Michael’s answer to “Is Pino Lella still living? What a marvelous book.” > Likes and Comments
490 likes · Like
Hi Michael, I just recently learnt about your father from my Grandfather, his name is Francesco Lella and lives in Bari. He is also 91 and a historian and realized from the book that Pino Lella is most likely his second cousin. My grandfather found the book very moving and has been trying to research what happened to Pino. Reading here that your father is still alive, it would be an honor for my grandfather to establish contact. Please let me know if you would be open to that. Hope to hear from you. Francesco
DEAR FRANCESCO. MY FATHER WOULD BE VERY INTERESTED IN CONTACTING YOUR GRANDFATHER! PLEASE GET IN TOUCH WITH ME DIRECTLY AT michaellella@yahoo.com OR THROUGH MARK SULLIVAN'S WEB SITE AND HE WILL PASS ON THE MESSAGE WHERE I CAN REACH YOU!
What a beautiful, strong, amazing man Pino is! I am very grateful he was willing to share his war experience so that we can know more of history itself. History repeats itself. It is encouraging to hear of such heroics, the good the evil, the sorrow the joy. I think it's important that younger generations hear these stories so that we can be strong and rise and be good to humanity when opportunity is ours. A much loved life! Thank you.
Thank you Melodi.
I’m headed to Italy to see my dad this weekend... I’ll pass your comment on to him, along with a few others, directly. I agree with you in that people need to hear about this history so that we don’t repeat it ever again.
Dear MaryF.
As much as I disagree with your constant negative criticism of BENEATH A SCARLET SKY, I still believe you have the right to express your opinion, and I'm not in favor of tampering with your repetitive insidious and confusing commentaries. I have come to blissfully ignore what you say and choose rather to share in the enthusiasm of the now thousands of five-star reviewers who were touched by the very true and real aspects of my father's story.....good riddance.
What a great book! I have no words! Heartbroken for Anna
Thanks Alina.
Some stories have a way of touching souls.
It just so happens my Dad's story is one of those and he is honored. Thanks Alina!
Please Thank your father for his heroism his bravery was inspiring and super human.
Thanks Darcy.
My Dad has flaws like any other human being and although he lived in an era where he did the "right thing", he doesn't consider himself heroic and certainly not super human. Just lucky to have survivied
Michael, let me start off by saying that your father is an inspiration. My colleagues and I enjoyed this book so much that we are trying to approve it for 11th grade AP at our high school. I wanted to know if your father could answer our question which is; Would you recommend that your story be read and discussed by 11th graders, based on maturity level and themes expressed in your story?
Hi Otto. That is a question that I think teachers and parents are better suited to answer. My father is fine with it, but because he was 17 at the time most of this occurred. We also believe that the youth of today can identify with the plight of a 17 year old at the time and they MUST learn and NEVER FORGET what happened during those brutal and dark days of the "Greatest Generation" of their grand parents. Personally, I would say that the story can be read and discussed by 11th graders, but not younger than that. (17 year olds).
First of all Michael thank you for the response, we agree fully. Mary, we just wanted conservation because we do have some of those extremely conservative people in the community that would be opposed to have their children learn about any of these "adult" topics. I understand your point and agree completely because the fact that some details and dialogues of this book are made up solely because it is based of Pinos memory alone and with the combination of the burning of Nazi documents, really makes this interesting to research and dig up more information on. With some of the gaps in the story it gives teachers more freedom to do creative projects that will stimulate the students minds. Thanks to both of you this information will come in handy to getting this fabulous book approved.
Michael- tell your father he’s a beautiful dear soul. We are overwhelmed and inspired by his story and our hearts thank him for his courage and bravery and tenderness. What a tale.
I will pass this on Jeaneane.
Thank you for your kind comment.
It is people like you whose soul
was touched that brings my father some joy at 92.
