Looking into other people’s reading lists is always fascinating. Intruding a little into their taste in literature is like glimpsing into their mind and soul: it tells you something about them or maybe not. In any case there is a definite charm about those who read, and we love it. From poetry and prose to history, philosophy and contemporary reflections, their literature slates have something for everyone. This Christmas, they remind us why books remain the gift par excellence: a present that carries thought, care and the joy of discovery.
Our first conversations are with Andreas D. Mavroyiannis (Ambassador ad hon.) the Cypriot former diplomat and negotiator, whose career has seen him represent Cyprus at the United Nations, the European Union, France and Ireland, and Anna Koukkides-Procopiou, former Minister of Justice, a Yale Peace Fellow and founder of a book club at Politeia – Centre of Socio-Political Thinking.
Andreas Mavroyiannis: For the love of literature
He is one of the few political figures who can be spotted at a theatre or art exhibition as a genuine fan rather than for public relations. For him, “books are the gift par excellence”.
“With the exception of weddings and christenings where other considerations prevail, I believe a book is always a kind and thoughtful present,” he explains. “It is even more special when chosen with love and consideration for the recipient.”
When it comes to selecting a present this festive season, Andreas has recently been drawn to a book by a Cypriot author, titled Μη γράφετε Αρθούρος (Don’t write Arthur) by Nasia Dionysiou, the book will be also translated in French.
“I liked it very much myself, and I am delighted when others around me have the chance to discover it too,” he says.
Choosing a favourite book, however, is impossible for him. “I love reading and I enjoy literature in all its forms, both prose and poetry. At the moment, I am rereading The Cure at Troy: A Version of Sophocles’ Philoctetes by Seamus Heaney. Alongside that, I read articles on current issues and books on history, international relations and philosophical reflections. Currently, I am exploring Χασμα Σεισμού by Demetrios Liantinis.”
Books also come to him as gifts. “I am fortunate to receive several each year, often with handwritten dedications from the authors themselves. In the last few weeks, I received Λύτρωση (Redemption) by Petros Tserkezis, Self-portrait by Lily Michaelidou, Η μάνα γάτα (Mother Cat) by Costas Lymbouris, The Trawler by Andriana Ierodiaconou and «Νίνα – Η ιστορία μου» (Nina-My story) by Nina Hadjimiltes.
Anna Koukkides-Procopiou: The Heart of a Book Club
Anna Koukkides-Procopiou is a woman whose love of books is matched by her commitment to fostering discussion and reflection. As a former Minister of Justice, feminist, communicator and analyst, and now a Yale Peace Fellow, she has a rich perspective on both literature and history. She is also the driving force behind Politeia’s monthly book club gatherings, where readers meet in an intimate setting to explore ideas and stories together.
Books are gifts she treasures giving, to herself and to those she loves. “My house is overflowing with books, which gets me into a lot of trouble with my husband,” she laughs. “I often come across books that seem perfect for friends, family and colleagues, and I buy them on impulse. I also seek out books for special occasions and for people I know will appreciate them. Over the years I have learned that unless someone loves books themselves, no recommendation can truly be appreciated”.
Among the gifts she has received, two stand out. One is Let Them by Mel Robbins, given to her by her sister after a conversation about the author’s podcast. The other is a well-worn copy of Oriana Fallaci’s Interview with History, a gift from her father that inspired her own writing. “It is one of my favourite books,” she explains.
“Fallaci was fearless, irreverent and meticulous. She asked all the questions journalists should ask and had no holy cows. It reads like a who’s who of a past world that shaped the future: Henry Kissinger, Golda Meir, Yasser Arafat, Indira Gandhi, Willy Brandt, Archbishop Makarios, Alecos Panagoulis, the list goes on.”
When selecting gifts this holiday season, Anna has chosen works that celebrate women and courage. She plans to give Είμαι Επικίνδυνη and Μικρές Επικίνδυνες (I am dangerous, Small dangerous) to women she admires. “The first is a collection of essays by 100 Greek women, including myself, each explaining why she is ‘dangerous’. The latter shares stories from teenage and young women across Greece, bravely mastering life as they know it. Both are in Greek, but the themes are universal.” [The idea for the book series, as well as the subsequent ERT television programmes, was conceived and curated by the new media company αθηΝΕΑ, the organisation for professional empowerment and workplace equality Women on Top, and the organisation promoting women’s empowerment in the public sphere, public discourse and leadership positions, Women Act].
She treasures giving books to herself and to those she cares about, choosing them thoughtfully for people who will truly appreciate them. For Anna, books are gifts that carry ideas, like windows to inspiration and connection.