The Ascent

The sequel to Carmela Cattuti’s first novel, Between the Cracks, this story invites the reader to accompany Angela Lanza as she builds her life in America during the first half of the 20th century. A Sicilian immigrant, she manages to assimilate into the social life of a small town outside of New York City. Through the horrors of war, domestic tragedy, and raising her sister-in-law’s children, hers is a successful immigrant experience. Angela seeks to transcend organized religion and develop her spirituality. She is able to influence three generations of Americans through her artistic sensibility and a sharpened intuition. The book parallels America’s growth with Angela’s growing sense of who she is in the world.