This newly designed collection of adventures in Italy takes the reader to a land of magical extremes - of ancient verities and modern vitality. Sculptors, olive harvesters, art historians, and cooks people these tales, and their stories are as evocative as opera. The book simmers with romance, culture - and the best food on earth. Authors include Tim Parks, Patricia Hampl, Mary Taylor Simeti, Luigi Barzini, Gary Paul Nabhan, and many others. "Travel writing at its glorious best." - Chicago Tribune