Rosangela Garofalo Crispino's fourteen-year dream has become a reality as she launches her children's picture book Alina Piccolina and her adventures with Zietta on Thursday 29 September at 7:00pm at City Hall, The Riddoch Arts & Cultural Centre.
Celebrating the Italian language, culture, tradition, food, family, and love, Alina Piccolina holds a special place in Rosangela's heart.
"It originates from my passion for my Italian culture. The desire came from my relationship with my niece Alina – on whom the character is based," explains Rosangela.
"At a young age, my niece was obsessed with Dora the Explorer. I wondered why there wasn't an Italian equivalent, so I took it on as a challenge!"
Rosangela created Alina Piccolina as an educational character to deliver a strong message on belonging.
"The sense of belonging is my philosophy, and I believe that when we understand and know our heritage and culture, we gain a sense of who we are.” Author Rosangela Garofalo Crispino
In 2018 Rosangela's dream started on the path to reality when she participated in the Flinders University New Venture Institute Venture Dorm (eNVIes) course and was voted The People's Choice Award. The award validated Rosangela's belief that the children's book was relatable and would be supported by the community.
A chance encounter saw Alina Piccolina illustrated by local Illustrator and Graphic Designer Tahlee Chant.
"Illustrating Alina Piccolina has me creating more art, more designs than ever before," said Tahlee.
The first in a series of books to come, the public is invited to the official launch, with $2.00 from each book sale going towards the Stand Like Stone Foundation as an educational fund so that the money stays in the region.
This a free event with bookings available by contacting the Mount Gambier Library on 8721 2540 or booking online at mountgambier.sa.gov.au/library under ‘Programs and Events’.
Media contact: Media and Communications Coordinator Jamie McDonald, jmcdonald@mountgambier.sa.gov.au or 08 8721 2401.
Content authorised by City of Mount Gambier CEO Sarah Philpott, 10 Watson Terrace, Mount Gambier SA 5290.