Michael I finished the book this morning and as I went to the grocery this afternoon I could not get the lives of your family out of my head. As I entered the store I actually wiped a tear from my cheek. I am so grateful that he was able to share his experiences. I was so extremely touched by your fathers kind heart, bravery, and struggles with unbearable decisions and compassionate love. Wish him a Happy Fathers Day from me and let him know I believe in sharing his life I have learned today another lesson in being a better person. Hugs to him and your family.
Cassie, that is very kind of you and I will pass on the message when I speak with him Father's Day. It is for the people like you who make his life worth living these days. Thank you so much.
Wow. I just finished listening to the book. I have a new favorite book and a new hero. I am going to Italy this summer, to climb in the Dolomites, and hopefully channel some Pino energy. I am in awe of your Father and the life he has lived.
The Dolomites are beautiful Susan. Spent many years skiing there with Dad. Thanks for the comment and your passion for the story. Hope you have a great time there!
Mike Lella, Pino’s son
Michael, God Bless your Father! A beautiful human, another unsung hero of war that we've come to find out about. Thank-you Mark Sullivan for this incredible story of bravery and human kindness.
Thank you Andrea. My father would respond, but he refuses to learn how to use a computer or a cell phone. He truly is a man of the past, but flattered by all of the accolades. I'll pass your message on to him. Mike Lella
I just finished the book - tears slow down the reading process. I am speechless. War is so terrible, but this story’s is one of hope. If Pino can move on and look for the good, then we can, too. I teach high school English in Texas and will be using this novel in class. What an inspiration. I pray for peace for all of your family.
Dear Lashay. What an honor to hear that you are going to be using my father's story as an inspiration. It is not only a tribute to him, but to Mark Sullivan as well. I remember in High School how influenced I was by reading certain books that left an impact on me for the rest of my life. You are in a position where you can be of great influence to the youth of today and I have the utmost respect for your choice in recommending a book that so vividly describes the struggles of an ordinary fun-loving teenager thrust into a brutal War. Thank you so much for reaching out to me. Michael Lella
I literally just finished reading this today. I sobbed at many points. Your father is an inspiration. I hope everyone reads this. I am an English teacher and can't wait to recommend this book to students, colleagues, and friends. Please let your dad know that he means a great deal to strangers who have become friends through his story.
Chrissa, Thank you for reaching out and expressing your views. I will pass your kind thoughts on to my father who is simply "blown away' by the magnificent outpouring of affection and concern from many readers whose heart 's have been touched. Personally, I am deeply moved that so many educators have recommended the book to their students. I hope they in turn, will pass it on for generations to come. Thank you for being part of this. Michael Lella
I purchased a copy for my friend and he loves the book
Your father’s story and life is an inspiration to all mankind. God bless him for sharing it with us. My heart aches for the loss of his beloved Anna.
Thank you Brian. My Dad is 92 now, and time heals. He's been married twice in his life, and although Anna has probably always been on his mind, the pain of her loss has long been gone. People have a way of blocking out certain painful memories, and for his own survival, he's done that. That said, my Mom told me one time, that he frequently had nightmares and would shout out the name "Anna". My mother's name was "Patricia Ann" and she thought he was referring to her....
Thanks for you comment. I try to read and respond to as many as possible. Mike Lella, Pino's son.
Michael, what a wonderful surprise to hear from you. Thank you so much for your reply. God bless you, your father and family. Brian
My pleasure Brian. I would be responding to more of these Goodreads Posts, but my antiquated computer has blocked me from entering the site. If a reader has the time to express his or her opinion by reaching out, I feel compelled to answer. And I do that with pleasure as I have become personal friends with some wonderful people who have made contact with me through this format and expressed their thoughts of my father's story.
It's been a wonderful ride and I hope it continues.
How often do you get to see your father in Italy, and is he still living close to Milan ?
I see him a couple times a year now. He lives in a little village on the west side of Lake Maggiore called Lesa. It's about an hour north of Milan between Stresa and Arona...His family used to own a Villa there which he inherited back in the 70's. When he got older, he sold the Villa and bought an apartment complex in the village.
