“Stone Is Not Forever” by Michael Andoscia is now available for purchase

“Stone Is Not Forever” by Michael Andoscia is a tale of struggle, identity, and the enduring weight of tradition, centered around the Rossa family in southern Italy. Proudly published by Citi of Books, this book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retail platforms.

The book “Stone Is Not Forever” by Michael Andoscia is divided into four parts: La Miseria, La Via Dolorosa, L’Americano, and Retorno, each chronicling different phases of life for its protagonist, Dominico Rossa, and his descendants. The narrative explores themes of family, resilience, and societal transformation against the backdrop of an evolving world.

The opening section, La Miseria, introduces the Rossas as skilled stone carvers, steeped in generational pride for their craft but grappling with the oppressive realities of a dying trade. Dominico is portrayed as a young man caught between the expectations of his father, Enrico, and his personal dreams. As he sharpens his talent for sculpting, he learns painful lessons about power dynamics and dignity, especially in his family’s interactions with the wealthy yet brutal and greedy Don Alfredo. These experiences sow the seeds of ambition and discontent in Dominico, as he dreams of breaking free from the constraints of his village life.

In La Via Dolorosa, the story elaborates the difficulties during their journey from Italy to the United States.  This section highlights the human cost of conflict and the struggles of those left behind. Dominico’s resilience is tested as he navigates personal grief and the devastation of his homeland. His love interest for Pratalina is a major part of his motivation to leave Italy. His relationship with his family deepens, particularly with his siblings, as they collectively shoulder the burdens of survival and adaptation in an increasingly modernized and indifferent world.

The third part, L’Americano, marks a pivotal shift in the narrative as Dominico immigrates to America, seeking opportunity and escape from his past. Here, the book delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience. Dominico confronts both the promise and the alienation of his new life, balancing his longing for home with the pressures of assimilation. He strives to preserve the essence of his heritage, particularly the philosophy of “stone,” as a metaphor for resilience and legacy, while navigating the challenges of building a life in a foreign land.

Finally, Retorno brings the story full circle, exploring themes of return and reconciliation. The Rossa family’s legacy becomes a complex tapestry of triumphs and sacrifices. Dominico, now aged and reflective, revisits his roots and grapples with the fading traditions that once defined his family. This section poignantly examines the intersections of past and present, highlighting the enduring impact of memory and legacy on the human spirit.

Overall, “Stone Is Not Forever” by Michael Andoscia is a poignant exploration of tradition, identity, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a better life. Through its richly drawn characters and evocative prose, the book paints a vivid picture of the human experience across generations, offering a universal story of perseverance and hop