Simply Italian!: Lessons From La Dolce Vita

Living in Italy for nearly two decades was nothing short of transformational—a masterclass in slowing down, savoring life, and embracing the chaos. Expressing yourself, loudly and with flair, wasn’t just encouraged; it was expected. Italians taught me that whether you’re arguing over the best espresso bar or debating the proper al dente, passion truly is the spice of life. These pages capture lessons learned while living la dolce vita. While I know not every Italian life flows as smoothly as their olive oil, I’ve yet to meet anyone in Italy who is bitterly disappointed with life. Because, as Italians understand, life may not always be perfect, but it’s infinitely better when served with humor, a drizzle of olive oil, and a generous helping of heart. Accompanied by charming illustrations, the witty quotes within offer playful snapshots of Italian culture—from navigating the quirks of Italian bureaucracy to experiencing the magic of a Sunday lunch, these snapshots of la dolce vita celebrate the beauty, humor, and charm of Italian culture.