Figs & Famiglia

Welcome to Figs & Famiglia! My work highlights Italian culture, my family's Italian American journey, the artistry of cooking, and the planting and harvesting of garden-fresh produce. I grew up with a large backyard garden surrounded by fruit trees. The garden is my father's pride and joy, especially his tomato plants and fig trees! Helping him in the garden provided the perfect opportunity for me to listen to my father share stories of his childhood in Italy, his experiences coming of age as an Italian immigrant in the U.S., and his successes in the sport of wrestling, both as a participant and a coach. These stories evolved into interviews as I grew older, resulting in an inspirational memoir. The second edition, Don't Cry in America: A Memoir of Unexpected Journeys, Family Love, and the Sport of Wrestling, will be released in 2025! 

The Italian word " famiglia," meaning family, is interwoven throughout Italian-American narratives, resonating with many who can relate to these extraordinary and complex bonds. One powerful memory I will always cherish is when my dad gave me a fig to bring for 'show and tell' in kindergarten. My teacher had no idea what it was at the time, and I felt embarrassed. Yet, that experience has transformed into something more significant; it illuminated and evoked a deep sense of nostalgia and connection to my culture and heritage. This sentiment is captured in the title of my website, Figs & Famiglia. Thank you for visiting and joining me on this journey!  —Tonya Russo Hamilton