This very personal Memoir is touching. You will journey along with Maria and her family as they travel from their homeland, Italy to America beginning in the 1930's. The Calabria family, as many, endured hardships, war, grief, and family struggles. However, despite the struggles, Maria is determined to look at life as a glass half full.
I enjoyed being invited to take an intimate look inside their lives, complete with family photos. Their trips to a market in New York and the foods they loved to cook, the family Holiday traditions, their pets, and amazing sense of humor. On a more somber note, as Maria and her husband, Pellegrino age, there comes a time when she has to entertain the thought of putting him in a nursing home. This is a life event as children of an aging parent that is very hard to deal with.
Maria's story is lovingly told and what a life she lived! Grab a cup of tea and enjoy the journey of this amazingly strong woman! She truly is an Inspiration to all!

Mary Pagano seems like the warm friend with whom you'd like to share a cup of coffee (with biscotti!) and share and reminisce about family history and the ups and downs of that immensely entertaining journey from childhood to middle age (and beyond). This is her first foray into the medium of writing stories and she shows a definite affinity for the memoir genre. She has been a working single mother and a caretaker for her elderly parents and somehow now arrives at a moment of time when she can share those aspects of her life that she feels represent many threads of communication with which a large audience will connect - the immigrant family experience dating back to the time when Europeans focused on the promise of America and entered through Staten Island to find the reality of life in America -as an immigrant.
Pagano focuses this family album on her mother - Maria Elena Francesca Calabria - a beautiful and quite remarkable woman of Italian descent who fled Mussolini's Italy and immigrated to America, set up home in New Jersey, and proceeded to live a life of adjusting to a new environment that was rich in love and in problems until she died at age 87 in 2000. We learn of her own family problems (her brothers and parents) and then her marriage to the abusive Pellegrino and the birth of her own children. Maria epitomizes life in Newark New Jersey's Little Italy and from the pages of this book we gather mementos of life as experienced from the fresh outlook of an adopted Italian immigrant. All the flavors we have come to associate with Italian Americans come freshly into bloom in this short and very readable little book.
As a first outing in the literary community Pagano succeeds on many levels. There are aspects of her writing that prevent her from succeeding as a new novelist of note. The book is filled with photographs of the populace of the book, not a bad idea but one that makes this book move from literature to family scrapbook. Pagano seems to feel that providing visual identification similarities between her relatives with movie stars (William Powell, Robert Young, etc), but that gets in the way of fleshing out a story instead of going for reader identification. She also liberally uses the phonetic form of conversation so that we `get' the Italian way of pronouncing word and phrases, a technique that at first is fun but soon grows tiresome. Nor do we need to know the lists of famous people who co-populated the favorite places of this family.
In short, Mary R. Pagano has taken her first step into published books. For the greater part of the venture we are entertained and committed to her tale of praise for an amazing Italian immigrant. If that is where she wishes to keep her talent (and she does have talent) we can expect more memoirs from her rich background. If she wishes to become a writer hopefully she is receptive to constructive criticism. The book is fun and light and worth a read - and for now that is enough. Grady Harp, January 13

I found this book to be very entertaining and at times humorous. Very well written by author. Looking forward to her next book! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella:  Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 14, 2013 by Monica C.

This book was so touching.  Loved every bit of it! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 14, 2013 by Mourine

What a beautiful story!  Funny thing is my family has the same crazy stories!  I enjoyed this book very much and I would recommend it to the whole world! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) February 5, 2013 by Cindy I. 

I absolutely loved this story!  My favorite part of the book is precious story of Prince the dog!  The characters are quite interesting and colorful too!  Enjoyed the pictures also.  This was an easy read and I would highly recommend it.

5.0 out 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) February 19, 2013 by Liz C.  

As a former Librarian who has read many books, I thoroughly enjoyed this story.  It is well written and makes for an easy and quick read.  I found the pictures to bring authenticity to the story.  Very touching and very funny.  Recommend highly!

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) February 25, 2013 by Assunta C. 

I too am of Italian background and I found this story very easy to relate to.  It was touching and humorous.  I thought the writing was done well and clear and would highly recommend it. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) February 26, 2013 by Elaine K. 

