The cover of the film enchanted me to begin with. But before I view it with my friends later in January I wanted to read the novel, being of the firm conviction that one should always Read The Book First.
And when a novel contains this ad within its first few pages, how can one not continue to be enchanted?
To Those Who Appreciate Wistaria and Sunshine: Small mediaeval Italian Castle on the shores of the Mediterranean to be Let furnished for the month of April. Necessary servants remain. Z. Box 1000, The Times.
It wouldn’t take much more than that to convince me to answer, just as it did Mrs. Lotty Wilkins when she encountered it while reading the newspaper at her ladies’ club. She convinces her acquaintance, Rose Arbuthnot, to join her, and together they find another pair of women, Mrs. Fisher and Lady Caroline, to go to Italy for a month. Each longs to escape the life she leads, if only for four weeks.
What follows is a truly enchanting story as each woman’s hopes and dreams are revealed, each woman’s inner heart is healed, during their stay in San Salvatore. I would expect nothing less from ‘my’ Italy.
Ahh, this does sound absolutely divine. Of course, if you say Italy, I immediately want to read it, no matter what it is…By the way, my husband and I are thinking about planning a trip to Italy this year! I haven't been since the honeymoon in 2009, so I am raring to get back!
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I haven't been since my honeymoon in 2001; it's been far too long, so there's nothing like a vicarious trip through these women to soothe the longing. Although, it was more about them than Italy itself. Italy just provided the perfect setting. As it has a habit of doing, you know.
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Oh what a perfect read for January. Enjoy the film with your friends – although watching a film with good friends is always wonderful.
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I must read this book someday! The movie is lovely, I'm sure you'll enjoy both.
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Loved the movie and the book…you've made me want to watch it again! There was also an old black and white version that was fun to watch.
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I will add this book (and movie) to my list!
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I've been looking for a chance to get this book since I read about it at Paperback Reader's blog. It sounds like something one should read if they needed some cheering up.
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I loved the movie, but haven't read the book. Sounds like the perfect antidote to the coming winter months!
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Oh, that does sound lovely! I want to go! Adding book to my list…
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I think I saw the movie, and it was wonderful, so I hope you enjoy it as much as the book. Someday perhaps I'll see the real Italy…
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That sounds lovely, as is the photo! Now I long for Italy in summer 🙂
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Well you know I have to read this! And I already own it, so I will read it as soon as I finish my current book. I think I saw the movie many years ago, but it's faded from my memory, so the book will be fresh and new. Italy, here I come!! 🙂
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You big luck! (As my class would say. 😉 I was going to tell you about this anyway, thinking of you the whole time I read it.
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I'm on chapter 3! So far, so good! 🙂
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Chapter 3 already, and this from a working girl like me? 🙂 I can't wait to hear what you think of it when you finish, Les. I so enjoyed the little dramas, personality conflicts, and resolutions with the husbands.
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It sounds like a lovely story. I have yet to visit Italy but will get there one day!
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oh yes, I agree about book first before movie. But for this one, I'm afraid it has been a long time ago that I saw the film and don't think I've ever got to the book. Lovely wisteria. Look forward to your review.
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I love this book so much. And the movie, as well. It is one of those rare occasions when the movie was actually perfect, as if the book had just come to life. The casting and the scenery were simply wonderful. So glad you experienced them together!
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