First published 2011
David Leavitt takes on the challenge of restoring a rundown 1950s farmhouse in southern Tuscany's Maremma region. Working alongside Mark Mitchell, he navigates the complexities of Italian bureaucracy and political corruption while discovering the rhythms of rural life that most foreigners never experience. The restoration project becomes a window into authentic Italian culture, from participating in olive harvests to foraging for wild asparagus. Leavitt finds beauty in the regional landscape and weather patterns, embraces unexpected moments of boredom, and even develops cravings for American comforts like peanut butter. This enhanced edition features striking illustrations and color photographs that complement Leavitt's sharp, humorous prose. His account offers both appreciation and honest critique of Tuscany, providing a more realistic counterpoint to idealized depictions of Italian country life.
Genres: italy, art, contemporary, memoir, biography-memoir, 21st-century, cultural, architecture
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water
Setting: Italy, Maremma, Tuscany
Period: 1950s
152 pages · Kindle Edition · Counterpoint