Wilson, N.Y. (WBEN) - Popular best-selling author Lorenzo Carcaterra will be making a return to the Town of Wilson this Thursday, August 3 at the Sunset Grill to speak on his new book, "Nonna Maria: The Case of the Stolen Necklace" as well as emphasize the importance of supporting our local libraries.
Carcaterra, an author, journalist and television writer, is probably best known for his literary work "Sleepers", which was adapted into a movie, starring Brad Pitt, Robert De Niro and Kevin Bacon. In addition, he served as a writer and producer for the hit TV show, Law and Order.
LISTEN LIVE TO WBEN:
WBEN spoke with Carcaterra before he caught his flight to Western New York to talk about his recently released book, his love for libraries and why he decided to make a return visit to the small town of Wilson for another event.
"I had such a wonderful time last year, the people were very receptive both to myself and to the book," says Carcaterra speaking on his first trip to Wilson.
Not only does Carcaterra admire the quaintness of the village and the unique lakefront views, he appreciates a well-run library. Carcaterra shares his story of finding a safe space in his local library in Hell's Kitchen, a neighborhood of Manhattan.
"The library was very important to me as a kid and still remains important to me as an adult. There were no silent moments in Hell's Kitchen, the library was the safe haven. I spent a lot of time in that library on 10th Avenue, which is still there. For a number of years, we lived in the in the tenement building right next to the library, so it was like having my own. We couldn't afford to buy books, so the library was the place to go. The library is a special place for me to this day. I donate to them, I go to them and I contribute to them in any way I can."
A Evening with Carcaterra, which starts at 6:30 p.m. ET this Thursday, Aug. 3 at the Sunset Grille, will serve as the official launch of the Wilson Community Library’s “Open Book” fundraising campaign which will run through Oct. 31.
At the event, Carcaterra will be discussing his recently released book, "Nonna Maria: The Case of the Stolen Necklace", the second installment of his Nonna Maria series, which tells the story of Nonna Maria solving two interesting mysteries on the Italian island of Ischia, which Carcaterra frequents regularly and has created characters based on the people he has encountered on the island. The story is based on his real nonna, set in contemporary times.
Lorenzo just completed the third installment of his Nonna Maria series just recently, that book is set to come out next May.
"It's just a lot of fun. And for me, it keeps her alive. I was very close to Nonna, for those seven summers I got to spend with her. And, to be in a room by yourself writing about her, it's almost like she's here with me. It's kind of a nice feeling."
The event is free, but space is limited for the event, RSVP by emailing WilsonCommunityLibrary@gmail.com.
