Order like an Italian

Do you know the difference between "amatriciana'' and "arrabbiata''? (Both are spicey tomato sauces, the former with bacon, the latter with herbs.) Can you order your mineral water carbonated? (Acqua gasata)

If your answers were no, then Andy Herbach has the book for you. Part translator, part restaurant guide, the updated "Eating & Drinking in Italy'' (Open Road, $9.95) is slim enough to fit in your pocket and informative enough to ensure you'll know what you're ordering.

The crux of the book, the Italian to English word list, takes up more than half of the pages and is simple to use. The pronunciation guide is helpful as well.

I'm reminded of a tip from a good friend who joined us on a trip to Italy's hilltowns: Never eat in a place that posts a tourist menu outside. With Herbach's little guide, you won't have to.