In this episode of Italian American Stories, Stephanie sits down with author Don Ladolcetta, whose heartfelt novels preserve the legacies of his family on both sides of the Atlantic. Don shares the inspiration behind his books, Hannah, the Lighthouse Girl of Newfoundland and A Brooklyn Tale, stories that weave together family history, immigrant struggles, cultural heritage, and a touch of fiction to bring the past vividly to life.

From the hardships of Southern Italy and the dangerous journey through Ellis Island, to the challenges of starting over in Brooklyn’s Italian neighborhoods, Don recounts his ancestors’ resilience, sacrifice, and determination to create a better life for future generations. Along the way, he reflects on the importance of recording family stories, the mix of truth and imagination that shapes his writing, and the message of hope and perseverance that runs through his work.

If you’ve ever wondered about your own family’s immigrant journey, or why preserving these stories matters, this conversation will inspire you to ask the questions, record the memories, and honor the sacrifices that made your life possible.