Such a book about Venice has never been written! It overwhelms because it makes the overwhelming nature of this city tangible with passion, observational precision, and charming brevity. On one hand, the author sees everything as if for the first time; on the other hand, he belongs to the residenti, the locals, who do not pay tourist prices on the Vaporetto and drink their macchiatone standing at the bar. From early summer 2012, Matthias Zschokke lives in Venice for half a year; perhaps it would be better to say: he lives this city and notes what he sees, smells, tastes, hears, and experiences—not in a quiet diary, but in emails to friends, relatives, and colleagues. Zschokke's infectious curiosity keeps him away from all things idyllic; it is directed at the whole world and wants to learn everything that can be known. Thus, a colorful kaleidoscope is created.