Forever, Sophia: An Intimate Portrait

📙 The fascinating inside story of Sophia Loren is told here for the first time by journalist Alan Levy who has known the star for ten years. Sophia's life has not been an easy one. Growing up illegitimate in the slums of Naples, she saw horrendous conditions in World War II and then, with her mother, moved to Rome where she struggled to support herself as a film extra. Then she was discovered by Carlo Ponti who made her into the star we all know today. Life with Carlo Ponti, however, has also had its problems. Although very much in love, they were unable to marry for many years as Carlo could not get a divorce. Once married Sophia had several miscarriages and eventually spent almost nine months in bed before she succeeded in giving birth to her first son, thus achieving her life-long yearning for children. Sophia Loren is Italy's living legend, a household name who is known and loved all over the world. Behind the legend, she is a woman of many faces. This is the biography of Sofia Scicolone the child; blossoming into beautiful film extra and starlet, Sofia Lazzaro; blooming into Sophia Loren, international film artist and winner of an Oscar; and flourishing as Signora Ponti, devoted wife and mother of two sons.