Niccolo’ Ammaniti tells a coming of age story in Io e te (2010).  Lorenzo, a 14-year old misfit with no friends, fools his parents into thinking he’s on a ski-trip while in reality he’s moved into a basement storage area for a week – his idea of paradise.  His little-known half sister suddenly shows up, throwing his plans for a loop and forcing him to do some growing up.  The story is spare and direct and the ending, though unsurprising, is tough and realistic.