THE PORTOFINO PTA

A rather silly title for a provocative and controversial book on the American in Europe. More specifically the American who attempts to live in Europe, in this instance on the Italian Riviera. To say his conclusions are unorthodox is to put it in mild terms. Mr. Green found Rappel and the whole surrounding district expensive, uncomfortable, unfriendly; his wife and children were unhappy and he not more than lukewarm in defense of what was at best makeshift living. There are comments on the residents- native and tourist; on the problems of housekeeping: on the questionable ethics and approach to money. Trips round and about familiarized them with Italy -- and the two things that came out most forcibly was the sustained pride and detachment in the face of grinding poverty; and the commonsense and acceptance in good faith of the American tourist in spite of insults and scorn and dislike. Rome proved a more salutary experience in living than Repallo. And probably, confronted with his outpourings a few years from now, Mr. Green will find that the sentimental haze of time has dulled the edges of what, when it happened, was a thoroughly disagreeable experience.