Family

In the Shoemaker's Wife, the author examines the nature of family. Here family is depicted as the vehicle and institution of love itself. The real warmth and love that exists in many Italian families is in evidence throughout. Family relations appear on every page. Perhaps it's the emphasis on family that undergirds and supports new immigrants to America. This is another facet of the ethnic community where people can feel safe and supported in a strange, new land. The strength, resilience, and durability of family are beneficial for all.

The author demonstrates the power of healthy families sustain and nurture members and how the lack of a functional family unit places great stress on members in the case of what had seemed like an ideal family with the Lazzaris. The family of Carlo and Caterina and their sons Ciro and Eduardo disintegrates when Carlo is killed...