From Tuscany with Love - by Lauretta Avina (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

From Tuscany with Love is an emotional memoir capturing the heartfelt journey of a scared, little girl from the rolling hills of Lucca to the bustling life in America. Through evocative stories and cherished family recipes, the author pays tribute to the rich culture, love, and flavors that shaped her life. This memoir beautifully blends personal reflections on family, resilience, and the timeless traditions of Tuscan cuisine, offering readers a deeply personal and flavorful look at an immigrant's path to finding a home and a sense of belonging in a new world.

Review Quotes

It was Napoleon Bonaparte (no stranger to Tuscany) who once said, "An army marches on its stomach!" He realized the importance of plentiful quality food for the success of his military campaigns.

It's equally true to recognize that food contributes to the memories of our childhood, whether in America or abroad..."food maketh the man" (or in this case woman!)

Lauretta Avina, in her book From Tuscany with Love takes us marching into her Tuscan (Lucca) past and sustains us on the journey with local and familial recipes. You may indeed take the woman from Tuscany, but you can never take Tuscany from the woman!!

And for that I am most grateful. Her recipes, stories and experiences are a feast for body and soul. In writing this culinary autobiography Ms. Avina has gifted us with a share of her heritage. (Edward Fitz-Henry)

When reviewing your book, From Tuscany with Love, I really loved that it revealed to me even more about who you are and where you came from. 'Why you are the way you are' was beautiful. The weaving of a personal story with the nonfiction historical happenings and the family recipes are timeless. The strongest memories are those that involve the senses of smell, taste, and hearing. The recipes are a microcosm for what we all seek; comfort through family and friends 'breaking bread' with the deep roots of food passed down from generation to generation. (Claire E. Grissom, Coordinator of College and Career Readiness, San Benito High School District)

I never had a cookbook that brought a tear to my eye, but this one did. [Lauretta's] story is simultaneously unique and universal. Different from yours or mine, but also the same. Reaching out through the delightful aroma of fresh baked biscotti, weaving in world history, sharing happiness and heartache, and tapping into the place that makes us human.

...Her voice comes through every word and every dish...The fact that you can cook and taste something real and delicious--something with deep attachment to her story--that is a wonderful way to touch someone's heart. As an honored recipient of some of the best biscotti this side of the Mediterranean, you must try at least a recipe or two (or all) and share her vivid stories when you sit down to eat. (Gaird Schlesinger, Mighty Digital Group, Founder and Chief Creative Officer)