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Cucina Tipica: An Italian Adventure
Cucina Tipica: An Italian Adventure is the story of Jacoby Pines, a disheartened American who arrives in Italy on vacation and decides he never wants to leave. What follows is a food-filled, wine-soaked, travel-laden adventure about one man's quest for an antiquated existence in the modern world.
281 pages, Paperback
First published October 25, 2018
121 people are currently reading
1070 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Cotto
8 books142 followersAndrew Cotto is the award-winning author and a regular contributor to The New York Times. Andrew has also written for Men’s Journal, Rolling Stone, Conde Nast Traveler, La Cucina Italiana, Brooklyn Magazine, Rachael Ray In Season, AARP, Italy magazine, The Huffington Post, Parade, Salon, Maxim, Deadspin, Relish, the Good Men Project and Teachers & Writers Magazine. He has an MFA in Creative Writing from The New School.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 30, 2018
Reviewing one's own book is, well, yeah...but I went ahead with five stars since I accomplished my goal of creating a fun read, full of sensory splendor that also touches on some important themes. Well done, me (?).
December 4, 2018
After being fired, Jacoby finds himself in Italy with his girlfriend Claire. While she's busy researching for her travel writing assignment, Jacoby is doing his own research into the origins of a mysterious photograph.
I loved the descriptions of the countryside, and of my goodness the FOOD! Everything sounded so incredibly delicious! I enjoyed seeing how the story unfolded, and meeting all the new characters. My only criticism would be that the book would have benefitted from one more proofreading.
I loved the descriptions of the countryside, and of my goodness the FOOD! Everything sounded so incredibly delicious! I enjoyed seeing how the story unfolded, and meeting all the new characters. My only criticism would be that the book would have benefitted from one more proofreading.
May 12, 2021
I read this book via a free copy from the author, for Rosie Amber's Review Team. The fact that it was free has not affected this honest review.
New Yorker Jacoby Pines takes a trip to Tuscany with his girlfriend, Claire, a travel/food writer. He's not having the best of times: a drunken text sent to the wrong person lost him not only his job but any prospect of getting another in that field. Being unemployed is not doing much for his relationship with ambitious, status-orientated Claire. A frustrated former musician, Jacoby has no family, feels insecure, useless, and worried that he and Claire are nearing the parting of ways - particularly concerning their very different reasons for wanting to go to this part of Italy.
The adventure side of the story is fairly low-key, with some interesting relationships and amusing situations. The descriptions of the area and the food probably make up half the book, and I enjoyed these to a certain extent, but I don't eat meat and dairy and am not a 'foodie' (I think knocking up a vegetable chilli with a ready-made sauce is cooking), so it was a bit wasted on me. If of the gourmet persuasion, though, you will adore this.
I liked: 1. Jacoby's realisations about himself, that he was at home in rural Italy and was not a New Yorker at all, and his observations about his previous wealth-orientated, competitive lifestyle - according to Claire, the 'real' world - and the ex-pats of 'Chiantishire'. 2. The depiction of the place itself, the people and the way of life. 3. The characterisation and dialogue. 4. The writing style. 5. The outcome.
I was less keen on: 1. The food detail. 2. Some of the dialogue being written in Italian. Obviously it was necessary for authenticity, but as I can't speak it, I didn't actually know what they were saying. Sometimes I could guess, but more often not.
My only other comment is directed at the publisher - does this book not deserve to be wrapped in colour? I can imagine a cover splashed with luscious olives, lemons, bottles of red wine, pizza dripping with tomatoes and olive oil, sunshine and blue skies, that would leap out at those who long for a Tuscan idyll.
To sum up: a rather lovely book in many ways; not quite my thing but if you do fancy it, there's a sequel, too!
New Yorker Jacoby Pines takes a trip to Tuscany with his girlfriend, Claire, a travel/food writer. He's not having the best of times: a drunken text sent to the wrong person lost him not only his job but any prospect of getting another in that field. Being unemployed is not doing much for his relationship with ambitious, status-orientated Claire. A frustrated former musician, Jacoby has no family, feels insecure, useless, and worried that he and Claire are nearing the parting of ways - particularly concerning their very different reasons for wanting to go to this part of Italy.
