A to Z of Living in Southern Italy: The Beautiful South - Paperback

by John Tallon Jones (Author)

A message from the author

This is a very personal observation on life in the South of Italy, and the views expressed here shouldn't be looked at as anything more than that. Don't take what you read in this book too seriously. Everyone experiences the South in their own way. This is my story.

If you have ever felt the need to leave your own country and move to Southern Italy, then this book is for you, as this is what the writer did, over 17 years ago.
The A to Z of living in Southern Italy gives the reader an insight into his experiences and goes through everything from, family life, health care, dentists, small town culture and lots more. With incidents thrown in such as reporting a fire to the emergency services and getting an answer-phone message, this book has everything that you need to know about what it is like to be an Englishman coping with life in the south of Italy.
After such a long time away from England, the writer now classes Italy as his home and feels native enough to complain about the country he has come to love and hate.
Having had to compromise to come to terms with an unfamiliar way of life, the writer admits to many changes that he sees in himself, but the one thing that has not been compromised by life in the south is the ironic English humour, which flavours each page.

'An amazing story. What a journey and what a family!' Mevanwy

'Sheer unadulterated irony and humour on every page. This book will make you laugh and cry. Essential reading before you go to Italy.' Online Post

'A brilliant read from a writer who knows a thing or two about the South of Italy. Recommended reading even if you have no intention to visit.' Chester Mail

'Not a travel guide, but more like a dissection of the Southern Mentality. Recommended reading especially if you are considering moving here.' Daily Post (free North Wales Press)

'If you ever decide to go to Italy, alone or with your family, PLEASE read this book.' David Johnson

'This is a great read, but it is not for somebody that wants a tourist guide of the South.' Bookbaby

'Delightful and light-hearted, with some great insights into the southern mentality. If you want to know about the Calabria, jus read this book. Brilliant!' Goodreads

'As the author states, this is a very personal view of life in the South of Italy. He apparently hated the place to start but has grown to love it. This book is like a journey of discovery as we are led by the hand through the conundrum of Italian customs and attitudes. Fabulous stuff.' Ghost in the Machine

'Hilarious and at times tragic insight into Italian life in Calabria. Scarborough Evening News

Author Biography

John Tallon Jones is an editor, online copy writer and award winning author. He was brought up in Wrexham, North Wales and after studying Law in Cardiff University, put his legal skills to work, by playing violin, bass and guitar (though not at the same time) as a session musician in various bands across the UK, Europe and the USA. He is currently living in the South of Italy where he writes incessantly and annoys his wife and children with his early morning fiddle playing.