Picture a storyteller who weaves tales of spirituality, human connection, and resilience with a touch of humor—meet Roland Merullo! Born in Boston in 1953, this American author has crafted a literary legacy that spans novels, memoirs, and essays, captivating readers with his emotional depth and versatile storytelling. From the heartfelt Breakfast with Buddha to the gripping The Talk-Funny Girl, Merullo’s works invite us into worlds where characters overcome adversity with grace and wit.
The Making of Roland Merullo
Roland Merullo grew up in the working-class Italian-American community of Revere, Massachusetts, a setting that deeply influences his writing. With a scholarship to Phillips Exeter Academy and degrees from Brown University in Russian Studies, Merullo’s path to authorship was anything but conventional. He worked as a carpenter, cab driver, and Peace Corps volunteer in Micronesia, gathering life experiences that enrich his narratives. His writing career kicked off in the 1980s with essays in publications like Newsweek, leading to his debut novel, Leaving Losapas, in 1991.
Roland Merullo’s Unforgettable Stories
Merullo’s bibliography is a vibrant tapestry of genres, from literary fiction to spiritual comedies and historical thrillers. Breakfast with Buddha, an international bestseller now in its 20th printing, follows Otto Ringling’s road trip with a Russian monk, blending humor and profound insights into faith. The Talk-Funny Girl, a 2011 ALEX Award winner, tells the story of a young girl escaping abuse in rural New Hampshire, showcasing Merullo’s knack for portraying resilience. His Revere Beach Trilogy—Revere Beach Boulevard, In Revere, In Those Days, and Revere Beach Elegy—paints a nostalgic portrait of his hometown, earning praise for its emotional authenticity. Merullo’s style is reflective yet accessible, often exploring themes of personal growth, spirituality, and the complexities of human relationships.
Never one to be pigeonholed, Merullo surprised fans with Fidel’s Last Days, a political thriller about a plot to assassinate Castro, proving his versatility. His later works, like The Delight of Being Ordinary, a whimsical tale of the Pope and Dalai Lama on a road trip, continue to blend humor with deep philosophical questions, earning critical acclaim for their compassion and maturity.
Why Roland Merullo Matters
Roland Merullo’s impact lies in his ability to make the profound feel personal. His stories resonate with readers seeking meaning in a chaotic world, offering hope through characters who triumph over trauma. With over 750,000 books sold and translations in multiple languages, Merullo has carved a unique niche in American literature. Awards like the Massachusetts Book Award for Revere Beach Elegy and nominations for the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award underscore his influence. His exploration of spirituality, from Buddhism to Christianity, invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs, making his work both timeless and timely.
- Born: September 19, 1953, Boston, Massachusetts
- Key Works: Breakfast with Buddha, The Talk-Funny Girl, Revere Beach Trilogy
- Awards: Massachusetts Book Award, ALEX Award, Maria Thomas Fiction Prize
Snag Breakfast with Buddha and dive into Roland Merullo’s heartfelt, thought-provoking world!