Library | Books, documentaries and films about Ethiopia
Books, Documentaries and Films to Discover Ethiopia
Whether you are planning a trip to Ethiopia or simply want to learn more about its history, cultures and landscapes, this selection of books, documentaries and films will help you better understand one of Africa's most fascinating destinations.
Recommended Books About Ethiopia
The God, the Devil and the Adventure
Javier Reverte, 2001
Historical novel narrated in the first person by the author during his journey through northern Ethiopia while researching the life of the Spanish missionary Pedro Páez and his mission in the sixteenth century.
I Heard the Acacias Whistling
Eduardo Lostal, 2013
A novel set in the Omo Valley, exploring themes of pride, survival, freedom and identity through the lives of Surma, Hamer and foreign characters. An engaging introduction to one of Ethiopia's most fascinating cultural regions. Discover our Omo Valley Journey.
Ethiopia: Men, Places and Myths
Juan González Núñez, 2009
An excellent introduction for travellers who wish to better understand Ethiopia's history, geography and cultural diversity before joining one of our Ethiopia tours.
Eating the Flowers of Paradise
Kevin Rushby, 2001
A fascinating account of khat culture in Ethiopia and Yemen, offering unique insights into everyday life in the Horn of Africa.
The Emperor
Ryszard Kapuściński, 2009
A celebrated account of the final years of Emperor Haile Selassie, based on interviews with former members of the imperial court.
Surrender or Starve
Robert Kaplan, 2005
A powerful travel chronicle examining the causes and consequences of famine in Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia and Eritrea during the twentieth century.
The Sign and the Seal
Graham Hancock, 2006
One of the most popular books among travellers to Ethiopia. Although controversial from a historical perspective, it offers an engaging introduction to the mysteries surrounding the Ark of the Covenant and Ethiopia's ancient traditions. Learn more through our Historic North Route.
The Lost Roads of Africa
Javier Reverte, 2002
A remarkable journey through Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt that combines travel writing with reflections on African history and culture.
Cutting for Stone
Abraham Verghese, 2010
A moving novel set in Addis Ababa that intertwines personal stories with Ethiopia's modern history.
Ethiopia: A Face Seen Through Three Perspectives
Francisco Javier Gozálvez Esteve & D. Cebrián, 2007
One of the finest photographic introductions to Ethiopia, combining outstanding imagery with insightful commentary.
The Blue Nile: Testimony of a Forgotten World
Francisco Javier Gozálvez Esteve, 2011
A fascinating journey following the Blue Nile from its Ethiopian source to Khartoum. The book explores landscapes, cultures and stories rarely known outside the region and provides valuable context for northern Ethiopia.
Documentaries About Ethiopia
These documentaries provide a unique insight into Ethiopia's cultures, landscapes and contemporary realities, from the communities of the Omo Valley to the country's great historical and natural landmarks.
Mystery of the Nile
Jordi Llompart, 2005
Omo Child
2015
Tribes of Ethiopia (5 Episodes)
Albert Albacete & Marcel Brau, 2003
People of the Rift Valley
Abyssinia Films
Shooting with Mursi
Olisarali Olibuli
The Name My Mother Gave Me
Eli Tal-El, 2009
Town of Runners
Jerry Rothwell, 2011
Seleme, Seleme
Alejandra Rozas, 2013
13 Months of Sunshine
Yehdego Abeselom
Films Set in Ethiopia
These films explore different periods of Ethiopian history and culture, offering a deeper understanding of the country's richness and complexity through cinema.
Go and Live
Radu Mihaileanu, 2005
Harvest, 3000 Years
Haile Gerima, 1976
Adwa
Haile Gerima, 1999
Teza
Haile Gerima, 2008
Planning a Trip to Ethiopia?
Explore our Ethiopia tours or create a fully customised itinerary through Make Your Own Trip. We would be delighted to help you discover Ethiopia through an authentic and personalised journey.