This book was received as an advance review copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

If one could have a conversation with an Italian, who has wisdom from age and experience under their belt, about all things that make Italy, well Italy then it would probably be something along the lines of the book Italian Lessons. Beppe Severgnini offers insights into the Italian way of life and his take on what he considers are reasons that make Italians bewildering yet fascinating.

What’s to like:

If one could have a conversation with an Italian, who has wisdom from age and experience under their belt, about all things that make Italy, well Italy then it would probably be something along the lines of the book Italian Lessons. Beppe Severgnini offers insights into the Italian way of life and his take on what he considers are reasons that make Italians bewildering yet fascinating.

What’s to like:

For any person fond of traveling, this book is a quick escape to Italy and a window into the life of a native there. Lots of stories about places, people, and family history make it interesting. We learn a lot about the author’s life and his observations about changes around him precipitated by time and technology. There is no denying the author’s expertise on this subject.

What’s not to like:

The book narrates 50 reasons for being Italian and each reason is elaborated on in a chapter of its own. As the reader starts making their way through these it’s easy to forget why the author is listing these reasons and one has to go back to remind oneself of what these reasons are justifying. It is too much, it makes the book feel like it’s all over the place which is maybe bound to happen if a book tries to explain so much about the Italian identity in its pages.

Severgnini does not shy away from expressing his opinions but they are not all easy to digest. His concern over the disappearance of topless sunbathers on Italian beaches and women’s bodies having become “intensely private” unsettles the reader. He is clearly very cognizant of the rise in conversations about women’s rights and yet he believes that it is okay to express disapproval over women wanting to cover themselves. For someone who values modesty, it is always unsettling to hear that it bothers others, while the opposite is completely acceptable.

3/5 – Feel Good