The novel opens with a highly complicated childbirth scene. It is late at night, and both the mother and the baby are in critical condition. It is June 24, 1950, and we are in the Scanzano neighborhood of Castellammare di Stabia.
This is how the novel “Vico Fissale-la Ricerca” begins, a reissue of the first novel by Camilla Scala, a director and playwright from Castellammare di Stabia. The exclusive announcement was made by the publishing house “1886 Publishing,” founded by Alfonso Galdi, during the third edition of the Vietri sul Mare Book Fair, held from May 24 to 26. The novel, written in a refined and engaging style, tells the story of the author’s two ancestral families from the late 19th century to the first half of the 20th century. It begins with her parents and traces back to her grandparents and great-grandparents. This way, it also narrates the history of the city of Castellammare, the backdrop where stories of lives, defeats, bereavements, farewells, coincidences, and everything that constitutes human life intertwine. Castellammare itself, depicted in moments of serenity in the late 19th century and more troubled times in the post-World War II era, becomes the locus of memories for not just one family, but many families who can see themselves reflected in it. It is, in essence, a “Remembrance” where readers can recognize places, streets, alleys, and even characters who actually existed.
Scala’s novel was previewed at the 3rd edition of the Vietri sul Mare Book Fair. During the presentation, moderated by Piera Di Salvio, writer and editorial consultant for “1886 Publishing,” the author revealed her inspirations behind the editorial work, primarily the need to delve into her own history by exploring the stories of her ancestors.
The fair, held from May 24 to 26, once again proved to be an excellent showcase for both emerging and established publishers and authors. The patroness was Regina Schrecker, and among the notable guests was journalist and writer Carmen La Sorella, who, in addition to presenting her new book, discussed journalism, women, and culture. “It was a magical moment,” commented Camilla Scala about the event, “there were many people in the room connected to the story of Vico Fissale. We read some pages aloud and we all got a bit emotional, even those hearing about it for the first time. I believe the strength of this book lies in the strong emotions it evokes in those who read it.” “Camilla Scala’s new work,” added Di Salvio, “represents an important contribution to contemporary fiction and confirms the author’s talent in telling deep and engaging stories.”
