Italian Lessons

Fifty Things We Know About Life Now

By: Beppe Severgnini

Narrated by: Edoardo Ballerini

One-of-a-kind timeless lessons for handling challenges and living with joy, the Italian way—“with unparalleled insight and brilliant wit, Severgnini’s book not only transports us to Italy but deep into the Italian mind and spirit" (Stanley Tucci, host of Searching for Italy).

Is there an Italian way to deal with life? Can we all learn something from the Italians?

Italy often arouses in Americans a unique mix of attraction and bafflement, moderate disapproval and incredible allure. From the Italians' love of poetry to an innate desire to socialize to the regional differences between the north and the south, Beppe Severgnini, who has dedicated his career to the meticulous observation of his compatriots, embarks on an enthralling quest to identify a core Italian identity and explore how that identity has evolved since the global pandemic.

Told with the warmth and humor of a longtime friend, Severgnini touches upon patience, endurance, and wisdom, and offers a one-of-a-kind set of timeless lessons for overcoming trials, the Italian way.

Critic reviews

“With unparalleled insight and brilliant wit, Beppe Severgnini’s book not only transports us to Italy but deep into the Italian mind and spirit.” —Stanley Tucci, host of Searching for Italy

"Engaging . . . . Prolific author Severgnini (Off the Rails) is known for his thoughtful observations about his home country and his fellow Italians. . . . He addresses world events through comparative national lenses, raising thought-provoking questions. Ranging in tone from didactic to amusing to evocative, these essays are always interesting. Severgnini's ultimate reassuring takeaway for the future? There's hope—especially if you're Italian." —Kathleen McBroom, Booklist

Unfortunately the author has a very strong and I believe incorrect view of American politics

I don’t agree or appreciate the authors take on how he perceived the United States reacted to the pandemic. I also don’t agree with his unneeded and unappreciated views of American politics. The book would’ve been so much more pleasant without his opinions which is truly what they are.

A masterpiece!

Beppe’s anecdotes will draw you in as if you’re ease-dropping on an intriguing conversation at a Milanese coffee-bar between a wise-amusing professor and his students. This book has a little of everything, gritty and witty.

The only downside is that it ends.