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ISBN 0767900383 - As a fan of lists, I'm always curious about books that make bestseller lists. I rarely read them, but I'm always curious. This was the case with Under the Tuscan Sun until a rather beat-up, unsellable copy fell into my hands. My curiosity, but little else, has been satisfied. A recap of the plotline is usually the second paragraph for me. The trouble here is that this book doesn't actually have a plotline. The author and her boyfriend bought a house in Tuscany, living there during the summer and restore it and the land around it. Seriously, that's it: no actual point, no build up, not a character to root for (although there were moments I admit to rooting for the house to fall down on them, just to liven things up). So much for the recap! Beautifully written, Under the Tuscan Sun isn't without redeeming qualities. Tuscany sounds like a bit of Heaven on Earth and Mayes, reputed to be a good cook, turns out to be a decent writer, at least so far as descriptive writing goes. A few short sections are even well-done humor. For that, the richness of language, the way you can nearly smell the food and hear the quiet of the countryside, for that, Mayes gets 5 stars. For boring me nearly to death, ZERO stars! An average of 3 stars seems a reasonable compromise. There are definitely readers for this type of book, I just happen to not be one of them. If you're looking for a relaxing read, this one certainly fits your needs; if you want a storyline, something more exciting than recipes, this book is a snore - if your blood flowed to the rhythm of this book, you'd be dead.Read full review
Far better than the movie, a must read if you travel to Italy. Better than a travel guide, this book will actually give a flavor of life in Italy, albeit a privileged one. Frances Mayes writes lyrically and her intricate descriptions transport you to a beautiful village in Tuscany, from the ruins of her home and the transformation she and her husband wrought, to recipes, travel narratives and more. No movie can possibly do this book justice, this is one of those gems you will reach for again and again.
For one who's been to Italy, this book contains a lot to delight Italophiles. The food, the sights, the sounds. Frances Mayes writes about in here as she goes over the adventure of renovating an old Italian villa. And she does so masterfully.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
If you are going to read this because you want it to follow the movie, prepare to be disappointed. Other than the movie not following the story line, this is a wonderful read. It is the travel log of Frances Mayes and her experiences buying a house in Tuscany. It includes tips, recepies, nd the author's take on many of the local wines.
This is my second copy of this book by Frances Mayes. Unfortunately the first was destroyed in my carry-all! Frances has the gift of description-this is a wonderful rainy- or lazy-day book. It is like sitting with a friend and discussing the day and all the while, Frances is enveloping you in these fantastic tableaus that remind me of living in the Azores for 2 years as a child. The richness of the lives of the people is portrayed with such depth. To that Frances adds tidbits about restoring their home,shopping for old linens, receipes, myth, history, hiking and gardening tips, and culture, not to mention observations of human character. The only drawback is that it isn't longer. It's a lovely read. Enjoy!
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