The adventure side of the story is fairly low-key, with some interesting relationships and amusing situations. The descriptions of the area and the food probably make up half the book, and I enjoyed these to a certain extent, but I don't eat meat and dairy and am not a 'foodie' (I think knocking up a vegetable chilli with a ready-made sauce is cooking), so it was a bit wasted on me. If of the gourmet persuasion, though, you will adore this.
I liked: 1. Jacoby's realisations about himself, that he was at home in rural Italy and was not a New Yorker at all, and his observations about his previous wealth-orientated, competitive lifestyle - according to Claire, the 'real' world - and the ex-pats of 'Chiantishire'. 2. The depiction of the place itself, the people and the way of life. 3. The characterisation and dialogue. 4. The writing style. 5. The outcome.
I was less keen on: 1. The food detail. 2. Some of the dialogue being written in Italian. Obviously it was necessary for authenticity, but as I can't speak it, I didn't actually know what they were saying. Sometimes I could guess, but more often not.
My only other comment is directed at the publisher - does this book not deserve to be wrapped in colour? I can imagine a cover splashed with luscious olives, lemons, bottles of red wine, pizza dripping with tomatoes and olive oil, sunshine and blue skies, that would leap out at those who long for a Tuscan idyll.
To sum up: a rather lovely book in many ways; not quite my thing but if you do fancy it, there's a sequel, too!
February 4, 2019
Well written and with an engaging plot. I liked the descriptions of Tuscany and how well the food was described.
I found it less stereotypical than a lot of book set in Italy.
Recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC
I found it less stereotypical than a lot of book set in Italy.
Recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC
June 25, 2021
Food glorious food!
Honestly, at first I thought "Yet another American falls for Tuscany". ,and it is, but with a twist. I spent 2 1\2 days in Rome in 1963, It was my first time traveling alone, and among the many dazzling experiences was canneloni
in white sauce redolent of nutmeg . All previous meals paled in comparison. I knew this was another plane of existence to be literally savored and remembered always. This is a very sensory interlude in Tuscany, and food ihas a starring role. If you love travel and/or food, read it and Bon appetite!
Honestly, at first I thought "Yet another American falls for Tuscany". ,and it is, but with a twist. I spent 2 1\2 days in Rome in 1963, It was my first time traveling alone, and among the many dazzling experiences was canneloni
in white sauce redolent of nutmeg . All previous meals paled in comparison. I knew this was another plane of existence to be literally savored and remembered always. This is a very sensory interlude in Tuscany, and food ihas a starring role. If you love travel and/or food, read it and Bon appetite!
January 29, 2019
This book didn't grab me in the beginning but I'm glad I persevered because by the end, accompanying Jacoby on both his external and internal adventures left me lusting for adventure myself. The subtly strong female characters are refreshing and the author captures a beautiful facet of Italy. I strongly recommend you keep a plate of something on hand while reading because the dining descriptions will induce a craving or two.
August 2, 2019
I like a story that captures the essence of a locale and it's people. This story of the newly unemployed Jacoby Pines finding his sense of purpose and direction while accompanying Claire to Italy perfectly captures the journey of discovery. The author completely draws you into the scenic beauty of the Italian countryside and way of life. The senses are so engaged you can almost smell the aroma of the foods. There are mature themes interwoven through the story but they don't detract from the experience. I enjoyed this book and managed to learn a little Italian along the way.
March 11, 2021
I did not want this to end! I love Italy and it’s people, wine, and food. What I love most is that my family has its roots there...and my Gramma was a local healer! Thank you!
January 5, 2019
I'd like to start this review by thanking Andrew for sending me a copy of this book to review. My review is entirely honest and all opinions are my own. I would also like to mention that this book does contain swearing and sexual content if that is anything that bothers you.
