Now that we have Netflix, Tonya (my better half) is watching every episode of Cake Boss. Of course, I’m writing, plotting, and planning my short stories and novels while this goofy show is playing in the background. After episode 16 of season 3, where they travel to Italy, it struck me that some reality shows may be useful for authors.

If one ignores the silly scripted dialog, there’s a wealth of description waiting to be harvested. I am Italian by heritage, but I haven’t traveled to Italy. The scenery, buildings, sights, and even by extension the smells and tastes shown on the television screen can be helpful in describing a Mediterranean environment. Watching how the people interact with the locals can also give an author ideas on how to make people authentic.

Now I have to go find a nice cannoli.