Learn Italian by Reading – Reading is one of the most immersive ways to improve your Italian. Through books, you can explore the Italian language in context, discovering grammar structures, vocabulary, and idioms naturally. If you’re taking an Italian course, reading is an excellent complement to classroom learning.
Read as much as possible! However, it’s essential to choose books that match your level and interests to make reading enjoyable and productive.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’ve selected five captivating books about women—from historical fiction to modern literature. These novels explore strong female protagonists, their struggles, and their triumphs.
📖 The Postwoman – Francesca Giannone
One of the most-read books of the moment! Francesca Giannone presents a compelling family saga inspired by her great-grandmother.
Set in Salento, June 1934, the novel tells the story of Anna, an educated, intelligent, and independent woman. The book follows her journey through Italy’s post-war transformation, highlighting the role of women in society.
The narrative is engaging, with well-developed characters. The contrast between real love and unfulfilled love plays a central role, making it a must-read for anyone interested in learning Italian through literature.
📖 The Beatrices – Stefano Benni
This book features eight female monologues, each presenting a unique perspective. From a rebellious nun to a career-driven woman, from a sharp-tongued elderly lady to a fierce young girl—each character has a distinct voice.
The book blends humor, satire, and social critique, making it an enjoyable yet thought-provoking read. Perfect for intermediate and advanced Italian learners looking to expand their vocabulary while exploring contemporary literature.
📖 The Zinc Basin – Margaret Mazzantini
One of Margaret Mazzantini’s best novels, this book is a deeply emotional and realistic story of family, love, and personal growth.
Set in Rome, the novel follows a woman’s memories of her grandmother, her city, and the passage of time. The rich, descriptive language makes it an excellent choice for Italian learners looking to immerse themselves in literature.
📖 A Woman – Sibilla Aleramo
First published in 1906, this book is one of the earliest feminist novels in Italy. It tells the autobiographical story of Sibilla Aleramo, who fought against societal norms to assert her independence.
The novel remains relevant today, offering a powerful reflection on women’s rights. A perfect read for those who want to learn Italian while exploring feminist literature.
📖 The Seasoned Ugly Woman – Carmen Covito
This award-winning novel is a mix of humor and social satire. The protagonist, Marilina Labruna, is a forty-year-old woman who struggles with self-esteem and societal expectations.
The book is an insightful and witty exploration of modern femininity, making it an enjoyable read for advanced Italian learners who appreciate irony and cultural references.
📖 The Long Life of Marianna Ucrìa – Dacia Maraini
Set in 18th-century Sicily, this historical novel portrays the life of Marianna, a noblewoman who is both deaf and mute. Despite her condition, she defies societal expectations, seeking knowledge and personal freedom.
The novel captures the atmosphere, colors, and customs of Sicily, making it a fascinating read for those interested in Italian history and literature.
📌 Why Learn Italian by Reading
Reading is a fantastic way to enhance your Italian skills while discovering Italian culture. At Il Centro, we integrate literature into our language courses to provide an immersive learning experience.
- ✅ Group & Individual Italian Courses
- ✅ Extensive & Intensive Italian Courses
- ✅ Literature & Cultural Italian Courses
Looking for more ways to learn Italian through reading? Visit our Italian learning blog for book recommendations, exercises, and more.
Contact us for more information about our courses.
🌍 More Italian Learning Resources
For additional reading and language learning resources, check out Si Studiare Italiano, a platform offering study guides and immersion programs.