Leaving Spain: A Biographical Study of an Economic Crisis and New Beginnings

Since the economic crisis of 2008, Spain has witnessed a mass departure of mostly young people looking for opportunities abroad. This book explores the life histories and experiences of Spanish migrants who went to the UK and Germany, and sometimes returned, through 58 autobiographical narrative interviews. It demonstrates the potential of biographical research and narrative analysis in studying contemporary Europe, including its overlapping crises. The book will be of interest to social scientists, students, professionals, and policy makers interested in learning more about migrants' experiences, perspectives, and contributions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 07 April 2022
Publisher: Leuven University Press

Since the onset of the economic crisis of 2008, Spain, like other southern European countries, has experienced a significant exodus of predominantly young individuals seeking opportunities abroad. This phenomenon, known as "leaving Spain," is the subject of a captivating book authored by Mê-Linh Riemann. Through a series of 58 autobiographical narrative interviews conducted with recent Spanish migrants who ventured to the UK and Germany, and occasionally returned, the author offers a profound exploration of the complexities and nuances of contemporary European life.

By presenting a rich blend of in-depth case studies and comparative analyses, the author demonstrates the immense potential of biographical research and narrative analysis in understanding the multifaceted challenges faced by modern Europe, including its overlapping crises. The sociological study extends beyond a mere examination of the individual phases experienced by those who left Spain. Instead, it delves into the profound significance of migration projects within the context of individuals' life histories and the ways in which they retrospectively make sense of these experiences.

This book is a valuable resource for social scientists, students, and professionals across a wide range of disciplines and interdisciplinary studies, including sociology, anthropology, human geography, European studies, education, and social work. It will also appeal to European and national policy makers, as well as those with a genuine interest in gaining deeper insights into the experiences, perspectives, and often invisible contributions of migrants.

The book is available in Open Access, ensuring widespread accessibility to its insights. Additionally, it carries the prestigious GPRC label (Guaranteed Peer-Reviewed Content), indicating that it has undergone rigorous peer review to ensure the highest quality and academic rigor.

In conclusion, "Leaving Spain" is a groundbreaking work that offers readers a unique and novel perspective on the south-north movement in the context of the economic crisis. Through its compelling narratives and insightful analyses, the book provides valuable insights into the lives of migrants, shedding light on the complexities, challenges, and opportunities they encounter on their journey. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the evolving dynamics of contemporary Europe and the profound impact of migration on our society.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789462703285