The Talisman of Happiness

The Talisman of Happiness is a cornerstone of Italian home cooking—a cherished classic that has guided generations of cooks since its first publication in 1929. Written by Ada Boni and now translated in full for the first time, this landmark edition brings nearly 1,700 timeless recipes to the American kitchen.

From simple regional dishes to elegant classics, Talisman captures the soul of everyday Italian cooking: comforting, generous, and meant to be shared. Boni’s thoughtful notes and practical kitchen wisdom make the book both a trusted reference and a source of inspiration, whether you’re perfecting the basics or exploring new flavors.

Complete with American measurements, charming illustrations, and forewords by Lidia Bastianich and Katie Parla, this edition preserves the warmth and spirit of the original while welcoming a new generation of cooks into its pages.

*QB Cookbook Club Pick: This book was chosen for our March-April 2026 Italian cookbook club selection, where we’ll cook 1 recipe each week from the book. Learn more about the QB Cookbook Club.