I loved this story!  I found the characters to be hilarious and the pictures helped put a face to the author's description of each person.  I would highly recommend this book for a quick, entertaining and easy read!

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) February 11, 2013 by Mary G. 

I current live in Florida but was born and raised in New Jersey.  I loved this book!  I found it entertaining and humorous.  The pictures were an added attraction and helped in matching the characters.  Would recommend highly! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 11, 2013 by Helen S. 

Maria Calabria was an extraordinary woman!  She is definitely a tribute to women and mothers.  The story was very real and very touching and entertaining!  It lives true to its synopsis:  you will laugh and you will cry!  Highly recommended.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) February 15, 2013 by Mary D. 

I loved this story!  I found the characters to be endearing and very humorous!  It is truly a tribute to how amazing women and mothers can be.  Highly recommended. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 25, 2013 by Diane M.  

I enjoyed this book completely!  The characters are so real and quite humorous!  As an Italian myself, I found this story easy to relate to and would highly recommend it! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 25, 2013 by Luciano C. 

This story was well written and easy to follow.  Maria Calabria was one in a million as far as women and mothers go!  This was an amazing lady and I enjoyed all the characters she met during her life.  Highly recommended! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste,Ma Pure Bella:  Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) February 7, 2013 by Joan N. 

This book was great.  It was obvious that the author did a lot of research and put a lot of time and effort in gathering all of the facts for this story.  The pictures are charming and the characters are quite colorful.  I found it to be entertaining and a great and easy read.  Would highly recommend!

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 28, 2013 by Gayle H.M. 

I am actually the neighbor of one of the characters in this story and I live in Riverdale, NJ.  This was a wonderful story and I found it extremely entertaining and humorous.  My favorite part is the flying mouse!  The book was well written and an easy read.  I would recommend it to anyone!  Looking forward to the next one! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) April 6, 2013 by Debbie D. 

I just finished this wonderful book!  What a family!  Maria Calabria was a Saint and although I thought my father was tough, Pellegrino had him beat!  The author was lucky to have her family around her and some of the stories are funny and some heart-wrenching.  I truly loved the book and the author should be proud of the great job she did!  Recommended.

I told you my friend that I would be honest.  I give you a lot of credit for even attempting to write a book, let alone a good one!  Hope you continue on your journey with the written word for the world to enjoy!

5.0 out 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback)  March 25, 2013 by Karen C. 

Mary, I loved your book!  Some of the stories were hilarious and what a colorful family!  Your mother was a great woman and she passed it on to you! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 24, 2013 by Nikki   

I love this book!  It was funny, sad, true to life and very entertaining!  Would definitely recommend!

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback)  March 7, 2013 by Josephine I.   

This book made me laugh and cry.  I was one of the characters in this story involved in the painting of a neighbor's dog named Vito, and I found it extremely entertaining!  It's obvious you did a lot of research because I found out things I never knew about the Calabria Family!  Thank you for this family heirloom.  Would recommend highly!

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Kindle) April 8, 2013 by Louise A.   

I found this book to be real-to-life and entertaining.  The characters are realistically Italian and the story was beautiful!  Maria Calabria was an amazing woman!   I laughed, I cried and was touched by its tenderness!  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) April 5, 2013 by Babs M.  

I purchased this book because the author is a friend of mine.  I had no idea how much I would enjoy this story.  It is well written, easy to read and very entertaining.  I promised the author that I would be honest about my review.  It lives true to its synopsis: you will laugh and cry!  Recommended.  

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) April 9, 2013 by Arlene M. 

I bought this book because I was attracted by the cover design and the fact that I am Italian.  I was quite surprised to find that this is an absolutely beautiful family memoir!  The characters are very real and there is no doubt that they are Italians.  Maria Calabria was an amazing woman and definitely a tribute to mothers!  Recommended. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella (Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) April 10, 2013 by Susie B.  

This book was a joy to read!  The author's style of writing made it easy for me to visualize the family dynamics in this story.  I was able to see the love this family shared, as well as the commitment to be there for eachother.  It lived true to the title: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful!  Recommended. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) April 11,2013 by Walt W.  

Because I know this author personally through work, I bought this book to check it out.  It is a great story and the author did a wonderful job; well-written, easy to follow and to relate to.  My parents also came through Ellis Island from Poland.  Good job Mary!  Recommend.  