Yes, I think I do remember this now from the book, Moke. Thank you. I’ve alread recommended Mark’s book about your father to several of my friends and members of my family. Looking forward to the movie soon.
We are too! Yes, the "Aftermath" of the book has shown to be one of the most talked about parts of the story. People are fascinated to know where he is now, and how he became involved with the US. to this day, he tells me the best years of his life were the ones he spent in America during the 50's. He regrets that he never got his US citizenship when he was married to my Mom and established in the US with a family.
I don't have the words to describe how powerful your father's story is. Thank you for sharing Michael.
Thant's very kind of you Heather. Great to see that you expressed your thoughts, and I'm honored to share anytime. Just talked to my dad over the phone and although he's no longer in a position to respond personally, he's flattered and personally moved by all of the sympathy he is receiving. I can speak for him, and on his behalf...thank you. Michael lella
ow, it's incredible to see your response! Never have I felt more haunted by a story. Your entire family sacrificed so much, as did most of Italy. Not once did I feel like I was reading fiction. Their experiences and your father's life has not left my mind since I read. Your talking with me puts me at ease, yet I cannot explain why. Additionally, I feel that Father Re might agree that Pino's, Mark's, and even your purpose is to share, not just for the personal value, but for awareness in a greater historical context. Part of the power in this book is that I feel it is history unveiled in real time, which is extraordinary and seems a fitting finale to an era. I will be sharing of Pino's, Mimo's, Uncle Albert's, the Catholic church, and everyone else who played their part. And yes, the pain of losing Anna in such a brutal way is devastating and I understand how that'd be a lifelong trauma. I'm sorry that suffering occurred within your family after the war due to the after effects and PTSD. One question: does Nessum Dorma still being your father comfort?
Great question, Heather. I look forward to reading Mike’s reply
Please convey my thanks and regards to Mr.Pino For sharing his story with us. Amazing journey of a beautiful soul. I had tears in my eyes for all his heartbreaks, and awe for his courage and wisdom.
thank you Prithika
Very kind of you to express your feelings.
We follow the reviews closely and they continue to touch my Dad's heart when I pass them on to him.
Mike Lella
I am struck by his faith, even when he was faced with so much. Grazie to him, and to your family.
Hi Liz.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. My father does have faith in God, but not in the structure of the Catholic Church. He did have total and complete admiration for Father Luigi Re, who was a devoted disciple of the Church though. Mike Lella, Pino's son.
Having read the book one of many about WWII , I am crying at the life of Pino, the bravery he displayed through fear and terror and loss. Puts everything into perspective. I know you are proud of your dad. I will always remember him and vow to go to Italy one day from Ireland and visit these places. Such an e,optional read. I’m so attached to his life and hope he has found peace.
Hello Trix, We appreciate you reaching out with expressing your emotions. My father is simply over-whelmed and almost a little ashamed of all the attention. Frankly, he never expected any of this. To hear people like yourself that were emotionally touched by his story, at his age of 92 is certainly surprising....After a year and a half, the accolades are continuing. At first he thought it won't last and it's just a fad. but now that his story is going international, he's getting more recognition, which is not something that he wants at this age. The love and affection from the reading public has been nonetheless a great experience for him. Thank you again for your kind words.
I’m almost finished with the book and it’s wonderful. I decided to take a break and look up the characters and am so pleased to find this! Please tell your Dad he is such an inspiration!!!
I will do that Amanda!
It's great that you posted your thoughts and we always look forward to hearing from people who have been touched by the story. Thank You so much for sharing.
