Reading for the Road: The Best Books About Croatia

At The Slow Road we answer to many names (wanderers, bon vivants, students of life) but first and foremost, we’re a group of dedicated travellers.

That’s why we love compiling reading lists that include those books—from novels to memoirs, and everything in between—that have really opened up our favourite regions.

In this post, we’ll round up a few of our favourite books about Croatia, a jagged strip of land that’s one of the most splendid places in the Mediterranean.

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Must Read Books About Croatia

The Balkans, A Short History

By Mark Mazower

A brief, provocative survey of the complex and often contentious history of the region.

With eloquence and insight, Mazower addresses the issues of geography, nationalism and modern nation-building in the region.

Learn more on Amazon >>

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Balkan Ghosts: A Journey Through History

By Robert D. Kaplan

In this eloquent, opinionated report from the front lines, Robert Kaplan interweaves history, art and culture of Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, Romania and Greece with 20th century events to paint a portrait of the region in the 1980s.

Learn more on Amazon >>

Black Lamb and Grey Falcon: A Journey Through Yugoslavia

By Rebecca West

First published in 1941, this monumental work explores the complex history of Yugoslavia, its heroes, politics and culture. It’s a big, challenging book—called by some the best ever written on the Balkans.

Learn more on Amazon >>

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Croatia, A Nation Forged in War

By Marcus Tanner

A modern history of Croatia, from its medieval origins to the Nazi occupation of Yugoslavia to the present day. Written by a London Independent correspondent, an eyewitness to the events of 1993.

Learn more on Amazon >>