I was excited to review this book as it is set in Italy, I visited Rome on holiday last year so I was looking forward to visiting this beautiful country again on the page. Cotto's description of the villages in this book make it clear that he has a love for Italy and a keen eye for the details in his travels. We are first introduced to two characters, Jacoby and Claire, engaged to be married and planning to live in Italy for a year whilst Claire works on a travel writing piece.
Immediately we can see there is some tension between this couple, Jacoby, who is our main character has been through a rough time of it and is quite reliant on his fiancée. I don't know how this makes me feel about Jacoby, I have sympathy for him, but I also think he needs to be a self-made man a little more. But he is clearly a passionate, as is apparent in his love of music and his adoration of Italy.
As a character, Jacoby is a lost man, he doesn't know what or who he wants. He is a character that readers can relate to. He's trying to go about his day to day and become a better person, but he's learning every step of the way, like we all are. I still haven't decide if I like Jacoby or not, he does some very questionable things in this book that make me think I don't, but then he is just human and he is the perfect reflection of real, human mistakes.
If you are a fan of food, then this book is definitely for you. Cotto's evident knowledge of a rich pallet shines through in the descriptions of meals and wines in Cucina Tipicia. A lot of these pages are taken up with descriptions of taste and experiences with food. I don't think I've ever read a book with this type of focus, but it certainly made my stomach growl. I also appreciate reading about characters eating, usually this is glazed over, especially in fantasy, fictional characters still need food too!
The plot is based around a secret Jacoby has, a photo he wants to know more about, one that could possibly link him to family he never thought he'd have. Along his journey he meets various new friends and becomes more integrated into Italian life. I liked the investigative undertone of this plot, the characters make references to being like the Da Vinci Code, and I liked that playful, but explorative nature they have. At times it seems the answers fall into their laps quite easily, but this this is a short book so I appreciate the story needed to be moved along.
My only criticism to this writing style was the breaking off into Italian in the speech. I am not an Italian speaker and at times the characters would talk for a few lines and I wouldn't know what they were saying. I would get a vague description in English afterwards, but for me this broke up my reading experience and was unneeded for English readers.
Overall though, this story was refreshing and calm. A perfect summer read to be sat by the beach with, or one to enjoy whilst tucked inside with a glass of wine and some Italian food. The ending was very well put together and gave me a good sense of fulfilment. Cotto is a travel author to watch out for, his writing takes you straight to the setting and is a pleasure to read.
I was excited to review this book as it is set in Italy, I visited Rome on holiday last year so I was looking forward to visiting this beautiful country again on the page. Cotto's description of the villages in this book make it clear that he has a love for Italy and a keen eye for the details in his travels. We are first introduced to two characters, Jacoby and Claire, engaged to be married and planning to live in Italy for a year whilst Claire works on a travel writing piece.
Immediately we can see there is some tension between this couple, Jacoby, who is our main character has been through a rough time of it and is quite reliant on his fiancée. I don't know how this makes me feel about Jacoby, I have sympathy for him, but I also think he needs to be a self-made man a little more. But he is clearly a passionate, as is apparent in his love of music and his adoration of Italy.
As a character, Jacoby is a lost man, he doesn't know what or who he wants. He is a character that readers can relate to. He's trying to go about his day to day and become a better person, but he's learning every step of the way, like we all are. I still haven't decide if I like Jacoby or not, he does some very questionable things in this book that make me think I don't, but then he is just human and he is the perfect reflection of real, human mistakes.
If you are a fan of food, then this book is definitely for you. Cotto's evident knowledge of a rich pallet shines through in the descriptions of meals and wines in Cucina Tipicia. A lot of these pages are taken up with descriptions of taste and experiences with food. I don't think I've ever read a book with this type of focus, but it certainly made my stomach growl. I also appreciate reading about characters eating, usually this is glazed over, especially in fantasy, fictional characters still need food too!