Michael Lella
Michael, I have just finished reading this unexpected story. I can not describe the emotions I am feeling right now. It was impossible for me to put the book down, day or night. I deeply admire your father and how resourceful he is. There are several parts In the story, in which I was at owe to see how he maneged to take brave decisions that put him and others out of harms way.. My heart melted to see how much he suffered and how he decided to keep on living the best he could in spite of his grief. He is an example for life. Please give a hug to your father from me and thank him for sharing his amazing story. He is now an inmortal soul that will live for ever in the minds and hearts of those, who now share his memories.
back to top
Hi Michael, I just recently learnt about your father from my Grandfather, his name is Francesco Lella and lives in Bari. He is also 91 and a historian and realized from the book that Pino Lella is most likely his second cousin. My grandfather found the book very moving and has been trying to research what happened to Pino. Reading here that your father is still alive, it would be an honor for my grandfather to establish contact. Please let me know if you would be open to that. Hope to hear from you. Francesco
DEAR FRANCESCO. MY FATHER WOULD BE VERY INTERESTED IN CONTACTING YOUR GRANDFATHER! PLEASE GET IN TOUCH WITH ME DIRECTLY AT michaellella@yahoo.com OR THROUGH MARK SULLIVAN'S WEB SITE AND HE WILL PASS ON THE MESSAGE WHERE I CAN REACH YOU!
What a beautiful, strong, amazing man Pino is! I am very grateful he was willing to share his war experience so that we can know more of history itself. History repeats itself. It is encouraging to hear of such heroics, the good the evil, the sorrow the joy. I think it's important that younger generations hear these stories so that we can be strong and rise and be good to humanity when opportunity is ours. A much loved life! Thank you.
Thank you Melodi.I’m headed to Italy to see my dad this weekend... I’ll pass your comment on to him, along with a few others, directly. I agree with you in that people need to hear about this history so that we don’t repeat it ever again.
Dear MaryF.As much as I disagree with your constant negative criticism of BENEATH A SCARLET SKY, I still believe you have the right to express your opinion, and I'm not in favor of tampering with your repetitive insidious and confusing commentaries. I have come to blissfully ignore what you say and choose rather to share in the enthusiasm of the now thousands of five-star reviewers who were touched by the very true and real aspects of my father's story.....good riddance.
What a great book! I have no words! Heartbroken for Anna
Thanks Alina.Some stories have a way of touching souls.
It just so happens my Dad's story is one of those and he is honored. Thanks Alina!
Please Thank your father for his heroism his bravery was inspiring and super human.
Thanks Darcy. My Dad has flaws like any other human being and although he lived in an era where he did the "right thing", he doesn't consider himself heroic and certainly not super human. Just lucky to have survivied
Michael, let me start off by saying that your father is an inspiration. My colleagues and I enjoyed this book so much that we are trying to approve it for 11th grade AP at our high school. I wanted to know if your father could answer our question which is; Would you recommend that your story be read and discussed by 11th graders, based on maturity level and themes expressed in your story?
Hi Otto. That is a question that I think teachers and parents are better suited to answer. My father is fine with it, but because he was 17 at the time most of this occurred. We also believe that the youth of today can identify with the plight of a 17 year old at the time and they MUST learn and NEVER FORGET what happened during those brutal and dark days of the "Greatest Generation" of their grand parents. Personally, I would say that the story can be read and discussed by 11th graders, but not younger than that. (17 year olds).
First of all Michael thank you for the response, we agree fully. Mary, we just wanted conservation because we do have some of those extremely conservative people in the community that would be opposed to have their children learn about any of these "adult" topics. I understand your point and agree completely because the fact that some details and dialogues of this book are made up solely because it is based of Pinos memory alone and with the combination of the burning of Nazi documents, really makes this interesting to research and dig up more information on. With some of the gaps in the story it gives teachers more freedom to do creative projects that will stimulate the students minds. Thanks to both of you this information will come in handy to getting this fabulous book approved.
Michael- tell your father he’s a beautiful dear soul. We are overwhelmed and inspired by his story and our hearts thank him for his courage and bravery and tenderness. What a tale.
I will pass this on Jeaneane.Thank you for your kind comment.
It is people like you whose soul
was touched that brings my father some joy at 92.
Michael I finished the book this morning and as I went to the grocery this afternoon I could not get the lives of your family out of my head. As I entered the store I actually wiped a tear from my cheek. I am so grateful that he was able to share his experiences. I was so extremely touched by your fathers kind heart, bravery, and struggles with unbearable decisions and compassionate love. Wish him a Happy Fathers Day from me and let him know I believe in sharing his life I have learned today another lesson in being a better person. Hugs to him and your family.
