East Clifton Avenue: A Family Trilogy - Book 1 - From Sicily to America - 1889 -1966

by Frank Plateroti

I am introducing you to the Buonofortes: A family similar to my mother's family and the millions of other families who immigrated to this great country at the beginning of the last century. The Italian immigrants took their place among the other immigrants who came before them and who were already acclimated and settled in their new country. Similar to all the new immigrants, regardless of nationality, they all shared the same passion: to make a better life for themselves, their children, and generations to come. This is a fictional/non-fictional account of the Buonforte family. A family that came from Sicily, Italy in the early 1900's to make a better life for the children and finally settle on East Clifton Avenue, New Jersey. Non fictional events are inter-weaved with fictional events and people. The Buonoforte family lived in Clifton, New Jersey, a town similar to thousands of small towns in the northeastern part of the United States. Within the story of the Buonoforte family, the sacrifices, potential rewards, and heartbreak of unconditional love are the main message: Rethink behaviors as to not repeat the same mistakes that eventually destroy families. A message that I hope millions of other families may be able to relate to, understand, and be moved by. You will see within the Buonoforte family that there are those who are emotional and affectionate, and those who may be emotional and not affectionate. Although brothers and sisters may share the same genetics, it is a puzzle why if brought up by the same parents they can be so different. It creates much confusion and potential hurt. Perhaps if that is understood, we can let go of old vendettas and hurt feelings, reconnect, and grow.

Genres: Nonfiction

Kindle Edition

Published September 7, 2020

Reviews

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book "East Clifton Avenue: A Family Trilogy" and all opinions expressed are my own. I found this book interesting. I hope that the other books are out soon. I would love to read all of them. First, I grew up near where this book takes place. I know Clifton, Sacred Heart Church (where I got married and my husband went to school) and East Paterson (where I grew up). My husband I think lived on East Clifton Ave at one point when he was a child. I wish I could ask him but sadly he passed away. He used to tell me about the guy who drove up and down the street with fruits and vegetables, calling out what he had to sell. Nash Park where my husband went sledding as a child. The Paterson market, I used to shop there when I lived in NJ. Anyway, I found the story really interesting, maybe because I know the area. Send me some Hot Grill lol. Would love to continue reading the story of the family. Thanks so much.

[C. Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has woven a story that is so interesting, sets it in historical perspective and reflects what life was like for members of an Italian family.
Blending history, sociology, anthropology and economics, Plateroti offers a look at the immigrants who were ambitious.
This book is really informative, lots of history and facts. Very interesting history of waves of immigration and their contributions to life today.

[Samantha Turley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very in depth and well thought out autobiography. It’s about an entire family so we have a lot of people to follow and Plateroti does a great job endearing each of them to us. This is great for the descendants of immigrants or Italian people or those who just want to learn more about that side of history.

[R.K. Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great history and immigration story. It will appeal to those who have family who immigrated and/or Italian families.
Told in an easy to follow way, Frank Plateroti sticks to the facts while also endearing the family to us as the reader.
It's well done!