It reminded me a bit of Corniglia in the Cinque Terre, yet different. Like the book, Roseto is hill town nestled in an enclave of low mountains, winding roads, and thick-walled homes to keep out the heat. L.L.: I had to do a little research and learned Roseto is indeed a real, southeastern medieval town in Italy. I still had fond memories of the hometown that I left as a child. It seemed reminiscent of a simpler time and place. I chose my hometown in Italy as a backdrop because the story has a meaning or a moral. Mary Feliciani: Leslie, thank you for having me back and making me feel at home. Thank you! I’m just in love with THE MAGIC LEAF, mostly because I love Italy, but you’re Canadian…though guessing by your last name, you’re also Italian? Can you talk a bit about your inspiration for setting THE MAGIC LEAF in Italy? Leslie Lindsay: Mary, it’s a pleasure to have you join us again.

I’m pleased to have Mary back this week to chat with us about her book, THE MAGIC LEAF, her love for Italy, and how we can help our children cultivate friendship. Yet it’s Mary’s deft use of sensory detail that brings the story to life, thrusting me back to an ancient time when the values of friendship and belonging were just as resonate then as they are now. Set in another time (medieval), and another place (Italy), the message is universal. Having been an Italian aficionado for most of my life (don’t ask why, according to my Ancestry DNA results, I’m only 1% Italian), I was enamored with this children’s story by Mary Felicani, who I can assume is Italian, penned this charming story of a young Italian boy, Carlo and his quest for friendship. Throw in a story about friendship and I’m there. You just have to mention the words “Italy” and “leaf” and you’ve got me.

The Magic Leaf by Mary Feliciani