The Elms Leave (Paperback)

Join the Pollino family as they flee from Chicago's inner city to its suburbs to find that there's no escaping the changing times, the enduring psychological effects of war or growing up in America's most tenuous time of peace. The Elms Leave explores heritage and cultures through the eyes of two children whose experiences take them on a passage from innocence to consciousness through friendships, fidelity, humor, hatred, compassion, faith and strength. A deeply moving novel that brings the 1960’s back to life through the shared joys and crises of immigrant families during a time of social change.

The characters, setting, historic background...as an avid reader, these details often fade to a blur shortly after finishing a book. In this debut novel they became firmly imbedded in my memory. I was so impressed with this author's first novel and hope there will be more in the future. - J. Kocka

I was fortunate enough to get one of the first copies of this book, and it's just amazing. The author walks a line between "brutal reality" and a heartwarming feeling of togetherness that makes you really connect with the characters on a very personal level. The relationships are so deep, and the themes so universal, you can feel yourself going through every event right along with the main character. Life changing moments pepper everyday joys, and remind you of your own friends and family. I was moved to tears a few times, but laughed out loud even more. The innocence of youth and the harshness of those moments when you first become truly aware will evoke memories of your own entrance into consciousness. I totally loved it, and am excited to recommend it to my friends. - B. Secoy