An Author's Inspiration by Charles Presti

 

An Author's Inspiration
By Charles Presti

Writing about the backdrop for "Covered in Flour" takes me back to 1968, an unforgettable chapter in American history. It was a year that mixed up everything in a tumultuous blend of social unrest, political shocks, and a war that seemed to never end. Now, imagine seeing all of this through the eyes of an eight-year-old—me, back then. My dad, gearing up in his riot control outfit, is one of those memories that just sticks with you. He had this gear, right? A white helmet, a wooden baton, and the sap—a heavy, metal-filled club. For a kid, this was more than just clothing; it was a signal that big, serious things were happening.

Our family life kind of revolved around these events. We'd watch the news, seeing cities burning and people marching, and then we'd sit at the dinner table and talk about it. I remember feeling this mix of fear and fascination, trying to make sense of it all. My dad, preparing to face the riots, became my personal link to the chaos outside our front door.

Reflecting on this as an adult, and writing "Covered in Flour," I dove deep into what 1968 meant. It wasn't just about recounting the big headlines; it was about feeling that year, understanding the tension, the hopes, and the fears. I pored over family stories, historical records, and tried to capture the spirit of the times. My aim was to bring readers into that year, to feel the upheaval and see how it shaped a young boy's view of the world. It's this journey from innocence to a broader understanding of society that I wanted to share, all set against a backdrop of a country at a crossroads.

Covered in Flour
By Charles Presti

Publication Date: 10th October 2023

Publisher: Charles Presti

Page Length: 220 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

It's 1968 in Whisper Haven, and 8-year-old Carl Pozzi’s world is about to change.

 

For eight-year-old Carl Pozzi, 1968 begins like any other year—playing kickball with friends and enjoying the comforting aroma of Mom's pasta dinners in their predominantly white suburban Whisper Haven home. But when Carl's teacher introduces lessons about racial prejudice and injustice, his worldview cracks wide open.

How far can innocence stretch before it snaps?

As Carl flips through the pages of his 3-ring binder, each lesson serves as a gateway to a journey of self-discovery and understanding. It's an expedition that not only changes him but reshapes his whole concept of family and justice—especially as he watches his father put on a police uniform during one of the most fraught periods in American history.

"Covered in Flour" is not just a heartfelt stroll down memory lane. It's a captivating coming-of-age saga that digs deep beneath the surface of suburban tranquility. It beckons you to reconsider long-held family values and confront the societal norms you've taken for granted. 

Written with genuine love, humor, and a tinge of sorrow, this story blends the nostalgia of tradition with the inevitability of change, offering a stirring mix that leaves you pondering long after the last page is turned. This book isn't just a delightful read; it's a catalyst for introspection, freshly baked and served for your soul.

Pick up your copy of 
Covered in Flour
 HERE!

Charles Presti

Charles Presti, emerging from the sun-drenched shores of Pensacola, Florida, crafts narratives that echo with the richness of his varied life. His journey from a USF College of Medicine graduate to a storyteller is as unconventional as it is inspiring. Drawing from his days as a physician and informatics specialist, Charles infuses his writing with a rare blend of scientific precision and heartfelt emotion. His debut novel, "Covered in Flour," is a vivid tapestry of his Italian-American heritage, his experiences in the whirlwind era of the 1960s, and his personal journey as a gay man. These elements converge to create stories that not only entertain but resonate deeply with themes of family, discovery, and the delicate dance of life's everyday moments.

Charles's passion for storytelling is paralleled only by his commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion. Alongside his husband, Mike Bruce, and their beloved Wheaton Terrier, Zoey, he is a vibrant force and founder of "Sunday's Child," a local charity dedicated to nurturing inclusion and empowering LGBTQ+ and  other marginalized communities through grants to local charities. A pillar in the Emerald Coast Writers group, he continually explores the nuances of identity, heritage, and a sense of belonging. Discover more about Charles's captivating world and "Covered in Flour" at www.coveredinflour.com, where each story is a window into a life lived fully and authentically.

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