A Journey Without Leaving: 4 Books that Will Stimulate Your Wanderlust

Whether you grew up avoiding long books or as a bookworm dreaming up each new place you read about, nothing quite compares to actually seeing new destinations with your own eyes. While we can’t always make the excursion to someplace new, a great book has the magical power of transporting you to new cities and provides the opportunity to learn about different cultures from the comfort of your home, local coffee shop or bus ride. A great book can spark your curiosity and desire for self-discovery and exploration. Below you’ll find four books that are all very different, but will spark the desire for adventure in even the most reluctant traveler.

A Fortune-Teller Told Me: Earthbound Travels in the Far East

Tiziano Terzani

This novel takes a unique perspective of the changing way of life in many developing Asian countries. Terzani, an Italian Journalist, travels exclusively by ground to connect with people and understand how globalization and economic development have radically changed day-to-day life, often not for the better. This book is a must-read for students interested in economic development and its impact, good and bad, on the people who experience it first-hand.

Americanah

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Americanah, a Nigerian word used to describe an expat returning home, is a fictional novel about sweethearts that are separated by continents during a very difficult time in their lives. Seen through the eyes of a Nigerian woman that has moved to the United States, Americanah is an unflinching look into how America can be simultaneously, a land of great opportunity and of great difficulty for newcomers to its shores.

In Other Words

Jhumpa Lahiri

In Other Words is a very introspective, and sometimes abstract, look at how language impacts our identity. Lahiri is Indian-American and has developed a cultural perspective that is unique and challenges readers to grow. Sharing with readers how learning Italian stretched her, not only intellectually, but also emotionally, Lahiri’s book will take you on a journey of self-exploration.

The Geography of Bliss: One Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World

Eric Weiner

As an international correspondent for NPR, Eric Weiner was used to hearing, and reporting, the worst news at any given time. This book is his journey to find what makes people happy. As he wrestles with deciding if he himself is happy, Weiner discovers that what makes us happy, despite our cultural, and political barriers, is often more alike than we admit. This is an awesome book for students who are curious about how happy they would be in living in a new country.

Have you read a book that has inspired your wanderlust? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Author: Byron Francis