You don’t have to be Italian to enjoy the four books written by local author Mario Fumarola. His heartwarming stories are those everyone can enjoy. Easy and colorful reads, Fumarola’s stories are told through the eyes of young Tony, Fumarola’s alter ego, during the 40’s and 50’s and are set in the neighborhood of Italian-American immigrants in Utica, New York.

Through Fumarola’s writing, Tony’s family and friends come to life. His readers are treated to vivid descriptions of colorful events and colorful characters. In addition to the stories of the past, interspersed throughout his books are Tony’s present day musings which add personality and charm to the overall story. It is like visiting with your favorite Uncle or Grandpa and listening with rapt attention to his tales of “the good old days.”