Book excerpt: Spring in Sicily is a magical season of abundant growth and fertility. Fruit trees and vines are in new leaf, wheat fields stretch to the horizon, wild flowers grow in profusion along the roadside and, at sea, tuna and swordfish swarm in anticipation of their annual migration. It is the perfect time to travel to Sicily and uncover its secrets. Although small, Sicily has a big reputation and a colourfulhistory. Its prized position on the Mediterranean trade route has rewarded Sicilywith centuries of invasion and the influence of its conquerors is still evident in its architecture, cuisine and daily life. Manuela Darling-Gansser's Sicilian journey reveals the real Sicily behind the myths and stereotypes. Like its landscape, Sicily's food is one of contrasts. Drawn from the best of Sicilian cuisine,Manuela's recipes are always tempting and make it easy to introduce the flavours of Sicily into your home. The fourth of Manuela's seasonal journeys, Spring in Sicily is a lavishly illustrated and highly evocative journey to the heart of this unique island.