Melville Library Author Series begins on September 28 at 7:30 p.m.

On Thursday, September 28 at 7:30 p.m., faculty author Fred Gardaphe will discuss his new book From Wiseguys to Wise Men in the Center for Italian Studies, Melville Library, E-4340.

As the real American gangsters of yesterday recede into history, their iconic figures loom larger than ever. From Wiseguys to Wise Men studies the cultural figure of the gangster and explores his social function in the construction and projection of masculinity in the United States. In the hands of Italian-American writers, the gangster becomes a telling figure in the tale of American race, gender, and ethnicity - a figure reflecting the experience of an immigrant group and the fantasy of a native population.

Books will be available for purchase at the program. Reception to follow. Sponsored by the University Libraries and the Center for Italian Studies.