One of the most vibrant aspects of Picture Perfect Love is the portrayal of Croatian culture through the eyes of a second generation Croatian. Whether it’s the food, the family dynamics, or the deeply ingrained traditions, the novel offers a glimpse into a world that is both unique and universal.
Growing up in a Croatian-American family means embracing a lifestyle where family comes first always. Sunday gatherings are non-negotiable, filled with laughter, food, and an abundance of unsolicited advice. Dani Babich, the novel’s protagonist, knows this all too well. Her family in San Pedro is deeply connected to their Croatian roots, and no milestone in her life is complete without their input.
Food plays a huge role in the culture, and in Dani’s life. From homemade sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls) to freshly baked burek, Croatian pastry is a constant presence, often used as a form of love and comfort. In the book, food serves as a symbol of connection whether its Dani’s mother leaving behind a care package or family members insisting, she eat before tackling a big decision. There is sure to be a blog with a recipe or two in the near future.
Then there’s the expectation of marriage. In many traditional Croatian families, a woman’s success isn’t just about her career it’s also about finding a “nice Croatian boy” to marry. Dani’s cousin Ana fits this mold perfectly, happily engaged to a man who meets the family’s approval. Dani, however, has different priorities, and her reluctance to follow the expected path becomes a source of tension.
But while traditions can be limiting, they are also a source of strength. The Croatian community in the book is close-knit, supportive, and fiercely loyal. As Dani struggles with her career, relationships, and personal identity, she realizes that her cultural background isn’t something she has to reject it’s something she can embrace on her own terms.
For readers from all backgrounds, Picture Perfect Love is a celebration of heritage, the complexity of family ties, and the importance of carving out one’s own path while still honoring where you come from.
One of the most vibrant aspects of From Croatia with Love is the portrayal of Croatian culture. Whether it’s the food, the family dynamics, or the deeply ingrained traditions, the novel offers a glimpse into a world that is both unique and universal.
Growing up in a Croatian-American family means embracing a lifestyle where family comes first always. Sunday gatherings are non-negotiable, filled with laughter, food, and an abundance of unsolicited advice. Dani Babich, the novel’s protagonist, knows this all too well. Her family in San Pedro is deeply connected to their Croatian roots, and no milestone in her life is complete without their input.
Food plays a huge role in the culture, and in Dani’s life. From homemade sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls) to freshly baked burek, Croatian cuisine is a constant presence, often used as a form of love and comfort. In the book, food serves as a symbol of connection whether its Dani’s mother leaving behind a care package or family members insisting, she eat before tackling a big decision.
Then there’s the expectation of marriage. In many traditional Croatian families, a woman’s success isn’t just about her career it’s also about finding a “nice Croatian boy” to marry. Dani’s cousin Ana fits this mold perfectly, happily engaged to a man who meets the family’s approval. Dani, however, has different priorities, and her reluctance to follow the expected path becomes a source of tension.
But while traditions can be limiting, they are also a source of strength. The Croatian community in the book is close-knit, supportive, and fiercely loyal. As Dani struggles with her career, relationships, and personal identity, she realizes that her cultural background isn’t something she has to reject it’s something she can embrace on her own terms.
For readers from all backgrounds, From Croatia with Love is a celebration of heritage, the complexity of family ties, and the importance of carving out one’s own path while still honoring where you come from.