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella:  Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) April 17, 2013 by Corie A.  

I know this author well and purchased this book.  The book is very well-written and easy to follow.  The story is absolutely beautiful, humorous and touching!  I enjoyed it; it made me laugh and cry!!  I am only 21 yrs. old, and I found this era of time in life totally awesome; wish I grew up then.  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) April 17, 2013 by Louis P.  

I am actually related to this author and therefore, I know all of the characters in this memoir.  The author has done a wonderful job of describing the characters and various humorous situations that really did happen.  I was very impressed with her style, which I found to be very deep and compassionate.  Great story and all true!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) May 17, 2013 by Linda C.

I absolutely love this story!  Being of Italian ethnic background myself, I easily related to the dialoge between Pellegrino and the other family characters in this book.  I think Pellegrino had the same vocabulary as my grandparents did!  The situations described in this memoir are both hilarious and touching.  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) May 18, 2013 by Margarita P. 

This is a beautiful story about a very Italian family.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and found it to be entertaining and heartwarming.  It made me laugh and cry, just as it promised.  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) May 18, 2013 by Frances P. 

I have read memoirs which I found a bit boring.  This story keeps the reader interested to the very end!  I love the characters, the background music the story describes and the hilarious happenings that only Italians can create!  Maria Calabria was an amazing woman!  Recommend.  

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) May 18, 2013 by Robert K. 

I was attracted to this book because of the beautiful cover designing.  I then read the synopsis on the back of the book and found myself intrigued.  Since I grew up around many Italians, it was easy to relate to this beautiful story.  The situations are humorously entertaining and heartwarming.  This is truly a beautiful story!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) May 25, 2013 by V.W.L.   

I loved this book!  Having come from an Italian family, many of the episodes reminded me of my own family.  This story is funny, tender and very touching!  The writing was nicely done and easy to follow and the pictures made it easy to put a face to each character.  Well done Mary!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Kindle) May 25, 2013 by Joy Dee   

Reading this book took me back to my Italian Uncles' funny stories of many situations they told me about as a child.  I so enjoyed reading this story.  It was filled with humor, tenderness and I was very touched by it.  The author's mother was an absolutely amazing woman who, under difficult circumstances, managed to keep her family together!  With the deteriorating family situations that exist today, we need more women like Maria Calabria!  Recommend.

 5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) May 26, 2013 by D.P.P.   

I am a former resident of Newark's Little Italy and was therefore attracted to this book.  It is a wonderful, warm and touching story very typical of Italian life in Newark back then.  The author has accurately depicted how Newark used to be and I thank her for the beautiful memories!  Recommend.   

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 3, 2013 by Lin I. M.   

This is a beautiful story that is well written.  It passionately depicts the life of an Italian woman and her family, including many trials and tribulations they endured.   Some of incidents are funny; some are heartwarming; and some will bring you to tears!  I especially enjoyed the black and white pictures in the book that helped associate the characters to the writing.  Recommend.   

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella:  Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 3, 2013 by Deb I. S.   

After reading this story, I am proud to be Italian!  This story details the life and times of an amazing Italian woman who, in spite of many impediments and obstacles, raised her family with love, humor, gentleness and humbleness!  I will keep this story of these touching memoirs in my heart forever!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 5, 2013 by Ronald C.   

This is such a nicely written story about a real Italian family and how they interact with each other.  This book made me laugh, cry and feel the warmth of Maria Calabria, an extraordinary woman!  This story will stay with me for a long time!  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 5, 2013 by Mel C. B.    

Of Italian heretige myself, I found this story easy to relate to.  Like the fig tree, this family's roots run deeply in the hearts of this particular family.  The pictures made it very easy to pinpoint the characters in the story.  I was very touched by this beautiful story and it makes me proud to be Italian.  Maria Calabria certainly inspires, encourages and gives off only good and positive vibes; something we could use in today's confusing world!  Loved it!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 11, 2013 by PRIMO MAGAZINE, 1ST EDITION 2013 FOR AND ABOUT ITALIAN AMERICANS 

Not just to pursue opportunity in America, another reason for emigration from Italy was to escape the harrowing tragedies that befell families.

