Vivacious Reading: Very Valentine

After filling my head with DNA templates and shark intestines all week (yes, I've been studying for finals...), I must say that this book was exactly what I needed! Set in modern day Manhattan it follows the ups and downs of an Italian family desperately trying to maintain their history, while keeping up with the times.

Valentine, the middle, only un-married child, is turning 34, and obviously will soon be destined to spinsterhood if she doesn't find herself a beau immediately. However, the real love of Valentine's life is her grandmother, and the family shoe shop. The shop has been in the family since they came to America from Italy over a hundred years ago, and despite the impending financial crisis, Valentine is determined to keep the shop up and running.

If you're familiar at all with the author, you know that Adriana Trigiani ("The Big Stone Gap" series, and "Lucia Lucia") weaves excellant stories, full of cultural flavor in a very unique voice. I really think she came into her element with this book though. Her style is light, and pulls you in the same way "SALE" signs in front of a shoe shop do. The dialogue is witty, and a little reminenscent of "Gilmore Girls," yet it is still full of rich Italian culture and history.

If you've had as stressful a week as I have, I suggest you treat yourself to a few hours with this book. It just might be the refreshment you need!