Episode 117: Becoming Mariella, a Sicilian Book Journey with Janet Constantino

Welcome to Episode #117:

I am excited to introduce you to Janet’s Constantino’s beautiful debut fiction novel 'Becoming Mariella’. This is a deep and rich conversation about her gem of a book and writing journey. We discuss in depth Janet’s Sicilian-American heritage, navigating traditional values and family expectations.

There are many wonderful tangents in this conversation - we talk travel and Italy and how place can be a powerful magnet without really know why, yet something deep inside of us resonates with certain places. We go on a true journey navigating her book ‘Becoming Mariella’ and our personal experiences of following our own paths and breaking free!

Get ready for a beautiful conversation with two women talking about life, writing, Italy and the journey of Becoming Mariella!

“Inspiration for Mariella’s story came from my affinity for all things Sicilian and Italian, having been raised in a half-Sicilian/American family.

My own struggle to find and follow my path in this world served as a touchstone, along with inspiration from my pyschotherapy clients who found the courage to overcome obstacles and have dared, like Mariella, to break free and live true to themselves” - Janet Constantino

Shownotes:

Visit Janet Constantino - Becoming Mariella

Instagram - Janet Constantino

Blood of my Blood: The Dilemma of the Italian-Americans by Richard Gambino

Living an Examined Life & What Matters Most: Living a More Considered Life by James Hollis

The Tools by Phil Stutz & Barry Michels

Stutz Documentary - Netflix

“Blood of My Blood weaves together the history, sociology and psychology of first, second, and third-generation Italian Americans. Its data is presented with scholarly precision; yet the author's personalized style, which he peppers with autobiographical tidbits, makes it immensely readable. Unlike most books written by academics, this one compels the reader to feel as well as to know”