A Bit of Myself shares your journey from your childhood in Bagnoli, Italy, to your life in the Bronx, capturing the struggles, love, and cultural richness that shaped your path to self-discovery. Why was this an important book for you to write?

I wrote my memoir for my children, hoping that they would read it and gain an understanding of their ancestors, and an appreciation for the struggle that we endured. I attempted to imbue them with the resilience required to thrive. I also wanted to leave a written record of who we are and where we came from, a kind of time capsule for my descendants. My final devotion of love.

How did your experience growing up in the Bronx shape your views on resilience and independence, and how do those lessons continue to influence you today?

Within myself, I carry a torch of determination, a flame that was set in the housing projects that I will not only survive but thrive. I knew that the only way out of the South Bronx was through education and hard work. The South Bronx taught me to be strong, to stand up for myself, and that no matter how many obstacles life places in your way you need to move on. Today I still carry that torch of determination that I will achieve my full potential. That is why I write.

The memoir captures the richness of Bagnoli. How did you go about recreating those memories, and what role does your Italian heritage play in your life now?

Those memories of my life in Bagnoli are always with me, they live inside my very being. All I needed to do was close my eyes and the sights, sounds, and feelings poured out of me onto paper. My Italian heritage is displayed in how I live, from a passion for good food to gardening, and a love of family.

What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your book?

I hope my readers will take away a sense of self-determination, pride, and love for this great country we are privileged to live in. God Bless the USA.

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