My aunt’s book club is reading this book. Her description of what she referred to as liguality or the fact that each page has its own translated glossary (Italian to English) while retaining the original writing intrigued me.

However – the copy at my local library was all English – not a hint of Italian – a little disappointing.

The book is written from the standpoint of an elderly grandmother in Italy writing letters she doesn’t send to the estranged granddaughter she raised who is in America. She tells the story of her life and struggles and choices by way of explanation of some of the causes of their separation.

Her basic message is “know thyself” and “va’ dove ti porta il cuore” or “follow your heart”