This highly acclaimed and uniquely comprehensive book offers readers over 2,500 years of Italian and Italian-American accomplishments. The book's 22 chapters covers every subject, from the arts and sciences to sports and entertainment celebrities. The author's ability to blend facts, humor and personal anecdotes makes this book a joy to read. The book covers the wonders of ancient Rome, Renaissance Italy, as well as modern contributions and Nobel Prize winners. The book is illustrated and contains an amazing collection of inventions and accomplishments. For example, Italians invented the piano, violin, opera, ballet, battery, telescope, radio, and telephone in NYC years before Alexander Bell. Discover how Enrico Fermi ushered in the atomic age, and how Italian sculptors carved the Lincoln memorial in Washington D.C. Explore the chapter on literature to uncover the origins of many famous fairy tales (Cinderella, Snow White, Pinocchio, etc.). Also, learn about other distinguished Italians: Chairman & CEO of the New York Stock Exchange, President of the European Union's Commission and Director of the European Space Agency.

This book also includes a unique 'Italy Travel Guide' supplement that combines history and attractions for over twenty cities and locations in Italy. A great gift idea for any occasion ! ( 549 pages, 34 illustrations)