Search - Under the Tuscan Sun

I had mixed feelings about this book. Clearly, Frances Mayes is a talented writer. She has an amazing ability to portray her travel experiences with poetic narrative, a talent not all writers possess. As much as I enjoyed her writing style, however, I found myself skimming through much of this book, particularly where food was the main focus, perhaps due to the fact that I do not cook much. Her descriptions of the life and food of Tuscany did not make me yearn to cook, but it did make me hunger for Italian food and to visit the country someday. I did thoroughly enjoy reading of the restoration mishaps, as I have had some experience with do-it-yourself projects gone awry myself! If you enjoy books about travel and cooking, you may enjoy this book. I highly recommend the movie starring Diane Lane, loved it!

I absolutely loved this book and have another copy on my keeper shelf! I think this is a must-read for anyone who loves travelogues or Italy. Just be warned...reading this book will make you hungry for food you can't find easily in this country!

This fascinating story gives you insight into Italy and its countryside, plus some excellent recipes from the area.

Thoroughly enjoyable and very relaxing read. I particularly enjoyed the Summer Kitchen and Winter Kitchen sections for the delicious recipes. Don't read this book while hungry! Is it cliche that I want to move to Italy now?

Wonderful memoir of author's adventures in restoring house in Tuscany. Great insight into the Italian way of life. Much better than the movie!

Book was nicely written, but I grew bored of the long descriptions of food and cooking. Most interesting parts were when she wrote about Italy itself and the towns they traveled to.