Behind the Store: Stories of a First-Generation Italian American Childhood

by Vincent Romeo

For the Romeo family of Cleveland, Ohio, in the 1950s, the kitchen table was the heart of the house. Not only was it the altar on which Mrs. Romeo served simple and healthy Italian food, but it had seen and heard everything. In his memoir, Behind the Store , author Vincent Romeo narrates the stories of his life, many of which revolved around the family's kitchen table. Romeo shares his childhood experiences that centered on his relationships with his mother, father, and sister; their grocery store; and their Mount Pleasant neighborhood. The memories are at times lively and poignant and at other times painful. While remaining true to the typical Italian American experience, with his mother's food as the family's focal point, Romeo recounts his struggle to become his authentic self, despite an abusive family member. With his mother's favorite Italian recipes included, Behind the Store shares the stories of one man's life journey from a boy who longed for his father's love and appreciation to a man who honors his Italian American heritage.

236 pages, Hardcover

First published March 22, 2011