A great book about Italy will allow you to experience the sights, sounds, food, and culture of Italy from the comfort of your own home. These books will make you want to experience Italy, whether you are planning your first trip or if you have always wanted to go back.
These are the top ten events that take place in the country, ranging from suspense to travel memoir. Buon divertimento!
La Bella Figura – A Field Guide to The Italian Mind:Beppe is an Italian journalist who loves to travel and is fascinated at the differences between Italy and the rest. This humorous and informative guide to Italian culture will show you how the other half lives.
The Birth of VenusA stunning mix of Renaissance history, romance and romance awaits you in Sarah Dunant’s story of Alessandra – a young Florentine girl who falls for a forbidden affair with a local artist. You will enjoy the thrilling story of this scandalous romance, which is laced with political turmoil.
Brunelleschi’s dome: How a Renaissance genius reinvented architecture:Impressed at Florence’s stunning Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral. Ross King’s novel reveals the fascinating history and construction of Florence’s iconic cupola (dome).
Eat Pray, Love: Elizabeth Gilbert falls for Italy while embarking on her journey of self-discovery. The memoir of an American woman living in Italy in 2006 shows how she eats local food in Rome and Naples, and how she discovers more about Italy’s rich culture while learning Italian. Julia Roberts starred in the film adaptation of the book.
Four Seasons: A Novel about Vivaldi’s Venice: If you love classical music, Laura Corona’s historical novel is a must-read! It focuses on the 18th century music scene of Venice. Find out about the sisters that inspired composer Antonio Vivaldi’s groundbreaking work. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Venice, a magical city on the waters.
Glassblower in Murano:Marina Fiorato guides us between 17th-century Murano, the ideal destination for stunning glass creations. The protagonist is an English woman looking for a fresh start. She returns to Murano to find out the history of her artisan ancestors. There are many mysteries along the way.
The Leopard A must-read for any Italian history fan! Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa’s turbulent portrait of the royal life in Sicily during Italy’s unification and transition was initially rejected by publishing houses, but it was finally published in 1958 after his death. It is now considered one the most important works of Italian literature.
Ten Thousand Days in Venice:Think about traveling to Venice and falling in love. Marlena De Blasi tells the story about an American tourist who meets a secret admirer in Venice. She has a unique perspective on Venetian culture. Continue the romance with “A Thousand Days in Tuscany”
The Shape Of Water: If you love suspense and Sicily, then follow Inspector Montalbano! The page-turning mysteries of Andrea Camilleri have been made into a popular television series in Italy. These novels are full of beautiful descriptions of Sicilian countryside and lots of interesting phrases from the local dialect.
A Room with a View: E.M. Forster’s 1908 novel offers a glimpse into the romantic and mysterious 19th-century Italy. This iconic classic begins with the desire to find a hotel room that has a view over Florence’s Arno. It was made into a film in 1985.
