Rafael in Italy: A Geographical Reader

A gentle summer night drapes Venice in silver, and fourteen‑year‑old Rafael slips his small boat into the glittering Grand Canal, drawn by the distant strains of a band in St. Mark’s Square. Through his eyes the reader feels the romance of the city’s lantern‑lit waterways, the excitement of a carnival atmosphere, and the quiet yearning of a boy who dreams of adventure beyond his lagoon home.

When an unexpected meeting with an American girl and her mother sets him on a journey across Italy, Rafael’s wanderings become a lively tour of the country’s most beloved places. From the bustling streets of Florence to the ancient ruins of Rome, the sun‑kissed vineyards of Tuscany, and the vibrant noise of Naples, each stop is painted with vivid detail and charming illustrations. The story invites listeners to share the sights, sounds, and customs of Italian life, making geography feel like a living, breathing adventure.