One of the most readable books I've read, by Robert Crichton. The story is of an Italian town during World War II, and how it's Inhabitants cope with the Nazi invasion and occupation of their town, and their battle to keep their wine, which is their main produce.
The town's drunk and fool, Italo Bombolini, is elected mayor during a drunkards feast, and decides to keep the position... When the Germans come, only his wit and cunning can save the town's people and wine.
There is also a movie with Anthony Quinn as Italo, which is not too bad..