We have recently found ourselves entertaining the possibility of a move...to Amsterdam. I have approached this possibility as I have every possibility ever in my life, by reading about it. Fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, farce, crime drama; it has all, of late, taken on a distinctly Dutch flavor. Whether or not we do end up moving there, it has been fun to escape to a literary Amsterdam for a while. In case you would like to join me, a list:
Outsider in Amsterdam by Janwilliam van de Wetering A cool, laid-back mystery starring two Amsterdam police detectives, worthy reading wherever you are
Amsterdam by Ian McEwan The cover of which proclaims it to be "Winner of the Booker Prize" and a "National Bestseller," probably because it is a quick, easy read by a Brit who has a way with words, though he appears to be lacking any semblance of a soul. The actual time the book spends in Amsterdam is minimal, though, as the title would imply, essential to the plot
The Undutchables by Colin White & Laurie Boucke A satirical look at Dutch culture and idiosyncrasies (we all have them), and probably the most useful of the bunch for someone who is looking to move there and needs to be disabused of romantic notions
Amsterdam, A Brief Life of the City by Geert Mak A well-written narrative about the history of the place
Fairy Tales by Victor & Rolf This series of original fairy tales is based on letters and illustrations by the Dutch fashion design duo. Pretty pictures and fun reading for fancy girls, whether five or thirty-five
Any Amsterdam suggestions, literary or otherwise?