Cassie, that is very kind of you and I will pass on the message when I speak with him Father's Day. It is for the people like you who make his life worth living these days. Thank you so much.
Wow. I just finished listening to the book. I have a new favorite book and a new hero. I am going to Italy this summer, to climb in the Dolomites, and hopefully channel some Pino energy. I am in awe of your Father and the life he has lived.
The Dolomites are beautiful Susan. Spent many years skiing there with Dad. Thanks for the comment and your passion for the story. Hope you have a great time there!Mike Lella, Pino’s son
Michael, God Bless your Father! A beautiful human, another unsung hero of war that we've come to find out about. Thank-you Mark Sullivan for this incredible story of bravery and human kindness.
Thank you Andrea. My father would respond, but he refuses to learn how to use a computer or a cell phone. He truly is a man of the past, but flattered by all of the accolades. I'll pass your message on to him. Mike Lella
I just finished the book - tears slow down the reading process. I am speechless. War is so terrible, but this story’s is one of hope. If Pino can move on and look for the good, then we can, too. I teach high school English in Texas and will be using this novel in class. What an inspiration. I pray for peace for all of your family.
Dear Lashay. What an honor to hear that you are going to be using my father's story as an inspiration. It is not only a tribute to him, but to Mark Sullivan as well. I remember in High School how influenced I was by reading certain books that left an impact on me for the rest of my life. You are in a position where you can be of great influence to the youth of today and I have the utmost respect for your choice in recommending a book that so vividly describes the struggles of an ordinary fun-loving teenager thrust into a brutal War. Thank you so much for reaching out to me. Michael Lella
I literally just finished reading this today. I sobbed at many points. Your father is an inspiration. I hope everyone reads this. I am an English teacher and can't wait to recommend this book to students, colleagues, and friends. Please let your dad know that he means a great deal to strangers who have become friends through his story.
Chrissa, Thank you for reaching out and expressing your views. I will pass your kind thoughts on to my father who is simply "blown away' by the magnificent outpouring of affection and concern from many readers whose heart 's have been touched. Personally, I am deeply moved that so many educators have recommended the book to their students. I hope they in turn, will pass it on for generations to come. Thank you for being part of this. Michael Lella
I purchased a copy for my friend and he loves the book
Your father’s story and life is an inspiration to all mankind. God bless him for sharing it with us. My heart aches for the loss of his beloved Anna.
Thank you Brian. My Dad is 92 now, and time heals. He's been married twice in his life, and although Anna has probably always been on his mind, the pain of her loss has long been gone. People have a way of blocking out certain painful memories, and for his own survival, he's done that. That said, my Mom told me one time, that he frequently had nightmares and would shout out the name "Anna". My mother's name was "Patricia Ann" and she thought he was referring to her....Thanks for you comment. I try to read and respond to as many as possible. Mike Lella, Pino's son.
Michael, what a wonderful surprise to hear from you. Thank you so much for your reply. God bless you, your father and family. Brian
My pleasure Brian. I would be responding to more of these Goodreads Posts, but my antiquated computer has blocked me from entering the site. If a reader has the time to express his or her opinion by reaching out, I feel compelled to answer. And I do that with pleasure as I have become personal friends with some wonderful people who have made contact with me through this format and expressed their thoughts of my father's story.It's been a wonderful ride and I hope it continues.
How often do you get to see your father in Italy, and is he still living close to Milan ?
I see him a couple times a year now. He lives in a little village on the west side of Lake Maggiore called Lesa. It's about an hour north of Milan between Stresa and Arona...His family used to own a Villa there which he inherited back in the 70's. When he got older, he sold the Villa and bought an apartment complex in the village.
Yes, I think I do remember this now from the book, Moke. Thank you. I’ve alread recommended Mark’s book about your father to several of my friends and members of my family. Looking forward to the movie soon.
