The simple life.

Remember the TV show "The Simple Life" that aired in the early 2000s?  It followed two starlets as they were placed in made-for-TV rural situations such as helping out in a barn, attending a square dance, etc.  It was mildly amusing and interesting to see them navigate the unusual-to-them world.

Christ Stopped at Eboli is a similar fish out of water theme.  I am not sure if it is a memoir or a novel or what - it was in the nonfiction section of the library.  The narrator, an Italian guy is sent to spend 3 years in a peasant village because he opposed the fascism of the predominant political party at the time. While he wishes to spend time painting and living a quiet life, his medical skills are desperately needed by the peasants.  He winds up having a very rich, full life there and even contemplates staying and marrying a local girl once he is free to leave again.

I really liked this.  I found the portrayal of the village interesting and I liked hearing about the life there.