Discover these seven notable novels set in Amsterdam that vividly portray life, history, and the unique atmosphere of the city.
“The Evenings” by Gerard Reve follows ten days in the life of Frits van Egters, a young man living in post-war Amsterdam. He drifts through each day filled with mundane routines, awkward interactions, and darkly humorous observations about his family and surroundings.
Through Frits’s dry humor and restless thoughts, the novel captures the quiet frustrations and absurdities of ordinary life.
Set in 17th-century Amsterdam, “The Coffee Trader” by David Liss focuses on Miguel Lienzo, a Jewish trader originally from Portugal. Coffee is a newly introduced commodity in Europe, and Miguel sees this opportunity to recover from previous losses.
He soon finds himself trapped in a risky plan filled with rival traders, uneasy alliances, and unexpected betrayal. The novel vividly portrays Amsterdam’s bustling trading scene and the complexities of the city’s Jewish Quarter.
“Postcards from No Man’s Land” by Aidan Chambers switches between two narratives that weave together over time. In present-day Amsterdam, teenager Jacob visits the city for a World War II commemoration ceremony and begins to uncover unexpected family secrets.
Alongside this, the narrative travels back to wartime Amsterdam, where Geertrui helps a wounded British soldier as they both struggle to survive.
Contrasting today’s Amsterdam with the tense wartime past, the novel reveals moving stories of family, identity, and deep connections.
“Ciske the Rat” by Piet Bakker introduces us to a troubled yet charismatic child named Ciske. Growing up in Amsterdam’s tough working-class neighborhoods of the 1930s, the young boy experiences bullying at school and hardship at home.
But even in tough circumstances, his humor and determination shine through. Amsterdam’s vibrant, gritty streets come fully alive as readers follow Ciske’s struggles in search of friendship and acceptance.
In “I Am Rembrandt’s Daughter” by Lynn Cullen, we see 17th-century Amsterdam through the eyes of Cornelia, daughter of the famous artist Rembrandt.
With her father’s artistic reputation fading and family finances dwindling, Cornelia struggles between loyalty to her father and her desire for an easier life.
Her story vividly depicts Amsterdam’s art community, highlighting what life was like in a city where social position and money often overshadowed artistic talent.
“The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green centers on Hazel and Gus, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group and form a strong connection. They journey to Amsterdam hoping to meet Hazel’s favorite author and find answers to important questions.
As their emotional visit unfolds, the Amsterdam setting underscores their interactions, adding warmth and poignancy to their story of love and loss.
Daniel Silva’s “The Secret Servant” is an exciting spy thriller featuring Gabriel Allon, an art restorer who doubles as an international secret agent. Gabriel discovers the murder of a respected professor in Amsterdam, which quickly escalates into a dangerous terrorist plot.
From the canals of Amsterdam to other European cities, Gabriel races against time. The story blends espionage action with intriguing insights into Amsterdam as a key backdrop for international intrigue.