Who Knew?

Or maybe I did know. I just finished reading the aforementioned book "An American Gladiator in Rome" which was written by a guy I went to high school with. I always knew my graduating class was above average but who knew it was verging on genius.

This is a very good book. And I'm not saying that because I grew up with the author. It really is good. It is a Y chromosome version of "Eat, Pray, Love" and if the truth be known, a more lively and entertaining version as well. John has done a great job of bringing us into Rome through the eyes of a well-traveled guy from Eugene, Oregon. He tells us about struggling to learn the language and finally succeeding by using a hybrid teaching method. He has great insights into the culture of Rome and the benefits of the healthy Italian lifestyle. I was particularly interested in his insight about Italian men and their dependence on their mothers -- it's not as pathetic as it sounds. The anemic Italian economy almost dictates living at home.

John's girlfriend, Nancy, went with him to Rome and the snippets from their relationship are quite interesting. I would have liked to hear more about Nancy in particular what she looks like. Mostly John regaled us with descriptions of her perfect body which was a tad irritating to this middle-aged mom! I don't recall reading anything about her eyes or even hair color although I may have missed it. But I think this may be true to the male observer. Body first, hair and eye color later!

I hope someone options this book for a movie. Since George Clooney summers in Italy, I think he'd be crazy not to grab this story. I don't see him in the role of John only because the John-character needs to have a fair complexion. As I read the story, I definitely pictured John because I know him but I think someone like Aaron Ekhardt would be perfect. Whoever it is has to fit John's 6'3" frame. If I had a better description of Nancy it would be easier to cast but for now I'm seeing Jennifer Connolly. Assuming there are flashbacks to Eugene circa 1974, Jessica Alba can play the nice, smart yet insecure (2nd tier) friend who ended up in Arizona!