7th STREET is in Brooklyn, New York. It's a long block with stores and benches that signifies the invisible line; the one that separates the Italian-American and Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods from each other. This story of romance and coming of age takes place during "the last era of innocence"- the early 1960's, before world events erupted into turbulent times. Across 7th Street allows us to experience both the joy of new love and the pain of loss, as told by Vincent, a 20 year old street-wise kid who grows into a man before our very eyes. Vincent is the son of an Italian stonemason and meets Rachel, the daughter of an Orthodox Jewish businessman, while working on her house. Their attraction to each other is undeniable, but very complicated; because although they only live a few blocks away from each other - they are divided by 7th Street. Vincent's friends and family add humor and a genuine picture of loyalty and compassion as they watch Vincent fall in love with a beautiful young woman whose background and experiences couldn't be more different than his. At times, the results are quite touching and amusing. Rachel, who is still controlled by her stern father, begins to realize that the world is a much bigger, more exciting place than the rigid, strict and smothering adult life that has already been defined for her by her parents. Across 7th Street is truly an unforgettable story about the power of destiny and the surprising paths our lives often take. Vincent and Rachel's life plans and unforeseen circumstances take readers on a ride that seems familiar, but changes course at the worst possible time. Similar to books by Nicholas Sparks; Across 7th Street is filled with tender romance, humor and true emotion. It is a realistic look at both the New York Jewish and Italian-American ethnic cultures in the early 1960's.