Writing "Fables from Italy" was a journey through the heart of Italy’s storytelling traditions, bringing to life folktales that have been passed down for generations. These stories, once told in village squares, by glowing hearths, and in bustling marketplaces, are filled with clever tricksters, daring heroes, and magical transformations. From the eerie fate of a girl trapped inside a myrtle tree to the absurdity of a king who raises a flea as large as a sheep, I worked to preserve the charm and mystery that have made these tales endure for centuries.

As I reimagined these stories, I found myself drawn to the cunning peasants who outwit kings, the noble daughters who defy impossible odds, and the creatures both wondrous and terrifying. Penta’s harrowing journey—cast into the sea by her own brother, only to find her way to a kingdom where justice prevails—was a story I knew had to be told with all its depth and emotion. In another, a merchant’s daughter sculpts the perfect man from sugar and spice, only for love and jealousy to reshape his fate in unexpected ways. These tales are glimpses into a world where wit and kindness can be as powerful as magic.

One of the joys of writing this book was capturing the humor, wisdom, and imagination that run through these fables. Some are cautionary, warning against vanity, greed, or deception, while others celebrate loyalty, perseverance, and quick thinking. A fearless heroine outsmarts an ogre using only her wits, while a foolish young man is thrown into the sea for his antics—only to turn disaster into triumph. Whether weaving a tale of enchantment or mischief, I wanted each story to feel both timeless and fresh, just as compelling now as when it was first told.

I’m excited to share this collection with readers who love folklore, adventure, and a touch of magic. "Fables from Italy" is my tribute to Italy’s rich storytelling heritage, filled with legends, myths, and fairy tales rewritten in a way that stays true to their essence while making them engaging for today’s readers. Whether you’re discovering these fables for the first time or revisiting them in a new light, I hope you find as much joy in reading them as I did in bringing them to life.