Book excerpt: Claudia lives in a very small town in Southern Italy where the cobblestone streets are so narrow you can't have a car, not that there is any money for one. No money, no food and barely any education. All around her is poverty and nothing to do but marry a local boy and start a family of her own. But Claudia has a feeling that there's more for her out in the world. One fateful visit from a distant relative and suddenly she knows what she needs to do. Despite all the obstacles she knows she will face, Claudia sets out on a very difficult and unknown journey that challenges her every step of the way. A journey that will either be the best thing she's ever done or the biggest mistake of her life. Beyond the Cobblestones is a heartwarming tale based on true stories told to the author by her parents. It reminds us that it is important to stay true to oneself; to follow one's dreams. Readers will feel inspired by this story to take action in their own lives and follow their passions! →"Luisa Livorno Ramondo has written a personal, deeply felt immigration story that has resonance in the moment. For those readers who would like a first hand account of how one girl turned a life of poverty, pain and betrayal into a life of aspiration and meaning, this is the story for you! Beyond the Cobblestones is a place where dreams come true in a new home called America." -Adriana Trigiani, New York Times bestselling author of The Good Left Undone → "In Beyond the Cobblestones, Luisa Livorno Ramondo beautifully captures the essence of poverty and the dreams of escape which it inspires. From the hardest of soil, a flower emerges in a compelling coming-of-age story told through a compelling prose style that reflects the beauty of the narrative. This heartfelt story is a must-read for anyone who is inspired by tales of perseverance and the spirit to pursue dreams." - Andrew Cotto, award-winning author and regular contributor to The New York Times →"Beyond The Cobblestones is a portal into the mind, heart and soul of my immigrant Italian grandparents. The storylines and landscapes transported me into the struggles and triumphs of hearty people deeply committed to family and fiercely determined to make life better." -Cara Bradley, author of On The Verge: Wake Up, Show Up and Shine. →"This story really pulls you in and makes you want to follow her journey as she figures out how to get to America." -Anne E. Hill, author of Lerner Books