Reading Journal : Andorra
Summary of the literary journey through Andorra
6/7/2026
Le contenu de mon article
On the Roof of Europe
Although this journey was marked by speed, with only five relatively short books, almost all of the readings proved memorable.
The only book I would not classify as memorable is the Que sais-je? volume, simply because its purpose is far surpassed by Albert Villaró’s Nouvelle description de la Principauté et des vallées d’Andorre (New Description of the Principality and Valleys of Andorra). Villaró presents his country admirably, in a much more vivid manner than the academic format typical of the Que sais-je? series. As a result, the reader feels far more engaged, almost as if they were exploring the valleys alongside a knowledgeable local guide.
Furthermore, Villaró emphasizes the isolation in which Andorra developed for centuries, sheltered by its high mountains and living in near-complete self-sufficiency. He presents this isolation as one of the defining elements of Andorran identity. This perspective makes me even more eager to read Stylite d’Andorre by Montobbio, which likely explores a similar theme, although I was unfortunately unable to obtain a copy.
As for Garcia’s Romanesque Art in Andorra, the abundance of photographs is greatly appreciated, making it much easier to visualize the country.
Regarding Nine Legends by Carli Bastida, it is an essential read. From what I understand, it is a retelling of legends commonly found in Andorra, based on what I encountered in both the Que sais-je? volume and Villaró’s work. Books of this kind are exactly the sort of works that Voyages Livresques seeks to discover, so I was particularly pleased with this reading experience.
Bastida’s style is quite contemporary and conversational, which is a real strength when writing about folk legends, as it gives them an authentic flavor. It is an ideal gateway into Andorran culture.
More generally, Andorran legends resemble those of other countries I have already explored. This is hardly surprising, since most legends are rooted in traditional rural life, whose fundamental features tend to be similar across the world.
Finally, Miss Keaton and Other Creatures is simply an excellent collection of short stories. I would not necessarily say that it possesses a distinctly Andorran character, but it is nevertheless well worth reading.
The book consists of five fantastic tales that are only loosely interconnected. There is just enough narrative overlap to understand that all the events take place within the same village. The stories revolve around shared themes: motherhood, the intrusion of the strange into everyday life, death, parent-child relationships, and more. The collection displays a genuinely enjoyable thematic unity, and readers may find themselves trying to guess what the next story will be about—or what a hypothetical sixth story might have looked like.
I can only recommend it warmly. It will delight all lovers of short fiction.