La Bella Vita: Daily Inspiration from Italy [Paperback]

Helen Ruchti (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 1, 2008

As one of the world's top travel destinations, Italy charms visitors with the beauty of its countryside and people, the richness of its cuisine and wines, and the vastness of its history and culture. Helen Ruchti, a missionary in Rome for 25 years, has captured the bella vita, or beautiful life, of this country in her daily writings. From the ancient Etruscans to the reign of Caesar, from historical events to current happenings, from Leonardo da Vinci to Michelangelo, readers will learn about this country and its impact on the world. Each entry includes a short discussion of a different topic and a relevant passage from Scripture and prayer. Italian facts and tidbits are scattered throughout the book. An extensive index is included for those planning a trip to Italy. Written for those already intoxicated with Italy or for those who wish to broaden their own spiritual sensitivity through daily study and prayer, La Bella Vita will appeal to anyone who appreciates this beloved country.

Product Details

• Paperback: 203 pages
• Publisher: Xyzzy Press (July 1, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1601480121
• ISBN-13: 978-1601480125
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #702,641 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful Word Pictures of Italy!, September 7, 2008

By 

J. Thomas Noble, Jr. (Huntington Beach, CA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: La Bella Vita: Daily Inspiration from Italy (Paperback)

In the late 1960's I actually had the pleasure of working in Italy with author Helen Ruchti and her late husband affectionately called "Dub." I was working as a young 2-year missionary assistant in Turin (Torino) while the Ruchtis were in the middle of their 25 year career in Rome. Fortunately we had enough connection that I got to know and so greatly appreciate the Ruchtis and the work they were doing in the "Eternal City." I was convinced then, and remain convinced now, that Helen and Dub knew as much or more about Rome, Italy, than any Roman mayor or Pope! They completely emersed themselves in "all things Rome" (and "all things Italian").
When I heard about this book I assumed it was going to be more of a Bible study kind of heavy devotional book. I was delighted to see that it is a book of faith and inspiration, but like an artist Helen paints small one-page paintings of the Italy that she so loves. The graphics and general layout of the book are simply lovely, conjuring up sensations from "Bella Italia." I will be delighted to give this beautiful work as gifts. Each page (day) there is a Scripture verse and one-sentence prayer at the end. But the meat of the daily thought is a beautiful word picture of one of the endless gems that make up the wonderful country of Italy.....gems remembered and described as only Helen Ruchti could do. I bought four (4) books to give as gifts. Having read it now I am ordering many more. I cannot imagine anyone describing the land she loves so much (and I love, too) in any more compelling way. Dear Helen did and exquisite job. While bringing me "Inspiration," I now have a tremendous urge to grab an airline ticket and once again revisit glorious Italy. For anyone who dreams of knowing Italy or anyone who dreams of returning I highly recommend this fine, new, inspirational book.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars La Bella Vita - Helen Ruchti, March 13, 2009

By 

N. Blyseth (Rome, GA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: La Bella Vita: Daily Inspiration from Italy (Paperback)

Whether you are looking for a devotional, a gift book, a coffee table book, or a bathroom book, there is no better choice than La Bella Vita. Besides being daily inspired, you can't help but learn about the Italy where author Helen Ruchti spent thirty years of her life ministering with her husband, learning the language, experiencing the culture, and loving its people. I have already given away my 2008 copy four times. The book made me want to visit Italy which I did last summer with my step-mother.