In vivid introductory essays and seductive headnotes, the narrative of an extraordinary culinary life unfolds. With each memory of a trip, a meal or a flavor, we are treated to the perspective of a great cook and teacher -- one who believes that the finest Italian cooking is found in the home. In " Marcella Cucina ," she focuses on regional cooking, turning her sharp eye to every area of Italy and offering a rich array of flavors and textures from cities and villages alike. Best of all, Marcella cooks at your side with easy-to-follow instructions and lavish full-color photographs that teach you her techniques -- from preparing homemade pasta to cleaning artichokes -- and allow you flawlessly to re-create her magic in your own kitchen.