Sicily: Island of Beauty and Conflict

by Jeremy Dummett

This book delves into the fascinating and diverse history and culture of Sicily.

With settlers from early tribes to the Greeks and Romans, through the Arabs, Normans, French, Spanish and finally Italians, the island's culture has been changed dramatically by each of the foreign powers. In this book, Jeremy Dummett concludes his trilogy on Sicily with an engrossing history of the entire island, through excess of power, a wealth of cultural prosperity and flourishing art, to extreme poverty and oppression in times of war and invasion.

The geography of this Mediterranean island is full of huge variations, from coastal plains with natural harbors to a volcano and a mountainous interior--a decentralized state for most of the past. Dummett delves into the stories and personalities that make up this extraordinary island, with power struggles developing a great cathedral and temples built to impress but never finished; Sicily uncovers the hidden background behind the island's rich culture.

320 pages, Hardcover

Published September 1, 2020

Reviews

[Tony Mistretta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating book about Sicily's history, cities, ancient sites and artists. I was especially interested because two of my grandparents were born in Sicily, the other two in Southern Italy. I visited the Italy mainland a number of years ago and now after reading this book, I really want to visit Sicily.

The author does a good job describing the history and culture to give us a good understanding of the significance of the island. I didn't realize that Sicily was so highly influenced by all of the other empires and dynasties that occupied and ruled the island throughout history.

The book has a few illustrations and photos, but I needed to see more, so I sat next to my computer and searched on Google for more photos and illustrations to help me to appreciate what I was reading.

[Tony Stacey · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sadly this book is let down by lumpen writing and a paucity of colour, probably due it leaving out Palermo as the writer had already written on the subject. I could have more detail and better writing from the DK guide.
Peter Robb's book, Midnight in Sicily, is better written and more informative.

[Ted Farrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating book covering the complex history, the cilture and the beauty of Sicily. I hope I may have the opportunity to go there again. I'll certainly take this book with me.

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read and I will certainly be taking this book with me on my next visit to Sicily.

[Allan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a travel guide but a rather readable background work covering the history, geography and culture of the island. Something to dip into especially if preparing for a visit.