In La Vite E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella author Mary Pagano recounts early in the book the death of her grandmother and death of her uncle, a little boy who fell down a well in Italy.  The sad event temporarily divided the family as Pagano's mother, Maria Elena Francesca Calabria, just eight years old, moved in with her grandparents, while her younger brothers stayed with her father and stepmother. 

Pagano's book centers on the exploits of her mother Maria, who must find her way through life without her mother and estranged from her father.  She is groomed to be a lady of high society when living with her wealthy grandparents.  A kind, good natured woman, she loses her way when she immigrates to America.  She becomes involved with a murderer and endures the harships of a life far different than what she was groomed.

Pagano is a daughter of New Jersey.  She grew up in Newark's First Ward and sets much of her book in what was once an active and culturally thriving city.  Newark had one of the highest concentrations of Italian Americans and this mid-sized city was as much connected to Italy as was Brooklyn or Southside Philadelphia.  Most special about the city was an abundance of open air markets, street peddlers, bakeries and Italian delis.  Merchants back then were as colorful as the fruits and vegetables they sold.

The book is one part documentation of a family torn apart by clashing personalities.  Family life can be difficult as different people mingle with each other's sensitivities and ambitions.  La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella is a warm and eventul novella by an Italian American woman who pays tribute to her mother and family by retelling their lives with honesty and compassion.  Recommend.   

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 15, 2013 by Diane D.   

As a resident of North Newark, NJ, this book was chock full of great memories of a time when the world was younger and less complicated.  Reading the story reminded me of how special the Italian upbringing is: integrity, honesty, compassion, perseverance, courage, strength and a strong passion for life!  The book was very humorous as well as very tender and touching.  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Nook)  June 15, 2013 by Angela L. M.   

I have known this author, Mary, since we were five years old!  I know all of the characters in the book and Mary did a wonderful job of describing them and bringing them to life with her words.  I enjoyed the pictures that helped me associate character with writing description.   I found this story to be very funny and very touching; I laughed and I cried!  Recommend.      

5.0 out of 5 star La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 18, 2013 by Joanne N.    

This was such a beautiful and touching story!  It is a story that transcends any ethnic backgroud at all.  I am not Italian, but my family has many similar traditions for Holidays and special occasions.  When the author says Italians are passionate and humorous, it is an understatement!  This story made me laugh and cry!  I loved it!  Well written.  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful! (Paperback) June 20, 2013 by Louis C.    

This is one talent author!  Having grown up in Newark's Little Italy, this book intrigued me.  I was happy I bought and read it!  It passionately describes the old Newark we grew up in.  I was impressed with Maria Calabria, she was quite a woman and mother and deserved the honor this author gave her!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 20, 2013 by Lena D.    

I so enjoyed reading this book! As the book promised, I laughed and I cried.  Your dad was quite colorful in his manner of speaking and behavior!  The funny stories you told in between the personal side of your story were so entertaining too.  I especially loved all the pictures in this book too; very authentic looking.  I was very touched by Maria Calabria's warmth and kindness, which came through in your writing!  P.S.  I also loved the title of this book!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 25, 2013 by Val D. S.    

I heard about this book through Face Book.  Since I too grew up in Newark, I was intrigued by the story.  I very much enjoyed the story of this Italian family and found it both funny and touching.  I also enjoyed the fact that I was familiar with all the different areas described in this story.  It kept its promise: I laughed and I cried.  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 25, 2013 by Dan L.      

I worked with this author several years ago in the NJ Court System.  When I found out about her book, I was interested in her story.  We used to talk about family at work and I knew Mary Pagano had a colorful family background.   I found this story entertaining, funny and touching!  I had no idea Mary could write as well as this book is written, but knowing her, I am not surprised!  Mary put her heart and soul into this book.  Great story!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Kindle Version)  June 25, 2013 by Al C.    

This author and I met on Face Book and quickly became friends.  Since I thought her story of her mother's memoirs would be interesting, I purchased the book.  I do not regret that purchase.  Mary has used much detail in relaying the amazingness of her mother, Maria Calabria.  This is quite a colorful Italian family, but one can feel the love and the pain they endured.  The story was entertaining, humorous and well-written.  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) June 26, 2013 by Karen S.    

