Loutellstales

Welcome to the Official Website of Lou Basenese, Jr.

Step into a world where the divine flavors of faith, food, family, and storytelling harmoniously unite, as celebrated by author Lou Basenese, Jr. His literary works pay homage to the time-honored traditions of Italian-American life, the indelible impact of family legacies, and the communal tables that have sustained generations.

The Book

Between the Sauce, Stars and Heaven

In this heartfelt memoir, Lou Basenese, Jr. invites readers to embark on a captivating journey through small-town roots, the invincible spirit of unforgettable uncles, the unwavering power of faith, and the cherished Sunday dinners that have woven together the fabric of generations. From the quaint streets of Netcong, New Jersey, to the very brink of eternity, Between the Sauce, Stars and Heaven is a true story of joy, tragedy, laughter, and the redemptive power of healing.

Coming soon

Upcoming Works

Stay tuned for Lou’s forthcoming literary creations:

The Porch of Saints and Secrets

A richly layered, beautifully rendered novel that delves into the intricate tapestry of family secrets, small-town loyalties, and the sacred legacy of Italian saints.

Rebel & The Rooster

A children’s adventure series brimming with charm, curiosity, and discovery—a delightful and captivating journey that will inspire young readers to explore the wonders of the world around them.

About Lou

I’m Lou Basenese, Jr.—son of Netcong, keeper of stories, and grateful survivor.

Lou Basenese, Jr. is a devoted husband, proud father & grandfather, author, entrepreneur, and master storyteller whose life and works are deeply rooted in the tight-knit community of Netcong, New Jersey—a quaint town where porches served as confessionals, saints were adorned with flickering candles, and a generous helping of sauce was as essential as oxygen. Born and raised in this charming, Italian-American enclave, Lou has been shaped by the rich cultural tapestry that surrounded him, infusing his stories with the vibrant voices of his ancestors, the unbreakable spirit of his uncles, and the timeless values that forged him.

Testimonials

What Readers Are Saying

These heartfelt words from readers—friends, neighbors, and fellow Italian-Americans—capture just how deeply Between the Sauce, the Stars and Heaven has touched lives. From laughter and tears to memories of Nonas, Netcong, and Sunday dinners, this book is more than a memoir—it’s a shared experience of love, legacy, and home.

Got mine yesterday. Very powerful. Excellent job Lou and everyone involved.

Read the first 4 chapters today. Brings back memories of my grandfather and his voyage to America. Well written, Louie.

Mine arrived Friday and I just finished it. Wonderful book— inspirational, funny, and filled with great stories that any Netcong-raised Italian American can relate to.

Louie's story is soul-stirring. It brought me back to growing up in Netcong, with family, friends, and the warmth, laughter, and tears. Thank you for capturing it.

Just finished reading this book. It was wonderful. Excellent job, Lou.

Makes me feel thankful for my hometown. Going to have John bring it down to Palumbo's on Saturday!

I'm only on page 14 and already I can smell my Nona's sauce simmering and my Nono's bread coming out of the oven."

Reading it now—can't put it down! Netcong will always be my home. Thank you, Lou, for capturing the memories of our small family town so well. Inspirational book!

Wonderful, heartwarming, nostalgia-filled book. Thank you, Lou.

Thank you for writing this book. You certainly know Netcong!"

Reading it now. I remember my parents being friends with your parents. I love all the happy memories. Makes me smile.

Great story! I hope Sam and everyone at Palumbo's Barber Shop reads it.

Wonderful book filled with memories, laughter, and tears. Great job.

Just shared this with my family on Facebook I'm halfway through. It's taking me forever because I'm crying and laughing and just living it and loving it.

Media & Speaking

Speaking Engagements, Media Appearances, and Book Events

Lou Basenese is available for a range of interviews, podcasts, book club appearances, and speaking engagements focused on his areas of expertise, including memoir writing, preserving family legacies, entrepreneurship, Italian-American heritage, and navigating the complexities of personal loss.