In this episode of the Italian American Podcast, hosts Pat and Danielle Oteri welcome historian and author Andrew Novo to discuss his new novel, Where the Mountains Burn. The conversation begins with a lighthearted exchange about Italian heritage before turning to the importance of highlighting the intellectual, cultural, and historical contributions of Italian Americans beyond familiar stereotypes.

 

The discussion centers on Where the Mountains Burn, a novel inspired by the wartime experiences of Novo’s grandfather, Rinaldo. Born in the United States but raised in Piemonte, Rinaldo witnessed the upheaval of Fascist Italy and ultimately joined the resistance as a partisan. Novo explores the hardships and moral complexities of wartime, while also reflecting on the lasting impact Rinaldo’s experiences had on his family. Along the way, Pat and Danielle provide broader historical context on the Italian resistance and Italy’s turbulent twentieth century.

 

The episode concludes with a conversation about the importance of historical fiction in preserving Italian and Italian American history. Pat, Danielle, and Andrew encourage listeners to support the humanities, read widely, and engage with the stories that continue to shape the community’s understanding of the past.

HOSTS:
Patrick O’Boyle
Danielle Oteri

SPECIAL GUESTS:
Frank Ingrasciotta

PRODUCED BY:
Nicholas Calvello-Macchia