. 

These book recommendations are meant to capture the heart of the places I’ve traveled. I hope you enjoy them!