Umbertina (1979) by Helen Barolini is a multigenerational saga that traces the lives of four generations of an Italian-American family, focusing particularly on the experiences of women. The novel is inspired by Barolini's own family history, especially her maternal grandmother, Umbertina Nenci, who is introduced as a young woman in rural Calabria in the 1860s. After an arranged marriage and struggles in Italy, Umbertina emigrates to New York with her husband and children, where she rises from poverty to own a thriving business. The novel spans decades, moving to the 1970s, where Umbertina's granddaughter, Marguerite, seeks purpose in her own life. It touches on themes of immigration, family, ethnicity, and the evolving roles of women across generations. The narrative shifts between Umbertina's story, Marguerite's search for identity, and Marguerite's daughter Tina's personal journey, culminating in a poignant reflection on family heritage and personal growth.
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