Salam lovely people! we all have to agree that there’s something magical about Morocco. The vibrant souks, golden deserts, and rich traditions make it a destination like no other. I’m a Marrakech native who’s spent years sharing Morocco’s beauty through my blog (and selling authentic treasures on eBay). If you’re planning a trip or just dreaming of one, diving into a good book about Morocco is the perfect way to get inspired. I’ve curated a list of the top 10 books that capture Morocco’s culture, history, and landscapes. From travel guides to novels, these reads will spark your wanderlust. Plus, I’ll share a few Moroccan gift ideas to bring the stories to life. Let’s get started!
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Why Read Books About Morocco?
Books offer a window into Morocco’s soul. They’ll help you understand the country’s traditions, history, and people before you even step foot in a medina. Whether you’re curious about what to do in Morocco or want to learn about Moroccan culture and traditions, these reads will deepen your connection to this incredible place. Many of these books also include practical tips, like the best time to visit Morocco (spoiler: spring and fall are ideal). Ready to be inspired? Here are my top picks.
Top 10 Books About Morocco
1. “A House in Fez” by Suzanna Clarke
This memoir follows an Australian couple as they restore a crumbling riad in Fez’s ancient medina. It’s a love letter to Moroccan architecture and community, filled with vivid details of daily life.
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for understanding Fez’s history and charm.
Preview Product Price 
A House in Fez: Building a Life in the Ancient Heart of Morocco $13.99 Buy on Amazon Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. “The Caliph’s House” by Tahir Shah
Tahir Shah recounts his family’s move to a haunted mansion in Casablanca. This book blends humor, history, and cultural insights, capturing Morocco’s mystical side.
Why You’ll Love It: A fun mix of adventure and Moroccan folklore.
Preview Product Price 
The Caliph's House: A Year in Casablanca $14.42 
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. “In Arabian Nights” by Tahir Shah
Another gem by Shah, this book explores Morocco through storytelling. Shah travels the country to uncover tales passed down for generations, revealing the heart of Moroccan culture.
Why You’ll Love It: Ideal for learning about Moroccan traditions through stories.
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In Arabian Nights $9.99 Buy on Amazon Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. “Hideous Kinky” by Esther Freud
This novel follows a young girl and her bohemian mother on a journey through 1960s Morocco. It’s a whimsical tale of Marrakech’s vibrant chaos, seen through a child’s eyes.
Why You’ll Love It: A light, nostalgic read that captures Marrakech’s spirit.
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Hideous Kinky: A Novel $16.99 Buy on Amazon Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. “The Sheltering Sky” by Paul Bowles
A classic novel set in the Sahara Desert, this story follows three Americans grappling with isolation and identity. Bowles, who lived in Tangier, paints a haunting picture of Morocco’s landscapes.
Why You’ll Love It: A literary dive into the desert’s raw beauty.
Preview Product Price
The Sheltering Sky $14.99 Buy on Amazon Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. “Dreams of Trespass” by Fatima Mernissi
This memoir explores Mernissi’s childhood in a Fez harem during the 1940s. It’s a powerful look at gender, tradition, and change in Moroccan society.
Why You’ll Love It: Offers deep insights into Moroccan culture and traditions.
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Dreams Of Trespass: Tales Of A Harem Girlhood $13.99 Buy on Amazon Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7. “Morocco: A Traveller’s Companion” by Margaret Bidwell
This travel guide is packed with practical tips and cultural insights. It covers everything from souk haggling to the best riads, making it a must for first-time visitors.
Why You’ll Love It: A handy guide for planning your Morocco itinerary.
Preview Product Price 
Morocco: The Traveller's Companion, Second Edition (Tauris Parke Paperbacks) $18.81 Buy on Amazon Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
8. “The Last Storytellers” by Richard Hamilton
Hamilton collects oral tales from Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa square, preserving Morocco’s storytelling tradition. Each story offers a glimpse into the country’s history and values. Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising APIPreview Product Price
The Last Storytellers: Tales from the Heart of Morocco
$13.80
Buy on Amazon
9. “The Spider’s House” by Paul Bowles
Set in Fez during the 1950s independence movement, this novel weaves political tension with rich descriptions of Moroccan life. It’s a thought-provoking read for history buffs.
Why You’ll Love It: Combines history with immersive storytelling.
Preview Product Price
The Spider's House: A Novel $2.99 Buy on Amazon Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
10. “Lonely Planet Morocco” by Lonely Planet
A classic travel guide, this book offers detailed itineraries, maps, and tips for exploring Morocco. It’s perfect for planning what to do in Morocco, from Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains.
Why You’ll Love It: Practical and comprehensive for any traveler.
Preview Product Price
Travel Guide Morocco $17.71 Buy on Amazon Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How These Books Inspire Your Moroccan Adventure
These books do more than entertain. They’ll help you plan your trip with a deeper understanding of Morocco’s culture and history. Want to visit Fez after reading A House in Fez? Spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) are the best times for mild weather. Inspired by The Sheltering Sky to explore the Sahara? Pack smart with a travel adapter and portable charger. And if Hideous Kinky has you dreaming of Marrakech’s souks, our gift finder has authentic treasures like tea glasses and rugs to bring home the magic.
Tips for Bringing Morocco Home
Reading about Morocco is just the start. Bring the experience to life with a few Moroccan touches. Cook a tajine with a spice blend inspired by Dreams of Trespass. Sip mint tea from a handcrafted glass set while flipping through The Last Storytellers. Or decorate your space with a Moroccan lantern to channel the mystical vibe of The Caliph’s House. Our gift finder has all these and more to make your Moroccan adventure last long after the book ends.
Ready to dive into Morocco’s stories? Pick one of these books and start planning your trip. Have a favorite Morocco read? Share it in the comments. I’d love to hear your recommendations!
People Also Ask
What’s the best time to visit Morocco?
Spring and fall are ideal for mild weather and fewer crowds.What are some Moroccan traditions I can learn about?
Books like In Arabian Nights explore storytelling, while Dreams of Trespass dives into family and gender roles.What should I pack for a Morocco trip?
A travel adapter, lightweight clothing, and a journal to capture your experiences.
