5 book tips to learn more about other cultures around the world

Traveling is one of the most enjoyable activities there is, of that we have no doubt. Exploring new places, new customs, and meeting new people broadens horizons and opens the mind at all ages. Besides going to the places in person, movies and books also help to acquire knowledge about other cultures. We have selected below suggestions of five titles to explore the world through reading. Have a nice trip!

1) For All Eternity - Caitlin Doughty (2017)

Funeral director, writer and youtuber Caitlin Doughty describes in her documentary book her forays to various parts of the world seeking to understand how some cultures view death and perform funeral rites - from the classic wreath to ancient rituals. The result is an enjoyable read, despite the difficult topic, with sensitive and even amusing approaches to the subject.  

2) Pray For the Stolen Women - Jennifer Clement (2015)

A sad portrait of the reality of women in the violent Mexican region of Guerrero, the book tells the story of the girl Ladydi, who at the age of 11 witnesses the theft of her best friend for the harem of young slaves of a local drug lord. 

3) The Distance Between Us - Thrity Umrigar (2005)

The novel situates the reader in relation to the inequalities of Indian society, showing how political, religious, and economic forces act on the lives of women in India according to their social class.

4) One of Us - Asne Seierstad (2013)

A true portrait of the new European extremism, the book by the renowned Norwegian writer and journalist Asne Seierstad sets out to investigate Anders Breivik, responsible for the largest massacre in Norway in peacetime. The attacks occurred in 2011. 

5) Voices from Chernobyl - Svetlana Aleksiévitch (1997)

The author, through the voices of widows, affected workers, scientists still weakened by the experience, soldiers, and people, constructs the book with scenes about the tragic accident in Chernobyl and how the local society has been trying to get back on its feet since then.