by Alfonso Guerriero (Author)
This work of geolinguistic ethnography was written by Alfonso Guerriero, a noted researcher in the field of Italian American identity studies and, more generally, in geolinguistics and geolinguistic ethnography. This book is noteworthy for its discussion of the role of nicknames in the formation of Italian identity from the earliest period of Italian language history and how these nicknaming practices continue to influence Italian Americans in the 21st century. It is also noteworthy in that it includes short biographies and vignettes of a cross-section of Italian immigrants and other Italian Americans; and, for that reason, can be read, not only for research purposes, but for entertainment, too. Finally, a word of mention needs to be made about the attractive cover design which seems to set the tone for the gently informative content of the book. It was done by the talented illustrator, Jack Miller, a well respected craftsman.