The Other Language

I've suffered post-Ferrante blues. I never thought I'd be cured by another Italian novelist and certainly not with a set of short stories.But I love love LOVE this book.Light but very intimate. It was a cure for many things. Grimm's for grown ups. Gave me a real escape from everyday life. I don't tend to re-read books but this I know I will be coming back to.I've been following Sarah Jessica Parker's book club on hogarth and this is my absolute favourite this year. (This book isn't published in the UK so I've only managed to get a copy).

I was intrigued to read this compilation from the moment I read about the subject of her stories.These are beautifully written stories that explore 'what if' scenarios we have all daydreamed about in our own lives: 'what if I happened to meet someone from my past now, twenty years later?'; 'what if the great artistry of my seamstress was discovered by someone famous?'; 'what if I left everything behind and followed my passion? What then would my life be like?'. The writer has a beautiful ability to transport you to the places she describes in her stories-- she captures the sensations of these places as her characters experience them perfectly. My only regret is that she hasn't written more short stories.

Great book that takes you in-depth around the world.The author, Francesca Marciano, has a particular gift, of bringing the reader to see and blend with the story itself. The details and "taste" of things are incredibly alive and her writing flows like a peaceful stream.Once you start the story you are glued to it.Love it !

Lovely writing, great characters.

Each story is like a mini vacation. Francesca Marciano is a brilliant writer!!! I rarely buy fiction but this one caught my eye and so glad it did.