The plot is based around a secret Jacoby has, a photo he wants to know more about, one that could possibly link him to family he never thought he'd have. Along his journey he meets various new friends and becomes more integrated into Italian life. I liked the investigative undertone of this plot, the characters make references to being like the Da Vinci Code, and I liked that playful, but explorative nature they have. At times it seems the answers fall into their laps quite easily, but this this is a short book so I appreciate the story needed to be moved along.
My only criticism to this writing style was the breaking off into Italian in the speech. I am not an Italian speaker and at times the characters would talk for a few lines and I wouldn't know what they were saying. I would get a vague description in English afterwards, but for me this broke up my reading experience and was unneeded for English readers.
Overall though, this story was refreshing and calm. A perfect summer read to be sat by the beach with, or one to enjoy whilst tucked inside with a glass of wine and some Italian food. The ending was very well put together and gave me a good sense of fulfilment. Cotto is a travel author to watch out for, his writing takes you straight to the setting and is a pleasure to read.
February 10, 2019
‘Don’t worry, Jacoby Pines. Plenty of excitement awaits.’
This is a gloriously sun-drenched story of finding a home, friendship and love – oh, and there’s food. Lots of food. Jacoby Pines, fired from his PR firm for an inappropriate text message, has come to Tuscany with his fiancée, the famous travel writer Claire St. James, who has been given a one-year assignment to find hidden upmarket-yet-rustic experiences for the traveller in Italy. Renting a barn from a local they embark on this new life together. And what a journey it becomes! Jacoby is a bruised and insecure man, prone to fits of bad-temper, and mourning the recent death of his father, his last surviving relative. In his possession he has a photograph of an unknown woman with the words ‘Villa Floria-Zanobini, 1939’ written on the back. It becomes Jacoby’s mission to try to find out why his father had kept this photograph hidden in his belongings. In the process, the story becomes one of finding somewhere to settle, somewhere he feels that he belongs – and finding friendships, love and the possibility of something more.
For the first quarter of the book or so I was on the fence with this one; at times the sentences were a little clunky, the Italian characters introduced a little too stereotypical, the language-barrier misunderstandings a little too silly. But then, you know what, I just lost myself in the story. It is simply an upbeat, uplifting, gloriously happy tale about dreams coming true, about human companionship, and about finding happiness in the simple things. Food is a central part of the book, with long, lovingly-detailed descriptions of the cooking and eating of local cuisine and drink. The sun is always shining, the scenery of Tuscany is breathtakingly beautiful. When Jacoby teams up with local hotelier Bill, and encounters museum worker Helen, the book has several set-pieces which celebrate the local sites of Florence and the traditions of both the city and the countryside. Some of Cotto’s incidental descriptions show a nice touch (Dolores, Claire’s cousin, is described as ‘plus-sized and outrageous’), and there is a very obvious love for the area and the people. As the story barrels along apace towards the conclusion (somehow involving a marble cat, lawyer’s letters, a local holiday descending into a public brawl, and an auction) be in no doubt that there will be a happy ending. Surely?
Joyous, fun, heart-warming and a pleasure to read, I heartily recommend this. It’s not perfect – some judicious rewriting of the opening chapters might have eased me in a bit sooner, and there are some proofreading lapses in the edition I read. But I’m quibbling – any book that I sit and read with a broad smile on my face, and has me chuckling and cheering along as it goes, is just what I need. Pure escapism. Loved it.
This is a gloriously sun-drenched story of finding a home, friendship and love – oh, and there’s food. Lots of food. Jacoby Pines, fired from his PR firm for an inappropriate text message, has come to Tuscany with his fiancée, the famous travel writer Claire St. James, who has been given a one-year assignment to find hidden upmarket-yet-rustic experiences for the traveller in Italy. Renting a barn from a local they embark on this new life together. And what a journey it becomes! Jacoby is a bruised and insecure man, prone to fits of bad-temper, and mourning the recent death of his father, his last surviving relative. In his possession he has a photograph of an unknown woman with the words ‘Villa Floria-Zanobini, 1939’ written on the back. It becomes Jacoby’s mission to try to find out why his father had kept this photograph hidden in his belongings. In the process, the story becomes one of finding somewhere to settle, somewhere he feels that he belongs – and finding friendships, love and the possibility of something more.
