Biographical note:
Wu Ming is a collective of four Italian fiction writers based in Bologna, Italy. Wu Ming’s books include the bestselling novel Q (under the former pseudonym Luther Blissett), which was nominated for the Guardian First Book Award, and Manituana. Their website is www.wumingfoundation. com.
Country of final manufacture:
US
Main description:
1569. When a fire breaks out in the Arsenal of venice, everyone suspects Joseph Nasi, number-one enemy of the republic. But it is Emmanuele De Zante, spy catcher and agent, who finds himself in jail accused of treason, having been betrayed by his lover. But who really is De Zante?
With an epic, panoramic sweep that reaches across a Europe scarred by war, Altai is a thrilling tale and a coruscating portrait of the divided world in the sixteenth century where the great powers of the Republic of venice and the Ottomans threatened a clash of empires. Through this dramatic landscape, Wu Ming create a powerful narrative of danger, identity and adventure.
Review quote:
"If you loved Q; no, if you were swept away by a passion that became an addiction to that monumental novel, take a deep breath and start reading again."—La Repubblica
"Skillfully written … it is difficult not to shiver."—La Stampa
