Read more
**Historical Light and Shadow in New York**" delves into a multitude of perspectives, revealing the nationalist and immortal stories of various figures. These include Prek Peter Cali, a sworn nationalist; Xhafer Deva, an anti-communist former Minister of the Interior; Abas Kupi, an undefeated patriot; Hamid Toshi (Saiti), a martyred anti-communist paratrooper; "Kim" Philby, an intelligence officer who passed top secret information to the B.R.S.S. to overthrow the pro-Soviet government of communist Albania; Marie Shllaku, a self-sacrificing martyr for ethnic Albania; and Father Benardin Llupi o.f.m. who famously said, "Death like this, death for Albanianism, is a golden cup."
The book also explores the insights of Prof. Sami Repishti, who noted, "I have not forgotten anything, but I have learned a lot: Albania today lives in the basin of injustice." Additionally, it chronicles the stories of Kolec Pikolini, an invincible anti-communist who passed away in Detroit; the selection of the music "Piano on a Moon" by NASA for the planet Mars, resonating with pure Albanian feeling; Dr. Peter Ndoc Pepa, a respected son of Shkodra; Hane Sina and his son, the journalist Beqir Sina, as icons of suffering; and the communist system's impact on the Albanian community in the USA.
The book further examines varying perspectives such as Recep Tayyip Erdogan's views on assimilation, the reflections of Prof. Arshi Pipa on Albanians in America, and a tribute to the talented painter Enrrik Mendoja on the 43rd anniversary of his passing. It includes an interview with Tomë Mrijaj, an activist and intellectual, and highlights Qazim Mulleti, a nationalist student proficient in 8 foreign languages.
The narrative also touches on encounters such as Noli's interactions with dissident anti-communist intellectuals, the story of the Great Door of Marash and Mri Dedja of Märrnacaj in the USA, and the experiences of Albanian extremists in the context of global conflicts. It pays homage to figures like Prof. dr. Anastas Janullatosi, Prof. dr. Mentor Quku, and Dom Ndre Mjeda, shedding light on their contributions and legacies.
The book concludes with stories of the Berisha family's journey from the communist era in Albania to present-day achievements, including their granddaughter becoming the mayor of the Fairview Municipality in New Jersey. It also features accounts of Ismet Uk Sadiku Berisha, Father Dovlet, and Shkodran Alban Pepa, offering a diverse tapestry of Albanian experiences and histories.
