Why Italy

What are some good books or websites focused on Italian *culture* and customs?

Specifically on Venice, but any books on Italy in general would be really great. I went to my local Barnes & Nobles and could only find travel guides. Keep in mind I'm looking for something to read, not to research, so textbooks on Italian history is not what I'm looking for.

Public Comments

1. www.italy.com
2. "City of Falling Angels" by John Berendt http://www.amazon.com/City-Falling-Angels-John-Berendt/dp/1594200580 http://www.amazon.com/gp/richpub/syltguides/fullview/GYHC8VSTIZVT/${0}?ie=UTF8&%2AVersion%2A=1&%2Aentries%2A=0 I love the well written series of novels by Donna Leon. They offer an insider's view of Venice, including references to the local language. http://www.groveatlantic.com/leon/author.htm Great book list on Venice: http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/venice/booklist.htm "The Glassblower of Murano", by Marina Fiorato. Novels set in Italy: http://www.lifeinitaly.com/potpourri/novels.asp Italian Classics: http://www.initaly.com/itathome/books/clasitlit.htm