NOTE: We sat thru a 6.0 earthquake during this podcast….and 1 after shook… Listen for the earth shaking podcast
This morning’s episode of ID Talks featured a conversation with Larry Fina, local author of Giuseppe: A Sicilian Odyssey. Larry joined hosts Eric and Joanne to discuss his debut novel as well as his life and writing process.
Larry shared that he moved to Idlewild in 2005 with his late wife, who played a significant role in motivating him to write the book. Before becoming an author, Larry spent over three decades working in the sound department at Universal Studios and had previous experience studying storytelling and screenwriting during his time at USC.
The discussion explored the inspiration behind Giuseppe, which is based on a 50-page family history written by Fina’s uncle. The novel follows the immigration story of Giuseppe and Virginia, highlighting their love story amid the challenges of early 1900s transatlantic travel and the struggles of adapting to life in the United States. The book features rich details about cultural traditions, societal expectations, and the immigrant experience. The plot is woven with themes of love, resilience, and family, offering a mix of romance, drama, and historical perspective.
Some notable challenges Larry faced while writing included editing the original treatment, organizing the storyline, and digitizing the manuscript. He shared advice for aspiring authors, emphasizing the importance of having a cohesive storyline before fleshing out details.
Listeners were also treated to a sneak peek of the book’s dramatic twists, including a foreshadowed duel, unforgettable family interactions, and the stark contrasts in travel experiences by class during the immigration process.
April 22nd at 5:00pm – Idyllwild Public Library
Larry concluded by inviting the audience to his upcoming author talk, scheduled for April 22nd at 5:00 PM at the Idyllwild Public Library. This event will include a discussion of his book, audience Q&A, and more insights into his journey as both a storyteller and a first-time author.
