More than just a phrasebook with a sense of humor, Wicked Italian is a cultural survival guide. Confronted with a forgetful innkeeper you'll do better than mumble an apology by learning to say Allora dormiamo nella lobby. ("In that case, we will sleep here in the lobby"). Forced to wait for your dinner you'll say: Bisogna essere Primo Ministro per essere servito qui? ("Must one be Prime Minister to get service here?") Women traveling alone will finally have the phrases they need at their fingertips, such as Contento tu ("Dream on"), Guardi che chiamo la polizia ("I'll call the police"), and Neanche se fosse l'ultimo uomo sulla terra ("Not if you were the last man on earth"). On the other hand, a chapter on "Making Love" teaches the delicate language of amore. Wicked Italian is the next best thing to being named Marcello or Sophia. Ciao
Don't look here for grammer tips. If you have no sense of humor look elswhere. This book is a hilarious running gagline, a farcical look at Italian culture. I have given it to my wittiest friends so we can all howl together, a terific gift or party favor. Worth every penny!
Funny and Insightful
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
This laugh-out-loud booklet opens wide a window on modern Italian culture. Step on in and take a gander. Never mind that you will never remember the right phrase at the right time during your visit to Italy; at least you will be traveling with the right attitude.Harold Tomb writes with Dave Barry-esque wit. If you have a sense of humor and even a passing interest in Italy, then "Wicked Italian" is for you.
A great gift
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 22 years ago
I received this book as a going-away-to-Italy-gift. It is an absolute riot!!! A humorous look at cultural differences. Foreigners in Italy will identify with the situations in the book right away. The authors obviously had a great time writing it. A laugh with every line.
Spot on and hilarious!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
This book leans to the useless end of the language guide spectrum, however it provides an accurate and hilarious comment on Italian culture. If you are even the slightest bit familiar with Italy, this book will make your gut ache from laughter. Would be a good buy at twice the price.
Witty and wild!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
This book is tons of fun, although I'm not sure I would have the guts to use any of these phrases when cornered by a Carabineri! Well worth a few bucks, and one of my favorite stocking stuffers for my traveling buddies.
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $15. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.