September to Remember

"A cultural and gastronomic tour through Italy by train, car, and ferry with culinary delights at every turn...Elaborate descriptions of almost every meal and snack turn this compelling travel book into an enjoyable vicarious experience...A joyous book of Italian history, traditions, and food that’s worth savoring."—Kirkus Reviews

“…here, as in other places, [Bumpus] also sends us on a sensory tour with her descriptions of the marvellous meals they enjoyed, of course all handmade, regional, and accompanied by superb wine. A true celebration of Italy. I believe that Carole Bumpus is such a successful author because of the love and passion she puts into her books, through her writing the landscapes, architecture, and gastronomy of Italy are brought wonderfully to life. Highly recommended!”—Susan Keefe, The ColumbiaReview.com

“…a delightful romp through the Italian landscape from Milan in the north down the boot of Italy and ending up in the “Eternal City” of Rome….This is an intimate and affectionate book (complete with a generous array of local, easy to follow recipes!) that takes us with this energetic couple to experience Italian life as it is lived as well as learn more of the rich history of Italy. In breezy prose, she invites her readers to share the full experience, and when we close the book in the end, we understand a great deal of what it means to travel with eager and inquisitive minds and become even briefly citizens of another land.”—Mag Dimond, author of Bowing to Elephants; Tales of a Travel Junkie

“Abundant with Italian culinary traditions of ritual and region, this delightful travel memoir charms and entices. Bumpus is genuinely present in her stories, as if reliving the experiences in real time: Vivid, immediate scenes unfold in front of our eyes, as we peer over her shoulder to read a tour guide or climb a cupola gripping a rope. In this memoir, seasoned with humorous vignettes, spiced with wry asides, and enhanced with the tastes of many tables, Bumpus extends a gracious invitation to join her, with delectable, regional recipes—a shared feast that brings her journey home to us.”—Kate Farrell, author of Story Power: Secrets to Creating, Crafting, and Telling Memorable Stories

Selected Honors & Praise for the Savoring the Olde Ways series

Silver, for Europe – Best Regional Non-fiction – 2020 IPPY Awards 

Chanticleer International Book Awards Finalist, Instructional & Insightful Nonfiction 

Finalist, Cookbook: International, 2020 International Book Awards  

“Both a regional history and a cooking memoir, this is even more than the sum of its parts, and a celebration of living life every moment. Francophiles, history fans, and foodies will love this book.”—Booklist 

“…engaging…. A culinary adventure that’s enhanced by familial and regional histories.”—Kirkus Reviews 

“Warning: Do not read this book if you are hungry or within reach of a credit card. You will end up cooking (and eating) all of the included recipes, or buying a ticket for the next flight to France, or both – all while devouring this book. Because, much like the dishes and stories she describes, Carole Bumpus’ writing is simply delectable.”—Pink Pangea 

"This warm and inviting memoir will appeal to food lovers and history buffs alike. The two women examine how it was to live during a time of war, especially the Second World War, and how families managed to keep traditions alive even during tough times."—Seattle Book Review 

"...her conversational style easily draws the reader into the experience. An enjoyable book for those interested in France, WWII, and French food."—Judy Alter, StoryCircle Book Reviews 

“Bumpus weaves wonderful stories into her adventures. But, at the same time, she gives her readers fly-on-the-wall glimpses of ordinary family life, and the opportunity to savour with her the incredible cuisine of France. Whether you love France, enjoy discovering new things, want to try some of the traditional recipes at the end of this book, or just want a thoroughly enjoyable read, I highly recommend this book!”—The Good Life France