For the first quarter of the book or so I was on the fence with this one; at times the sentences were a little clunky, the Italian characters introduced a little too stereotypical, the language-barrier misunderstandings a little too silly. But then, you know what, I just lost myself in the story. It is simply an upbeat, uplifting, gloriously happy tale about dreams coming true, about human companionship, and about finding happiness in the simple things. Food is a central part of the book, with long, lovingly-detailed descriptions of the cooking and eating of local cuisine and drink. The sun is always shining, the scenery of Tuscany is breathtakingly beautiful. When Jacoby teams up with local hotelier Bill, and encounters museum worker Helen, the book has several set-pieces which celebrate the local sites of Florence and the traditions of both the city and the countryside. Some of Cotto’s incidental descriptions show a nice touch (Dolores, Claire’s cousin, is described as ‘plus-sized and outrageous’), and there is a very obvious love for the area and the people. As the story barrels along apace towards the conclusion (somehow involving a marble cat, lawyer’s letters, a local holiday descending into a public brawl, and an auction) be in no doubt that there will be a happy ending. Surely?
Joyous, fun, heart-warming and a pleasure to read, I heartily recommend this. It’s not perfect – some judicious rewriting of the opening chapters might have eased me in a bit sooner, and there are some proofreading lapses in the edition I read. But I’m quibbling – any book that I sit and read with a broad smile on my face, and has me chuckling and cheering along as it goes, is just what I need. Pure escapism. Loved it.
March 21, 2019
Charming escapism.
If you can bear the truly bizarre spelling, this is a feel good, undemanding page turner, ful of delicious food and wine and the beauties of Italy. I could read it again. The spelling really is in a world of its own though.
If you can bear the truly bizarre spelling, this is a feel good, undemanding page turner, ful of delicious food and wine and the beauties of Italy. I could read it again. The spelling really is in a world of its own though.
December 15, 2019
Great read. Give it time in the beginning (for me at least 25 pages) and then you'll be hooked!
June 29, 2021
I’ve only visited Italy once, a few days in Rome followed by a week by the sea down the coast from Naples. It was a fabulous holiday – it isn’t clichéd to say the people are incredibly friendly, the weather is fabulous, the scenery stunning and as for the food, it’s wonderful. So this book, although set in a different part of Italy, had a lot that appealed and that was enjoyable.
I love my food, and some of the descriptions of the meals were wonderful. And the descriptions of the countryside and the people really made you feel as though you were there. The author can certainly write, and write well, and this would be a lovely book to take on holiday.
That said, the descriptions did begin to wear a little thin after a while and, to be honest, the book could be a great deal shorter. I didn’t feel that invested in the characters, and there were a couple that I didn’t like at all. I do think the book would be improved with less detail about the food and more depth to the characters.
That said, it’s an enjoyable read.
3.5 stars
I love my food, and some of the descriptions of the meals were wonderful. And the descriptions of the countryside and the people really made you feel as though you were there. The author can certainly write, and write well, and this would be a lovely book to take on holiday.
That said, the descriptions did begin to wear a little thin after a while and, to be honest, the book could be a great deal shorter. I didn’t feel that invested in the characters, and there were a couple that I didn’t like at all. I do think the book would be improved with less detail about the food and more depth to the characters.
That said, it’s an enjoyable read.
3.5 stars
August 18, 2021
A smorgasbord for the senses in this foray into the lush fields south of Florence, Italy. Jacoby is a man of many talents who feels he is at the end of his tether as he accompanies his fiancé, Claire on her trip to Italy as a travel writer. His hope lies in an old photograph that he found among his father's belongings. A flamboyant adventure is unleashed as the relationship between Jacoby and Claire disintegrates and other relationships are formed in this wild ride. A fun read full of wit, humor and an appreciation for sating all of the senses. Thanks Andrew for a very pleasurable visit to Florence.
