A fine book. A love story really to identity. A treat.

Daniel Finkelstein, journalist and author of Hitler, Stalin, Mum and Dad

At once tender and unflinching… this memoir is a song of self-discovery, celebrating the transformative power in remembering who we are. Michael Volpe demonstrates masterful storytelling with global resonance and local colour. This book will stay long in the memory.

Nitin Sawhney, composer and producer, Booker Prize judge

In gloriously exuberant language Volpe lays bare the essential him… This is a man who has opera in his blood and knows how to move us with a master-director’s artistry through a celebration of the value and delicacy of difference, which is often laugh-out-loud funny.

Donald MacLeod, writer and broadcaster

While Brexit continues tearing apart the nation, Michael has been watching and commenting on what’s been the needless tragedy of our times.

Clare Colvin, opera critic and author

Michael Volpe’s second memoir paints an exuberant picture of his unconventional upbringing in a chaotic yet loving family where he survived, then thrived, thanks to the bonds of heritage. From the south of Italy to west London, this tapestry of emotional extremes and domestic drama echoes the Verismo style of Italian opera that Volpe himself so passionately advocates. As with Puccini or Mascagni, his tragicomic tales of life as an “English” boy from Campanian stock are a spezzatino of laughter, shock, tears and irresistible pleasure.

Mark Valencia, opera critic

A jaw-dropping tale – poignant, powerful, passionate and political. Fasten your psychological seat belt for a wild ride.

Kathy Lette

A fascinating account of identity and belonging. Volpe writes with passion, insight and humour about his Italian family and his life in London. I loved it.

James Hall, author of The Industry of Human Happiness