Lidia Bastianich is famous for her Italian-American cooking, but this cookbook-her first-captures the distinctive cuisine of her native Istria, located on Italy's northeastern Adriatic coast near the border of the former Yugoslavia. This book is also her most personal; in addition to the recipes, she has included numerous personal stories, memories, and photographs from her childhood.

- Here is an Italian cuisine infused with the flavors of Eastern Europe, the early repertoire of one of America's favorite chefs. Discover Lidia's history and memories as well as the dishes from her homeland. The stories and tastes are unforgettable.

- The book (with more than 150 recipes), accompanies the 52-part public television series (Spring 2009).