This classic novel explores the life of a young, independent American woman who inherits a large amount of money and moves to Europe, where she falls into a manipulative and oppressive marriage. The story delves into themes of personal freedom, responsibility, and betrayal, as the protagonist navigates the complexities of high society, love, and the consequences of her choices.

"Earthly Powers" is a sprawling, complex novel that explores the intertwined lives of a homosexual British writer and an Italian-American Cardinal over the course of the 20th century. The narrative delves into themes of faith, homosexuality, and the nature of evil, while also providing a critique of modern society. It's a vivid tapestry of historical events, including two World Wars and Vatican II, providing a backdrop for the personal and spiritual struggles of its protagonists.

This novel tells the story of two friends, Elena and Lila, growing up in a poor neighborhood in Naples, Italy in the 1950s. Their intense, complicated friendship is marked by competition, mutual respect, and deep affection. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence, including family drama, academic struggles, and romantic entanglements, their bond is tested and transformed. The narrative explores themes of female friendship, social class, education, and the struggle for personal autonomy in a patriarchal society.

"A Legacy" is a historical novel that captures the social and political turmoil of early 20th century Germany through the eyes of its protagonist. The story follows a young woman who hails from two distinct families, one being a wealthy Jewish family from Berlin and the other, an aristocratic Catholic family from rural Germany. The narrative provides a detailed account of the protagonist's life, her family's eccentricities, and the eventual downfall of her families amidst the backdrop of the First World War and the Weimar Republic.

"The Adventures of Pinocchio" is a classic children's novel that follows the mischievous adventures of a wooden puppet named Pinocchio. As he strives to become a real boy, Pinocchio encounters a series of trials and temptations, learning valuable life lessons along the way. From encounters with talking animals to being swallowed by a giant fish, Pinocchio's journey is filled with humor, excitement, and moral dilemmas. With themes of honesty, bravery, and the consequences of one's actions, this timeless tale captivates readers of all ages.

"Family Sayings" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the author's experiences growing up in a large Jewish-Italian family in the pre and post-World War II era. The narrative is a collection of family anecdotes, sayings, and stories that illustrate the dynamics, relationships, and history of the family. The book also provides a glimpse into the political and social changes in Italy during this period, including the rise of fascism and the impact of the war. The author's poignant and evocative storytelling brings to life a world that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

"The Winter's Tale" is a tragicomedy that tells the story of Leontes, a king who unjustly accuses his wife Hermione of infidelity with his best friend. Consumed by his jealousy, he orders her imprisonment, causing their son's death and supposedly leading to Hermione's death as well. After 16 years, Leontes is reunited with his daughter, believed to have died at birth but actually raised by a shepherd. The story concludes with a statue of Hermione coming to life, revealing that she had been alive all along, living in hiding. The play explores themes of jealousy, loss, redemption, and the healing power of time.

"The Neapolitan Novels" is a four-part series that explores the intricate and lifelong friendship between two women from Naples, Italy. The series spans several decades, beginning in the 1950s, and provides a detailed examination of the women's lives, struggles, and the societal pressures they face. The narrative delves into themes of identity, friendship, love, violence, and socio-political changes in post-war Italy. The series is known for its rich character development and vivid portrayal of female friendship.

This Renaissance classic is a seminal work on etiquette and courtly manners, presenting an idealized vision of the perfect gentleman and lady at the courts of Italy. Through a series of dialogues set over four evenings, the book explores the attributes of a well-rounded courtier, emphasizing skills such as martial arts, physical grace, and intellectual pursuits, alongside the importance of moral virtue and the art of conversation. The text also delves into the complex interplay of love, the role of women in court, and the philosophical underpinnings of what it means to live a noble life, ultimately providing a guide to the refined behavior expected in aristocratic circles of the time.

"Follow Your Heart" is a poignant epistolary novel that delves into the themes of self-discovery, family secrets, and the unbreakable bonds between generations. The story unfolds through a series of letters written by an elderly Italian woman to her granddaughter, who has moved to America. In these letters, she shares her life's wisdom, reflects on her past experiences, and reveals long-held secrets. The narrative explores the choices she made, the consequences of those choices, and the lessons she learned along the way. It is a heartfelt meditation on love, loss, and the importance of following one's own heart in the face of societal expectations and personal doubts.

The novel explores the profound impact of personal tragedy on one's life and the journey towards healing and rediscovery. It follows the story of a classics professor who, after losing his daughter to a terrorist bombing in Italy, is consumed by grief and the need for understanding. His quest for closure and meaning takes him from the quiet halls of academia in the American Midwest to the vibrant streets of Bologna, where he immerses himself in the rich tapestry of Italian life. Along the way, he confronts his own sorrow, finds solace in new and unexpected friendships, and is challenged to open his heart again to love and joy. The narrative delves into themes of loss, redemption, and the enduring human capacity to rebuild one's life after devastating loss.