Former Rhode Islander Freitas brings readers into the core of Italian society in this novel set on Federal Hill in Providence. The main character Antonia, is a sophomore in a Catholic high school, likes to turn to the saints for help. For eight years she has had a campaign of writing to the Vatican with suggestions about areas in which patron saints could be appointed, such as kissing and figs. She has also done extensive research into the existing saints so she can try to live up to their example ... and know who to pray to for each problem she faces.

And her life is full of challenges. Her mother is the widowed owner of the most famous Italian grocery in the state and is well known for her talent with making homemade pastas. Besides helping in the store, Antonia is limited by the strict rules her mother has put in place to make sure she is a good Italian lady.

The book is filled with fun humor as it provides a glimpse into what it is like to be an Italian American living in a small city. Growing up, some of my friends were from traditional Italian families, and this brought back so many memories of them.

One really refreshing thing about this teen novel is that it presents some regular teen issues (first kiss, gaining independence, balancing tradition against individual needs) without becoming totally dark. In fact, everything is presented along with the humor and spunk of an interesting and strong narrator.