Have you ever picked up a book in Italian, only to feel completely overwhelmed by the language? Or worse, stuck reading the same beginner material that doesn’t spark your curiosity? Today, we’re flipping the script. Whether you’re a total newbie or an advanced learner, I’ve curated the ultimate list of 30 Italian books for every level.
But here’s the twist—it’s not just about reading; it’s about discovering how these books can supercharge your Italian, all while uncovering the secrets of Italian culture.
By the end of this lesson, you’ll know exactly how to choose the perfect Italian book for your skill level, get insider tips for making the most out of your reading experience, and even learn where to find these cultural gems. Plus, I’ll share one surprising trick advanced readers swear by to learn faster—so stay tuned till the end!
Imagine immersing yourself in a story where every page not only entertains you but also transforms your Italian. What’s the one mistake most learners make when choosing their first book—and how can you avoid it? Let’s find out!
But first, make sure to download your free PDF cheat-sheet, which includes a list of the books mentioned in this guide and tips for making the most of reading Italian books. Just enter your email below and I’ll send it to you straight away.
Table to Contents
Here’s what we’ll cover in this guide. Click on any title to jump to each section.
- How to choose your next favourite Italian book
- Italian books in Italian for beginners (A1-A2)
- Italian books in Italian for intermediate learners (B1-B2)
- Italian books in Italian for advanced learners (C1-C2)
- Why you should read in Italian
- 5 Tips for reading Italian books in Italian
- Where to buy Italian books
How to choose your next favourite Italian book
Reading is an amazing tool for learning Italian, but finding the right book for your level is not always easy. If you’re just starting out and someone hands you a thick Italian classic, chances are you’ll be back to scrolling on your phone after a couple of pages!
The first thing to do is assess where your Italian skills truly stand. If you’re unsure, take my free online Italian test. There’s nothing more frustrating than flipping through a dictionary every few minutes just to keep up with the story.
Next, pick a genre you genuinely love. Just because it’s in Italian doesn’t mean you have to settle for anything. Sticking to a genre you’re passionate about will keep you turning those pages and make your Italian reading experience much more enjoyable.
Finally, choose a book that’s just the right level of challenge. You want something you can follow while still learning new things. Start simple and work your way up; it’s all about finding that sweet spot where you’re learning without feeling lost.
10 Italian Books in Italian for Beginners (A1-A2)
Fairly simple and short, these Italian books for beginners are a great starting place ifyou’re looking to explore the language. Even if you’re a complete novice, starting to read is essential; the more you immerse yourself, the more you’ll learn!
1. “Topolino”
You can’t go wrong with this classic comic series featuring Mickey Mouse and all your favorite Disney characters! It’s been a beloved hit in Italy for decades, making reading it a fun cultural experience. The stories are light-hearted, entertaining, and filled with everyday Italian expressions and idioms, giving you a taste of casual conversation.
2. “Storie spaziali per maschi del futuro” by Francesca Cavallo
This collection of 12 stories takes you to distant planets while exploring what it means to grow up as a young boy, free from the usual macho norms. Since they’re aimed at kids, the language is simple and filled with everyday vocabulary that you’ll pick up easily. Plus, you’ll get familiar with passato remoto, a past tense that’s super popular in Italian fables.
3. “Che tempesta” by Umberto Galimberti and Anna Vivarelli
Curious about your emotions and why you feel the way you do? This engaging book breaks down feelings through relatable stories and myths, making it both fun and easy to understand. Targeted at teens, the language is accessible and packed with useful vocabulary that’s simple to digest.
4. “Falcone e Borsellino” – Giacomo Bendotti
This beautiful graphic novel tells the inspiring story of two legendary Italian heroes who bravely fought against the mafia: Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino. It’s part of the Misteri d’Italia comic series, which brings real-life Italian mysteries to life in an educational way. The graphic format is super beginner-friendly, featuring simpler sentences and visuals that really help you grasp the story.
5. “Le tigri di Mompracem” by Emilio Salgari
Set in Malaysia, this adventure follows a band of rebel pirates led by Sandokan, who seeks revenge after his family is devastated by the British Empire. As they defend they’re island against colonial powers, Sandokan finds himself falling for the niece of an English lord, which leads to an epic clash of love and loyalty. The straightforward language makes this book an exciting, accessible journey.
6. “Favole al telefono” by Gianni Rodari
In this delightful book, a businessman calls his little girl every night at nine, sharing whimsical stories about his travels and the quirky characters he meets along the way. The stories are short since phone calls were quite pricey, but they’re so enchanting that even the telephone operators stop what they’re doing just to listen! The language is wonderfully accessible — perfect for getting lost in your imagination while improving your Italian!
