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Top Ten Expat Books for 2021

It’s an annual tradition to ask our friends at Expat Bookshop to round up some of the best books written by, for, or about expats. Some will inform and inspire, others will make you laugh or cry. Enjoy this summary of great reads, which are in no particular order!

 

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#1 #LivingTheDream: Expat Life Stripped Bare

Carrie Frais
(Springtime Books)

Nine women share the emotional and practical realities of life away from ‘home’. A candid, warts-and-all anthology.

 

 

 

 

Lar_mundo_afora_expat_books_expat_nest#2 Lar mundo afora: Um guia prático para quem está de mudança para um novo país (Portuguese)

Carolina Porto & Roberta D’Angelo Mellis
(STACCHINI Editorial)

This practical guide for those planning to move to a new country is written by two Brazilian women with a lot of experience in the subject. Includes tips, testimonials, and numerous resources for every step of the international relocation process. It’s also refreshing to see more expat-focused books being published in languages other than English, better reflecting the diversity of those living an international life. Pioneering and practical resource for Portuguese-speaking expats.

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#3 Goodbye Again

Katja Aegerter
(Summertime Publishing)

An illustrated poetry book for children telling the story of little Emma and her siblings, Bruno and Anne, who have to move to another country – yet again! A fun way to engage children during the ups and downs of moving.

 

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#4 Death and Croissants: A Follet Valley Mystery

Ian Moore
(Farrago)

Richard is a middle-aged man who runs a B&B in the fictional Val de Follet in the Loire Valley. Nothing ever happens to Richard until, that is, until one of his guests disappears. A fun-filled thriller.

 

 

 

 

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#5 Being a Distance Grandparent: A Book for All Generations

Helen Ellis
(Summertime Publishing)

Is your family geographically scattered? Has globalisation made your family a ‘distance family’? This book tells the candid story of how distance parents and distance grandparents struggle – and succeed – to adapt to their new reality. A must-read for anyone in a distance family.

 

 

 

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#6 I Miss the Rain in Africa: Peace Corps as a Third Act

Nancy Daniel Wesson
(Modern History Press)

At a time when her friends were planning their retirements, Nancy Wesson walked away from a comfortable life and business to head out as a peace corps volunteer in post-war Northern Uganda. A rich and rewarding read.

 

 

 

 

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#7 Whose Career – Yours, Mine or Ours? Addressing the Dual Career Dilemma with Care

Yvonne Quahe
(Springtime Books)

When will my turn come? Didn’t we agree that both our careers were equally important? Packed with case studies, research and practical exercises, this book by sociologist, coach, HR professional and globally mobile accompanying partner Yvonne Quahe will guide you toward making the best decisions for you, your partner and both your careers. Sage advice from an expert.

 

 

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#8 Life’s a Beach

Portia MacIntosh
(Boldwood Books)

Weddings are not always straightforward affairs… throw in some unexpected guests in the form of ex-boyfriends and flings, and soon enough there is more drama than a reality TV show. A fun-filled romp perfect for the beach.

 

 

 

 

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#9 Growing Up in Transit: The Politics of Belonging at an International School

Danau Tanu
(Berghahn Books)

In this compelling study of the children of serial migrants, Danau Tanu argues that the international schools they attend promote an ideology of being “international” that is Eurocentric. Compelling, fresh and enlightening.

 

 

 

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#10 Holding the Fort Abroad

Rhoda Bangerter
(Summertime Publishing)

You moved away to be closer together… but now you’re further apart than ever. The author’s hard-won wisdom will inspire you to navigate the choppy waters of holding the fort abroad. And the foreword is written by Expat Nest founder Vivian Chiona! Brutally honest.

 

 

 

PHOTO: Pixabay

What expat books are on your must-read list? Do share your recommended reads in the comments below!