European Reads: 5 Great Books for Teenagers

🇫🇷 A Moveable Feast (Young Readers Edition) by Ernest Hemingway 

Setting: Paris, France 

This adaptation of Hemingway's memoir introduces readers to life in Paris during the 1920s. Through his stories, we meet artists, writers and musicians who made the city famous. The book captures the cafés, streets and creative atmosphere of the French capital. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Parisian culture and history. 

🇪🇸 The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway 

Setting: Pamplona, Spain 

A group of friends travel across Spain, experiencing the famous San Fermín festival and its running of the bulls. Along the way, readers encounter Spanish traditions, landscapes and local culture. The novel paints a vivid picture of northern Spain in the 1920s. Best suited to older teenagers. 

🇮🇹 The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke 

Setting: Venice, Italy 

Two runaway brothers find refuge in Venice with a mysterious boy known as the Thief Lord. Together they become involved in a magical adventure through the city's canals, bridges and hidden corners. Venice itself feels like a character in the story. An exciting choice for readers who enjoy fantasy and adventure. 

🇩🇪 The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti 

Setting: Hamburg and Berlin, Germany 

Based on a true story, the novel follows Helmut Hubener, a German teenager who opposes the Nazi regime during the Second World War. Readers learn about life for young people in Germany at this time and the risks involved in standing up for what is right. The story is both moving and inspiring. It encourages reflection on courage and responsibility. 

🇵🇹 Night Train to Lisbon by Pascal Mercier 

Setting: Lisbon, Portugal 

After an unexpected encounter, a Swiss teacher travels to Lisbon to uncover the story of a mysterious Portuguese writer. His search takes him through the city's streets, cafés and historic neighbourhoods. The novel explores identity, history and the choices we make in life. Older teenagers interested in philosophy and culture may particularly enjoy it.