I love books that transport me to different places around the world. In this instance, we’re travelling to South America.
South America is a continent I’m yet to tick off my travel bucket list. But I’m hoping someday I’m able to travel around this continent for a few months, just like I’m currently travelling around Asia.
After reading Elena Knows in 2022, I was in need of more South American literature. So I’ve put this list together of books that can transport you to South America.
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17 Books to Transport You to South America
1. Elena Knows by Claudia Pineiro
A poignant novel about an elderly woman named Elena, who embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her daughter’s death. Navigating her own physical limitations and a society that dismisses her concerns.
You can read my review of Elena Knows here.
2. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
This masterpiece of magical realism tells the multi-generational story of the Buendía family in the fictional town of Macondo, Colombia.
It beautifully captures the essence of Latin American culture and history.
3. The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
Set in Chile, this novel follows the Trueba family through political upheaval and personal drama, blending magical realism with historical events.
4. The Motorcycle Diaries by Ernesto “Che” Guevara
This travel memoir recounts the journey of a young Che Guevara across South America.
Offering insights into the continent’s social and political landscape.
5. The Lost City of Z by David Grann
This non-fiction book tells the true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett’s search for a mysterious ancient city in the Amazon.
Capturing the allure and danger of the jungle.
6. In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin
A travelogue that explores the myths, history, and rugged beauty of Patagonia, the southern region of Argentina and Chile.
7. The Savage Detectives by Roberto Bolano
Set in Mexico and South America, this novel follows a group of poets and their quests for literary and personal meaning.
Offering a deep dive into Latin American literary culture.
8. Paula by Isabel Allende
A poignant memoir by Isabel Allende, set in part in Chile, where she reflects on her life and the history of her country while caring for her critically ill daughter.
9. At Night We Walk in Circles by Daniel Alarcon
This novel, set in an unnamed South American country resembling Peru, follows a young actor’s life as it intertwines with a revolutionary theatre troupe’s past.
10. City of God by Paulo Lins
Set in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this novel explores the harsh realities of life in a violent neighbourhood through the eyes of its inhabitants.
11. Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
A compelling novella about the murder of Santiago Nasar in a small Colombian town.
Exploring themes of honour and fate.
12. The Seamstress by Frances de Pontes Peebles
Set in the Brazilian countryside, this novel tells the story of two sisters whose lives take drastically different paths.
One becoming a feared outlaw and the other a respected seamstress.
13. The Invention of Morel by Adolfo Bioy Casares
An Argentine science fiction novel about a fugitive who discovers a mysterious island inhabited by peculiar people.
Blending adventure with philosophical themes.
14. Open Veins of Latin America by Eduardo Galeano
This non-fiction work provides a passionate and critical history of Latin America’s exploitation by foreign powers.
Offering a profound understanding of the region’s struggles and resilience.
15. The War of the End of the World by Mario Vargas Llosa
Set in 19th-century Brazil, this historical novel recounts the true story of a millenarian uprising in the backlands of Bahia.
Highlighting the clash between modernity and tradition.
16. 2666 by Roberto Bolano
This epic novel, partially set in a fictional Mexican border town and various South American locations, weaves together multiple narratives, exploring themes of violence, art, and mystery.
17. Lost City Radio by Daniel Alarcon
In a nameless South American country, this novel explores the aftermath of civil war through the story of a radio host searching for her missing husband.
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