Italian Book Club
That's... Italian Literature!
We meet approximately once a month for 1.5 hours to discuss the book we've read together. The fee to join is £18.
Our next Book Club book is Le assaggiatrici by Rosella Pastorino, an award-winning novel inspired by the true story of the women who were forced to taste Adolf Hitler's meals during the Second World War.
Set in Germany in 1943, the novel follows Rosa, a young woman whose life changes dramatically when she is recruited to become one of Hitler's food tasters. A compelling story of fear, survival, friendship and moral dilemmas, Le assaggiatrici offers plenty of themes and language to explore together.
Our next Book Club meeting will take place on the 15th July, at 1PM.
Our favourite reads
Carla Capponi
CON CUORE DI DONNA
Con cuore di donna is a poignant exploration of female strength and resilience. Through vivid storytelling, the author delves into the lives of women facing societal challenges, highlighting their unwavering spirit and determination. This book invites to reflect on the complexities of womanhood and the power of and courage in overcoming adversity.
Elsa Morante
L'ISOLA DI ARTURO
L'Isola di Arturo is a poignant coming-of-age novel set on the beautiful island of Procida. The story follows the life of a young boy named Arturo, exploring themes of love, loss, and the struggles of adolescence. Through imagery and emotional depth, Morante captures the essence of growing up amidst the backdrop of a vibrant, yet challenging environment. novel is a rich tapestry of human experience that resonates with of all ages.
Italo Calvino
LE CITTÀ INVISIBILI
Le città invisibili is a mesmerizing exploration of places and human experience. Through a series of poetic and fantastic vignettes, Marco Polo describes to Kublai Khan the intricacies of various cities, each representing different aspects of life, memory, and desire. The narrative blurs the lines reality and fantasy, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of cities and the stories they hold. This timeless work captures the essence of travel and the profound connections we create with our surroundings.
Italo Calvino
IL BARONE RAMPANTE
In Il barone rampante, Italo Calvino tells the enchanting story of Cosimo Piovasco di Rondò, a young nobleman who chooses to live in the trees rather than conform to societal expectations. As he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and adventure, Cosimo explores the world from his unique arboreal perspective, encountering various characters and challenges along the way. This whimsical tale blends fantasy and reality, highlighting themes of freedom, individuality, and the connection between humans and nature.
Italo Calvino
FIABE ITALIANE
Fiabe Italiane is a captivating collection of traditional Italian fairy tales that brings to life the rich cultural heritage of Italy. Through enchanting narratives filled with whimsical characters and moral lessons, Calvino weaves together stories that celebrate imagination and the power of storytelling. This delightful anthology not only entertains but also invites readers to explore the timeless themes of love, adventure, and the triumph of good over evil. Dive into these magical tales and cover the essence of Italian folklore.
Alberto Moravia
LA CIOCIARA
La Ciociara is a poignant novel set in Italy during World War II. It follows the story of Cesira, a resilient woman, along with her daughter, seeks refuge from the chaos of war in the countryside. As they navigate the challenges of survival and human connection turmoil, the narrative explores themes of love, loss, the enduring strength of the human spirit. Moravia's evocative prose captures the complexities of life during a tumultuous, making this a deeply moving read.