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I Wouldn't Die: A Memoir

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The American Dream is not a myth. It is alive and well as told by Franco Antonetti in his memoir, "I Wouldn't Die". His story begins in Rome, Italy, during World War II, as he relates his first brushes with death and the miracles that kept him alive. Franco & his mother first viewed America & the Statue of Liberty as they immigrated through Ellis Island in New York harbor. Franco Antonetti's telling of his story is a colorful mosaic of life's adventures that can easily make or break the human spirit. While reading about his memories, one feels like he's in your home sitting in a lounge chair with his feet up, in a warm comfortable conversation.

This child grew up, went through grammar and high school in a same small town in New Jersey. Beginning his career and family was an important facet of his dream to assimilate into being a true "American-Italian". Franco didn't allow any adversity, tragedy or other near-death experiences to dampen his spirit. Being an optimist, he saw the positive where most could not. Even though Franco Antonetti had impoverished beginnings, he was able to focus and follow through on his career plan, determine how he would best fit into the big picture, while attaining success in the corporate world.

All those who are fortunate enough to know Mr. Antonetti, or read his book, "I Wouldn't Die", can feel his love of life, family and friends. This simple man is filled with humor, faith and loyalty. For any reader, Franco Antonetti is a delightful role model for confidence, self-worth and the reaping the fruits of hard work. A must read for any one who wants to learn more about the American Dream and the attitude necessary for living an extraordinary life.

It is not often that one can sit down with a book and within a few pages feel as though the author is sitting at your kitchen table, telling you the story himself. This is a story of a man who has been blessed with an extraordinary life and it is told with such honesty and passion that you can't help but feel as though you have been with him every step of the way. The tale is told in short, straight forward passages, giving you the opportunity to experience the joys and hardships of his life without the dripping sugary sentiments, pretentious literary subtlties and hidden meanings found in so many memoirs today. Franco Antonetti boldly shares the journey of his life thus far, speaking frankly and openly about his struggles, his successes, his loves and his losses; most importantly, sharing with his readers his incredible willingness to simply live life to its fullest. I savored every moment of this wonderful story and, at its end, closed the book with a smile. As I said, there is no hidden message, Franco makes it clear that an individual can achieve many goals in life when life is faced with strength and determination, by not falling victim to circumstances but instead rising above them, and never being afraid to just be who you are. It is stories like these that are meant to be shared with others and I will share this book with all of my friends and family as I know that they will all, as I did, enjoy his life.

Franco Antonetti's memoir about growing up in New Jersey as an Italian immigrant is special in many ways, but first, it's the story of a boy who nearly dies three times at the beginning of his life in Rome,Italy. The most phenomenal scene is when as a baby Antonetti was actually buried because his mother thought he was dead. There is never a discouraging word in this memoir of a tough life lived to the fullest, and the memoir is proof that everyone may have a story but few people can write it down and make it interesting. Antonetti is a natural born storyteller.

I have a very hectic schedule and rarely get the time to read.A very good friend of mine recommended that I read this book.I ordered it and to my surprise I received it from the author with a lovely note as well as his signature in a very prompt fashion.
I decided that I would read a few pages.I read for nearly three hours.I have never done that.I finished the book in three sittings and loved it.More people need to read this fine book as it puts a lot of our present priorities in our back burner.
I just ordered 4 more books for gifts for friends and family members.

The moment you open "I Wouldn't Die", you're captivated by the many obstacles young Franco endures. From the sadness of near death experiences to the humorous story of Italian Sausages brought to America, it becomes clear this boy has a purpose. As you continue through each chapter, it's as though you're right there with him experiencing every journey: the highs and lows, the love, the laughter and the tears. The writing comes straight from the heart; you can just feel his passion for life.

This book will not only keep you entertained but it will touch your heart. "I Wouldn't Die" is truly an inspiring book that will motivate you and make you just want to get out there and absorb all that life has to offer.

As the grandson of Italian immigrants, I read I Wouldn't Die with tears in my eyes, and a simultaneous smile on my face. The story of a small Italian boy who grew up to be a strong American Man, surmounting all obstacles, refusing to quit and defying death itself to achieve the American Dream. This story will inspire you to achieve and connect you to the possibilities of your own life. Buy this book for yourself, your friends, your children and anyone who has ever doubted their own possibilities to experience what is possible when you work hard for the AMERICAN DREAM.

Not often in todays world do we run across a story that has you cheering, crying, laughing and finding a friend within the pages. This book makes you believe you CAN beat the odds. The book is easy to follow and hard to put down. It is a must read! If more of our younger generation read it they may be inspired to reach higher, push harder, and laugh more during the journey. ENJOY!

Franco's writing style is a throw-back to days when authors painted pictures on the canvas of your mind, while allowing your heart to take a journey with them. It is his life story without any secrets hidden...it's the good, the bad, and the ugly. Such honesty is what grips your heart, but it is the outcome of the stories that gives you hope and encouragement in your own circumstances. This book keeps alive the belief in the "American Dream." Franco has dwelled in many valleys, but has climbed to unbelievable heights. I heartily recommend this book to anyone holding broken dreams and vanished hope, because you will find the strength to dream again.

I Wouldn't Die: A Memoir is the dramatically titled autobiography of a man who surved incredible hardships and personal risks in the course of his life time. A miraculous story of survival, tracing his life from Rome, Italy to New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Georgia, I Wouldn't Die tells of the journey from childhood to fatherhood, of living through wars and watching history unfold, and striving to do one's best in a demanding world. An inspirational life story, written in down-to-earth prose that inexorably draws the reader in.

This book is hard to put down. I ended up reading all night to get to the end- after laughing aloud, crying and cheering the whole way through. Not only does this man have an interesting story, it is so well told! An uplifting story for everyone, but especially inspirational for those chasing or riding the The American Dream. Bravo, Franco!