Books Re: Austria
 

I like to read history, biography or literature about a country I'm visiting. For example, read a biography of Peter the Great before going to St. Petersburg. Any suggestions for my Austria bookshelf?

Vera

Homestead, by Rosina Lippi, is a beautifuly written novel that follows the lives of several generations of women in a village in the Austrian Alps, from the early years of the twentieth century to the 1970's.

There probably is a biography of Arnold out there somewhere.

The one about Arnold is coming out after he is elected gov next week.

May I suggest The Man Without Qualities by Robert Musil. This book ranks up there with other standout books from the 20th Century.

No one should visit Austria without reading something about the Hapsburg Empire, specifically Maria Theresa and Franz Josef. Their lives so entertwined with others in Austria and Europe and so much of present day Austria and Vienna reflect their legacies. (For Example, Marie Antoinette was MT's daughter and Empress Elizabeth who was married to Franz Josef was a cousin of Mad King Ludwig of Bavaria.)

No specific titles come to mind, but you could do a search on one of the book seller websites.

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm starting a list.
Vera

I found a book called "Culture Shock! Austria" by Susan Roraff & Julie Krejci (Graphic Arts Center Publishing Company ISBN 1-55868-591-x). The book covers history, todays Austria, culture, cusinie, social & business customs,arts, etc. While the book was written for folks moving to Austria I have found it a good read for the travel.

Good luck and enjoy your trip. Where are you going?