I was attracted to this book because I am a former resident of Newark, NJ.   This writer is very talented; she gave an accurate description of what life was like when Newark was crowded with Italian families.   Mary's story brought me laughter and tears, as it said it would!  It was very touching!  I found this book to be well-written and I especially enjoyed the pictures the author included.  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 1, 2012 by Sil V.      

As a former Newark resident, I thoroughly enjoyed this book!  I am 86 yrs. old and this story brought me back to wonderful memories of Newark as it once was.  This author carefully and tastefully captured the beauty of a younger Newark filled with street peddlers and times when everyone was a friend.  The Italian family Mary comes from is actually the norm for most Italians; colorful, funny, tender and loving!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 5, 2013 by Sue and Dave S. 

This book was brilliantly written by the author!  It is obvious that the author devoted lots of time in her research of her family roots in Italy.  The story contains some Italian history, as well as some American history.  When Maria Francesca Calabria came to America, the Great Depression Era hit our country and she emerged as unscathed as possible.  Her brothers served in the American Military and fought for America and Maria endured the pain of grave concern for their lives and safe return.  Maria did all this with amazing strength, courage, hope and humility.  The author has clearly paid a great tribute to women and mothers of the world!  The story kept its promise: we laughed, we cried and were tenderly touched.  We hope this writer continues writing; she is talented!  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 5, 2013 by T. D.         

I loved this book!  It is filled with family traditions and a passionate and colorful ethnic background which many of us share.  We all have our own traditions that we carry down from our ancestors, but this author carefully described the Italian traditions with warmth and passion!  Well-written, easy to read and extremely entertaining and touching!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 10, 2013 by Peter P.        

 This book intrigued me because I grew up in Newark's Little Italy, NJ.  This author's mother, Maria Calabria, actually used to watch me in the early morning hours while my mother went to work; what a wonderful woman Maria was!  Maria is everything this author has written about her and then some.  Of course, as neighbors, Mary Marra Pagano and I were also childhood friends and I can honestly express to all that she too always was kind and did well in school.  The author has carefully depicted life as it was in Newark in our early years.  Mary has done a wonderful job and the writing is impressive!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 17, 2013 by Robert C.  

I found this story to be a beautiful and tender Italian good read.  I too grew up in Newark, NJ and I can honestly say that Mary Pagano accurately captured what it was like living in Newark in the fifties.  The book also tells a great story about an amazing Italian mother.  It is definitely a tribute to mothers and women!  I want to mention that I met this author through a mutual friend, James C. Napodano, who was very close with Mary.  He worked with me on cityworldradio.com as a DJ until his untimely passing.  If you happen to be on the Internet on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m., we do a segment entitled: "Three Guys from Newark in Little Italy."  We continue to mention this author and her book on our radio station because we have all read it and found it very entertaining, honest, humorous and touching.  Recommend.  

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 17, 2013 by Yvonne C.P.   

I received this book as a gift from an Italian friend.  I am so happy that I did!  This is a wonderful story that captures the struggles of Italian immigrants who came to America.  Like most Italian families, there is lots of humor, love, passion, fighting and tenderness.  The author is correct; this book would relate to any ethnic group because we all have traditions and mothers.  This book was amazing and wonderfully written.  I truly enjoyed it!  It was a quick, easy read and I was touched by the courage, fortitude and humbleness of Maria Calabria; what a wonderful woman she was!!!  Beautiful book.  It will be one of my treasures!  Recommend. 

5.0 out 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 17, 2013 by Patty B.     

I loved this book!  The writing by the author was impeccable and excellent!  I thought this author did a magnificent job of portraying her Italian family.  She actually brought her mother, Maria Calabria, to life in this story!  The book lived true to its synopsis: it made my laugh hysterically and cry.  Very touching and tender.  A great read from a truly aspiring new author!  Recommend.   

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 23, 2013 by Joan A. A.    

Mary, although I grew up in the Down Neck section of Newark, I am familiar with the Newark's Little Italy section.  It was a wonderful place to live back then; warm, loving people.  I enjoyed your book and it did what it said it would do: I laughed, I cried and then I absorbed the tenderness your mother gave you all.  She was an amazing woman!  I must admit that next to your colorful family, my family is boring!  I loved this story!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 27, 2013 by Barb S.      

