I read Joana Kruse’s previous book, a photo guide to Scotland, and I enjoyed it immensely. Its combination of storytelling and photography made for a unique and engaging approach to the travel guide genre. Her latest book, Azores – The Storyteller’s Guide: A Photographic Tale Across The Islands Of Fire and Flowers, takes a similar approach with the Azores, an archipelago of volcanic islands off the coast of Portugal. By combining stunning photography, entertaining stories, and truly helpful travel information, the book offers inspiration to both seasoned and novice travelers seeking detailed information about a locale that is off the beaten track for most tourist destinations. The Azores and its people are, simply put, brought to life in this beautifully crafted guide.

Without a doubt, my favorite part of Azores – The Storyteller’s Guide is its lovely photography. The subject of each photograph is chosen to stir the imagination, whether it captures a crater lake, a volcanic rock cliff, black and white Baroque architecture, or more modern sustainable building styles. The stories also add much to the book by providing a sense of Azorean culture and the warmth of its people. Furthermore, the stories give Joana Kruse the chance to poke fun at her traveling companion, Brian, whose misadventures add humor to the travelogue. Even the tips for safer and more comfortable travel are quite practical for those readers considering a vacation to the Azores. For myself, a mere armchair traveler, they had less value, though I can still dream of such an adventure, can’t I?

Azores: The Storyteller’s Photo Guide by Joana Kruse is a travel narrative and photographic exploration that brings the Azores to life in a refreshingly creative way. Instead of following a standard guidebook format, the book unfolds through the whimsical, often humorous journey of two characters, Brian and Joana, who act as our stand-ins for discovery. Their experiences are interwoven with striking visuals, cultural insights, and a clear reverence for the geological and historical depth of the nine islands. Kruse’s writing balances factual information with storytelling, grounding each island’s personality in both local legends and lived experiences. For instance, São Miguel evolves from being merely the “Green Island” to a vibrant landscape rich with stories of volcanic history, community traditions, and unexpected pineapple quests. Each location is introduced through vibrant narratives and photography that captures the scenery and the atmosphere.

The book’s structure invites readers to explore the Azores leisurely and immersively. Each chapter is color-coded and includes essential travel tips, hidden gems, and suggested timeframes, maintaining the playful tone that makes it feel like you’re traveling with a couple of quirky and endearing companions. The photos complement the storytelling beautifully, showcasing lush botanical gardens and surreal volcanic vistas. Most impressive is how Joana Kruse manages to convey the soul of the islands through fiction and reality. Her own experiences inform the narrative, but using fictionalized travelers allows for more creative engagement. QR codes throughout the book lead to more breathtaking photographs available for purchase. Azores: The Storyteller’s Photo Guide gives you an idea of how it might feel to be there. It’s an engaging read and a feast for the eyes. I highly recommend it.

Azores: The Storyteller’s Photo Guide by Joana Kruse is a visually rich and engaging travel narrative that transforms the traditional guidebook into an immersive storytelling experience. We find ourselves embarking on a journey across all nine islands of the Azorean archipelago as Kruse combines stunning landscape photography with local tales, personal encounters, and historical insights. In this way, she paints a vivid portrait of Portugal’s ‘Islands of Flowers and Fire.’ Each must-see spot comes alive with context, recommendations, and best-time-to-visit tips, while humorous and heartfelt stories offer a deeper connection to the culture and natural majesty of the region. Designed to spark curiosity and wanderlust, this book is perfect for travelers looking to experience more than just sightseeing; it’s about stepping into a living narrative shaped by volcanic landscapes and vibrant communities.

Author Joana Kruse certainly knows how to turn the tiniest everyday moments into meaningful storytelling hooks, encouraging readers to be inspired by every scene she introduces in this fantastic book. I’m an avid traveler and someone who loves to see art and culture whilst I’m away, so this book was the perfect fusion of art, travel, and storytelling for me. This guidebook feels like a journey in itself, and better yet, it’s one you can escape to without even leaving your armchair. There’s a tenderness and enthusiasm to the text that’s also echoed in the framing of every image. Kruse captures the heart and soul of the Azores through both lens and language to offer a read that’s truly rich with personality and depth. The organization of information is visually stunning and wonderfully informative, and it feels like the natural voyage of discovery that you might take, making for a refreshing alternative to formulaic travel guides that’s ideal for dreamers and planners alike. Overall, Azores: The Storyteller’s Photo Guide is a highly recommended read for travel fans.

Azores: The Storyteller’s Photo Guide by Joana Kruse is a captivating book that invites readers to embark on a photographic adventure through the Azorean islands, a visual journey that highlights the distinctive personalities of each of the nine volcanic islands. From the lush greens of São Miguel and the dark soil of Corvo to the vibrant cultural scene of Terceira and the stunning coastline of Pico, each location visited offers breathtaking imagery and rich local lore. Along the way, readers encounter a man who dreams of growing pineapples, a couple reminiscing about their past during their sixtieth anniversary, and a woman on a quest to reunite with her family. Embark on an enchanting adventure and discover the unique stories and stunning landscapes of the Azores.

Azores: The Storyteller’s Photo Guide is a traveler's dream, featuring captivating photographs and intriguing tales that inspire exploration. Its blend of real locations with fictional narratives makes it a standout resource for anyone who enjoys travel literature. Most importantly, it introduces readers to the Azores, a hidden Atlantic gem filled with natural beauty and cultural richness. Through these travel adventures, readers will appreciate the striking visuals of each island and connect with the heartfelt stories of the locals they meet. Readers will learn fun facts, such as the unique color names of each island that reflect their natural features and cultural significance. They will also gain insights into the agriculture, architecture, and landmarks of the region, and be captivated by the region's history and geography, while embracing its beauty. Each character brings their own perspective to the exploration, creating a dynamic narrative that enhances the reader's appreciation of the Azores. Whether you are an avid traveler or simply seeking inspiration, Joana Kruse's Azores offers a rich tapestry of experiences and insights into the vibrant culture and natural wonders that make the Azorean islands a must-visit destination.