When big bandits hold a gun in one hand and a pen in the other, is it better to read them or move on? Yes, you should read if the text opens up a space for reflection and sheds light, in its own way, on an episode in social and political history. This is the case with this story by Notarnicola, whose journey takes place in the historical context of Italy in the 1960s and 1970s, marked by the emergence of urban guerrilla warfare and political violence. He was a precursor to it before later considering the actions in which he was involved, if not with remorse, at least with circumspection. Who wants to know the Italy of the XXth century must leaf through the 1970s, estimates Erri De Luca (himself engaged during several years in the revolutionary political action) in his preface. This book is indispensable in this area.”
