MSI Press Blog

  Lauretta Avina Lauretta Avina, an Italian American immigrant, has a deep passion for sharing good food with family and friends. She self-published her first cookbook,  Ricette del Mio Paese , in 2011. At the time of publication, Lauretta had been married for 36 years to her husband, a 24-year Army Veteran, now retired. Lauretta is the founder and president of the Franca Barsi Memorial Scholarship, created to honor her late sister by awarding a scholarship annually to a graduating high school senior. Following her sister’s tragic death due to domestic violence, Lauretta became a dedicated advocate and volunteer, educating others about domestic violence prevention and services. She has served as a guest speaker for various social welfare agencies and juvenile probation Victim Awareness Classes. In addition to her advocacy for domestic violence victims, Lauretta is a staunch supporter of military veterans and their families. She also advocates for students in her role as a Guid...

  Today's Publisher's Pride is  From Tuscany with Love   by Lauretta Avina, which reached  #150 in emigrants & immigrants biographies, #231 in emigration & immigration studies, and #325 in culinary biographies & memoirs. Book Description: From Tuscany with Love  is an emotional memoir capturing the heartfelt journey of a scared, little girl from the rolling hills of Lucca to the bustling life in America. Through evocative stories and cherished family recipes, the author pays tribute to the rich culture, love, and flavors that shaped her life. This memoir beautifully blends personal reflections on family, resilience, and the timeless traditions of Tuscan cuisine, offering readers a deeply personal and flavorful look at an immigrant's path to finding a home and a sense of belonging in a new world. A Reviewer's Comment: "a cookbook that brought a tear to my eye" I never had a cookbook that brought a tear to my eye, but this one did. [Lauretta's] s...