Lebanon's turbulent history and rich culture have inspired some remarkable writing. Here are books worth reading before or during your trip.
The Prophet by Khalil Gibran -- Lebanon's most famous literary export, a collection of poetic essays on love, work, freedom and death. Gibran was born in Bcharre in 1883 and emigrated to the United States, but his work is deeply rooted in Lebanese landscape and spirituality. You can visit the Gibran Museum in Bcharre.
Pity the Nation by Robert Fisk -- The definitive account of Lebanon's civil war (1975-1990), written by the longtime Middle East correspondent of The Independent. Dense but essential reading for understanding modern Lebanon.
Beirut Hellfire Society by Rawi Hage -- A darkly comic novel set during the civil war, following a young man who joins a secret society that buries the dead rejected by religious authorities. Captures the absurdity and horror of wartime Beirut.
The Story of Zahra by Hanan al-Shaykh -- A landmark novel about a young Lebanese woman navigating family, sexuality and war. One of the most important works of modern Arabic fiction.
An Unnecessary Woman by Rabih Alameddine -- A reclusive 72-year-old woman in Beirut secretly translates great works of literature into Arabic. A love letter to books, Beirut and solitude.
The Art of Syrian Cookery by Helen Corey -- Despite the name, this classic cookbook covers Lebanese and Syrian cuisine thoroughly. Useful if you want to recreate the flavours at home.
De Niro's Game by Rawi Hage -- Two friends in 1980s Beirut, one choosing the militia and the other trying to escape. Won the IMPAC Dublin Literary Award.
Beyrouth by Samir Kassir -- A sweeping history of Beirut from antiquity to the 21st century by the Lebanese journalist and historian who was assassinated in 2005. Available in French and English.