Why Ukrainian Books Are Important for the Diaspora in Spain
Ukrainian books abroad are not just printed pages — they are a bridge connecting us to our homeland. For Ukrainians living in Spain, reading in their native language is a way to preserve themselves, their culture, and their sense of belonging to the nation. In a foreign country, it’s easy to immerse yourself in a new language and traditions, but native literature allows you to remain yourself and pass on the richness of the Ukrainian language and history to children.
Many families who have moved to Spain face the fact that children quickly start speaking Spanish and use Ukrainian less and less. This is where books come to the rescue — they help enrich vocabulary, learn idioms, and introduce Ukrainian proverbs and folk wisdom.
Moreover, Ukrainian books are also a way to support the national publishing industry. By buying a book by a Ukrainian author, we help publishers and writers who continue to create even in the difficult conditions of war and economic instability.
Language as a Connection to the Homeland
Language is not just a tool for communication — it’s a living part of our identity. For Ukrainians in Spain, reading Ukrainian books is an opportunity to keep their native language alive. When we read, we not only train memory and thinking but also absorb national color, intonation, and the melody of the language.
For many emigrants, a book becomes that “warm blanket” that wraps them in memories of childhood, home, familiar streets, and the smell of fresh pastries from the local bakery. This is especially important for children, as books teach them correct Ukrainian pronunciation, help them better understand the culture, and familiarize them with traditions.
Preserving Cultural Identity Through Literature
Literature is not only fiction but also a chronicle of a people’s life. By reading Ukrainian books in Spain, we preserve our cultural code. Works by Kobylianska, Franko, Lesya Ukrainka, and contemporary authors are living witnesses of the history and values of our nation.
Books in Ukrainian help us remain a united community even thousands of kilometers away from Ukraine. They become topics for meetings, discussions, and literary evenings in diaspora clubs and cultural centers.
Where to Buy Ukrainian Books in Spain
After moving to Spain, many Ukrainians think that finding books in their native language will be difficult. In reality, there are more options than it seems — the key is knowing where to look.
Ukrainian Shops and Bookstores in Spain
In many cities with large Ukrainian communities (Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Alicante), Ukrainian stores have appeared that sell not only food but also books. Often, these are small shelves in a shop selling goods from Ukraine, but sometimes there are full sections with literature of various genres.
In Barcelona, for example, you can find bookstores selling children’s fairy tales, contemporary novels, historical research, and Ukrainian-language cookbooks. In some Ukrainian churches, book fairs are held after services where you can purchase books.
Online Stores Delivering Ukrainian Books
The internet is a real lifesaver for those living far from big cities. Today, you can order Ukrainian books with delivery to Spain via platforms like Yakaboo, Knyharnia Ye, Librarius, as well as through private sellers on social media.
Some stores even offer special deals for the diaspora — free delivery for large orders or discounts for displaced persons.
Flea Markets and Ukrainian Cultural Fairs
Another way to find Ukrainian books in Spain is to visit flea markets and cultural events organized by Ukrainian communities. Used books are often sold at symbolic prices or even given away for free at such events.
These gatherings are a great opportunity not only to expand your home library but also to meet like-minded people who love reading in their native language.
Popular Genres of Ukrainian Books in Spain
Demand for Ukrainian books in Spain is constantly growing, and the variety of genres is impressive.
Ukrainian Fiction
This genre always remains in first place. Ukrainian fiction is rich in vivid imagery, deep meanings, and a vibrant language. In Spain, collections by contemporary authors describing today’s realities, as well as historical novels introducing readers to Ukraine’s past, are especially popular.
Novels and Contemporary Prose
Novels are another favorite genre among Ukrainians in Spain. Readers enjoy love stories, psychological dramas, detective stories, and adventure literature. Works by Serhiy Zhadan, Andriy Kokotukha, Lyuko Dashvar, and Iren Rozdobudko are often found on the shelves of Ukrainian stores in Europe.
Children’s and Young Adult Books
Children’s literature holds a special place. Fairy tales, poems, board books for toddlers, as well as young adult novels are not just entertainment but a powerful tool for language learning. In Spain, Ukrainian parents often choose books that help children maintain their Ukrainian and develop reading skills.
The Best Ukrainian Books Worth Reading
Classics of Ukrainian Literature
Classical works are the foundation of love for one’s native language. In Spain, Ukrainians often read Shevchenko’s Kobzar, Lesya Ukrainka’s The Forest Song, prose by Franko and Nechui-Levytskyi. These are not just books — they are cultural heritage that shapes worldviews.
Modern Ukrainian Bestsellers
Modern Ukrainian literature is dynamic, bold, and diverse. Books by Yurii Andrukhovych, Oksana Zabuzhko, Sofia Andrukhovych, Maria Matios, and Max Kidruk are read today both in Ukraine and abroad.
Non-Fiction and Documentary Literature
Non-fiction also deserves special attention — books about the history of Ukraine, biographies of famous figures, memoirs, and reports. Such works are especially important now, as they help tell the world the truth about our country.
How to Choose Ukrainian Books in Spain
Criteria for Choosing Quality Literature
To enjoy reading, it’s important to choose books that are legally published, with high-quality translation (if translated works) and good printing. Pay attention to the publisher — Ukraine has many well-known brands that guarantee high quality, such as The Old Lion Publishing House, Family Leisure Club, and A-BA-BA-HA-LA-MA-HA.
How to Avoid Pirated Editions
Unfortunately, even abroad, pirated copies can be found. To avoid this, buy only from trusted sellers and check the print quality and the presence of publication data on the title page.