If you want an interesting insight into the Italian way of life, check out the books by Tim Parks, a British novelist who lives in Italy. He has some hilarious stories to tell of trying to understand the Italians and fit in with their way of doing things. There are many interesting cultural insights to pick up and they are also just a really fun read. Whether you're heading to Italy or not, they should be on your must-read list! He's written 17 books, but the books specifically on Italy are: An Italian Education An Italian Education:The further adventures of an expatriate in Verona Italian Neighbors A Season with Verona Europa