The Italians

After living, working and studying in Milan for 3 years I thought I knew Italians and I do, to some degree. And that is exactly why I loved this book. John Hooper does something I couldn't do while living there. I always sense so many things about Italians but I was not sure weather it was only me or there was something about them. The way they behave, relate to each other, eat, dance, talk, conspire and live their lives was quite unique. Most of the time I was upset with them, unable to unlock their ways, trying to navigate the day to day. I wish I had read this book before going there. It would have done everything simpler. Italy is complex, yet wonderful in its own ways. I had to work my way up to make it in the country. Specially Milano. And believe me, for us foreigners, there are so many things we just don't get about Italians and most of them are written in this wonderful book. This is not a book about food, landscape or history, is a book about the people inhabiting a territory. It is a great book about people full of paradoxes. Most of the time I read fast but this time, I went slowly, one chapter a day, digesting the words and reflecting on Italians. You will not be disappointed with this incredible portrait of a fascinating country.