BookClubCooking

Feasting on Stories - One Book at a Time!

It Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This! “Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli”

by · November 16, 2024

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Right away, you know what you want to make or buy for this book club meeting!

Mark Seal’s meticulously researched book, “Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli: The Epic Story of the Making of The Godfather,” reveals the intimate details on turning author Mario Puzo’s novel into a major motion picture. What a great cast of real life and made up characters! The creation of the movie was as dramatic, scary and engaging as the film itself.

For a book club discussing “Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli”, you could craft a creative experience inspired by the book’s themes, setting, and its exploration of “The Godfather” movie.

Italian-Themed Food and Drink – best for a lunch or evening book club

This book dives into the making of “The Godfather”, which famously showcases Italian-American culture. Emulate this with an Italian-themed spread:

  • Cannoli: As a nod to the book title, cannoli are a must! Either make them from scratch or pick some up from a local bakery.
  • Pasta and Garlic Bread: Simple, classic Italian pasta dishes like spaghetti, or even baked ziti, paired with garlic bread.
  • Antipasto Platter: Include Italian meats (salami, prosciutto), cheeses (mozzarella, provolone), and marinated olives.
  • Pizza: any kind! Mario Puzo loved pizza!
  • Italian Cocktails or Wine: Offer Negronis, Aperol spritzes, or Italian wines like Chianti or Sangiovese.

Movie Tie-In Discussion

Since this book is about the making of “The Godfather”, discussing the impact of the movie would be fun. You could:

  • Play a Scene: Watch a memorable scene from “The Godfather” and talk about what you’ve learned about its filming.
  • Discuss Favorite Characters and Quotes: Ask members to share their favorite characters or quotes, both from the movie and the book.
The Godfather’s office from the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles taken by my brother John.

Book Discussion Prompts

Here are some potential prompts to explore:

  • What was the most surprising part of the movie-making process?
  • How does Seal’s storytelling style enhance or change your perspective on the movie?
  • How did the Italian-American representation in the film influence American pop culture?

Ambiance and Decor

Set the mood with:

  • Dim Lighting: Mimic the iconic lighting of “The Godfather” with low, ambient lights or candles.
  • Italian Music Playlist: Background music with Italian classics, 1970s hits from the movie’s era or the soundtrack from the movie.
  • Tablescape: Red checked tablecloths like you are in an Italian restaurant, classic bottles of Chianti in the basket bottles and small casual glasses for wine drinking.

Mangia, Cin Cin and Salute!

If you want to delve deeper into the making of “The Godfather” movie, check out the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles! They have the screen tests for the different actors etc. Outstanding place to visit – this could even be a Book Club fieldtrip!!!

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