House by the Medlar Tree is a beautifully written novel that captures the essence of Sicilian village life in the 19th century with rich detail and vivid imagery. The story follows the Salina family as they navigate through the complexities of love, tradition, and changing times.

Verga's prose is lyrical and evocative, transporting the reader to the sun-drenched landscapes and intimate interiors of Sicily. The characters are fully realized and deeply flawed, making them both relatable and intriguing. The patriarch of the family, Don Silvestro, is a fascinating figure whose stubborn adherence to tradition clashes with the ambitions and desires of his children.

The novel delves into themes of class struggle, generational conflict, and the fleeting nature of time. Verga’s portrayal of the changing social fabric of Sicily is both poignant and thought-provoking, highlighting the tensions between tradition and progress.

Overall, House by the Medlar Tree is a captivating and thought-provoking read that offers a glimpse into a bygone era while exploring timeless themes of family, identity, and societal change. Verga’s skillful storytelling and detailed descriptions make this a novel that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.

Book Description:
In a nineteenth century Sicilian fishing village, the Malavoglia family gambles everything on being able to profit from a cargo of lupin nuts. The cargo is lost at sea and a succession of misfortunes and tragedies assails the family. A masterpiece of social commentary hailed within Italy but neglected by the wider world, The House by the Medlar Tree ranks alongside the works of Zola, Dickens or Balzac among the great books of European literature. The book is the inspiration behind the 1948 film 'La Terra Trema' , one of the earliest works of the great Italian director Luchino Visconti. - Summary by Tom Denholm