If you’re planning to move to Italy, immersing yourself in books and films about the country can provide you with valuable insights into its culture, history, and way of life. Here are some recommendations:
Books:
- “Under the Tuscan Sun” by Frances Mayes: A memoir about an American writer who buys and restores an old villa in Tuscany, sharing her experiences of living in the Italian countryside.
- “My Brilliant Friend” by Elena Ferrante: The first book in a captivating series set in Naples, following the lives of two friends as they navigate friendship, family, and the complexities of Italian society.
- “The Name of the Rose” by Umberto Eco: A historical murder mystery set in a medieval Italian monastery, blending history, philosophy, and suspense.
- “If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler” by Italo Calvino: A postmodern novel that explores the love of reading and takes the reader on a playful journey through various interconnected stories.
- “The Leopard” by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa: A classic novel set in 19th-century Sicily, depicting the decline of the aristocracy and the social changes sweeping through Italy.
- “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert: A memoir of a woman’s journey of self-discovery as she travels to Italy, India, and Indonesia, focusing on her time in Italy and the appreciation of Italian food and culture.
Films:
- “Cinema Paradiso” (1988): A heartfelt film about a young boy’s love for the movies in a small Sicilian village, capturing the magic of cinema and the nostalgia of bygone times.
- “La Dolce Vita” (1960): Directed by Federico Fellini, this iconic film follows a journalist through a week in Rome, exploring themes of celebrity culture, existentialism, and the pursuit of pleasure.
- “Life is Beautiful” (1997): A touching story set during World War II, where a father uses imagination and humor to shield his son from the horrors of the Holocaust.
- “The Great Beauty” (2013): A visually stunning film that delves into the decadent and contemplative world of Rome’s high society, reflecting on beauty, art, and the search for meaning.
- “Il Postino” (1994): A charming film about a postman who befriends the poet Pablo Neruda on a small Italian island, capturing the transformative power of literature and love.
- “Pane e Tulipani” (Bread and Tulips) (2000): A heartwarming comedy-drama about a middle-aged woman who discovers her independence and finds unexpected love while on a spontaneous trip to Venice.
These books and films offer a glimpse into different aspects of Italian culture, history, and lifestyle. They can enhance your understanding of the country and its people, making your transition to Italy more enriching and enjoyable.
Books and films about Italy to check out before you move