Paradiso: A Novel tells the remarkable story of hundreds of Italian peasants leaving their ancestral homes in 1880 to pursue dreams of better & richer lives on the other side of the world — the South Pacific.

When the scheme to establish a utopian colony in a remote corner of New Guinea falls apart, and their dreams turn into a nightmare, they abandon the inhospitable jungle and escape to Noumea.

Disease and death follow them until they are accepted as 19th century refugees by Australia.

Based on true events.

Steve Capelin is a descendant of the expedition.

Venero Armanno: ‘A testament to the human will to find a better life… an incredible read.’

Gerard Lee: ‘An extraordinary story, told with love and flair.’

Price: AU$30

ISBN: 978-0-6489051-1-0