7. “Bar Sport” by Stefano Benni
Imagine the typical Italian bar where locals gather to chat, laugh, and debate about everything from calcio (soccer) to politica (politics). This book perfectly captures that lively spirit with a cast of colorful characters that will have you laugh from start to finish. With its easy-to-read Italian, you’ll feel like you’re eavesdropping on the most entertaining bar conversations in Italy!
8. “Corto Maltese – Favola di Venezia” by Hugo Pratt
This is part of a famous Italian comic book series featuring the adventures of the sea captain Corto Maltese. In this episode, he’s on the hunt for a priceless emerald hidden somewhere in the enchanting maze of Venice‘s canals and alleys. Along the way, he meets a bunch of bizarre characters in a whirlwind of wild events. But don’t worry, the visual storytelling means you can soak in the language without feeling lost.
9. “La vita che volevo” by Lorenzo Licalzi
Ever wondered about living a different life or felt a twinge of regret? This collection of stories explores everyday Italian lives filled with “what ifs.” It’s a thoughtful read that invites you to reflect on life’s little twists and turns. Plus, the modern language will give you a good foundation for everyday conversations in Italian.
10. “Io, Leonardo da Vinci by Massimo Polidoro
For history buffs, this delightful biography of the Renaissance genius is a must-read. It takes you on a journey through Leonardo’s fascinating life, starting from his humble beginnings as an illegitimate child with no formal education to his groundbreaking inventions and masterpieces. Polidoro’s writing is smooth, engaging, and packed with fun facts you won’t find in a typical history class.
10 Italian Books in Italian for Intermediate Learners (B1-B2)
If you are cruising through the intermediate level, it’s time to dive into stories that are a bit longer, have a nice rhythm, and sprinkle in some quirky, old-school words to keep things interesting!
11. “La divina avventura” by Francesca Gambino and Enrico Cerni
La Divina Avventura brings Dante’s Divine Comedy to life in a fun, digestible way. You’ll get to explore Inferno (Hell), Purgatorio (Purgatory), and Paradiso (Paradise) with a modern twist and some catchy rhymes that give this classic a fresh vibe. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for something epic yet accessible for B1-B2 readers!
12. “Momenti di trascurabile felicità” by Francesco Piccolo
In this book, the author shares the little things that unexpectedly bring him joy. With a mix of brief anecdotes and longer stories, he shows that happiness isn’t always about big events—it’s often in the little, overlooked moments. Written in a relaxed, conversational style, it feels like you’re having a chat with a friend. You’ll definitely see a bit of yourself in these relatable stories—prepare for some giggles!
13. “Il giorno in più” by Fabio Volo
Here’s a charming and slightly cheesy love story told in light, everyday Italian. You’ll meet Giacomo, a 40-year-old guy who loves his routine but is about to shake things up. Every day on his tram, he spots the same woman, but when he finds out she’s moving to New York, he decides to follow his heart—and her—across the Atlantic! What happens next? An unexpected, playful adventure that shows us love can pop up in the most surprising ways.
14. “Marcovaldo” by Italo Calvino
This collection of 20 short stories follows Marcovaldo, a humble city worker with a deep love for nature. The beauty of this character is how he manages to find little moments of wonder in the big city, while everyone around him is caught up in the rat race of Italy’s 1960s economic boom. Calvino’s language is simple yet rich, sprinkled with occasional vintage words and expressions — the perfect balance of challenge and entertainment.
15. “Borgo Propizio” by Loredana Limone
This first book of a cozy trilogy transports you to a quaint Italian village where everyone knows everyone, and gossip flies faster than the wind! Life in the village takes a lively turn when a young woman opens a dairy shop, sparking a delightful chain of friendships, romances, and a few surprises along the way. It’s a sweet, adult fairytale, ideal if you’re a fan of authentic Italian borghi (villages) vibes.
16. “La signorina Tecla Manzi” by Andrea Vitali
In this cozy mystery, we follow Tecla Manzi, a lively 65-year-old spinster who shows up at the local police station with a bizarre complaint. Turns out, her seemingly trivial missing item unravels into a string of small-town secrets, complete with priests, loan sharks, missing siblings, and even some grave-robbing! Set in picturesque Bellano on Lake Como, this story is packed with charm, laughs, and the quirks of small-town life in Italy.
17. “Due di due” – Andrea de Carlo
The protagonists of this book are Mario and Guido, two friends who couldn’t be more different yet are inseparable. From their teenage years to adulthood, you’ll follow them through friendship and the highs and lows of growing up —all in an easy-to-read, conversational style. Plus, there’s a lot of passato prossimo, so it’s a great way to brush up on this essential verb form.
