Covered in Flour
By Charles Presti
Publication Date: 10th October 2023
Publisher: Charles Presti
Page Length: 220 Pages
Genre: Historical Fiction
It's 1968 in Whisper Haven, and 8-year-old Carl Pozzi’s world is about to change.
For eight-year-old Carl Pozzi, 1968 begins like any other year—playing kickball with friends and enjoying the comforting aroma of Mom's pasta dinners in their predominantly white suburban Whisper Haven home. But when Carl's teacher introduces lessons about racial prejudice and injustice, his worldview cracks wide open.
How far can innocence stretch before it snaps?
As Carl flips through the pages of his 3-ring binder, each lesson serves as a gateway to a journey of self-discovery and understanding. It's an expedition that not only changes him but reshapes his whole concept of family and justice—especially as he watches his father put on a police uniform during one of the most fraught periods in American history.
"Covered in Flour" is not just a heartfelt stroll down memory lane. It's a captivating coming-of-age saga that digs deep beneath the surface of suburban tranquility. It beckons you to reconsider long-held family values and confront the societal norms you've taken for granted.
Written with genuine love, humor, and a tinge of sorrow, this story blends the nostalgia of tradition with the inevitability of change, offering a stirring mix that leaves you pondering long after the last page is turned. This book isn't just a delightful read; it's a catalyst for introspection, freshly baked and served for your soul.
✧ Review ✧
Where do I even begin? From the very first sentence, this novel had me captivated, and I know it sounds clichéd, but it was absolutely brilliant. Written from the perspective of eight-year-old Carl Pozzi, the novel reads like a biography. Carl is a normal eight-year-old, from a normal family. Nevertheless, this academic year broadens Carl's perspective on social matters. Concepts like prejudice and racism, which he has never considered, cause him to pause and reflect.
The illustration of Miss Veezi, Carl's teacher, was masterfully done. She has a significant positive impact on Carl's life, although her ideas frequently conflict with Carl's dad, Nick.
Nick is an unapologetic racist with strong opinions. He is known for his fiery temper, which instils fear rather than respect in his children. Carl feels like he consistently disappoints his dad's high standards, particularly in athletics, but he still has a strong love for his father. I believe Nick's depiction perfectly mirrored the time period.
In my opinion, this book offered valuable insights for its era. Despite my limited knowledge of 1960s America, the author skillfully transports the reader to that time. I thought the writing was very clear and concise and the story was very easy to follow. I'm excited to read about what happens next in Carl's life, so I hope the author writes the next part soon.
Charles Presti, emerging from the sun-drenched shores of Pensacola, Florida, crafts narratives that echo with the richness of his varied life. His journey from a USF College of Medicine graduate to a storyteller is as unconventional as it is inspiring. Drawing from his days as a physician and informatics specialist, Charles infuses his writing with a rare blend of scientific precision and heartfelt emotion. His debut novel, "Covered in Flour," is a vivid tapestry of his Italian-American heritage, his experiences in the whirlwind era of the 1960s, and his personal journey as a gay man. These elements converge to create stories that not only entertain but resonate deeply with themes of family, discovery, and the delicate dance of life's everyday moments.
Charles's passion for storytelling is paralleled only by his commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion. Alongside his husband, Mike Bruce, and their beloved Wheaton Terrier, Zoey, he is a vibrant force and founder of "Sunday's Child," a local charity dedicated to nurturing inclusion and empowering LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities through grants to local charities. A pillar in the Emerald Coast Writers group, he continually explores the nuances of identity, heritage, and a sense of belonging. Discover more about Charles's captivating world and "Covered in Flour" at www.coveredinflour.com, where each story is a window into a life lived fully and authentically.
Thank you so much for hosting Charles Presti today – and for your wonderful review. I'm glad you enjoyed the novel.
ReplyDeleteTake care,
Cathie xx
The Coffee Pot Book Club