Sometimes world travel can lead to the discovery of an individual in addition to a place. While in Prague, Czech Republic, I was lucky enough to find a writer by the name of Ivan Klíma.
Whenever I travel, I make it a point to visit several local bookshops. Even in places where English is not the primary language, bookshops provide a unique insight into the local culture. Besides, in many cases, there is a shelf for English translations of local writers.
In Prague, one of the more prominent bookshops is The Globe. Run by American expats, this bookshop includes new and used books in Czech and English. In addition there is a fantastic café tucked in the back.
The Globe Bookshop, Prague, Czech Republic
Photo by: c.b.w. 2008
I found several books by local authors, but Ivan Klíma’s books spoke to me the most. I ended up buying his novel No Saints or Angels, which has since become one of my favorite books.
Ivan Klíma is a renowned writer in the Czech Republic that explores topics regarding oppression and the concept of individual freedom. His personal history of surviving imprisonment at the Terezín concentration camp during the German occupation of Czechoslovakia and his later struggles with the dictatorial communist regime all lend to the brutal honesty and hope presented in his novels.
Klíma’s stories always revolve the dichotomy of the human spirit and the cruelty of human nature. Through his works of fiction, he strives to illuminate the importance of freedom of expression and individuality.
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What happens to people who spend their lives afraid to voice their opinions? They stop thinking, most likely. – Ivan Klima
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Suggested Reading:
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Part of the A to Z Challenge!
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c.b.w. 2013
C.B. Wentworth 
Interesting that you visit bookstores in each country. Wonderful idea. I love the angel cover on his book.
Enjoy the A to Z experience. I like your subject!
Mary Montague Sikes
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Thanks for stopping by! 🙂 Bookshops really are a wonderful interpretation of the local culture. I learn a lot by visiting them.
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Such a cool discovery. I found several wonderful Irish authors by visiting local bookshops. Plus, the staff always knows the best places to eat in town!
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I found some great authors in Ireland as well. I distinctly remember buying a couple of books by local authors while in Galway. 🙂
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Well, I haven’t travelled the globe but I do visit bookstores wherever I can. These look fascinating and I love the photo.
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The Globe was one of the prettiest bookshops I’ve ever seen . . . and the food was great! 🙂
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Thanks for this CB. I too love to enter bookshops in foreign cities and as you say they have translations for the foreigner. Ivan Kilima is now on my ‘must get’ books – his quote about people who choice to be voiceless, is priceless …
Susan Scott’s Soul Stuff
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That quote has always stuck out to me. Throughout his works he makes equally powerful statements. I hope you enjoy his books when you get the chance to read them. 🙂
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What a great idea to visit bookstores in each place you visit; a fantastic way to discover new authors. I haven’t come across these, they look interesting!
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Books are my favorite thing to come home with, aside from the “free souvenirs” I pick up (stones, etc). 🙂
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Funny that; I was with a friend today who aske dme if I’d been to Prague since she was going at the weekend. No, I haven’t. Must go some time. Great post 🙂
Jemima
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Stay tuned for tomorrow . . . there’s more Prague to come. 🙂
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C.B., not just a peek into the city of Prague and what sounds like an amazing bookstore, but two book recommendations and a new author as well! I consider this post a BONUS on the A to Z challenge today. 🙂
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Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. 🙂 There’s plenty more of Prague to come.
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Sounds like some pretty deep writing. I’ll have to check him out!
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His writing is really powerful – I hope you enjoy it when you find it. 🙂
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Visiting local bookstores when I travel is always a priority. I love the feel, the smell, the atmosphere of local bookstores. So much to discover, so many hidden treasures. It looks like you found one on this visit. Thanks for sharing it with us.
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Ah, the smell of bookstores. Each place has its own flavor. Irish and English bookshops always smell like a basement and I love that! 🙂
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Klima – one to check out (no pun intended).
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I think you’d really enjoy his work. 🙂
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Your tavels always inspire. Love the photo – The Globe Bookstore. I’ve never read Klima but will check him out.
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I wish my shots from the inside turned a little better. It is so warm and cozy! 🙂
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I remember you writing about Ivan Klíma before! What fun to see the photo and learn the story!
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That was a while ago! 🙂 This post is everything that didn’t make it into the first post.
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Don’t you just love bookshops 🙂
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I love them everywhere abroad and at home! 🙂
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