Other

It’s that time of year again: our much-loved annual tradition at Expat Nest! Each year, we celebrate authors who explore the richness, challenges and discoveries of global life. Whether you’re looking for comfort, laughter, insight, or inspiration, these 10 books – all by, for, or about expats and global citizens – offer something special for every reader.

Here they are… our top 10 expat books for 2025 (in no particular order):

#1 Echoes of a Global Life

By Kathleen Gamble

In this reflective memoir, Gamble traces her journey through multiple countries and cultures, asking what it means to build a coherent self across so many shifting contexts. Honest, poetic, and wise – this book will resonate with anyone who has reinvented themselves abroad.

#2 Letters Now Sent: A Collection of Letters from the Globally Mobile

Compiled by Megan C. Norton-Newbanks

Heartfelt and deeply relatable, this anthology, created to celebrate the 80^th birthday of TCK pioneer Ruth Van Reken – and in response to her original book Letters Never Sent – captures the voices of globally mobile individuals through personal letters. Each note reflects the courage, loss and connection that define expat life – making it a must-read for anyone who’s ever called more than one place “home.” Be sure to check out Vivian’s letter if you haven’t already. 😊

#3 Following Van Gogh

By Tea Gudek Snajdar

When a Van Gogh Museum guide uncovers clues to a possible art crime, she embarks on a journey from Amsterdam to France, retracing the artist’s footsteps and uncovering unexpected truths along the way. Written by art historian and museum guide Tea Gudek Šnajda, this evocative novel blends mystery, travel, and art history in a story that celebrates curiosity, courage, and the enduring power of beauty.

#4 Sink Then Swim

By Sue Schoormans

This compassionate and practical guide for anyone navigating life abroad offers real-life stories, “swimming lessons”, and moments of humour to help expats through their toughest transitions. Drawing on over 20 years of global living and professional experience, Sue Schoormans explores challenges like loss, illness, relationship changes and career shifts with warmth and clarity. An empowering companion for finding your strength, steadiness and sense of self, no matter where in the world you’ve landed. Includes a foreword by Vivian.

#5 Non-Boring Learning

By Lena Nasiakou

A refreshing, research-informed guide for educators and trainers who want to bring energy, engagement and creativity into their learning spaces. This is a practical guide to transforming corporate training through movement, embodied learning and creativity, featuring case studies from Netflix, H&M, Johnson & Johnson and others.

#6 On Swallows’ Wings: A Memoir of Hope

By Lesley Pendebury

Set against the backdrop of 1960s Britain, this moving memoir traces one woman’s journey from anxiety and alienation to self-discovery and peace. Born on the Welsh border and later separated from her peers after a family move, Lesley struggled with belonging and purpose. Her courage to seek help – even admitting herself to a psychiatric hospital – marked the beginning of profound inner transformation. Pendebury explores memory, migration, and the threads that tie us to both people and place.

#7 The Expat Affair

By Kimberly Belle

After a painful divorce, American expat Rayna Dumont moves to Amsterdam seeking a fresh start – and finds more adventurethan she bargained for. When she wakes to discover her new lover dead and millions of dollars in diamonds missing, she and other residents of the city’s glamorous but treacherous diamond world are drawn into a tense mystery. This gripping thriller explores trust, betrayal, and survival in a foreign city, capturing the highs and lows of expat life under extraordinary circumstances.

#8 The Expert Expat: Your Guide to Successful Relocation Abroad

#9 A Dream of Italy

By Nicky Pellegrino

Three strangers arrive in the hilltop town of Montenello, Italy, each having agreed to buy a crumbling historic building for just one euro. Elise seeks to get on the property ladder, Edward longs to escape a life that feels suffocating, and Mimi is ready for a fresh start after her divorce. Each must navigate new beginnings, hidden motives, and the challenge of turning their dream of Italy into reality. A charming, heartfelt story of adventure, renewal, and the magic of embracing life in a new place.

#10 Blue Feet Monsoon

By Cynthia Green

Anoushka has always tried not to inconvenience anyone – even when her globetrotting parents leave her behind, most recently in her seventh country with the Montgomerys. But when she befriends the spirited residents of Saint Beatrice Hospital Elderly Ward, chaos ensues. With family secrets unraveling, Anoushka’s world is turned upside down in this witty, adventurous, and heartwarming tale of family, curiosity, and unexpected discoveries across borders.

We hope this year’s selection brings you fresh perspectives and great reminders of how rich and varied expat life can be.

Which of these titles speaks most to you? What’s one book that has supported you on your own global journey?

PHOTO: PIXABAY/PEXELS