It doesn’t matter if you’re on your way to work, to the coast or to a town lost on the map. Here are seven books to help you travel without leaving your minibus seat. A mix of addictive stories, curious essays and intense emotions. And yes, some of them come from France, which also has a lot to read in French.
- ‘The shop assistant’ – Sayaka Murata
A seemingly simple story about a woman who works in a shop, but which dismantles many clichés. Fresh, quick to read, perfect for short journeys. - ‘Little Beautiful Things’ – Cheryl Strayed
Advice columns that are actually life lessons. A comforting and very human read. Ideal if you need a little tenderness this summer. - ‘The Map and the Territory’ – Michel Houellebecq
A journey through the world of art, fame and modern emptiness. Ironic, uncomfortable, brilliant. Houellebecq at his purest. - ‘Sapiens’ – Yuval Noah Harari
An essay that reads like a novel. History, science, curiosities… and a great desire to tell your travelling companion about it. - ‘Nothing opposes the night’ – Delphine de Vigan
A French author who opens up to tell the story of her mother’s life. Tough and beautiful at the same time. One of those books that stays with you. - ‘Rewind’ – Juan Tallón
A novel about an exploding building in Lyon (yes, in France) and what that changes in the lives of several young people. Sensitively written. - ‘La ridícula idea de no volver a verte’ (The Ridiculous Idea of Never Seeing You Again) – Rosa Montero
Emotional biography, essay on Marie Curie, personal mourning… all at once and very well written. A book that touches the heartstrings.