It’s Europe’s youngest country, but what do we really know about Kosovo—independent only since 2008?
We have selected five books, the latest in our series of Five Essential Reads, that span history, culture, and personal narratives, each authored by different voices, which together offer an overview of the country.
These five books tell the story of Kosovo from its ancient roots through wartime struggles to its recent renaissance, and will offer all readers—whether a seasoned Balkan enthusiast or a curious newcomer—a deeper understanding and appreciation of a modern country still forging for itself a clear identity.
Kosovo: A Short History, by Noel Malcolm
Noel Malcolm’s Kosovo: A Short History is the cornerstone for anyone embarking on a journey through Kosovo’s past. Malcolm, a renowned historian, delivers a meticulously researched account that spans from antiquity to the modern day. His narrative is both engaging and rigorous, shedding light on the complex web of ethnic, political, and cultural influences that have shaped Kosovo. Malcolm’s ability to contextualise the turbulent history of this region within the broader European framework makes this book a vital starting point for understanding the roots of contemporary issues.
Kosovo: What Everyone Needs to Know, by Tim Judah
Published shortly after independence, Tim Judah’s Kosovo: What Everyone Needs to Know serves as an essential guide for those seeking a comprehensive yet accessible overview of Kosovo’s multifaceted reality. Judah, a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in the Balkans, addresses key questions and issues surrounding Kosovo’s past, present, and future. His straightforward, question-and-answer format makes complex topics digestible, covering everything from historical conflicts and political developments to cultural nuances and everyday life.
Three Elegies for Kosovo, by Ismail Kadare
Albanian writer Ismail Kadare’s Three Elegies for Kosovo is a poetic and haunting reflection on the Battle of Kosovo in 1389, a pivotal event in Balkan history. Kadare, a master storyteller, weaves three interrelated narratives that explore the profound impact of this battle on Kosovo’s cultural and historical identity. His lyrical and evocative prose captures the tragic beauty and enduring significance of this event, offering readers a deeply emotional and thought-provoking journey into Kosovo’s soul.
Under a Feathered Sky: The Untold Story of NATO’s Role in Newly Independent Kosovo, by Ade Clewlow
Lieutenant Colonel Ade Clewlow spent much of 2008-9 deployed to Kosovo as NATO’s eyes and ears inside the Kosovo Protection Corps (the KPC)—Kosovo’s civil emergency organisation. His book offers a compelling exploration of the complex and often misunderstood NATO intervention, diving deep into the political, military, and humanitarian aspects of NATO’s involvement, shedding light on the strategic decisions, ground realities, and the profound impact on the region’s socio-political fabric.
Travels In Blood and Honey: Becoming a Beekeeper in Kosovo, by Elizabeth Gowing
For Elizabeth Gowing beekeeping becomes a pursuit that serves as a poignant metaphor for healing and community rebuilding in newly independent Kosovo. Her narrative is set against the backdrop of Kosovo’s striking natural beauty and its complex socio-political history. She describes the challenges and joys of learning to care for bees, a process that parallels her own integration into Kosovar society. The bees, with their industriousness and cooperation, serve as a symbol of hope and perseverance amidst adversity.
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