Spend a semester living in Europe (and traveling all around) but read these books first to get prepared.
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These books will help you have a deeper appreciation and understanding of the country you are exploring — just know that this list is no where near complete (there are tons and tons of books out there, it's hard to narrow it down).
Oh and another perk just for you? This post has affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link, we earn a small commission). Just know that we only share products that we ourselves have used and loved, that other volunteers have recommended, or that we think just look like they'd be pretty useful!
The Three Golden Keys
This book is pure magic; the art work is incredibly and gave me my first taste of Prague (which had me obsessed). It is a quick picture book read, but a picture book you'll really appreciate.
In this book, you follow an air balloonists as he gets caught in a wind storm and find himself back in his hometown of Prague. He walks through the windy streets and ends up at his childhood home which is locked off with three big locks. The rest of the book shares how he follows a black cat through the city searching for the keys. You will definitely need to plan a trip to Prague after this read!
Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl
You've likely already heard of this book ‚ it's so well known for good reason. This book is a diary of 13 year old Anne Frank. Anne, a Jewish Girl living in a German-occupied Holland is faced with many hardships during the Nazi reign. This leads her and her family into hiding where they lived for two years in small, uncomfortable living quarters.
Anne Frank's story is incredibly raw and real because her thoughts are documented while the events are actually happening to her. It is amazing!
Make sure to check out the Anne Frank House if you are visiting Amsterdam!
A Tale Of Two Cities
A classic by Charles Dickens. A Tale of Two Cities is set in London and Paris, before and after the revolutionary war. This book really paints a picture of what life would have been like during that time and helps you visualize it vividly. It's a great read if you know you'll be visiting this part of the world and is really rich in history. Oh and we've got you covered with guides to help you plan your trip to Paris and to London.
Von Trapp Family Singers
This is a memoir written by Maria von Trapp and you will learn a lot more about the family and their experience than you will in the musical, "The Sound Of Music"
Maria starts working for the Von Trapps while deciding if she should become a nun. She falls in love with the children and eventually with their father (spoiler!). The family ends up fleeing from Austria so the father does not have to be a commander in the German army. Read the book, and while you're at it watch the movie; it's a classic you can't miss!
You can take Sound of Music Tours in Austria where you will learn more about the Von Trapps and visit places from the musical.
The Romanov Sisters
So much of Europe is influenced by Russia, and the Romanov story is one of the most captivating from that country's history. Written meticulously by Helen Rappaport, the author gives a hidden glimpse into the lives of the four Romanov sisters. Starting with a bit of family background then delving into the day-to-day life of the last family of the Russian Tzars, it's a must read for anyone who wants an in-depth look at this famous family.
Mastering the Art of Soviet Cooking: A Memoir of Food and Longing
Another one you may want to read because of the food you may be eating while in Russia. A memoir of food and longing, this novel outlines the lives of several Russian women, and tells the history along the way. Born in Russia but moved to the USA as a child, the author Anya von Bremzen tells her relationship with several different forms of Russia through food and family. Her mother and grandmother cooks and tell tales of the country they grew up in under political repression.
The Boy In The Striped Pajamas
A heart wrencher, but oh so good. Oh and there's also a movie you can check it too (at the time of this post, the movie is free with your Netflix subscription).
So what's it about? Bruno is a young boy who's family moves from Germany to Poland because his father is a Nazi Commander. When arriving to their new home in Poland, Bruno quickly realizes that where he lives is a very different place, which is surrounded by a large metal fence. This fence is the Auschwitz Concentration Camp.
Bruno becomes friends with a boy on the other side of the fence and trying to be brave and helpful climbs through the fence to be with his friend on the other side. I won't tell you the ending of the book, because you really should read it! But, like I said it is a real up-close look into Auschwitz.
I went to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau while I was volunteering in Europe with ILP and highly, highly recommend it.
You could take a trip to Europe, but how do you see it all?
Even volunteering in Europe for one semester doesn't mean you get to see everything...but you definitely get to pack in so much more than a quick trip! Many volunteers are able to explore 10 countries (or more!) while volunteering with ILP in Europe, let alone getting to really experience the culture in their own home country.
Have questions about volunteering abroad for a semester with ILP? Click the button below to get some of those common ones answered!
