Loving & Leaving by Jack Lucci (Book Review #1641)

In the debut installment of his memoir, author Jack Lucci invites readers on a gripping exploration of his tumultuous coming-of-age, both in the heart of America and beyond its borders. Hailing from a small town in southeastern Washington known for its wine and wheat fields, Lucci’s narrative unfolds into a captivating journey marked by self-discovery, indulgence, and profound life lessons.

The memoir begins with Lucci’s relocation to Chicago, aptly referred to as “the Land” throughout the book. The city becomes a pivotal backdrop for his college experience, offering a stark contrast to his small-town roots. However, before delving into the complexities of urban life, Lucci takes readers on a transformative sojourn to Italy. In Florence, amidst the cobblestone streets and ancient architecture, he confronts the challenges of learning Italian with a half-hearted commitment, prioritizing wine, cigarettes, and romantic escapades.

His extended stay in Italy, working as a farmhand, becomes a crucible of growth as he gains insights into life’s struggles while immersing himself in the ways of horses. The narrative seamlessly shifts back to the United States, where Lucci attends Roosevelt University, a place built on the concept of social justice. Here, the allure of Chicago introduces him to a world of excitement and substances, marking the beginning of a phase dominated by indulgence in Adderall, cocaine, and alcohol.

The memoir takes an unflinchingly honest look at Lucci’s intense relationship with a woman named Alina—a liaison characterized by drug use, heated domestic spats, and volatile emotions. Despite the chaos, he begins to grasp the fundamental truth that “life is a continual process of learning.”

Lucci’s narrative is refreshingly candid, offering a unique blend of rich details and engrossing storytelling. The memoir avoids monotony by swiftly transitioning from one setting to another, keeping readers hooked on the rollercoaster of Lucci’s experiences. While the themes of city life and experimentation with substances are not entirely new, the author’s nuanced recollections and vivid descriptions breathe life into these familiar tropes.

The memoir’s strength lies in Lucci’s ability to distil profound lessons from seemingly ordinary moments—a spilt wheelbarrow in the Italian countryside or the sobering effects of substance abuse. Readers will appreciate the author’s self-awareness, particularly when reflecting on his education at Roosevelt University and the realization that, despite feeling knowledgeable, he was only just beginning his journey.

In conclusion, “Loving & Leaving” is an engaging and nuanced recollection of a restless young man’s journey. Jack Lucci’s memoir is a compelling narrative that transcends the typical coming-of-age story, offering readers a front-row seat to the highs, lows, and invaluable lessons of a life in perpetual motion.

Written by Jeyran Main

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