May 9, 2019
I. Loved. This. Book! It started out a bit slow, but did it ever pick up quickly. This a just a great story of a lost soul trying to find his way and to heal from a few hits that life has throw at him in quick succession. He lands in a small town south of Florence filled with a cast of true characters who help him begin to repair the damage in his life. Filled with art, food, wine, and humor Cucina Tipica will take you on a grand Italian adventure that you won't want to end.
November 11, 2020
This started out as a slow read for me, but it picked up after a few chapters. This was nice to read during COVID times while we all are stuck at home and not able to travel.
February 14, 2022
Bella Toscana
I loved this book. All the experiences over the years visiting Italy, all re lived in a book. I could smell and taste the food and wine. Drive thru those villages, stroll through Florence. This book made me feel happy. With Covid, unable to travel to Italy, I know how much I miss the passion of the Italians. Thank you for reliving all those magic moments.
I loved this book. All the experiences over the years visiting Italy, all re lived in a book. I could smell and taste the food and wine. Drive thru those villages, stroll through Florence. This book made me feel happy. With Covid, unable to travel to Italy, I know how much I miss the passion of the Italians. Thank you for reliving all those magic moments.
November 8, 2023
Fun book easy read going to meet author Thursday night for book club
October 13, 2019
Must read for any lover of Tuscany
I lived in Tuscany as a young woman. Pisa and
Florence. And I've gone back there many many times over the years. This book put me right back there with it's wonderful characters, incredible descriptions of food and beverages, and evocative descriptions of Firenze and the countryside. It is a book I will cherish and read over and over again.
I lived in Tuscany as a young woman. Pisa and
Florence. And I've gone back there many many times over the years. This book put me right back there with it's wonderful characters, incredible descriptions of food and beverages, and evocative descriptions of Firenze and the countryside. It is a book I will cherish and read over and over again.
March 4, 2020
Kudos to Andrew to reach out and introduce the book. I downloaded the audio book and allocated all my podcast tme and man I am not disappointed. It starts slow but it grows in you and you become part of the story.
August 17, 2021
What a lovely getaway this novel and the sequel provided. I picked up this book quite some time ago and decided to read for some destination dreaming while in a pandemic. It delivered on the vision of the region and cuisine. The main character and his journey was much better than this jaded New Yorker anticipated. It is a kind and generous story and highly recommend it and the sequel. Don’t read on an empty stomach.
August 19, 2021
A really fun story! I cheered for Jacoby all the way through, booed Claire and her obvious lack of commitment to him, and was thrilled by the way the ending all came together.
Only complaint is that there were several instances where the wrong homonym was chosen... Seriously, why would you ever choose to "waive" goodbye? Just mystifying. 😕
Only complaint is that there were several instances where the wrong homonym was chosen... Seriously, why would you ever choose to "waive" goodbye? Just mystifying. 😕
February 5, 2022
Except for a few graphic scenes, this is the perfect travelers' fantasy read. Making new friends in a beautiful new place, finding family and a community in the middle of a gorgeous landscape.... And the descriptions of food and wine throughout the book would have been enough to make me buy a ticket if I didn't already have one. Excited to explore the small towns and family restaurants in this region. And happy for our character Jacoby too!
August 15, 2022
A truly enjoyable read, in fact I read it when I was in Italy. One thing I especially liked is that, unlike many stories of its kind, the author did not make fun of the locals or write them as stereotypical characters. Looking forward to reading the next one.
February 26, 2021
A cuisine frolic
I loved the book! Well written, full of details about regional food and wine which are, to my knowledge, authentic. A great way to get a feel for food, culture and life in Tuscany!
I loved the book! Well written, full of details about regional food and wine which are, to my knowledge, authentic. A great way to get a feel for food, culture and life in Tuscany!
February 12, 2023
This is an original and entrancing story, and also very authentic, without all the usual, cliched American notions about Italy. I haven't enjoyed a novel this much for a long time. I highly recommend!
