The Italian Soul

“The Italian Soul speaks to the growing yearning that I see among so many to live more joyfully and mindfully amid the demands and distractions of daily life and the growing tumult of the world. Judith Valente offers sound wisdom and practical guidance from her many stays in Italy and lessons learned from a people (my own!) who have made an art of living fully. Whenever I visit Italy, I wonder: What is their secret? This is a book for spiritual seekers and all who want to bring a piece of the Italian way of life into their own homes.”
—James Martin, SJ, author of Learning to Pray, My Life with the Saints, and The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything

“The Italian Soul is a heartfelt guide for those yearning to embrace a more mindful and fulfilling way of living. Judith Valente masterfully captures the essence of the Italian way of life, especially the slow, purposeful rhythms of its small towns. In contrast to the chaotic, fast-paced life of urban metropolises, this book offers a regenerative antidote: a deep dive into the values of connection, quality, and the beauty of local traditions.”
—Rita Salvatore, president of Slow Food Abruzzo, and professor at University of Teramo and the American University of Rome

“Italy offers the world a host of timeless treasures, but it is much more. Italy is a way of life. This book shows us how life is lived daily, in small towns and large, and how the traditions and practices that come second nature to our people can help others live more fully and meaningfully, wherever they might be.”
—Franco Caramanico, former Minister for Environment and Energy, Abruzzo Regional Government

“With her vivid examples of Italian personalities and places, Judith Valente invites us to an experience of Mediterranean sunshine. This sunshine, however, is from within, and provides light to see in a new way, to open our inner eyes.”
—Abbot Jerome Kodell, author of Life Lessons from the Monastery; Don’t Trust the Abbot; Is God in Your Top Ten?; and The Catholic Bible Study Handbook

“The Italian Soul beautifully captures why Italy remains the go-to country for people seeking to unclutter their lives and detach from the distractions of daily living that consume so much of our time. Judith Valente perfectly illustrates how the way of life in Italy’s charming small towns—like my own, Guardiagrele—offers the world an essential lesson: the importance of nurturing family bonds, cultivating communities through personal connections, and honoring the traditions that bind us together. I am proud that Guardiagrele plays such a pivotal role in this book. I’m confident that readers will find something truly valuable within these pages.”
—Flora Bianco, vice mayor of Guardiagrele, Abruzzo, Italy
“In The Italian Soul, Judith Valente shows that rich, life-enhancing cultures still exist and that we can tap into their wisdom to strengthen our own. From the centuries-old tradition of chiacchiera—desultory conversation between strangers leaning against the same sun-struck wall—to the practice of fare bella figura—the tradition of looking one’s best for the sake of other people—Valente beautifully conveys the intricate web of age-old customs and mutual respect that makes for a fully flourishing society. I love this book.”
—Paula Huston, author of The Hermits of Big Sur, Simplifying the Soul, and A Season of Mystery
 
“This gem of a book will make you long to have more dolce vita in your own life”
—Michael N. McGregor, author of An Island to Myself, The Last Grand Tour, and Pure Act

“Journalist and all-things-Italian enthusiast Valente guides readers into the heart and soul of Italian customs and history in this gentle and informative narrative. A good fit for book-discussion groups and readers who want to reflect on their lives and embrace the best of Italian values, no matter where they live.”
—Booklist