Yesterday I had the joy of an “in conversation” event in Putignano (Puglia) about That Summer in Puglia. The event was organised by the international community there, with the support of the historical library’s director and the Libreria Simone. Thank you, Maria, Ann-Maree and Anita for a memorable evening! I’m also honoured that you’ve chosen That Summer in Puglia as the first title for discussion by your international book club.
Readings of extracts from the novel were interspersed with questions from my interviewer Ann-Maree, and followed by a lively Q&A with the audience. My thanks to them all for a warm, engaged and rewarding discussion. Last but certainly not least, I’m grateful to Massimo Simone for being there with copies of the book.
It was wonderful to meet people from all over the world who have chosen to come and live in Putignano, and to discover their many countries of origin: Australia, Britain, France, Hungary, Indonesia, the Netherlands, South Africa… as well as other Italian regions. In discussions before and after the formal part of the event, I loved hearing about their backgrounds and what had brought them to Putignano. The beauty of this historic town and its environs, its lively year-round cultural offering, the quality of the food, the mild climate, and proximity to Bari and its airport all played a role.
The venue for the event struck me as apt: the library is located in the former convent of the Discalced Carmelite sisters. It was built in the 16th century and houses an important collection of volumes from that era. I happen to be currently deep in the final revisions of my second novel, which is inspired by a true story of Apulian nuns during the Renaissance. It’s due for release in Spring 2027. So, maybe, Putignano, see you again soon…?
That Summer in Puglia is published by Breakthrough Books and is available worldwide from good bookshops and Amazon.
Image credits:
Photos of the event are by Milan Toth and are reproduced here with permission
All other photos are by the author
