Out of the Nest: An Italian Summer

The Italian Saga, Book 2

By: Gaia B. Amman

Narrated by: Gaia B. Amman

Stand by Me meets The Goonies...in Italy.

Italy, 1990. Twelve-year-old Leda is a bookworm and a tomboy. As her world splits into girls and boys, she can't seem to fit anywhere. On the background of the 14th FIFA soccer world cup, Leda embarks on a new series of side-splitting-laughter adventures dealing with hormones, periods, zesty boys, and her own fears, in what will be the best summer of her life. The guy to win her nerdy heart will be the most unlikely one....

Set against the gorgeous backdrop of Sardinia, the Dolomites, and Tuscany, this humorous yet insightful journey through first love, friendship, and first kisses will leave you breathless, marveling at the customs of a country most people think they know.

©2016 Gaia Bistulfi Amman (P)2016 Gaia Bistulfi Amman

The second chapter of Leda's story...

What made the experience of listening to Out of the Nest the most enjoyable?

First the reading of the author with her strong Italian accent and then her unique interpretation of the many characters. I think that the author's interpretation is the best to convey the different emotions of the characters in the story.

What did you like best about this story?

The slow growing up of Leda, the protagonist, and how she feels about the world around her.

What does Gaia B. Amman bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

A lot of emotions that the simple reading of the book wouldn't give me. I mean, this way it's like to feel the emotions of the many characters in a deeper, meaningful way.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

A lot of moments actually, the scenes involving Leda and Nico first, Leda and Giovanni when he claims his interest for her and her reaction, Leda's first kiss, and Leda and Alex's scenes, naturally.

Any additional comments?

I can't wait to have the next book of the series and to listen to it on audible.

My new favorite book!

Would you consider the audio edition of Out of the Nest to be better than the print version?

They are both delightful but the Italian accent really makes the audio unique

What other book might you compare Out of the Nest to and why?

It made me think of the Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exupery because it's so sweet and insightful, it made me also think of I'll give you the sun by Jandy Nelson, very emotional and funny at the same time

What about Gaia B. Amman’s performance did you like?

Her accent!! Lovely voice and interpretation

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

First love in Italy in the 90s

Any additional comments?

Go for it! I did not know the book was part of a saga. I started with this book (2) and could follow everything. The book is great on its own and is self standing. I am dying to get book 3, meanwhile I'll go back and get book 1!!

Refreshing depth and splitting laughter!

Would you consider the audio edition of Out of the Nest to be better than the print version?

I loved them both, but the Italian accent in the audio definitely adds to to story! BEWARE! Early audio version had chapter 1 truncated (9 minutes and 30 seconds rather than around 12. I downloaded the book again and the problem was solved.)

What did you like best about this story?

Leda. She's real, she's smart, but she's also a mess. I liked that characters are flawed but very relatable. I liked that I felt like a teenager all over again. I loved the Italian setting. Places and emotions are described with such imagery and skill that I just could not stop reading

What does Gaia B. Amman bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

The accent, the energy, excellent really!

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I just could not stop, but found myself so upset when it ended. Not like I did not like the end (no spoilers!) it was perfect. I just want to hear more!

Any additional comments?

Buy it already, you won't regret it. I had not read book one in the saga and had no problem whatsoever following the story. I bought one immediately after this and I liked it just as much.