The Penguin Book of Italian Short Stories (Penguin Classics Hardcover)

Really well edited, with a short explanation of the authors time and place and motivations for writing these stories. Highly recommended

This collection of great Italian authors is a feast of Italian literature served elegantly by a master of literature, Jhumpa Lahiri. I am still savoring every morsel.

I should have checked, I assumed Italian stories would include the Italian text. Like the edition of Lahiri's In Other Words which I'd ordered recently. My mistake.

I returned the original purchase because it was in English; I wanted a copy of it, instead, in the Italian language. I asked if you had one, because the add mentioned ' an italian edition'! Please advise. Thank you.

The dust jacket was dirty and had to be thrown away. Disappointing, otherwise book was in good condition.

product arrived totally damaged. it was either shipped (already) damaged or ruined in transit

In an era where global literature is more accessible than ever, Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Penguin Book of Italian Short Stories stands out as a significant contribution to the appreciation of Italian narrative art. This anthology, meticulously curated and partly translated by Lahiri, features 40 captivating stories that span over a century of Italian literary history. Lahiri, known for her deep connection to Italian literature, offers readers a multifaceted exploration of Italy’s literary landscape through a diverse selection of short fiction. A Personal and Comprehensive Selection Lahiri’s approach to curating this anthology is both personal and inclusive. In her introduction, she emphasizes her goal of showcasing a broad spectrum of Italian literature by selecting stories that represent various styles and voices. The collection notably excludes living authors, thereby focusing on the 20th century and offering a snapshot of Italy's literary evolution through both renowned and lesser-known writers. This anthology is more than just a collection; it is a thoughtfully curated experience. For example, Italo Calvino’s absurdist "Dialogue with a Tortoise," Primo Levi’s mythic "Quaestio de Centauris," and Natalia Ginzburg’s poignant “My Husband” are included to offer readers a wide-ranging view of Italian storytelling. Each story provides a unique perspective on different aspects of Italian life, culture, and philosophy, contributing to a comprehensive portrait of the country’s literary heritage. Exploring Diverse Themes and Styles Lahiri’s anthology traverses a wide array of themes and styles, from realism to avant-garde experimentation. The inclusion of fantastical elements, such as the centaur in Levi’s story or the Martian in Ennio Flaiano’s "A Martian in Rome," highlights the Italian tradition of blending the mundane with the magical. This fantastical thread continues in works like Tomasi di Lampedusa’s "The Siren" and Alberto Savinio’s surreal "Bago," each inviting readers into a realm where the extraordinary coexists with the everyday. The anthology is rich with stories that delve into human relationships, societal norms, and existential musings. Stories like Anna Maria Ortese’s "A Pair of Eyeglasses," which reveals the stark realities of poverty through the eyes of a young girl, and Elsa Morante’s "The Ambitious Ones," which juxtaposes spiritual and material ambitions, showcase the depth and diversity of Italian storytelling. A Gateway to Italian Literature The Penguin Book of Italian Short Stories serves not only as a collection of stories but also as an invitation to explore the broader landscape of Italian literature. The frustration of encountering only a single story by a newly discovered favorite author, such as Goffredo Parise or Alba de Céspedes, underscores the anthology's role as a gateway rather than a comprehensive guide. It encourages readers to delve deeper into the works of these authors, expanding their understanding of Italian literary traditions. This anthology serves as a portal to the rich narrative traditions of Italy, allowing readers to experience the country’s literary diversity. The collection invites exploration beyond its pages, encouraging a deeper engagement with the works of featured authors and a broader understanding of Italy’s cultural landscape. A Feast for the Imagination The analogy of the anthology as a degustation menu is apt. Each story offers a unique flavor, from the humor and satire of Flaiano’s "A Martian in Rome" to the poignant melancholy of Parise’s "Melancholy." The stories collectively offer a feast for the imagination, each one a carefully crafted delicacy that leaves a lasting impression. Lahiri’s own translations, as well as those by other skilled translators, ensure that the nuances of the original Italian texts are preserved, allowing English-speaking readers to fully appreciate the beauty and complexity of the stories. The anthology’s success lies in its ability to convey the essence of Italian literature, providing a sense of place and culture that transcends linguistic boundaries. Conclusion: A Cultural and Literary Treasure The Penguin Book of Italian Short Stories is more than an anthology; it is a cultural and literary treasure. Lahiri’s careful curation and translation of these stories provide a rare glimpse into the heart of Italian literature, showcasing the country's rich storytelling tradition and its capacity to capture the human experience in all its complexity. For readers new to Italian literature, the anthology offers a compelling introduction, while for seasoned readers, it serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal and enduring significance of these stories.

Delighted , Good selection of writers

Jhumpa Lahiri et les excellents collaborateurs dont elle a su s' entourer ont fait un merveilleux travail . les choix de l 'auteur qui est à l' intersection de trois cultures sont extrêmement intéressant et apportent un éclairage nouveau sur la vie ( en général ) italienne même si on a beaucoup séjourne la bas et qu' on essaye d' apprendre la langue italienne . On a l' impression que les traductions sont excellentes mais on n' est pas assez verse en italien pour se confronter aux originaux . Les textes en anglais sont fluides et riches en jolis mots très loin des trados google que nous infligent quelques éditeurs français .Les notices biographiques sont très précieuses et relient parfaitement l' auteur au texte choisi . Un seul bémol l' incontournable Pirandello tant apprécie par le passe par les néo intellectuels gauchistes malgré ou parce que un très vilain passé fasciste . Son style de poisson mort est diamétralement opposé à la chaleur congéniale des autres racconti même si ils sont parfois tragiques . Au total un livre a lire absolument .

Mi è piaciuta la scelta degli scrittori italiani da includere nell'antologia. Purtroppo la copertina rigida rende scomoda la lettura. Un tempo i libri Penguin erano molto più maneggevoli.