"PINCH" OF SICILY

About the Book

The first section of this book explains the term "pinch" as the author attempts to bring insight to her cultural ancestry with its many traditions, ways of communications, and family values, that provide and enrich that essential ingredient for a life that is filled with love.

The second portion of this book gives description to the author's place of birth, hometown, neighborhood friends, and time spent with parents and grandparents. Lifestyles and occupations of former generations are discussed, along with their goals, philosophies, and ways for survival. The author takes us from her early childhood through the days of her becoming a married woman, sharing with her husband the dream of coming to America. Recollections of the author's children being born in America are joy gully noted, along with her dual citizenship. Details are given for preparation of monthly Italian celebrations, both holiday and religious events. Cherished memories and stories regarding husband, children, grandchildren, daughters-in-law, relatives, teachers and neighbors are vividly noted.

In the last part of this book the author discusses her return trip to Italy for a documentary vacation, her comparison of the Italy she once knew, and the changes that have occurred over the passing years. The Author describes the joys of her Italian ancestry, along with her enduring love for America. The future for both her children and grandchildren are warmly expressed, including her hopes and wishes for her family.

The book ends with a special section of family-shared recipes. The authors closing summary brings meaning and explanation to the book's title, and her life as a woman proud to be both Italian and American.

About the Author

Maria Marchese Sciortino was born in Sciacca, Sicily, Italy in 1938. Three months after her marriage to her childhood sweetheart, Alphonso in 1961, she immigrated to Brooklyn, New York where she raised her two sons and worked as a dressmaker. 44 years later, Maria has 6 grandchildren and enjoys writing about her life in modern America and old world Italy. She is now retired and divides her time between her home in Staten Island and Naples, Florida.