MAHONING VALLEY Local author writes more on Italian immigrants

Readers responded to the first book with personal stories, prompting a sequel.
By SHERRI L. SHAULIS
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
LIBERTY -- The author of a book about Italian immigrants in the Mahoning Valley's Brier Hill area will mark the debut of his second book with a press conference.
The release of Poland resident Tony Trolio's "Brier Hill, USA: The Sequel" kicks off with a press conference and book signing at 10 a.m. Monday at Joe's Restaurant on Belmont Avenue.
"If they had five 'Rocky' movies and three 'Godfathers,' I can call this book 'The Sequel,'" Trolio says with a laugh.
Trolio researched the lives and histories of many Italian immigrants who came to America at the turn of the century and settled in Brier Hill.
Readers' interest
The first book sold more than 3,500 copies and prompted many readers to contact Trolio, asking that stories about their ancestors also be recorded.
"I received story contributions for the new book from over 100 readers asking me to tell their stories of their ancestors in Brier Hill," he said. "My goal is to have the history of Brier Hill accurately documented and recorded in all the Mahoning Valley's libraries and book stores."
The first book is available in all public libraries throughout the Mahoning Valley or can be purchased from Jimmy's Italian Store in Liberty, Rulli Bros. in Boardman and Austintown, Anzivino's Italian Food store in Boardman, The Book Nook in Warren, Borders in Niles, Open Me First in Cornersburg and Boardman, the Cornersburg Italian Food Store and Trolio's in Poland, the author's T-shirt business.
The sequel will be available for purchase at the press conference and then at the same stores, Trolio said.
For information on the press conference or to make a reservation call (330) 757-2779.
slshaulis@vindy.com