Five recommended reads before landing in Marrakech

Yves Saint Laurent (Laurence Benaïm)

This collection by Laurence Benaïm, first published in 1993, is now considered a reference in the extensive literature dedicated to Yves Saint Laurent. With great accuracy and true to the designer's life and his complexities, this beautiful biography is a real testimony of admiration from the author. Updated in 2018, the 750-page book sketches the portrait of a man who is brilliant, tortured, and inspiring. A must-read to lift a bit of the veil of mystery surrounding this profoundly complex figure, Marrakchi for eternity.

Villa Taylor (Canesi & Rahmani)

The two authors of this beautiful novel, which champions tolerance and interculturality, pay a vibrant tribute to the fragrances, the lights, and the magic of Marrakech. Villa Taylor, a sumptuous residence located in the Guéliz district, once a holiday spot for celebrities like Winston Churchill or Yves Saint Laurent, becomes the central character of this tale blending historical reality and fiction. Through the experiences of Diane, in search of identity and love, and this historically rich villa she inherits after her grandmother's death, the authors pull us into an exciting story filled with intrigue and mystery. Highly recommended for those who wish to savor the hidden gems of the ochre city in advance.

Double murders in Marrakech (Philippe Gourdin)

In this riveting book, Marrakech provides the backdrop for a thrilling plot. A young woman must urgently travel to the imperial city to help her father accused of a double murder. The author constructs a suspenseful narrative around this crime investigation. Beyond the criminal quest, the story vividly describes the everyday life of the city's residents, allowing readers to immerse themselves realistically into the daily lives of the Marrakchis. With his efficient and precise writing, the author easily transports you on a gripping and exhilarating journey. Highly recommended.

The myth of Marrakech (Helge Sobik)

This book is a vibrant tribute to the city of Marrakech. Beautifully illustrated, it wonderfully captures the enchanting atmosphere of this magical city. As you discover the stunning shots, you are gradually transported by the timeless charms of the ochre city. The incredible energy of the place Jemaa el Fna, with its storytellers, snake charmers, acrobats, and incredible diversity, is superbly highlighted by renowned photographers contributing to this work. Through their exquisite photos, they reveal some of the mystery that makes this mythical city a ceaseless source of inspiration for artists and visitors worldwide.

Berber tales from the Atlas of Marrakech (Alphonse Leguil)

To conclude this selection of readings, we present a book of Berber tales. The twenty-six stories in this book were collected between 1949 and 1950 from storytellers in the Imessiouen mountain range. Most are by the famous Abdesslam n Id Bram, and were transcribed by Alphonse Leguil. The renowned Berber storyteller truly shines here, offering mischievous, funny tales full of surprises. You'll joyfully meet classic characters like the hedgehog and the jackal, following eagerly their adventures with delicious endings. These narrative gems are a lovely way to share moments with both the young and young at heart. Once again, a wonderful way to prepare for your family's arrival in Marrakech.