Books have a unique ability to transport us, allowing us to see the world through fresh eyes and connect with places on a deeper level. If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of Mongolia, these books about Mongolia offer invaluable perspectives.
Mongolia, with its vast steppes, ancient history, and vibrant culture, is full of untold stories. What better way to explore this incredible country than through the pages of a book? Whether you’re captivated by adventurous novels that bring the land to life, non-fiction works that delve into its fascinating past, or memoirs that reveal its hidden treasures, the right book can make Mongolia feel real, even before you visit.
To help you get started, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-read books—five fiction and five non-fiction—that will deepen your connection to this remarkable country. This is just a small selection to kickstart your reading journey, but we have many more recommendations. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or dreaming of Mongolia from afar, these books will guide you into the heart of its history and culture. After all, they say the world is a book—and when you travel and read, every page unfolds a new adventure. So, why not dive in and start exploring?
NON-FICTION
Into Wild Mongolia is a captivating blend of adventure and conservation, where George Schaller shares his thrilling journey studying Mongolia’s rare wildlife, like snow leopards and wild camels.
He doesn’t just focus on the wildlife but dives deep into the importance of preserving these rare species and their habitats. His passion for conservation shines through, and the way he blends adventure with science makes it an easy read for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, or travel. You’ll feel like you’re right there with him, in the heart of Mongolia’s wildest corners.
2. Secret History of Mongols- Anonymous author
it’s one of the most fascinating historical texts out there. This ancient chronicle gives an incredibly personal look at Genghis Khan and his rise to power, full of intrigue, betrayals, and epic battles. What’s amazing about it is how it blends history with myth, offering both a glimpse into the real-world events and the legends that shaped Mongolian identity,with the English translation by one of our expert Dr. Christopher Atwood bringing this historical masterpiece to a wider audience.
The author of The Secret History of the Mongols remains anonymous likely due to the text’s origins in the Mongol Empire’s oral traditions, political sensitivity, and the protection of the author’s identity.
It’s not just a dry history book; it’s almost like a saga that pulls you into another time. If you love deep, gripping stories with layers of history and mystery, this one’s a must!
3. My Mongolia- by J. Peter Morrow
This book is a deeply personal and vivid account of one man’s journey through Mongolia, capturing its landscapes, culture, and people with the eyes of both an outsider and someone who has come to call it home. What makes this book so good is Morrow’s heartfelt storytelling—he doesn’t just describe Mongolia; he immerses you in it, from the vast steppes to the warmth of nomadic hospitality. It’s part travel memoir, part cultural reflection, and full of rich insights that make you see Mongolia in a whole new way. If you love books that transport you to another world, this one’s a must-read!
4. Across Mongolian Plains- by Roy Chapman Andrews
Across Mongolian Plains by Roy Chapman Andrews is a remarkable read because it offers a rare firsthand account of the early 20th-century expeditions to Mongolia, combining thrilling adventure with scientific discovery. Andrews, a pioneering explorer and paleontologist, takes readers on a journey through uncharted territories, uncovering dinosaur fossils and interacting with Mongolia’s nomadic tribes. The book is a captivating blend of adventure, history, and nature, offering a unique perspective on Mongolia’s landscape and the thrill of exploration. People should read it for its historical significance, the fascinating tales of discovery, and the vivid portrayal of a Mongolia that few had the privilege to witness at the time.
5. Monastery on the Move- by Dr.Orna Tsultem
This book is a compelling and insightful memoir that explores the journey of a Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, which was displaced during the Soviet era and later revived. Dr,Orna Tsultem, one of our renowned experts and a Mongolian-American scholar, intertwines personal reflection with rich cultural history, offering readers a glimpse into the resilience of Mongolia’s spiritual traditions. The book beautifully portrays the intersection of tradition, politics, and personal identity, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Mongolia’s history, religion, or the effects of Soviet rule. It’s a powerful story of survival, revival, and the enduring spirit of culture.
FICTION
The Blue Sky is the first book in a trilogy by Galsan Tschinag. The trilogy, known as the Tuvan Trilogy, also includes The Fifth Son and The Winter’s Night. Each novel continues the story of the young protagonist, exploring themes of identity, tradition, and the impact of modernization on the nomadic Tuvan culture.
The first book is a powerful and poetic novel that transports you to the remote, windswept plains of Mongolia, where a young Tuvan boy grapples with his cultural heritage amidst the changes brought by the modern world. Tschinag’s writing, deeply rooted in his own Tuvan background, paints a vivid picture of the nomadic lifestyle and the profound bond between the land and its people. The book beautifully weaves themes of tradition, loss, and the passage of time, making it an essential read for anyone interested in Mongolia’s rich cultural tapestry and the timeless struggles of preserving one’s identity.
2. Mongolian Folktales by Hilary Roe Metternich
This written masterpiece is a captivating collection that brings to life the rich oral traditions of Mongolia through a series of engaging and beautifully retold stories. The book showcases a diverse array of folktales, from legends about mythical creatures to tales of heroism, love, and moral lessons, all reflecting the values, beliefs, and wisdom of the Mongolian people. Metternich’s skillful storytelling and cultural insight make these ancient tales accessible to modern readers, offering a window into Mongolia’s deep cultural heritage. This collection is a must-read for anyone interested in folklore, mythology, and the timeless stories that shape cultures.
3. “BONES OF THE MATER – A JOURNEY TO SECRET MONGOLIA” by George Crane
It is an adventurous and thought-provoking travel memoir that explores the hidden corners of Mongolia, delving into its ancient traditions, mystical landscapes, and the author’s personal journey of discovery. Crane takes readers on a captivating expedition through remote areas of Mongolia, seeking not only fossils but also the deep cultural connections that bind the land and its people. The book offers a unique blend of archaeology, adventure, and cultural exploration, making it a great read for those intrigued by the mysteries of Mongolia and the thrill of uncovering its secrets.
4. “Wolf Totem” by Jiang Rong
Set against the backdrop of the Cultural Revolution, Wolf Totem by Jiang Rong follows a young intellectual from Beijing who is sent to the vast Mongolian grasslands, where he forms a deep bond with a wild wolf. Through this relationship, the novel explores themes of survival, the clash between nature and civilization, and the complexities of cultural identity. Rong’s vivid descriptions and thought-provoking storytelling offer a rich exploration of Mongolia’s traditional way of life and its struggle against modernization, making it an essential read for those fascinated by history, culture, and the natural world.
5. The Shadow Walker- by Michael Walters
In The Shadow Walker, Michael Walters weaves a thrilling crime narrative set in contemporary Mongolia, where detective Nergui is tasked with solving a series of enigmatic deaths. With a sharp focus on the intersection of politics, culture, and crime, Walters immerses readers in Mongolia’s unique landscape, creating a gripping mystery that also offers profound insights into the country’s evolving identity. The novel’s vivid setting, complex characters, and captivating plot make it an essential read for fans of crime fiction and those fascinated by Mongolia’s social fabric.
These books are just the beginning of your journey into Mongolia’s rich history and culture. Ready to dive deeper? Start reading today, and let your adventure unfold—whether through the pages or on the ground. If you’re inspired to experience Mongolia firsthand, don’t hesitate to check out our exclusive tours. Your adventure awaits!