I loved this touching story!  It's memoirs in a very colorful Italian family are hilarious and yet, tender.  Pagano did a wonderful job of bringing all the characters to life and the pictures added spice to an already flavorful story.  Maria Calabria was a saintly woman and I was very impressed with her!  A great tribute to Maria.  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 27, 2013 by John S.       

What a beautiful story this is!  It reached into my heart and I found that I could not put it down.  This family endured so many trials and still came out punching back to survive.  And, survive they did; all very well.  Maria Calabria's guidance led her children to become genuine, first-generation Italian Americans who, in their own way, added flavor to America.  Maria was a truly amazing, kind woman to be revered!  Recommend.  

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) July 29, 2013 by Laura F.     

I was given this book as a gift from the author.  I am the artist who designed the cover and pictures in this book and I was honored when the author asked me to do the artwork for her.  I have read this book a few times because it is incredibly entertaining, touching and tender.  I love the story and I am thrilled that the author was willing to share her family's story with the world.  She performed this task with passion and talent.  One artist can recognize talent in another; Mary is talented!  I look forward to more of her work!  Recommend.   

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) August 3, 2013 by Lisa C.      

When I began reading this book, I could not put it down!  What a wonderful story!  This beautiful story made me laugh and cry and because I too am Italian, it brought back many tender memories for me.  When you can't put a book down, you know it has to be a good one!  Mary vividly described her house on Summer Avenue in Newark, NJ, as well as all the members of her family, with accurate details.  Mary also gave an outstanding description of Newark's North Ward.  I thank Mary for sharing this touching story and I look forward to her next book!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) August 7, 2013 by Linda S.C.    

I found this book online and am so happy that I did.  Being of Italian descent and having lived in Newark, NJ many years ago, I was interested in reading this story.   The author did an absolutely wonderful job of carefully depicting the old Newark from the 50s and 60s that we grew up in.  This was a truly beautiful story about a colorful Italian family that is not unlike many other Italian families in America.  The struggles, the love, the closeness all hit home with me.  I very much enjoyed reading this book.  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback)  August 7, 2013 by Annette D.S.D.   

I noticed this book online and felt drawn to it because I grew up in Newark, NJ.  Once I began to read this story, I could not put it down.  I love the manner in which the author describes Newark as it was when it was one of the greatest cities to live in!  I am very touched by the story of this author's family, especially her amazing mother, Maria Calabria!  In short, I love this story and am looking forward to more from this author!  Recommend.

5.0 out 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback)  August 7, 2013 by Linda T. G.  

I grew up in the Down Neck section of Newark, NJ.  My section of Newark was closely located to Newark's Little Italy, so this book interested me.  When I started reading this story, I found that it held my interest and I could not stop reading it until I was finished.  The author did a marvelous job in detailing the old Newark that I remember!  Mary's family story was very touching and tender, and I found her mother, Maria Calabria, to be an amazing woman.  This is a tribute to Maria!  Well done!  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback)  August 7, 2013 by Michael O.   

This author has been a customer of mine for many years.  Since we are both of Italian ethnic background, we speak Italian and enjoy joking together.   When this book was published, Mary gave me a copy as a gift and promised me that I would enjoy it.  She was right!  Mary did a wonderful job; the writing is very deep and passionate.  The author describeds her Italian family with accuracy and details that leave the reader completely knowing each character!  The pictures in this book brought me back to Italy and how I grew up with my own family.  I found this book to be a treasure of inspiration and I am so happy the author shared this story with me!  I hope she continues to write more stories; I look forward to reading more from Mary.  Recommend.

5.0 out 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback)  August 7, 2013 by Jeffrey J.  

My ethnic background is half Italian and half Jewish.  I was given this book as a gift and couldn't wait to read it.  I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent writing and the authentic pictures in this book.  It was a breath of fresh air!  This story brought me back to my growing up with the Italian part of my family!  I loved the colorfulness of the author's family and the characters were hilarious!  I found the pictures very helpful to connect with the characters and it is very clear that these pictures are authentic.  The author did a great job in paying tribute to her mother, Maria Calabria, who was indeed an extraordinary woman!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) October 4, 2013 by Neil C.     

