Discover award-winning contemporary Italian authors with our curated book club series. Featuring celebrated titles available in English translation, each selection brings you inspiring stories set against Italy’s rich cultural and historical landscape. Join us for meaningful discussions and a deeper connection to Italian literature and culture.

In celebration of International Women's Day, our next book is Oliva Denaro (The Unbreakable Heart of Oliva Denaro) by Viola Ardone, available in Italian and English.

NOVEL: The historical book is inspired by the true story of Franca Viola, a young Sicilian girl whose courageous stand shaped the new family law in Italy, from marriage traditions to children’s rights. It celebrates personal resiliency, social change, cultural evolution, political inspiration, unwavering friendship, true love, and the profound bond between father and daughter. Positive and uplifting, the novel brings everyday heroes to the forefront while historical figures and events frame the story. In 2023, on International Women’s Day, Franca Viola was awarded the title of Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic by President Giorgio Napolitano. Accepting the honor, she remarked, “I must thank my father, who supported me, and my husband, who married me despite knowing his life was in danger.”

AUTHOR: Born in Napoli in 1974, Viola Ardone is a high-school teacher of Latin and Italian Literature, and collaborates with educational publishers. Her historical novel “Il treno dei bambini” (The Children's Train), about Italy’s Trains of Happiness initiative, has been translated into 36 languages and adapted into a film by renowned Italian filmmaker, Cristina Comencini. Her next novel, Oliva Denaro (the Unbreakable Heart of Oliva Denaro), is also translated internationally and is inspired by Franca Viola’s life, an Italian woman known for her courage and resilience.

LOCATION: In person in Honolulu. Registered guests will receive an email with address prior to the event. You must have read the book to participate.

TIME: 4pm mingling; 5pm book discussion.

RSVP: A week prior to program.

NOTE: The Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii is not responsible for any liability, cost, and damages which could arise from the programs; and does not provide any refunds, except if it cannot deliver the program, for instance in the case of insufficient enrollment.

QUESTIONS: Email us at info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org.