Elliott Erwitt Flip-o-Rama Italia (18 Volumes)

The filmic quality of a series of black-and-white photographs is never more explicit (or fun) than in a well-made flip-book. Subtitled About Italians in Movement, Eliott Erwitt's latest publication is a collection of 18 flib-books which capitalize on the idea of movement as reflected in modern Italian life. Each book measures 4.5 x 6 inches-approximately postcard size-and contains 28 images that narrate the briefest of stories: Lavinia eats her favorite ice cream at Caffé del Carmine in Milan, Valentino takes a call at his office in Rome, Rathe Ettore hears the confessions of a young Carmela, Mr. Lavazza enjoys an afternoon espresso, and President Berlusconi parades around the town. The last book is reserved for Erwitt himself, who shaves his beard in reverse! A light-hearted project, wonderfully presented in a coffee-colored box.