A quest to find her maternal roots led the author down the path of self-discovery. As she explored the truths of the struggles her great-grandmother Mama Nonne endured, Josephine uncovered the vast reserves of resilience displayed by the women in her family. The business acumen and courage of her great-grandparents left her with an overwhelming sense of admiration for the Sicilian immigrants who persevered against great odds. As she learned about the strong bonds forged by family misfortune, she gained a greater understanding of her own mother and of her own childhood.

Woven throughout this story of tragedy and triumph, the author imagines walking in her Mama Nonne's shoes and unpacking the invisible suitcase filled with burdens and self-sacrifice. She pays homage to the strong women who paved the way for later generations by nurturing a legacy of love, hope, family, and the importance of hard work.