City of Steel... Hearts of Gold, My Lackawanna

Description

This story takes place in the city of Lackawanna during the 1930s. It is a story dedicated to the men and women of Lackawanna, a small steel city in upstate New York. It is loosely centered around the life and times of one of its prominent citizens, Ralph J. Galanti, Sr. The events of the book take place during the years of 1932 and 1933. It also touches upon the early years in Lackawanna, the Western New York area and the migration of the book’s characters from their homeland Italy. Many facets of these incredible years will be touched upon: the Great Depression, steel making, ethnic cultures, the political atmosphere, crime, home-grown stories of its citizens and of course, the famous Our Lady of Victory Basilica and its legendary founder, Father Nelson Baker. The book relates stories of many of the immigrants and first generation Americans who lived in an era that Tom Brokaw called, “The Greatest Generation.” Many parts of this book are true to life and factual in content. Other parts are stories I have heard throughout my life and may be factual but also exaggerated. Some parts are a total figment of my imagination that was developed through the association with many of these characters in the book. This is not to diminish the special people who were part of this era but only to bring out what a wonderful era it was even though there were many hardships. Although this story is fictional and loosely based on some actual characters, I hope that those of you who read this book will capture the essence of the era, the courage of its people and the enjoyment they had in spite of the adversities of the times. This is a unique tale of how good triumphs over evil. Review: A HEART-WARMING BOOK - This is an easy-read, pleasant, heart-warming book. For those who grew up in a small city or town, you will especially enjoy it. Mr. Galanti transports the reader back to the Great Depression era and depicts the growth of a city in its infancy along with its primarily immigrant population. It is written in a style that is smooth and "cozy" and while it is fictional, many names and places are real as are the historical facts. I particularly liked the chapters regarding Monsignor Nelson Baker, truly a humble servant of God and a dedicated shepherd of Our Lady of Victory Basilica, his parishioners and the downtrodden. Mr. Galanti captures the essence of what makes a small city strong; its people, their customs and love for their fellow man and hometown. Lackawanna, in the 1930's, was a League of Nations. Almost every nationality and race was represented in its residents which contributed to its diverse flavor, customs and growth. The book offers a little bit of everything for a reader's taste -- action, adventure, comedy and strong, determined characters with caring hearts. As a woman lucky enough to be born and raised in Lackawanna, I have first-hand knowledge as to the wonderful people who live and flourish in the small but spirited City of Lackawanna. I commend and thank Mr. Galanti for taking us on an earnest and page-turning ride through the hearts and minds of the gentle souls who lived, loved, worked and helped Lackawanna grow into a city of steel. If you want to enjoy a relaxing evening with an uplifting, toasty book, “City of Steel, Hearts of Gold – My Lackawanna” will not disappoint you. Definitely treat yourself and purchase a copy. It will leave you feeling full and content. 