The best 24 Spain books

This book provides a firsthand account of the brutal treatment of indigenous peoples in the Americas by Spanish colonizers. Written by a Spanish priest and historian, Bartolomé de las Casas, it exposes the atrocities committed in the name of conquest and colonization, and advocates for the rights and fair treatment of the native populations. A powerful and important historical document.

A Long Petal of the Sea is a captivating novel that follows the lives of two young people, Roser and Victor, as they flee the Spanish Civil War and embark on a journey to Chile. Set against the backdrop of historical events, the book explores themes of love, resilience, and the search for a place to call home. With beautiful prose and rich storytelling, Isabel Allende brings to life a tale of survival and the enduring power of human connection.

"Lazarillo de Tormes" is a classic Spanish picaresque novel, believed to have been written in the 16th century. It tells the story of a young boy named Lazarillo who becomes a servant to various masters, each of whom mistreats him in different ways. Through his cunning and resourcefulness, Lazarillo navigates the harsh realities of his time and offers a satirical critique of the social and religious institutions of the era. The novel is considered a significant work in Spanish literature and a precursor to the modern novel.

A Parrot in the Pepper Tree is a charming memoir by Chris Stewart that takes readers on a delightful journey to the remote Andalusian mountains in Spain. Filled with humor and heartwarming anecdotes, the book chronicles Stewart's experiences as an expat, as he navigates the challenges and joys of rural life, befriends eccentric locals, and adopts a mischievous parrot. It's a captivating tale that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and the pursuit of a life less ordinary.

All Souls by Deborah Harkness is a captivating tale that intertwines history, magic, and romance. When historian Diana Bishop discovers an enchanted manuscript, she is thrust into a world of witches, vampires, and daemons. As she navigates this dangerous and alluring realm, she must unlock the secrets of her own past and embrace her true powers. This spellbinding novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

All This I Will Give to You by Dolores Redondo is a gripping mystery novel that delves into the dark secrets of a wealthy family in Spain. When novelist Manuel Ortigosa learns that his husband has died and left everything to a stranger, he sets out to uncover the truth. As he delves deeper into his husband's past, he uncovers a web of lies, betrayal, and a family willing to do anything to protect their legacy. This thought-provoking book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Death in the Afternoon is a non-fiction book by Ernest Hemingway that delves into the world of bullfighting. Hemingway explores the history, traditions, and the artistry of bullfighting, while also reflecting on themes such as courage, fear, and the nature of life and death. Through his vivid descriptions and personal insights, Hemingway offers a unique perspective on this controversial spectacle.

El tiempo entre costuras es una novela de María Dueñas que nos transporta a la España de los años treinta. A través de la historia de Sira, una joven modista que se ve envuelta en el mundo del espionaje durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial, la autora nos sumerge en un relato apasionante lleno de intriga, romance y valentía. Con una prosa envolvente, nos lleva a recorrer distintos escenarios y nos hace reflexionar sobre el poder de la determinación y la capacidad de reinventarnos en tiempos difíciles.

Guernica by Dave Boling is a historical novel set during the Spanish Civil War. The story revolves around the lives of the people in the Basque town of Guernica, depicting the devastating impact of war on families and communities. Through rich storytelling and compelling characters, the book explores themes of resilience, love, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Hot Milk by Deborah Levy is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of family relationships, identity, and self-discovery. Set in the sun-drenched coast of Spain, it follows the story of Sofia, who accompanies her mother Rose in search of a cure for her mysterious illness. As their journey unfolds, secrets and truths come to light, challenging their perceptions of each other and themselves. With beautifully crafted prose, Levy explores the power dynamics between mother and daughter, and the quest for independence and understanding.

Incantation by Alice Hoffman is a captivating novel set during the Spanish Inquisition. It tells the story of a young girl named Estrella, who discovers dark family secrets that force her to question her identity and beliefs. As she navigates the dangerous political and religious landscape of 16th-century Spain, Estrella must find the courage to stand up for what she knows is right. Hoffman weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

Isabella by Kirstin Downey is a captivating biography that delves into the life of Isabella of Castile, one of the most powerful and influential monarchs in history. From her tumultuous childhood to her reign as queen, Downey paints a vivid picture of a woman who defied societal norms and left an indelible mark on the world. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book offers a fresh perspective on this remarkable figure and her enduring legacy.

