Welcome to Nonna's kitchen where good food, good stories, and an Italian grandmother's straight-from-the-heart advice are available to all who wander in.

During World War II, little Vincent Iezzi wandered in constantly to pull up a chair and satisfy his heart, soul and stomach at his grandmother Nonna's table. Vincent's father was away with the troops and his mother worked, but Nonna was always on the spot with a funny story, an encouraging tale, a cup of coffee and a plate of biscotti.

Nonna's South Philadelphia neighborhood was a slice of Italy, and her house, crowded with aunts, uncles and cousins, was a little village. Sometimes an oasis of peace with vigil candles flickering constantly in silent prayer for all in harm's way and sometimes a scene of bedlam with a dozen live crabs escaping from the grocery bag and dashing for the living room, Nonna's house was home to many hearts.

Come to her table now and join in the laughter, wisdom and warmth of family and friends.

Paperback: 172 pages