Enchanted by Ink

A tale that beckons to be lived

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My heart belongs in Tuscany

Looking back through the books I read in 2023, I was slightly surprised and relieved that they weren’t all non-fiction.  I’m a sucker for self help books and memoirs.  But, one book that totally mesmerised me was ‘The Diary of A Tuscan Bookshop’ by Alba Donati. A charming tale of an Italian book publicist and poet who launched a successful crowdfunding campaign on Facebook to open a bookshop in a tiny village in the hills of Tuscany. And yes, it’s a true story.  A dreamy one at that!

I felt so deeply in love with this book that I was yearning to inhibit the world of its protagonist.  I experienced a profound connection that seemed to blur the line between reality and fiction.  It’s no surprise at all, as I’m the biggest daydream believer going, forever lost in my own thoughts about another place where I belong.

Rarely have I felt such an intense desire to step into the shoes of a character, to breathe in the sights, sounds and emotions of a world crafted by words.  The book, a beacon of Italian escapism, captured my heart from the very first page.  Its vivid storytelling weaved a tale of resilience, entrepreneurship and the profound celebration of the unsung heroes - booksellers.  

As I turned the pages, I was magnetised by the setting, yearning to stroll through its cobbled streets, indulge in rich Italian culture, sit with my journal whilst embracing the spirit of the local characters.  I think it’s a real testament to the book’s power when it sparks a longing to live within its story, to share in the challenges and adventures alongside the leading character.

I’ve always judged a book by it’s cover, mainly because I think long and hard about the creative who was tasked with designing the artwork.  I’ve worked with many designers when I had a career in the media, so I know it’s the ultimate reward when they nail the look and feel of the publication sleeve.  The cover of this book, is simply stunning.  So much so, it’s a book I could never give away or gift to a friend.  It’s like a work of art sat on my desk.

For anyone seeking an escape to the vibrant tapestry of Italy, or simply craving a celebration of the profound impact of books, I wholeheartedly recommend immersing yourself in this exquisite true story.  Have you ever experienced this magnetic pull towards a book, where the desire to live the life of its story becomes utterly irresistible?

The Diary of a Tuscan Bookshop is such a beautiful book, on so many levels, I think I'll read it again this weekend. I hope you have lots of bookish plans today wherever you are in the world.

Until the next time

Take care and stay safe xx

Just a few more of the books that I loved reading last year…

Books I adored reading