This Is Europe: The Way We Live Now by Ben Judah

Since I joined a local library, almost every weekend I stumble upon at least one interesting book. This Is Europe: The Way We Live Now by Ben Judah is my most recent finding.

The book is a collection of stories written in journalistic style; an enlightening read that opens a window into the lives of (extra)ordinary Europeans. No sensational headlines, just real lives marked by migration, climate hardship, identity, and hope. Ben Judah doesn’t romanticise them; he tells their often rough stories with respect, clarity, and heartfelt empathy.

This is Europe by Ben Judah

Through 23 intimate portraits, the author took me from a Rotterdam harbour pilot navigating global trade, to Romanian lorry drivers vulnerable to crime on UK routes, to Italian mountain rescuers helping West African migrants in the Alps. Each story felt genuine, profoundly honest, and eye-opening.

I highly recommend this book — it broadened my understanding of what Europe truly looks like today.

“This is Europe” is empathy-inducing read that made me reflect on the values and future of society from different perspectives.

You can get the book from here: This Is Europe on Amazon

About the author

Martin Tutko is a product designer by trade and a part-time philosopher by hobby. Thinking, researching and doing design since 1998. And as of 2023 also sharing and writing about some of my experiences as a product designer 🧑🏻‍💻🌟