No matter what level of Spanish you are at, reading books in Spanish to improve your reading skills is essential. It is a nice break from the textbook studying, and will give you a new boost of motivation for studying. Reading books in Spanish will show you how grammar and vocabulary are used, but also give you a peek into the culture.
When choosing a book in Spanish, make sure to choose one that piques your interest and fits your level. This list goes over 10 spectacular books in Spanish to improve your reading skills. There are books for every learning level, so hopefully you find a book that works for you!
Top 10 Books in Spanish to Improve your Reading Skills
1. Como agua para chocolate by Laura Esquivel
Level: Intermediate
Genre: Drama
This Spanish book is usually recommended for language learners, because of its grammatical stylings and interesting plot. The verbs and language used are more based on Central American Spanish than Spain’s Spanish, so it’s a great exposure to different dialects. Though the plot is drawn out over a long period of time, the grammar used is simple enough for Intermediate learners to understand. Or for upper-level beginners who are looking for a challenge.
“Como agua para chocolate,” blends storytelling with traditional Mexican recipes for a unique style. The book follows Tita, who dreams of marrying the love of her life. The story has an intense ending, so be prepared.
2. Spanish Short Stories for Beginners by Olly Richards
Level: Beginner
Genre: Short Story
“Spanish Short Stories for Beginners,” is an amazing book to start with for beginner learners. The stories aren’t too long, so beginners will not feel overwhelmed by big chunks of texts in Spanish. But, there are still vocabulary and phrases that will give you a bit of a challenge. This is one of the best books in Spanish to improve your reading skills for beginner levels.
What makes “Spanish Short Stories for Beginners,” even better is its quizzes. Each short story ends with a quiz! These will test your reading comprehension of each story, so you can practice even further. The stories range in genres as well, so readers will never get bored while reading this book in Spanish.
3. El Alquimista by Paolo Coelho
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Genre: Fantasy
You have likely heard of “The Alchemist,” and for good reason. This incredible book written by Paolo Coelho is well loved in many countries. The Spanish used is easy to understand and follow. However, the plot has a bit of fantasy sprinkled throughout which may be difficult for beginners to fully grasp. It is the perfect balance of challenge and simplicity.
“El Alquimista,” follows the journey of a young shepherd that goes on a life changing journey. Not only is it one of the most famous books in Spanish to improve your reading skills, but it teaches you many life lessons as well. It is definitely worth a read!
4. Papelucho by Marcela Paz
Level: Beginner
Genre: Series, Fiction
The “Papelucho,” series is well loved by children all across Latin America, and continues to be popular despite being written in the 1950’s. Written by Marcela Paz, this book series is perfect for beginners. With its simple Spanish grammar and vocabulary, it is easy enough for beginners to follow. The plot differs in each story as well, so learners will always have a new adventure to look forward to.
“Papelucho,” follows a young paper boy that encounters adventures while delivering newspapers in Chile. Many of the stories visit themes of social injustices that occurred in Chile at the time. Though it is a children’s book, it does not shy away from important topics.
5. Gringo Viejo by Carlos Fuentes
Level: Advanced
Genre: Historical Drama
“Gringo Viejo,” is one of the most famous pieces of literature in Spanish. With its well written characters and plot lines, there is nothing but love for this book. It is quite the tough read though, making it one of the best books in Spanish to improve your reading skills if you’re an advanced learners.
The book dives into Mexican culture, but through the eyes of the foreigner main character. The story of “Gringo Viejo,” follows a “gringo” (American) that falls in love with a local Mexican woman. But their love goes through numerous trials and tribulations as they are in times of war.
6. Cuentos Para 365 Días by Gloria Fuertes
Level: Beginner
Genre: Short Stories
“Cuentos Para 365 Días,” is a fun book full of short stories. This book is the best book in Spanish to improve reading skills for beginners. The length of each story makes sure that beginner learners aren’t overwhelmed with complex Spanish. But, it also has beautiful illustrations that help learners visualize the stories.
The stories in “Cuentos Para 365 Días,” switch from regular stories to poetry. It is a great way to learn new vocabulary and Spanish symbolism. If you don’t like one story, there are plenty of others that may have themes that pique your interest.
7. El Túnel by Ernesto Sabato
Level: Advanced
Genre: Thriller
This book has a powerful plot that takes many twists and turns. “El Túnel,” is a fantastic thriller written by Ernesto Sabato, but it is a difficult read. It’s even tough for native speakers! But, if you practice some patience, you will understand just why this book is so acclaimed. With its themes of loneliness and isolation, there is much to analyze in the story.
“El Túnel,” focuses on a painter that slowly becomes obsessed with a woman. Over time his obsession turns deadly as his mind succumbs to a plethora of dark thoughts. You may start reading the book for the plot, but you’ll definitely gain some serious reading skills from this Spanish book.
8. La Ciudad de las Bestias by Isabel Allende
Level: Intermediate
Genre: Young Adult, Adventure
You may know Isabel Allende from her famous book “The House of the Spirits,” but what about “La Ciudad de las Bestias?” This fantasy story’s plot is intriguing and full of magical imagery that keeps readers hooked.
Since it was written for teenagers, the language used makes it one of the best books in Spanish to improve reading your reading skills for intermediate learners. It is complex enough for a challenge, but simple enough for readers to understand. The book is actually part of a trilogy, so if you love this book, then you’ll have lots of material to enjoy.
9. Clásicos Adaptados Series by Various Writers
Level: Beginner
Genre: Classic, Variety
This collection of classic Spanish literature is the perfect book in Spanish for beginners. “Clásicos Adaptados,” are filled with classic Spanish stories that have been adapted to fit beginner reading levels. It is a great choice for students that prefer classic literature, and want to study classic Spanish literature.
Each story is from a different genre, so you can explore a variety of story types. Some classic stories in “Clásicos Adaptados,” are: “Leyendas,” “El Retablo de las Maravillas,” and “Tormento.” When you are looking for a beginner level book in this series, make sure you buy one with a yellow stripe.
10. La Vida Imaginaria by Mara Torres
Level: Upper Beginner to Intermediate
Genre: Fiction
“La Vida Imaginaria,” is a wonderful story that many of us can relate to. The main character, Nata, is dumped by her longtime boyfriend. She doesn’t know how to react, and goes through a variety of experiences to get her life back to normal. It is definitely one of the most relatable books in Spanish to improve your reading skills.
The grammar in “La Vida Imaginaria,” is simple enough for beginner and intermediate learners to understand. But, the challenge comes from the jumps in the timeline. The unconventional timeline could be quite confusing for the beginner learner.
Conclusion
Reading books in Spanish is a fantastic way to improve your reading skills regardless of your level. It’s best to choose a novel that interests you and fits your learning level. This list compiled a variety of books that fit any tastes and skill levels. Hopefully there is one on this list that you enjoy!
If you want to practice your listening skills as well, then you should read Top 5 Podcasts To Learn Spanish With.
