Little Tony of Italy

By Madeline Brandeis

"Little Tony of Italy" by Madeline Brandeis is a captivating tale that follows the adventures of a young Italian boy named Tony and his beloved dog, Tina. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Naples, the story begins with Tony, an orphan living with an old woman, who finds Tina, a stray dog, and instantly forms a bond with her. Unbeknownst to Tony, Tina is a trained dog belonging to a local Marionette show run by Guido. Despite the old woman's protests, Tony's affection for Tina leads him to take her home, only to be confronted by Guido, who demands the dog's return. As Tony navigates his life in Naples, he encounters the Balilla, the Italian Boy Scouts, and is tempted by the promise of belonging and discipline. However, his loyalty to Tina and his fear of leaving her behind keep him from joining. The narrative takes a turn when Tony discovers that Tina, originally named Niki, belongs to a little girl named Anna. Torn between his love for Tina and the realization that taking her would make him a thief, Tony decides to stay near Anna's home, listening to her father's stories about Italy's rich history and culture. Through these stories, Tony learns about the beauty and strength of his homeland, from the ancient wonders of Rome to the artistic legacy of Florence and the graceful charm of Venice. As Tony grapples with his identity and the choices before him, he is faced with the challenge of reconciling his dreams with the reality of his circumstances. The story beautifully weaves themes of love, loyalty, and the quest for belonging, set against the rich cultural tapestry of Italy.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0CDB3NQ12
• ISBN13: 9791041819751
• Release Date: July 2023
• Publisher: Culturea
• Length: 46 Pages
• Weight: 0.16 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 5.8" x 8.3"