Customer Reviews

Bad News on the Doorstep: inspired by a true story

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Don't look the wrong way at this book just because it's a publish-on-demand project. What it is is quite remarkable: an epic description of what life was like, growing up Italian-American in northern New Jersey in the 1950s. I was hornswoggled by the depth and accuracy of the people depicted I this book, and the grand adventure that sweeps an entire community along.

If you liked "American Graffiti" for its to-the-bone recalling of youth culture from that period, you will like Cervasio's story.

Likewise, if you dig "The Sopranos" for its cool look at contemporary Italian-American culture. Or - and this gets a little mote ambitious - if you think "The Brothers Karamazov" did an OK job of looking at the universe through the eyes of a single small village. This is like that. And that, well, it ain't bad.

But it's even better than them, because this book has a heart that doesn't quit. You don't have to be Italioan to fall in love with these people, or to identify with their struggles and joys. You do have to be human.

Joe Cervasio has created a universe of remarkable characters. It seems to me here is a framework for a very large drama. I am not saying an Aaron Sorkin-type would want to snap it up and develop it into an extended vehicle like "West Wing" or "Picket Fences" or "Northern Exposure." But it has that kind of feel and depth to it.

This book is a blessing to everyone who picks it up. Let it be a blessing for you.

There are times when a book has a certain impact upon a reviewer; it strikes a cord, brings a smile, a memory renewed that had been deeply buried; this is what Mr. Cervasio's outstanding work has done for me. Growing up in New Jersey, born to an Italian American father, this book was almost like going home. The story takes place in the 1950's in the city of Bloomfield,where we are introduced to the
Bonaducci family; dad, Rocky, mom, Marietta, and their three children, Jo Jo, Frank and Donna.

In this wonderful novel, we share the journey of this family's life, the challenges of the times they live in, their commitment to each other and the extended family that all Italians have, and the battle to keep the world from crashing in on their sanctity, yet allowing for the independence that each member needs. I smiled at the wonderful stories of their family gatherings, the abundance of food, the talking, eating and body motion that was done all at the same time; it is indeed a wonder to behold. We travel along as the family matures, life complicates living, and the Bonaducci's grow together to meet the challenges. Never a dull moment, as is the case in most Italian households; and this is certainly true in the Bonaducci's as well.
In this read, we have a dash of some mob temptations, a historical football game where a difficult decision was made , and even a splash of the world of entertainment, all touching this family and helping to sculpture their lives in the decisions they make and their relationships one to another.

The author does a wonderful job in bringing each character alive, allowing you to feel as if you have always known them. You begin to care what happens to the family, their struggles become your struggles, their hurts, your hurts, their victories, your victories, their family, your family. Well done!
The descriptions of the different locals that you travel to are vivid and add much to the story, and Mr. Cervasio does an excellent job in portraying the mindset of the time; and the happenings of the era.

If you want a truthful, heartwarming look inside the life of an Italian American family in the 1950's; a glimpse of their traditions, a taste of their strength and unity as a family, or just a read that delivers to you a wonderful story, this book is for you. Thank you Mr. Cervasio for an enjoyable read.
Recommended.

Shirley Johnson/Senior Reviewer
MidWest Book Review

Joe Cervasio's depiction of his fictional characters is masterful and heartfelt -- a throw-back of great times and memories of growing up in the North Jersey area in the 50's and 60's.

Don Cappetta
Hershey,Pennsylvania