Jo confesso és una novel·la complexa i absorbent que ens transporta a través de diferents èpoques i llocs, explorant temes com la memòria, la culpabilitat i el poder de la música. A través dels relats entrelaçats dels seus personatges, l’autor ens convida a reflexionar sobre les conseqüències de les nostres accions i les intricades connexions que uneixen les nostres vides.

La mano de Fátima es una novela histórica escrita por Ildefonso Falcones que nos transporta al siglo XVI en la España musulmana. A través de la vida de un joven morisco llamado Hernando, la historia nos sumerge en un mundo de conflictos religiosos, luchas por la libertad y la búsqueda de identidad. Con una narrativa apasionante, el autor nos lleva a explorar temas como la tolerancia, el amor y la valentía en medio de un contexto histórico fascinante.

La casa de Bernarda Alba is a play written by Federico Garcia Lorca. Set in a small village in Spain, it tells the story of a controlling matriarch, Bernarda Alba, and her five daughters. The play explores themes of repression, desire, and societal expectations, offering a powerful critique of the traditional gender roles and the constraints they impose on women.

Leaving the Atocha Station by Ben Lerner is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the mind of a young poet named Adam as he navigates life in Madrid. Filled with introspection and existential musings, the book explores themes of art, authenticity, and the search for meaning in a world filled with uncertainty.

Romancero gitano (Gypsy Ballads) is a collection of poems by the renowned Spanish poet Federico García Lorca. Published in 1928, the book delves into themes of love, death, and the struggle for freedom, drawing inspiration from the folklore and traditions of the Andalusian gypsies. With its lyrical language and evocative imagery, it has captivated readers and remains a classic of Spanish literature.

Spain in Our Hearts by Adam Hochschild is a gripping account of the Spanish Civil War, weaving together the stories of both ordinary individuals and famous figures who were caught up in the conflict. Through personal letters, diaries, and interviews, Hochschild brings to life the passion, sacrifice, and idealism of those who fought for their beliefs. It is a poignant reminder of the power of solidarity and the enduring legacy of a war that still resonates today.

The Basque History of the World by Mark Kurlansky explores the unique and fascinating history of the Basque people. From their ancient origins to their modern-day struggles for independence, Kurlansky delves into the rich cultural heritage, language, and traditions of this enigmatic community. Through engaging storytelling and meticulous research, the book offers a comprehensive account of the Basques and their enduring impact on the world.

The Muse by Jessie Burton is a captivating historical fiction novel that weaves together two interconnected stories set in different time periods. It explores the lives of two women, one in 1960s London and the other in 1930s Spain, both of whom are linked by a mysterious painting. Filled with secrets, art, and the power of creativity, this book delves into themes of identity, ambition, and the complexities of female relationships.

The Sisterhood by Helen Bryan is a gripping tale of secrets, sisterhood, and survival. Set in two different time periods, the novel weaves together the stories of two sets of sisters who are bound by a dark family secret. As they navigate love, loss, and betrayal, they uncover the truth about their heritage and the powerful bond that connects them.

The Spanish Holocaust by Paul Preston delves into the brutal and often overlooked history of the Spanish Civil War. Through extensive research and firsthand accounts, Preston uncovers the widespread violence, mass executions, and atrocities committed by both sides of the conflict. This eye-opening book challenges our understanding of this dark chapter in Spain's history.

Winter in Madrid is a historical fiction novel by C. J. Sansom. Set in the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War, the story follows the lives of three men who find themselves intertwined in a web of betrayal, espionage, and love. With vivid descriptions and compelling characters, the book offers a gripping portrayal of a dark and tumultuous period in history.

Driving Over Lemons is a delightful memoir by Chris Stewart that chronicles his move from England to a remote farm in Andalucía, Spain. Filled with humor and warmth, the book offers a unique glimpse into the challenges and joys of rural life, as Stewart learns to navigate the unfamiliar terrain and build a new life in the Spanish countryside.