18. “Io non ho paura” by Niccolò Ammaniti
On a hot summer afternoon, young Michele stumbles across a dark secret in a wheat field: a hidden trapdoor concealing a boy, Filippo, who’s been kidnapped by a gang that includes Michele’s own father. This gripping story is about friendship and the end of childhood innocence, as Michele faces the harsh world of ruthless adults. Ammaniti’s simple language and captivating plot make this a page-turner that’ll keep your Italian skills—and your heart—fully engaged.
19. “La profezia dell’armadillo” by Zerocalcare
This graphic novel by one of Italy’s top cartoonists, Zerocalcare, is full of humor and thought-provoking moments about the struggles of a 30-something figuring out life. The main character is thrown into a spiral of reflection when he learns that his first love has passed away, helped along the way by his quirky imaginary friend, an armadillo. With tons of casual, everyday Italian and idioms, this book is a perfect way to dive into conversational language. And trust me—it’s as hilarious as it is relatable!
20. “La briscola in cinque” by Marco Malvaldi
Set along the Tuscan coast, this mystery is part of the “I Delitti del BarLume” series. The story follows the barista Massimo and a group of elderly patrons who turn into unlikely detectives when a young woman’s body is found in a trash bin. Think Murder, She Wrote Italian-style, with plenty of laughs, a splash of Tuscan dialect, and a laid-back narrative. It’s even become a popular TV series!
10 Italian Books in Italian for Advanced Learners (C1-C2)
Looking for a challenge? These Italian books are perfect for advanced learners who feel comfortable diving into longer texts in Italian. They’re a bit more demanding, whether because of language complexity or the depth of the themes.
21.”L’amica geniale” by Elena Ferrante
This iconic four-part series follows the lives of two friends growing up in a poor Naples neighborhood right after WWII. It’s a staple on Italian reading lists, and for good reason: the story is captivating and the author’s descriptions make the characters and their world leap off the page. You’ll come across plenty of passato remoto and unique idioms that give the dialogue its authentic feel. The Neapolitan dialect slips in only occasionally, making it accessible but rich enough to challenge and grow your Italian skills.
22. “Tra donne sole” by Cesare Pavese
Meet Clelia, a young woman from working-class Turin who uses her talent and determination to break into high society. At first, she’s dazzled by the elegance and glamour around her, but soon, she starts to see an emptiness beneath the surface of this world. Pavese’s beautiful language and nuanced vocabulary will draw you into Clelia’s story while offering a glimpse of the bittersweet side of chasing social success.
23. “Inventare i libri” by Alessandro Barbero
Alessandro Barbero, a famous Italian historian with a gift for storytelling, shares the story of the Giunti brothers, who rose from humble beginnings in 15th-century Florence to become famous entrepreneurs in the printing world. Seizing on the revolutionary new technology of the printing press, they gained prominent clients, including a certain Machiavelli, who bought their books for his son Niccolò (yes, that Machiavelli!). Fun fact: Giunti is still a major publishing house in Italy today! Expect a few specialized terms, but Barbero’s engaging style makes it a fascinating read.
24. “La coscienza di Zeno” – Italo Svevo
Zeno Cosini, the neurotic yet oddly relatable narrator, takes you on a journey through his life, written at the suggestion of his psychiatrist. He reflects on everything from his father’s death to his comedic struggles with quitting smoking, and his tangled love life (spoiler: he falls for one woman and ends up marrying her sister!). With a rather lyrical prose, this book is perfect if you’re after a challenge with some humorous vibes.
25. “I leoni di Sicilia” by Stefania Audi
This Italian novel traces the saga of the Florio family, founders of a wine empire in Sicily. Originally from Calabria, they relocated to Palermo after an earthquake, starting over by selling spices. Through sheer determination, they transformed their small business into a renowned powerhouse, best known for Marsala wine. The story is as much about their rise to fame as it is about their personal lives, giving you a taste of Sicilian culture, passion, and family drama.
26. “Io uccido” by Giorgio Faletti
A killer is on the loose in Monaco, calling in clues to a local radio station before each crime. Sure, the plot isn’t new, but Faletti’s writing style is immersive and sprinkled with sharp insights that linger like proverbs. Though it’s a bit on the longer side, this novel offers layers of suspense, perfect for anyone who loves a deeply immersive mystery.
27. “Il fu Mattia Pascal” by Luigi Pirandello
In this classic, we follow Mattia Pascal’s journey of self-discovery and search for identity. After his wife and friends mistakenly identify the body of a suicide victim as his, he realizes fate has given him the chance to leave his dull life behind and start anew. Over time, he finds that new found freedom is just a frustrating illusion, but it’s too late to turn back, leaving him trapped in a life where he feels dead inside, even while he’s alive.
