Bestselling author, food writer, and podcaster Erica D’Arcangelo just announced the upcoming release of her highly anticipated holiday novel, My Big Loud Italian Christmas. Brimming with humor, high-stakes kitchen drama, and generational love, the book captures the irresistible frenzy of an Italian-American holiday table where loyalty runs deep, opinions run loud, and food is the ultimate love language.
Anchored by the tagline “Family. Food. The Feast of the Seven Fishes,” the novel follows the colorful preparations for Christmas Eve’s most storied meal. Beneath the sizzling calamari, simmering pots of baccalà, and rapid-fire opinions, the story tackles the lingering ache of childhood bullying, the weight of feeling like an outsider, and the quiet courage it takes to step out of the shadows. The book delivers a warm, relatable celebration of resilience and belonging, showing how tradition, humor, and unconditional love can heal old wounds when the whole family gathers around the table.
D’Arcangelo brings authentic culinary heritage and personal history to every page. Raised above her family’s multi-generational pizzeria in Windber, Pennsylvania, and steeped in roots tracing straight back to the rugged hills of Abruzzo, Italy, she is best known as the bestselling author of A Story About Pizza and the host of The Pizza Story Podcast, where she explores the artisan craft, memories, and working-class grit behind the world’s most beloved food.
“Italian-American holiday traditions aren't quiet, formal gatherings. They are loud celebrations of traditions, family, and abundance,” said D’Arcangelo. “At its core, this story is about overcoming invisible scars of childhood and learning that you don't have to stay small to keep the peace. The Feast of the Seven Fishes is so much more than a dinner; it’s an emotional ritual where generations gather, squabble, laugh, and pour their whole hearts into every plate. I wanted to write a book that proves no matter how isolated you’ve felt, there is always a place where you are fiercely defended, loved, and welcomed with an extra chair at the table.”
My Big Loud Italian Christmas explores themes of family legacy, cultural identity, and the courage it takes to claim one's voice while balancing modern dreams with timeless heritage. The release marks D’Arcangelo’s expansion into narrative fiction, combining her signature storytelling voice with the rich atmosphere of Italian holiday traditions.
My Big Loud Italian Christmas is available in paperback, hardcover and ebook on major platforms, including Apple Books, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.
For review copies, interview requests, or further press inquiries, visit www.astoryaboutpizza.com or contact [email protected].
About Erica D’Arcangelo
Erica D’Arcangelo is the bestselling author of A Story About Pizza, host of The Pizza Story Podcast, and writer behind The Sunday Gravy on Substack. She’s a contributor for Appetito Magazine and PMQ Pizza Magazine. Her work celebrates culinary craftsmanship, multi-generational heritage, and the power of food to build community. Born and raised in Windber, Pennsylvania, she regularly travels across Italy to research authentic food traditions and explore the roots of Italian culture. She can be found online at www.astoryaboutpizza.com/ and on Substack at @astoryaboutpizza.
Book Details
Title: My Big Loud Italian Christmas
Tagline: Family. Food. The Feast of the Seven Fishes.
Author: Erica D’Arcangelo
Format: Paperback & Ebook (174 Pages)
Available at Apple Books, Amazon, and fine book retailers online
