Readers of Europe 2021- Greek recommendation

Readers of Europe - recommendation by the Permanent Representation of Greece to the EU

Book selected: Ο φόνος είναι χρήμα by Petros Markaris 

Petros Markaris’  latest novel ‘Ο φόνος είναι χρήμα’ (which means ‘Murder is Money’ in English) is set in post-financial crisis, pre-pandemic Athens.

When two wealthy investors are found dead, legendary detective Kostas Charitos is once again called to investigate. But this is an investigation against a backdrop that he has never encountered before. Inequalities are amplified, political pressure is mounting and a movement of the poor is starting to emerge.

This is an Athens where old ideologues have lost their bearings and must try to claw together new narratives closer to reality. An Athens where the younger generation is struggling to find its place. An Athens where foreign investors are seemingly welcome, or at least tolerated, and yet are targeted because they are perceived to be buying Greece’s soul. An Athens where refugees and migrants are vying for their place in a volatile atmosphere of compassion and animosity.

But not everything is as gloomy as the general landscape would indicate. Friendships endure in spite of the hard times. Families spend quality moments together and soul-searching often leads to kindness and generosity that inspires others.

While this is clearly a detective novel, it also offers astute observations on social inequality and the role of foreign investment in society. In his typical but unique style, Petros Markaris transports the reader to the streets and squares of Athens – a city which may be hectic on the surface, yet never fails to charm all who encounter it.

Inspector Charitos has acquired ‘Poirot’ status in Greece and beyond. His novels have been translated into several languages and have become known to a wider European public.  ‘Ο φόνος είναι χρήμα’ has been published in  Italian as ‘L’omicidio è denaro’, and in Spanish as ‘Etica para inversores’ and the German translation, ‘Das Lied des Geldes’, will be available at the end of July.

Ancient Greek literary works need no introduction.  But modern Greek literature has also produced several masterpieces, not least the works of two Nobel Prize laureates – Giorgos Seferis and Odysseas Elytis. For those looking to unearth Greek literary gems, discover more via Eureka,  the online catalogue of the Council libraries.

• Greek literature in Eureka

About the Readers of Europe campaign - Travel across Europe through literature

Through the long months of winter, in the darkest depths of the pandemic, the thought of travelling again was a guiding light for many sailing towards uncertain shores.

Although people were confined to their homes, many made epic voyages in uncharted lands with the aid of an old friend - books. For many, books were used as an invaluable coping measure to help deal with the psychosocial strain of being confined to their homes. Reading has helped people in Europe and around the world to cope with isolation during enduring lockdowns, and to deal with the uncertainty about the future.

Summer 2021 has a more hopeful feel than  last year. The ever increasing vaccination rates and the EU Digital COVID Certificate will hopefully facilitate the safe, free movement of citizens in the EU.

But situations can change quickly during pandemics. Some people may prefer to have staycations in their country of residence. But whether you are travelling at home or overseas, the Council Library has found a ‘budget’ way to enable  everyone to  visit other European countries.

This summer the Council Library will whisk you away across the continent, moving not only across the Member States, but in and out of time as well.

We have once again invited colleagues from the Permanent Representations to the EU to make recommendations for books to read over the summer, with the second edition of our ‘Readers of Europe’ campaign. The theme for this years campaign is ‘Travel across Europe through literature’.

The literary pit stops on this tour will shine a light on some of Europe’s hidden charms, visiting places that are both eerily familiar and profoundly new. The works selected cover a broad range of genres, from contemporary to classic. Stories that penetrate deeply and consume entirely. Stories with strange beauty, nostalgia, mystery and love. Stories that showcase the vast wealth of European literature.

The itinerary is set. No passport is needed to go on this trip. The only carry-ons permitted are books and bookmarks (and maybe a cup of tea).

Join us as we travel across Europe through literature, as we once again encounter the ‘Readers of Europe’.

For more information about the EU Digital COVID Certificate, please see

• Commission page on the EU Digital COVID Certificate

This post does not necessarily represent the positions, policies, or opinions of the Council of the European Union or the European Council.

The Council Library reading room is currently closed. The Info Desk remains open online and will reply to queries by email from Monday to Friday, 10.00 to 16.00.