The World in Focus series provides an up-to-date view of individual countries around the world. Including discussion of the major challenges facing each country now and in the future. These books give a real insight into life in every part of the globe. Italy is one of the ten richest countries in the world, a dynamic nation at the heart of Europe. Its ancient culture, historic cities and fabulous food are famous throughout the world. However, a poverty gap divides the country sharply into a rich north and a poor south. Italy is also notorious as a base for organized crime. As Italy looks to the future the challenege is to persist in its fight against organized crime and to continue to support the south in its struggle against unemployment and poverty.

Author Biography

Jen Green received a doctorate from the University of Sussex (Dept of English and American Studies) in 1982. She worked in publishing for 15 years and is now a full-time writer, who has written over 50 books for children.