Ciao a tutti!

Has anyone on the forum read any of Tim Park's books about living in Verona during the 1980's and early 1990's. He is a fairly prolific author of both fiction and non-fiction. He lived the dream of many on the forum - go to Italy and make a living teaching English and translating between Italian and English. He writes about living and raising a family in the village of Montecchio outside of Verona in the Veneto.

I have read two of his books: "Italian Neighbors" and "An Italian Education". I found them quite good - both amusing and informative. He paints a very detailed and (to me) endearing picture of life in Italy.

His descriptions seem very genuine. I would be curious if others have read his work - especially those who live in that part of Italy - both natives and expatriates from other places - and what their opinion is with regard to the picture he paints of living in Italy and the character of the people he describes in all their best and worst.

Carlo

Have not read anything about Verona by Tim Parks but have been to Verona molte volte.

Sightseeing in Verona Italy is often a second, third or fourth thought, with many tourists shunning the city for the
nearby Venice or Milan. This is a shame, since the city has much to offer, even for those who are not Shakespeare enthusiasts.
Unlike most of the larger cities in the country, you are likely to find only a small percentage of tourists in historic Verona
Italy. Built along the Adige River and the later home of Dante Alighieri, the city boasts a number of beautiful sights amongst
its circuitous streets. The scenic mausoleum of Arche Scaligere houses outdoor tombs bordered by evil-looking iron gates and is
the final resting place of the Scaligeri princes, city leaders well known as both great warriors and great patrons of the arts.
The Arena di Verona is the third largest arena in Italy, and should not be missed by anyone sightseeing in Verona Italy. It looks
a lot like the Colosseum in Rome but is still mostly intact. Constructed in 30 AD, much of the original architecture remains, and
the amphitheater still houses opera productions throughout the summer. Castelvecchio is a military fortress that has been transformed
into an art museum, renowned for providing shelter to many significant works of art in a strictly medieval setting.

As if this wasn't enought Lago di Garda Italy's largest lake is just a very short distance from Verona. Forse 20 minuti solamente.

I read Italian Neighbours years ago and loved it, I had brought for a friend travelling to Italy and she loved it as well.

My husband read A Season In Verona and he loved it, especailly the swearing.

I am planning on re-reading Italian Neighbours and picking up An Italian Education.

The whole living in Italy gnere is hard though, no one ever has a bad day!