We are too! Yes, the "Aftermath" of the book has shown to be one of the most talked about parts of the story. People are fascinated to know where he is now, and how he became involved with the US. to this day, he tells me the best years of his life were the ones he spent in America during the 50's. He regrets that he never got his US citizenship when he was married to my Mom and established in the US with a family.
I don't have the words to describe how powerful your father's story is. Thank you for sharing Michael.
Thant's very kind of you Heather. Great to see that you expressed your thoughts, and I'm honored to share anytime. Just talked to my dad over the phone and although he's no longer in a position to respond personally, he's flattered and personally moved by all of the sympathy he is receiving. I can speak for him, and on his behalf...thank you. Michael lella
ow, it's incredible to see your response! Never have I felt more haunted by a story. Your entire family sacrificed so much, as did most of Italy. Not once did I feel like I was reading fiction. Their experiences and your father's life has not left my mind since I read. Your talking with me puts me at ease, yet I cannot explain why. Additionally, I feel that Father Re might agree that Pino's, Mark's, and even your purpose is to share, not just for the personal value, but for awareness in a greater historical context. Part of the power in this book is that I feel it is history unveiled in real time, which is extraordinary and seems a fitting finale to an era. I will be sharing of Pino's, Mimo's, Uncle Albert's, the Catholic church, and everyone else who played their part. And yes, the pain of losing Anna in such a brutal way is devastating and I understand how that'd be a lifelong trauma. I'm sorry that suffering occurred within your family after the war due to the after effects and PTSD. One question: does Nessum Dorma still being your father comfort?
Great question, Heather. I look forward to reading Mike’s reply
Please convey my thanks and regards to Mr.Pino For sharing his story with us. Amazing journey of a beautiful soul. I had tears in my eyes for all his heartbreaks, and awe for his courage and wisdom.
thank you PrithikaVery kind of you to express your feelings.
We follow the reviews closely and they continue to touch my Dad's heart when I pass them on to him.
Mike Lella
I am struck by his faith, even when he was faced with so much. Grazie to him, and to your family.
Hi Liz. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. My father does have faith in God, but not in the structure of the Catholic Church. He did have total and complete admiration for Father Luigi Re, who was a devoted disciple of the Church though. Mike Lella, Pino's son.
Having read the book one of many about WWII , I am crying at the life of Pino, the bravery he displayed through fear and terror and loss. Puts everything into perspective. I know you are proud of your dad. I will always remember him and vow to go to Italy one day from Ireland and visit these places. Such an e,optional read. I’m so attached to his life and hope he has found peace.
Hello Trix, We appreciate you reaching out with expressing your emotions. My father is simply over-whelmed and almost a little ashamed of all the attention. Frankly, he never expected any of this. To hear people like yourself that were emotionally touched by his story, at his age of 92 is certainly surprising....After a year and a half, the accolades are continuing. At first he thought it won't last and it's just a fad. but now that his story is going international, he's getting more recognition, which is not something that he wants at this age. The love and affection from the reading public has been nonetheless a great experience for him. Thank you again for your kind words.
I’m almost finished with the book and it’s wonderful. I decided to take a break and look up the characters and am so pleased to find this! Please tell your Dad he is such an inspiration!!!
I will do that Amanda!It's great that you posted your thoughts and we always look forward to hearing from people who have been touched by the story. Thank You so much for sharing.
Michael Lella
Michael, I have just finished reading this unexpected story. I can not describe the emotions I am feeling right now. It was impossible for me to put the book down, day or night. I deeply admire your father and how resourceful he is. There are several parts In the story, in which I was at owe to see how he maneged to take brave decisions that put him and others out of harms way.. My heart melted to see how much he suffered and how he decided to keep on living the best he could in spite of his grief. He is an example for life. Please give a hug to your father from me and thank him for sharing his amazing story. He is now an inmortal soul that will live for ever in the minds and hearts of those, who now share his memories.
You for reading the book Heidi,