I am a former resident of Newark, NJ.  I read this book and found the story to be very well written and detailed!  I was impressed with writer's knowledge of Newark's Little Italy and what it was like to live there as a child.  The story, regarding her parents and all that they endured coming to America, was very touching!  It hit home for me and I recommend it for anyone who has a mother and family!  It make me laugh, cry and sent an encouraging message!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) October 5, 2014 by Diane A.    

I absolutely loved this book!  It gave the reader everything it promised: laughter, tears, tenderness, encouragement and love!  This touching story about an Italian family growing up in Newark's Little Italy, NJ, covered some of Newark's history.  It brought me back to a time when the world was younger and life was much less complicated.  The simplicity and genuiness of the true heart of the book's heroine, Maria Calabria, came shining through with stars!  I was impressed with the writer's down to earth style and especially the authentic pictures!  I loved it!  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) October 7, 2013 by Sandra A.    

I so enjoyed reading this story!  Having grown up in Newark, NJ myself, I was able to relate to the all the places referred to in the book.  The author did a great job in describing the city as it was many years ago.  While reading this book, I felt as though I was back in time when Newark was at its peek!  We had a friendly neighborhood where everyone watched out for their neighbors and the people of Newark knew they were safe!  I found it funny, touching and tender!   Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) October 14, 2013 by Sue E. B.   

I absolutely loved this story!  The heroine's good fortune was having a loving daughter, namely the writer of this book!  This writer exuded such warmth in her writing style; it was very touching!  It brought me to tears when I read about Maria's last night and day!  This book reminded me so much of the Italian side of my family, which I had lost.  This writer's book gave it back to me and I am so grateful!  I recommend this book to everyone! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) November 20, 2013 by Jill J.F. 

 I was attracted to this book by its colorful Fig Tree cover.  I am also of Italian ethnic background and thought I might find the story interesting.  I was absolutely right; I love this story!  The writer has done an excellent job of detailing the lives of her Italian immigrant parents and her siblings.  The stories that evolve are humorous, touching and very sensitive!  I hope to see more from this writer; she has lots of talent and heart!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) November 20, 2013 by Lisa F. H.  

I love this book!  It is filled with lots of sentiment and soul!  The stories surrounding the writer's family are hilarious and touching.  The writer has captured a time in the history of her family and the City of Newark that clearly depicts the fifties and sixties of our time.  This story will stay with me for a long time!  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) November 30, 2013 by Janet D.

This was a very touching story and I thoroughly enjoyed it!  The writer did a magnificent job of detailing the city she grew up in, as well as the other colorful denizens who dwelled there.  The story surrounding the Italian family was very warm and genuine.  One of the most sincere memoirs I have ever read!  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) November 30, 2013 by Carol S. 

I read this book and I loved it.  It made me feel as though I was there in Newark, back in the glory days for this once wonderful city.  The writer displays a style that is warm, touching and down-to-earth.  The reader can easily relate to her genuineness!  The family story was very tenderly told and will truly stay with me!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) December 10, 2013 by Stephanie T.

I became aware of this author and her book through the International Womens Professional Association.  Once I began reading the book, I found that I could not put it down!  This author has written this memoir about her mother's life with such soul, honesty and tenderness; I was extremely impressed!  This is a beautiful story and one that I will always remember!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) January 15, 2014 by Daniel L. 

I had the pleasure of working with this author many years ago when she was a legal secretary.  When I discovered that she had written a book, I was eager to read it.  I found this book to be very entertaining and genuine.  In fact, many of the humorous stories the author discusses in this book happened during the time we worked together!  Mary has told her story with sincerity, tenderness, love and warmth; all the qualities she has as a person!  I am so proud of her and I would recommend this story to anyone for reading! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) January 24, 2014 by Jane N. 

I found this story to be extremely entertaining!  Since I am familiar with Italian culture and how this ethnic group's family life is, this book really hit home for me!  It brought me back to my earlier days growing up with my own family and how colorful life with Italian parents can be!  I was able to relate to the characters and the various humorous situations that Maria encountered in her life in America.  This story was touching and tender and the writer clearly projects her love for her wonderful mother!  Recommend! 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) January 24, 2014 by Andrea R. 

