In the New York Times Book Review, Gay Talese raised the question. "Where are all the Italian American writers?" Two years later, editors Ciongoli and Parini respond convincingly with this anthology of essays by 23 Italian American writers. Memoirs in the first section reveal the truths of the people and relationships behind the stereotypes.

Whether reflecting on rosary beads, the aroma of garlic sauteed in olive oil, a bigotry that labels a child "the smelly Italian," or the art of perfect ironing, these writers share abiding love and respect for their cultural heritage and engage readers with their poignant accounts. Some consider how these experiences shaped them as writers: Talese himself credits time spent in his family's dress shop as the source of his nonfiction writing style.

The next section provides analyses of Italian American literature, and a third traces some Italian American political struggles.