Reviews
“Karen Haid’s Basilicata: Authentic Italy dives into a corner of Italy much less well-known than the Venices and Romes of the bel paese. While other writers have simplified this region as a place of poverty or misfortune, Haid’s deep appreciation for Basilicata offers a truer story: of generosity despite poverty, misfortune alongside a rich cultural heritage. Through vivid narratives, Haid’s warm straightforward style takes readers on a journey through the authentic Basilicata – from exuberant festivals to quiet rituals of daily life, hikes through forests and small-town museums, delicious food to perilous drives…. into the stories and culture of the region – reaching back and forth between Haid’s own journey and the history of cities that stretch back thousands of years. Haid’s striking depth and curiosity in her exploration and writing brings the reader a sense of familiarity that immerses you in Basilicata, without losing the wonder of a newcomer. Whether you’re content to visit from the comfort of your armchair or are already planning your next trip to Italy, Haid makes an excellent travel companion, one full of understanding and affection for the people and places she visits.
Ambassador Magazine of the National Italian American Foundation
“Ideal for both the armchair traveler and the on-site visitor, Basilicata: Authentic Italy is exceptionally well written, organized and presented. Impressively informed and informative, Basilicata: Authentic Italy deftly showcases both the famously well known and the obscure off-the-beaten-path sights to see, places to visit, and people to meet. Especially recommended reading for anyone contemplating or embarking on a visit to Italy, Basilicata: Authentic Italy will prove to be an immediately welcome and enduringly popular addition to personal, professional, community, and academic library Contemporary Italian Travel Guide collections and reading lists.”
Midwest Book Review
“Taking the road less traveled led Haid to explore Basilicata…. (She) participates in local festivals to honor saints, visits beaches, and explores the country’s largest national park… There are descriptions of crispy peppers, truffles, and black chickpeas that will entice even the most particular of foodies… As a solo woman traveler, Haid takes everything in stride, and her meetings with residents are the best parts of the journey. Visitors looking for an authentic experience need not look far—everything in Basilicata is authentic.
Library Journal
Verdict: An intimate exploration of an often overlooked region of Italy. Recommended to readers who appreciate all things Italian.“
“Karen is a natural writer with a smooth, crisp style. Each page flows seamlessly with in-depth information and provocative insight. ‘Basilicata: Authentic Italy’ is much more than an educated traveler’s visit to an Italian region. Rather, it is a love letter for a land and her people by a writer whose soul now belongs to Italy. ‘Basilicata: Authentic Italy’ is awesome.”
PRIMO Italian-American Magazine
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Available in Paperback and all E-book versions
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Also by the author
Calabria: The Other Italy
A nonfiction book that explores daily life, culture, history, the arts, food, society and tourism of Calabria, the region in the toe of the Italian boot.
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