The Monocle Book of Italy; THAMES & HUDSON, 2021

Italy feels comfortingly familiar for many. The very name conjures images of ruby red tomatoes, zippy Vespas and classical statues – yet beyond the clichйs lies a complexity and variety that’s perpetually surprising. This is a place where laid-back living meets industrious craft, where well-heeled patrons tuck into simple dishes at rustic trattorie and where family, community and passion are the threads that lace it all together. For well over a decade Monocle has roamed the length of the boot – from the craggy peaks of the Dolomites to the azure waters of Sicily – and this is the result of their dedicated reporting. Join them as they throw down their towels at the best bagni, sit front row at dazzling runway shows, call in at vineyards, gelato spots and furniture fairs and maybe even hit a disco or two. Be prepared to see Italy through a whole new lens.