Book Review - Mezza Italiana by Zoe Boccabella

Zoe Boccabella’s grandfather Anni arrived in Australia in 1939 from Abruzzo and grandmother Francesca arrived in 1934 from Calabria, both escaping the poverty prevalent in Italy at that time. They met and married in Queensland and, like many migrants, worked hard, raised a family and did well.

Mezza Italiana translates as half Italian. Zoe was raised in Brisbane, with an Italian father and Australian mother, and after experiencing bullying at school decided it was too embarrassing being a “wog”. She dyed her hair blonde and became as “Aussie” as a meat pie – much to her nonna’s distress!

It was only when her boyfriend, Roger, met and loved her big noisy Italian family that Zoe started to feel comfortable with her identity. Roger enthusiastically embraced all things Italian - the language, the lifestyle and the food, and became almost more Italian than her! Zoe rediscovered her roots and began to enjoy her heritage.

Zoe and Roger travelled extensively in Italy, staying in the house still owned by her grandparents in the beautiful mountainous region of Abruzzo.

Zoe lovingly recounts her feeling of “coming home” when first entering the house in Fossa but, despite her love of the quaint town and the breathtaking scenery, she clearly sees the foibles of the people and their ancient customs with a foreigner’s eye. She seamlessly connects the past of her family to the present and gives us glimpses of what life would have been like in Italy in the early 20th Century. In their travels Zoe and Roger enjoy many charming scenes and enjoy the usual tourist haunts; but they also see the sleazier side of Italy - the ugly industrial areas, the poverty and fear caused by the Mafia and the opulence of corruption. She also notes that the Italy her grandparents remember has changed – modern Italians no longer have Passata Day when all the family bottle tomato sauce – they just go to the supermarket and buy it ready made.

Zoe writes from the heart and many of her recollections and stories moved me deeply. This is a charming account of her personal journey and family history.

Recommended by Janet

By Moonee Valley Library Services with 2 comments