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by John D. Weigand (Photographer), Penelope Dyan (Author)
Messina, is the capital of Sicily. Founded by the Greeks, it has a long history of having to rebuild itself, giving a strength to its inhabitants, who do not readily give in to any adversity as a people. In 1783, an earthquake destroyed much of the city. It took decades to rebuild. Another earthquake damaged the city on November 16, 1894, and Messina was almost entirely destroyed by an earthquake and tsunami. December 28, 1908, that killed approximately 60,000 people and destroyed most of its ancient architecture. The city was rebuilt in the following year. Then there was further damage from massive Allied air bombardments in 1943, during World War II. But this book is not about that, this book is about how all these things impacted and shaped the minds and souls of the people of Messina, Sicily; and this is the real story behind the story. Practice reading skills through word recognition, and through word repetition and rhyme, and think about Messina's people. Try to imagine the place of antiquity founded by the Greeks and then see more of this place as you watch the free music video that goes with this book, posted on the Bellissimavideo YouTube channel.
