We love seeing the books that students and teachers read to immerse themselves on our school trips. Whether it’s set in the same country that your group is travelling to or has a focus on the subject of your trip, a good book can enrich and enhance your experience.
This World Book Day, take a look at these great book recommendations from our educational experts.
The Wolf Den, by Elodie Harper
Set in the infamous brothels of Pompeii ‘The Wolf Den’ follows the life of Amara, an enslaved Greek girl now navigating the perils and opportunities of life as a prostitute in Pompeii, showing that in the Roman world, even the lowest members of society could find their luck changed overnight. Harper’s bold characters and lively descriptions bring Pompeii to life on the page. Those who have visited the archaeological site can picture themselves in the Forum or sheltering from the sun on a bench by the amphitheater alongside Amara. For readers yet to visit, it is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the experience of ordinary people living in the famous city before the devastating events of 79CE.
Hannah is our Classics expert. Check out her curated Classics school trips.
Still Life, by Sarah Winman
There are some books designed to be read in another country – they demand sunnier climes, a laissez-faire demeanour, and access to all the delicious food and drinks that they describe. Still Life by Sarah Winman is one of those books. Spanning the years from a chance encounter in an under-fire bunker between an art historian and a young soldier in the Second World War, Still Life explores hope, destiny, and love. Set in a sun-dappled Florence in the 1950s, Winman’s novel is filled with red wine, pasta, and ambles across heat-shimmering town squares. If you’re a fiend for all things Italian or a lover of renaissance art – or, indeed, both – Still Life is one for you.
Inspired by Jess’ review? Take a look at school trips in Italy.
Shantaram, by Gregory David Roberts
I read this book not long before I headed to India myself. It charts the life of an Australian prison-escapee who finds his way to the chaotic underworld of 1980s Bombay (as it was known then). As he finds his feet in the unfamiliar city, he falls in love with the place and the people. Part philosophical guidebook, part travel journal and part thriller, it introduces you to what it is that, in my opinion, makes India so special. The events are fanciful at times but at its heart is the message that if you give yourself up to the city, and the incredible country of India, it will pay you back twice over. An amazing read, but probably go for it on a Kindle if you’re travelling, it’s a heavy one!
Mike is our Sports expert, with a passion for exploring new places.
Breathless, by Amy McCulloch
Amy McCulloch’s “Breathless” is a gripping, ice-cold thriller set amidst the perilous world of mountain climbing in Nepal. Inspired by the author’s own experiences scaling some of the world’s highest peaks, the novel immerses readers in a chilling cat-and-mouse chase as journalist Cecily Wong joins a dangerous expedition. McCulloch expertly captures the thrill and danger of mountain climbing, weaving in a suspenseful murder mystery that keeps readers on edge. The novel delivers the perfect blend of adrenaline and suspense, making “Breathless” the ideal tale for those who love psychological thrillers set in the great outdoors.
Inspired by Steph’s review? Take a look at school trips in Nepal.
If you’ve been inpsired to travel by World Book Day, then speak to an educational specialist about planning a school trip – enquire now.
