Customer Reviews

Don Camillo Takes the Devil by the Tail

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Presenting the eternal stuggle between--well, not exactly Good vs Evil, but Catholicism and Communism, this 4th Don Comillo book contines the delightful political tensions Guareschi created when he introduced readers to his "little world"--located in the Po River valley. In 23 mostly unrelated episodes
Don Camillo squares off in passionate battles against: the equally irrascible Mayor, Peppone, as well as with stubborn peasants, gossipy villagers, his own church superiors and even himself. Yet in moments of anguish or crisis he pours out his heart to the Christ on the crucifix in his church, who listens with compasison, speaking so that only the burly priest hears and understands. Ah, but will he prove contrite or obedient
to the wisdom of his Lord?

Hot-tempered, robust and occasionally self-indulgent (cigars, hunting, his dog) this village priest is as often embroiled in public debates with the representative of temporal authority (the Communist mayor) as in private attacks of conscience. But don't be fooled by the apparent enmity between these two hard-headed leaders of opposing
views (the Reds vs the Whites); the two stongest men daily butt heads and seek to outdo or discredit each other--which is only to be expected. Fortunately though, when the chips are down, these two--no longer priest and mayor--demonstrate their true friendship and Christian charity, loyalty and respect. Though neither would ever admit such human weakness in public! Guareschi has created a gentle, amusing little world of his own--for children of all ages.

This Character is from my parents generation - I discovered him in the 1970's and am happy to see him back today. Christianity and humor make a wonderful mix in these stories. Human nature never changes - a little bit of the cold war here. Historical novel.

This is a wonderful book.It can be read any number of times. Still it does not lose its innate humour and charm.As a political satire it is even better than any of George Orwell's books.A book for all times and for all ages. Human foibles and weaknesses and Divine Virtues are abundantly portrayed in this book.It makes fun of the Catholic Church as well as the Communists.A truly inspiring work. I am only sorry that I do not know Italian.Since to read it in the original language would give the greatest pleasure.If anyone is not satisfied after reading it.Tell me .I will buy it from you. I have given this book away to many of my friends and foes alike.
yours sincerely ,
Diljit C.Shah,E-mail:diljitshah@yahoo.co.in.