S.J. Tagliareni
Author & Storyteller
Weaving history, faith, and family into stories that illuminate the human spirit — from the sun-drenched hills of Sicily to the darkest chapters of the 20th century.
Newest Release
My Sicilian Father
Exile in America, the Promised Land
A Novel
A sweeping, multi-generational historical novel that traces the odyssey of a Sicilian immigrant family as they navigate the trials, triumphs, and transformations of 20th century America. Beginning in the sun-drenched hills of Sicily, the narrative follows a proud patriarch who leaves behind his ancestral homeland in search of opportunity across the Atlantic.Through his eyes — and later through the voices of his children and grandchildren — the story unfolds as a testament to resilience, sacrifice, and enduring love.
"From the arresting opening, My Sicilian Father weaves a son's profound admiration for his revered patriarch within the historical contexts and dramatic events of the last century. This is an enchanting work of a son's cherished memories, well written and well worth reading, particularly in these days when immigration has become a critical issue concerning our national identity and moral values."— Michael Kaufman, Professor of Literature
More Books by S.J. Tagliareni
On The Corner
A Novel of Lifelong Friendship
A novel about ordinary men who lived extraordinary lives, confronted by social transformation in a convulsive moment in American history. Their friendship challenges each of them to lighten up, truth up, and man up to face their fears, healing old wounds and reviving their dreams.
"An uplifting and often engrossing testament to the power of enduring friendship through the decades... Michael and Sal are immensely memorable characters, and their personalities will make readers care about them instantly."— Kirkus Review
The Architect of Auschwitz
A page-turning novel whose characters will live in your thoughts long after you finish reading it. Follow Gerhardt Stark, a young German architect whose progression from a wealthy youth to a key player in the plan to create a Jew-free Europe sheds light on the complexity of human darkness.
"The Architect of Auschwitz is a well-told story about the Nazi rise to power, the progression of the Holocaust, and more specifically one man's indoctrination and gradual but permanent slide into immorality and evil."— The Historical Fiction Company
The Cross or the Swastika
Follow a diverse cast of characters through the events of World War II and the Holocaust. Settings range from the eternal city of Rome to a prison cell in London, from Denmark to the Russian front. An exploration of the role of the church, the depths of human depravity, and the inner strength needed to sustain individuals in times of deep crises.
"S. J. Tagliareni is masterful in his story-telling. The Cross or the Swastika weaves a story of the choices people were faced with during the Holocaust. It leaves the reader with a clearer understanding of that horrific time in the world's history. It is a compelling book that is hard to put down once you begin reading."
Hitler's Priest
Hans Keller was always highly intelligent — so much so that he learned to place little value in what school or church tried to teach him. After a chance meeting with Josef Goebbels, atheistic Hans is offered a key role in shaping the future of the new Germany: providing essential influence within the Catholic Church.
"Hitler's Priest, a captivating novel, offers its readers more than an eyeopening and potent story: this book contains profound observations and unforgettable life lessons."— Arthur Kurzweil
Roving Leadership
Creating Choices for Meaning & Inspiration
Roving Leadership is based on the conviction that sustained organizational success is not merely the responsibility of one or a few persons in charge. It is a process that creates positive outcomes by utilizing the skills and talents of the entire organization.
"Dr. Tagliareni's concept of 'Roving Leadership' is a valuable contribution to the field of clinical psychology! This book is groundbreaking work that helps change dysfunction that is so common in modern corporate America."— Dr. Mary Lelwica
About the Author
Salvatore J. Tagliareni is a storyteller, writer, business consultant, and former Catholic priest. For over 30 years he has successfully engaged private and public companies in their search for outstanding strategic performance. A gifted speaker, he is blessed with a great sense of humor and can invigorate an audience with insights on life and leadership.Profoundly influenced by his relationship with Dr. Viktor Frankl, the celebrated psychiatrist and author of Man's Search for Meaning, Sal brings a deep sense of purpose and meaning to everything he writes. His novels explore the intersections of faith, family, history, and the enduring bonds that shape who we are.With six published books spanning historical fiction, memoir, and leadership, Sal continues to write with the conviction that stories have the power to change lives. He is not a one-time author — he is a voice for the stories that need to be told.
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