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 read is Come Dio Comanda, by Niccolò Ammaniti, one of Italy's most acclaimed contemporary authors.
Winner of the 2007 Strega Prize, this powerful novel explores the complex relationship between a father and his teenage son as they struggle with poverty, loyalty, violence and the consequences of one life-changing event. With his distinctive storytelling, Ammaniti paints a raw yet deeply human portrait of modern Italy through unforgettable characters and gripping narrative.
During our meeting, we'll discuss the novel together, exploring its characters, themes, language and literary style. As always, the session will be conducted entirely in Italian, giving you the opportunity to improve your fluency while sharing ideas and interpretations in a friendly and supportive environment.
You don't need to be a literary expert - just read the book and come ready to join the conversation!
Meeting date: 7th October, 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.