Growing Up In Corona Queens

Frank Marotta talks about growing up in Corona Queens and his book “Alterations To A Life Jacket”

Seasoned New Yorker shares story of survival and self-discovery Born in Corona, Queens, Frank Marotta grew up in a four-room apartment with his family of eight. “I was born and raised on the mean streets of New York City in the 1950’s,” Marotta said. “Humble beginnings would be an understatement.” Marotta’s home life was rocky at best, and he suffered from the abuse and neglect surrounding him. As a result, Marotta spent the majority of his childhood planning how to escape his toxic and dysfunctional home. Unfortunately for Marotta, the scars of his childhood continued to haunt him even after leaving home, and the psychological trauma affected his ability to make sensible decisions as a young adult. In his new memoir, Alterations to a Life Jacket, Marotta recounts his constant struggles with insecurity, emotional and self-esteem issues. At 21, he married his first real girlfriend who was 11 years his senior and also had 2 children. By the time he was 23, he had 4 children. All this presented him with overwhelming mounting responsibilities. Over the years, Marotta’s demons persisted, yet he persevered. Now on the other side, after years of introspection and self-discovery, Marotta seeks to offer readers insight and guidance on how to face down adversity and not only survive but thrive. “I relate the ups and downs and twists and turns of my life, all the while trying to hold on to my morals, dignity and sanity,” Marotta said. “It’s time to let go of those early years of hopelessness and despair.”