This story was so touching and beautiful!  I was impressed with how the writer made me feel so much emotion regarding the various situations she wrote about her family!  I too am of Italian background, and so much of this story reached me in a tender and humorous way.  I loved it and would highly recommend it!

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vita E' Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) January 24, 2014 by Robert N. 

Because I grew up in an Italian household, this book peeked my interest.  This author has done a wonderful job of portraying life in an Italian family.  It is filled with zest, humor and tenderness; as are most Italian families!  I was very touched by this story and found it to be memorable and precious!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E'Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) January 30, 2014 by Marie H.   

 I have worked with this author for many years within the Court System and therefore, was interested in reading this book.  After I read this story, I knew it could have come from no one other than Mary P.  Mary has demonstrated a writing skill that is straight forward, passionate, tender and touching.  I absolutely loved this story!  The author did a fabulous job in portraying life in the home of an Italian family.  She gave a detailed description that I was able to easily connect with.  This book will stay with me for a long time and I hope this writer continues to write; she has talent!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E'Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 30, 2014 by Judge, Writer's Digest 21st Annual Self-Publishing Book Awards. 

The best part of author Mary R. Pagano's book is her passion for writing her story!  She shares how many dream-filled immigrants, including her mother, came to America from Italy.  They traveled 15 days on the S.S. Roma Luxury Cruise Liner.  Her mother recalled how the trip had been uncomfortable for her, causing the usual sailing maladies and the fear of a sometimes extremely angry ocean.  Ms. Pagano stresses that whatever hardships you may endeavor along the way, the true essence of it all is that hese hardships will season you to help you to love more and stronger!  A very nice message for the story that should be marketed. . . 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E'Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 30, 2014 by Esther K. 

Having worked with the author, Mary R. Pagano, during my clerkship with the State Court of New Jersey, I was interested in reading her book.  I found the story to be heartwarming, funny, touching and compassionate!  Mary wrote in such a fashion that I was able to visualize the characters she wrote about.  Her style and grammar are impeccable in this book and, because I know her as a former Judge's administrative assistant, I am not surprised.  Any ethnic group with family could easily relate to the situations described in this book!  I thoroughly enjoyed it!  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E'Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback) March 30, 2014 by Matteau N. 

Because I had worked in the Justice Complex of Trenton, NJ, with this author, I was curiously interested to read this book.  I must say that I was pleasantly surprised!  Mary writes in the same manner in which she speaks; sincere and funny!  I found the story to be compassionate and touching.  I so enjoyed the characters she described so well.  I will remember this story for a long time.  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E'Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (E-Book)  May 1, 2014 by A. K. M. 

This author has done a wonderful job of capturing some of Italy's early history, as well as carefully describing the ups and downs of the lives of immigrant Italian Americans.  The writing is clear, warm, humourous, loving, tender, passionate and shows how Italians came to America, a strange land, and figured out how to make it work well!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E'Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback Book) November 29, 2014 by Joseph P.

This is a touching and sensitive true story about the relationship of a close-knitted Italian family.  I believe that any ethnic group could relate to this book and I thoroughly enjoyed it!  If you are looking for a wholesome story, this is it!  Recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E'Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback Book) November 30, 2014 by Melissa D.

I have read this book twice and have enjoyed it.  Since I too am Italian, I was able to relate to this story and be very entertained.  For a first time writer, this author has produced a lovely, touching and warm story for all to cherish!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E'Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback Book) November 30, 2014  by D.J.Joe

I had the pleasure of reading this book and meeting the author!  A great story that will bring you laughter and tears and will remind you just how important family is!  Sensitive and touching; I loved it!  Recommend. 

5.0 out of 5 stars La Vite E'Triste, Ma Pure Bella: Life is Difficult, But also Beautiful (Paperback Book) December 2, 2014 by John B.

This is a wonderfully warm story.  I was very touched by this story of an Italian family's trials and trysts during their immigration and lives in America.  It was sensitively written and laced with laughs!  Recommend.  

Throughout the year of 2015, I have received 5.0 star reviews from many more people who have read this book.  The story will speak for itself once it is read.  The number of 5.0 reviews and endorsements easily exceeds 100 or more readers.  I want to thank you all for reading my story and for your input!