'Italian' is as evocative a word as any, but what does it really mean? The answer is a lifestyle that many envy, from one of the world's most beloved countries - aperitifs and the art of drinking coffee. Feast days and a quiet August. Cities steeped in history, where the past is always present and countless style and fashion icons reside. In a country where wine is produced in every region, food is deeply entrenched in tradition, and some of the world's greatest artists, composers, and thinkers have lived, passion is everywhere and la dolce vita thrives.

This book is a celebration of what it means to be from Italy - an education in drinking to savour the moment, travelling indulgently, and dolce far niente - the sweetness of doing nothing. From the innovation of Italian fashion and design, the golden age of its cinema, the Roman Empire's cultural echoes, and some very good espresso, take a dip into the Italian psyche and learn to eat, love, dress, think, and have fun as only Italia can.

Other cookbooks by this author

• I Heart Rome: Recipes & Stories from the Eternal City