Before embarking on your Colombian adventure, or even after you've returned, enrich your experience by delving into these captivating reads that capture the essence of this vibrant nation. From gripping tales of history and culture to intimate memoirs and spellbinding novels, these five books offer a deeper understanding of Colombia's complexities and allure. Whether you're seeking inspiration, insight, or simply a journey through words, these literary treasures are essential companions for any traveller exploring the magic of Colombia.
It is probably the most important work of Hispano-American literature of the 20th century and is the ultimate exponent of magical realism, which envelops the landscapes of Colombia.
Written by Nobel Prize winner Gabriel García Márquez, inspired by his hometown of Aracataca, Magdalena, and Colombian culture, it vividly tells the story of the Buendía family since the patriarch José Arcadio Buendía founded the imaginary village of Macondo.
This book was the first Colombian novel translated into more than ten languages and is a classic of Spanish-language literature.
Jorge Isaacs narrates the love story between Efraín and María while describing the landscapes of Valle del Cauca, the stories of enslaved African princes, and the studies of Colombian high society in 19th-century Europe.
This story is so important in Colombia that the 50,000COP bill features a paragraph from the book.
In modern Colombia, in today's Bogotá, Mario Mendoza describes the everyday violence that occurs in a major city. He intertwines the stories of Maria, Ernesto, and Andrés with the story of an exterminating angel, Campo Elías, a Vietnam War veteran who murdered nearly 30 people.
Campo Elias's internal debate about good and evil, showing poignant scenes that blend with others of stark violence, leads us to debate the evil inherent in the routine of living.
José Saramago said, "Delirium is an expression of everything that Colombia has that is fascinating, and even terribly fascinating. And when the level of writing reaches where Laura Restrepo has taken it, one must take off one's hat."
A man returns home after a short business trip to find that his wife has gone completely insane, and embarks on an investigative journey into the depths of her mind to help her.
Reading this book and travelling is not just an intellectual endeavour; it is a vital experience, like listening to the wind in the trees, like studying roses or muscles, like learning to fly kites.
Fernando González narrates his journey, on foot, to get away.
This is a story about distance, about the separation experienced and desired by the author, to find a new life, because "walking is always to seek horizons."
These captivating books offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Colombian culture, history, and human experience. From the magical realism of Gabriel García Márquez to the raw portrayal of everyday life by Mario Mendoza, and the introspective journey of Fernando González, each literary work transports readers on a profound exploration of Colombia's essence.
As you immerse yourself in these pages, you not only gain insight into the complexities of Colombian society but also embark on a personal journey of discovery and understanding. Whether you're planning a trip to Colombia or simply seeking to broaden your literary horizons, these books are sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.
So, grab a copy, dive into these literary treasures, and let them accompany you on your own voyage of exploration and enlightenment. Let these books be your passport to the wonders of Colombia and beyond.
Happy reading!
Ale
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