Books to inspire travel
I love reading books. Whether it’s a young adult novel or a biography, books are a great way to escape the mundane routine of life. Here are some of my favourite books that have inspired me to travel.
In a Sunburned Country, Bill Bryson
I hate to admit it but it was an American who convinced me to explore my own backyard more than I already was. Bill Bryson’s novel In a Sunburned Country, also printed as Down Under, is a comedic travel journey into the Australian bush and outback. His stories convinced me to get in the car and getaway for the weekend more often and consider travelling home more than I had before. It’s funny and factual and tells of the real history of Australia, you know, the stuff they don’t really cover in schools.
Burial Rites, Hannah Kent
Australian author Hannah Kent’s novel based on the true story of the last woman to be executed in Iceland added fuel to the fire while I was planning my trip there. We actually visited the site and parts of Iceland where the story took place. Burial Rites is a real and pure interpretation of life in Iceland during the 19th century.
The Good People, Hannah Kent
Hannah Kent did it again with her second novel, The Good People. Based in Ireland, the story tells of a village and a local witch doctor. It’s a tale that follows the everyday lives of people who didn’t have much. The story convinced me that Ireland should really be hire up on my bucket list than it already was.
Gulliver’s Travels, Crista Bilciu
The famous tale of a man, Gulliver, who travels to remote nations around the world. The book is told in four parts and details Gulliver’s experiences while travelling. Written as a series of journal entries by Gulliver himself, it’s a book that inspires adventure and keeping a journal. A great book for the budding travel writer, or someone who needs convincing that their holiday is going to be smooth sailing.
A Song of Ice and Fire, George R.R. Martin
I know, the Game of Thrones series is already popular and the show has already convinced people to discover parts of the world. But for me, the A Song of Ice and Fire book series was one of the most influential book series I read in regards to travel. The stories take place all over the world o but they’re inspired by real destinations which, if you’re a history buff like me, you pick up on instantly.
The Bone Season, Samantha Shannon
I’ve been to England before, but Samantha Shannon’s dystopian England and Ireland have convinced me to go back. Without giving anything away, the story follows a young clairvoyant, Paige, who has to stay hidden from a world that doesn’t approve of her abilities. I went into this book not knowing a thing about it and I loved discovering the story for myself so I’ll leave that up to you as well.
What stories, shows or books have inspired you to travel? Let me know in the comments below!
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Ash
xx
