I received this book as a gift from work one Christmas. I chose it because my ancestors came here from Italy and I wanted to learn about them. It took me forever to read, though, because it was unwieldy--impossible to carry around and read in the places that I'd normally read a book (the gym, in line at the DMV, etc).
The last couple of chapters were a couple of long lists, disguised as paragraphs. But I loved the first chapters. I learned a lot about Italy in the 1800s which helped me empathize with immigrants then and now. There are so many things that make people refugees. It isn't just wartime or prejudice, but governments, weather, and other hard times. ( )

If you have italian or siciliian ancestors,this book is a must read. Describes the trials of walking away from a difficult life and beginning life in a new country, a life not much better than what was left behind.
Great history of emigration and the settlements they made here. This book will make you proud of their sacrifice and what they accomplished.The italians and sicilians did so much for America in its best days! Very proud history and legacy. ( )