Good News for Lovers of Italian Mysteries.

In an earlier post I've praised the international bestselling novels of Andrea Camilleri. I didn't know then that Italian television (RAI) has been producing them for broadcast since 1999.

These Italian-language programs are now available on DVD with English subtitles under the name Detective Montalbano. They are great fun and will thrill all lovers of Italian mysteries. The library has just bought the first six sets (three discs per set).

I must warn you that each episode is more enjoyable, more addictive than the last.

I think this is because we get to know the appealing characters better each time and look forward to meeting them all again.

Italian actor, Luca Zigaretti, is unforgetable as the brilliant, unpredictable, impulsive Salvo Montalbano. His team of detectives all have their own quirks, weaknesses and strengths. Appearances by Montalbano's resourceful, intuitive girlfriend, Livia, are always a treat.

If you're interested in the language and culture of Southern Italy take these programs as a kind of Italian-immersion. They are filmed in the Sicilian town of Ragusa with it's Baroque buildings, sunbleached squares and rugged surroundings. The art direction of the costumes and interiors is first-rate.

This well-edited broadcast-annoucement by MHz Worldview is the best online introduction I've found to these fiendishly-intricate, humorous, sentimental mysteries. Take a chance on Detective Montalbano!