It has been 3 years since we moved to Chicago, and I’m still not settled in. A friend who moves often told me that it takes 4 years for her to settle in after each move. This was both encouraging and discouraging. I want to feel “at home” already, but I was happy to know I’m not alone, and making a home takes time. I know that everyday, many people leave behind their homes for school, work, family needs, safety, and adventure, but I still need more time to find my place here. So, I started doing some digging, and I found 7 eye-opening books about moving to a new place.
This fall, I want to read and re-read these books about people who have made major moves and are struggling with the process. I think fall is a great time to read such books. The leaves are starting to change, the air is becoming crisp, and you thoughts turn toward “home”. Moving can be a challenging and transformative experience, but books have a way of providing comfort, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
“The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the Secrets of the World’s Happiest Country” by Helen Russell
Summary: Dive into the Scandinavian way of life with Helen Russell’s captivating memoir. In this delightful and witty account, she shares her experiences of moving to Denmark with her husband. From embracing hygge (coziness) to unraveling the secrets behind Denmark’s high happiness quotient, this book offers valuable insights into creating a fulfilling life in a new environment.
Review: “The Year of Living Danishly” is a heartwarming and eye-opening read. Russell’s storytelling effortlessly transports you to the picturesque Danish countryside, while her observations on the Danish lifestyle are both entertaining and thought-provoking. This book serves as a gentle reminder that happiness can be found even in the simplest of everyday moments. I couldn’t put this book down, and I felt such a kinship with her about adjusting to the brutal Nordic weather.
“The Nordic Theory of Everything: In Search of a Better Life” by Anu Partanen
Summary: Anu Partanen, a Finnish journalist, delves into the stark differences between the American and Nordic way of life in this thought-provoking book. Drawing on personal anecdotes and extensive research, Partanen explores the Nordic welfare state, gender equality, and the pursuit of a balanced life. This book challenges conventional notions and offers insights into creating a more fulfilling existence.
Review: “The Nordic Theory of Everything” is a compelling examination of the Nordic lifestyle and its emphasis on social welfare. Partanen’s analysis is both comprehensive and accessible, making it an engaging read for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on living a meaningful life. This book encourages readers to reconsider their values and priorities, ultimately inspiring positive change. I really enjoyed this read because the author shares insights about her home country with captivating detail after living in America for years.
“My Four Seasons in France: A Year of the Good Life (The Good Life France)” by Janine Marsh
Summary: Embark on an enchanting journey with Janine Marsh as she recounts her experiences of moving from the UK to rural France. Through humorous anecdotes and vivid descriptions, Marsh captures the joys and challenges of renovating a rundown farmhouse and immersing herself in French culture. This book celebrates the beauty of embracing a new way of life.
Review: The reviews on Amazon remark how “My Four Seasons in France” is a delightful memoir that transports readers to the idyllic French countryside. Marsh’s vivid storytelling brings her experiences to life, allowing readers to savor the charm and romance of rural France. Whether you dream of embarking on your own French adventure or simply enjoy armchair travel, this book will captivate you from beginning to end, and I’m looking forward to reading it this fall.
“But You are in France, Madame” by Catherine Berry
Summary: Catherine Berry’s memoir chronicles her family’s move from Australia to the French Alps. With humor and candor, she shares the challenges, surprises, and triumphs of adapting to a new language and culture. Berry’s narrative highlights the importance of embracing new experiences and finding joy in the midst of uncertainty.
Review: “But You are in France, Madame” is a relatable and inspiring memoir that captures the essence of cross-cultural experiences. Berry’s vivid descriptions and genuine voice create an intimate connection with the reader. This book serves as a reminder that, regardless of the challenges we face, embracing new opportunities can lead to unexpected personal growth. I really need a story like this for my fall reading list.
“This Is Where You Belong: Finding Home Wherever You Are” by Melody Warnick
Summary: Melody Warnick explores the concept of place attachment in this insightful book. Through personal stories and research, she offers practical strategies for cultivating a sense of belonging and connection in a new location. Whether you’ve moved across the country or to a neighboring town, this book provides guidance on building a fulfilling life in your new community.
Review: “This Is Where You Belong” is a must-read for anyone seeking to create a sense of home in a new environment. Warnick’s relatable anecdotes and actionable tips make this book a valuable resource. By emphasizing the power of community engagement and embracing local culture, she reminds us that home is not just a place but a state of mind. I absolutely love books that incorporate research alongside personal experiences. I’m excited to read this one this fall with a hot cup of coffee and a cozy blanket.
“I’ll Never Be French (no matter what I do): Living in a Small Village in Brittany” by Mark Greenside
Summary: Join Mark Greenside on his humorous and enlightening journey of becoming an American expat in a small village in Brittany, France. Through witty observations and cultural mishaps, Greenside provides an entertaining glimpse into the realities of navigating a foreign culture. This book is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required to truly make a new place your own.
Review: “I’ll Never Be French (no matter what I do)” is a lighthearted memoir that offers a refreshing take on the challenges of living abroad. Greenside’s self-deprecating humor and ability to find joy in the everyday make this book an enjoyable read. It serves as a reminder that embracing our quirks and differences can lead to unexpected friendships and experiences. The reason this book caught my eye is that the title is admitting the struggle of identity after a move. I am looking forward to this one!
“Love Where You Live: How to Live Sent in the Place You Call Home” by Shauna Pilgreen
Summary: In “Love Where You Live,” Shauna Pilgreen explores the concept of living intentionally and investing in the community where you reside. Drawing from her own experiences as a pastor’s wife in an urban neighborhood, Pilgreen shares practical advice and inspiring stories to help readers cultivate a sense of purpose and connection in their local area. This book encourages readers to view their neighborhood not as a mere backdrop but as a place brimming with opportunities for meaningful relationships and positive impact.
Review: “Love Where You Live” is a heartfelt guidebook that challenges readers to see their local community with fresh eyes. Pilgreen’s passion for her neighborhood shines through every page, inspiring readers to embrace the potential for connection and transformation in their own surroundings. With a perfect balance of personal anecdotes and practical tips, this book will empower you to live with purpose and make a difference right where you are.
Moving to a new place can be both exciting and overwhelming. As you settle into your new surroundings this fall, these book recommendations will serve as companions, providing insights, inspiration, and encouragement. Whether you’re seeking to understand different cultural perspectives or looking for practical tips on finding a sense of belonging, these titles will help you navigate the transition and create a fulfilling life in your new home. So, grab a cozy blanket, a warm beverage, and lose yourself in the pages of these captivating books that will accompany you through the autumn season and beyond.