January 7, 2023
Charming Italian Adventure
Fired and feeling lost, Jacoby follows his fiancee to Italy in hopes of finding the truth about his family and maybe even himself. Along the way he falls in love with the country, the food, the people and a quaint Tuscan town just a few miles from Florence. It's a love story but the heroine is Italy.
Fired and feeling lost, Jacoby follows his fiancee to Italy in hopes of finding the truth about his family and maybe even himself. Along the way he falls in love with the country, the food, the people and a quaint Tuscan town just a few miles from Florence. It's a love story but the heroine is Italy.
December 11, 2020
A rich read of the glories of Florentine Tuscany. You can taste, savour, smell and almost see the superb dishes and wines of this part of Italy, and can certainly hear the local Italian speech in its rapid intensity. Joining all this together is a well-detailed tale of love, loss and attainment by well-drawn and sympathetic characters. A lovely and satisfying read.
September 13, 2019
Synopsis: Cucina Tipica: An Italian Adventure is the story of Jacoby Pines, a disheartened American who arrives in Italy on vacation and decides he never wants to leave. What follows is a food-filled, wine-soaked, travel-laden adventure about one man's quest for an antiquated existence in the modern world.
I received this as a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
I'm part Italian and love reading things related to Italian culture. Andrew Cotto does not disappoint . I was excited to win this book. To be sure people are aware this is a novel. Cotto weaves a lot of vivid imagery and culture into this story - history, traditions, food. The story described is relatable in any setting - unemployment, relationships, etc. The basic plot follows main character Jacoby quitting his job and traveling with his travel writer fiancee to Italy on assignment. The plotline for Jacoby is that he finds an old photo and sets out to find the person in it. The reader is taken in with the mystery along with detailed imagery and description. An enjoyable read. Dont read it hungry either.
I received this as a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
I'm part Italian and love reading things related to Italian culture. Andrew Cotto does not disappoint . I was excited to win this book. To be sure people are aware this is a novel. Cotto weaves a lot of vivid imagery and culture into this story - history, traditions, food. The story described is relatable in any setting - unemployment, relationships, etc. The basic plot follows main character Jacoby quitting his job and traveling with his travel writer fiancee to Italy on assignment. The plotline for Jacoby is that he finds an old photo and sets out to find the person in it. The reader is taken in with the mystery along with detailed imagery and description. An enjoyable read. Dont read it hungry either.
March 20, 2021
Over 20 years ago, Frances Mayes did for Tuscany what Peter Mayle had done for Provence -- by sharing their experiences while reconstituting old stone farmhouses, fueled by delicious, sustainable feasts of unimaginable beauty and taste and oceans of EVO and wine, they inspired an exodus of ex-pats hoping to experience the same. In Cucina Tipica, Andrew Cotto does the same and even gives a shoutout to Mayes, noting that with her Under the Tuscan Sun she made people fall in love with reading about the intoxicating life that can be had. And here, he does the same.
A coming of age in a way for a 30+ New Yorker with the unlikely name of Jacoby Pines, unsure of his lineage and seeking answers, blessed with a "flawless palate," which gives the descriptions of the various meals a deeper mouthwatering quality. I was also introduced to the term "agriturismo," in which an entire industry has evolved combining farming and tourism incorporating restaurants as well as high-end B&B's. "Jacoby called it four-star slumming." This book is a fine example of sharing food being the best way of learning about and connecting with humanity, the ultimate connector.
Now I'm going to the kitchen to roust up something involving olive oil, squeezed lemon, and sprinkled rosemary.
A coming of age in a way for a 30+ New Yorker with the unlikely name of Jacoby Pines, unsure of his lineage and seeking answers, blessed with a "flawless palate," which gives the descriptions of the various meals a deeper mouthwatering quality. I was also introduced to the term "agriturismo," in which an entire industry has evolved combining farming and tourism incorporating restaurants as well as high-end B&B's. "Jacoby called it four-star slumming." This book is a fine example of sharing food being the best way of learning about and connecting with humanity, the ultimate connector.
Now I'm going to the kitchen to roust up something involving olive oil, squeezed lemon, and sprinkled rosemary.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews