Thanks to him, I didn't have to try and fail at reading Italian names. I know I'll be coming back to this one just like I always run back to 'The Last Unicorn.' Put this on your 'to read' lists! (PS: The audiobook is narrated by Bronson Pinchot. 'In Calabria' is a short read but packed with so much raw something that it is truly worth your time. That's saying something considering I love magic and fantasy with a tiny helping of romance. I could just listen to their life together without any outside forces. In fact, I rather liked it the best when the story was just about them.no mob (oh right, there's a mob,) and no unicorn. I have mad respect for her and her ability to protect her man! I kept muttering to myself 'so adorable' whenever they were the main focus of scenes. But what's even better than the unicorn (yes, I said something would be better than a unicorn) was the unexpected romance that blooms between Claudio and his postman's sister, Jo (her name is longer but I don't trust myself to spell it right!) Jo is a kind, patient, and strong woman. I also like Claudio's sense of dry wit and his tendency to talk to himself. It's like Beagle is able to use the right words to lull the reader just like Claudio is lulled to the unicorn.

The prose is expertly crafted with a magic of its own. She inspires Claudio to a flurry of poetry the why the reader is inspired that such an ancient and mystical creature is still around in modern times.

I loved how serene and calm the scenes were that involved her. Due to Claudio's simple lifestyle, the unicorn is at home on the farm, and yet out of place. Sooo, *Here there be spoilers!* A unicorn comes to Claudio's farm to give birth to a foal. And I'll just spoil the magical tidbit here because I can't really go into detail without doing so. But then, something magical happens that throws Claudio's humble life into the blazing spotlights of not only throngs of people, but the twenty first century. He's comfortable in his loneliness and is content with caring for his multitude of farm animals. 'In Calabria' is about a grumpy middle aged farmer, Claudio Bianchi, who has been alone on his plot of land so long he lives more of a 'nineteenth century' life. I thought I knew what I was getting myself into considering I've worshiped 'The Last Unicorn' since I was a kid. I went into this novella expecting a nice, magical story that would serve as a short listen as an audiobook.

In calabria by peter s beagle