Explore Valencia Through Books

Before you ever set foot in Valencia, you have endless opportunities to explore its architecture, history and vibe through literature. No matter what genre you’re interested in, I guarantee there are stories ready to take you through the magic streets of Valencia.

Once you’ve internalized the stories, there’s a good chance you’ll have the desire to spend a week or even a semester in this coastal city. Learning about Spanish cities and their rich cultures will complement your Spanish studies! Here, we’ll show you a few books to check out.

Books in English

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If you’re in the mood to relax and enjoy a story in English, we have recommendations for you. We get it— sometimes you want to read in the language you’re learning, but sometimes you want to understand the plot easily without having to study so hard. If that’s the case, here are some great options written in English.

1. The Perfume Garden by Kate Lord Brown

Fans of historical fiction will love this journey through Spain in 1936. Explore a forgotten house full of secrets from a dark time in Spanish history. Who doesn’t love a good story of lost love and a hidden past?

2. Or The Bull Kills You by Jason Webster

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If you like this one then you’re in luck because it’s the first book of the Chief Inspector Max Cámara series. If murder mystery novels are more your style, you’ll be captivated by Webster’s thrilling narration. The famous matador is dead, and it’s up to inspector Max Cámara to figure out whodunnit.

Explore Valencia Through Books in Spanish

Naturally, there are tons of books in Spanish about Valencia. Writers write about what they know, and plenty of Spanish authors know Valencia!

1. Cañas y barro by Vicente Blasco Ibáñez

Considered to be one of the top 100 books of the 20th century, this novel introduces the audience to the gorgeous Albufuera de Valencia, a famous lake and popular tourist destination. Since it’s a little older, you’ll want to keep a dictionary on hand to help with more challenging and uncommon words. It’s a great way to improve your vocabulary while transporting yourself to a new place and time.

2. Cuentos Valencianos by Vicente Blasco Ibáñez

As the title suggests, this is a collection of 12 short stories about Valencia by the same author as Cañas y barro. These are great if you want shorter pieces to practice your reading comprehension skills.

3. Despiértame cuando acabe septiembre by Mónica Rouanet

Rouanet takes us back to the Albufuera, only this time, something terrible has occurred. A body has surfaced in the lake. Follow Ámparo as she learns not just about the murder, but also revelations in her own marriage and family.

I hope one (or all!) of these books speaks to you and shows you the genuine beauty of Valencia. There are plenty more where these came from!