Italy by Christine Schlank, Kathryn Bonomi (1998, Reinforced Hardcover)

Planning my first trip to Italy, and never having had contact with a native Italian, I wished to purchase a succinct, easy-to-read, general overview of the country: her people, history, politics, style, food, social customs and problems. This excellent little book was a successful introduction for my purposes. I recommend it highly and without reservation, for "'tweens" on up.

Admittedly, I was a bit disappointed at first, that it was aimed at youthful readers; but the information it contains is valuable, and forthrightly presented, so I learned much. For example, I consider myself educated about Italian art; well, this book gave me the names of a couple of important artists of whom I had not heard. I like that in a book. I had tried "A Traveller's Italy," aimed at adults, and found myself yawning shortly into it. I wanted something simpler, to get started. This little book was the ticket.

I plan to reread the book just before my trip. (It's very quick read; good for subway/bus riders, as it is lightweight and a good, small, thin size.)

If you are planning to go to Italy and wish to give your young companions (say, ages 9 to 11? -- perhaps younger, depending upon their ability) an introduction to their destination, or if you are a primary school teacher covering this country, you may wish to give it a look. It gives a good foundation for more difficult and detailed delving into its fascinating subject.