28. “L’arte della gioia” by Goliarda Sapienza
Meet Modesta, a strong and clever woman navigating early 20th-century Sicily. Born into poverty and sent to a convent, she eventually rises to aristocracy through a marriage of convenience. Fiercely determined to live life on her terms, she challenges the oppressive patriarchal culture and social norms of the time, always refusing to betray her true self. With nearly 700 pages, expect captivating dialogue and moments that feel like a thrilling soap opera!
29. “Lessico famigliare” by Natalia Ginzburg
This memoir, told through a tapestry of family sayings, invites us into the lively Italian Jewish family of Natalia Ginzburg, the youngest child, against the backdrop of Fascism and World War. The challenge here lies in the quirky expressions unique to the family’s everyday life, like squinzie (simpering girls) and sempiezzi (nonsense). It’s a fascinating linguistic adventure with a peek into Italy’s past!
30. “La forma dell’acqua” by Andrea Camilleri
This is the first book in Andrea Camilleri’s popular series featuring Inspector Montalbano as he solves crimes in the fictional Sicilian town of Vigata. While mostly written in standard Italian, Camilleri adds touches of Sicilian dialect and grammar to give the story an authentic regional flavor. It’s challenging—but that’s what makes it so much fun to read!
Why you should read in Italian
Reading Italian novels in Italian gives you the chance to see all those rules and sentence structures you’ve been studying come to life. Take the dreaded passato remoto, for example—it’s not something you use every day in conversation, but reading gives you plenty of opportunities to see it in action. And what about those tricky elements like piacere, ci and ne, or the irregular verbs?
But that’s only part of the magic. Books introduce you to words, expressions, and idioms that go beyond what any Italian course might cover, all within a mix of settings and tones. You’re not only building up your vocabulary, but you’re also picking up language for different situations, emotions, and contexts—things that make your Italian sound more natural.
Let’s not forget the insights into Italian culture you’ll gain. Whether you’re immersed in a Renaissance-era novel or a contemporary story, each book gives you a peek into what Italians value, laugh about, and feel passionate about.
Beyond all the language and culture perks, reading in Italian is fantastic for your brain, too! It engages areas responsible for comprehension, focus, and memory, boosting your mental sharpness. And let’s not forget the best part—the pure joy of discovering new stories and voices. You might just find your next favorite author, all while becoming more fluent in Italian!
5 Tips for reading Italian books in Italian
Finally, here are five practical tips to make reading in Italian both enjoyable and productive:
1. Start small
When you’re just getting started, long blocks of text can feel overwhelming. Try beginning with graphic novels! The visuals provide context clues that make it easier to pick up new vocabulary and follow the story, even if you miss a word or two.
2. Pick a story you already know
Revisiting a familiar story is a total game-changer. It’s just like watching a show on Netflix you know and love but with Italian subtitles on! Since you already know the plot and characters, you can focus on soaking up the Italian vocabulary and grammar without having to piece together the storyline.
3. Keep a dictionary handy
Having a dictionary within reach is super helpful for looking up words you don’t know. E-readers are great for this, since they usually come with built-in dictionaries.
4. Jot down new words and phrases
Keep a notebook or use an app on your phone to keep track of all the new Italian words and phrases you encounter. Writing things down really helps your brain remember them!
5. Read out loud
Reading those Italian words out loud boosts your comprehension, improves your pronunciation, and gets you more comfortable with the Italian rhythm and accent.
Where to buy Italian books
Local libraries and bookstores often offer a small selection of Italian books, and Italian cultural centers usually have libraries stocked with Italian newspapers, magazines, and books too. But thanks to the internet, finding Italian books in Italian from the comfort of your home is extremely easy. Here are 7 great websites for buying Italian books:
Amazon: With its huge selection of foreign language books, Amazon is super convenient for finding books in Italian. Just search for the book title and add “Italian edition” to make sure you’re seeing Italian-language versions.
La Feltrinelli: As one of Italy’s top publishers and bookstore chains, La Feltrinelli offers tons of Italian books on its website, covering all kinds of genres, plus they ship worldwide. More info on delivery costs here.
Libraccio: This is one of Italy’s top independent bookstore chains, offering both new and used books, plus international shipping. They also have ebooks and audiobooks available. More on delivery costs here.
AbeBooks: This global online marketplace is known for its diverse inventory of new, used, and rare books. To find Italian editions, simply use the language filter in the search options on the left-hand sidebar. More info on shipping rates and delivery times here.
World of Books: Specializing in secondhand books, this site has a big range of pre-owned titles, including many in Italian. They offer free delivery in the UK and also ship internationally. More info on delivery cost costs here.
Apple Books: If you like reading on your device, just open the app, type the title in the language you want in the search bar, and browse the options. Some titles are even available for free!
eBooks: This is another great website with a big selection of Italian titles that you can read online or download to your computer or mobile device.
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