Gripping Account on the Spiritual Transformation of St. Maria Goretti’s Murderer Released

I Killed Maria Goretti: The Life and Repentance of Alessandro Serenelli by Pietro Di Donato. Sophia Institute Press (Manchester, NH, 2025). 192 pp., hardcover. $18.95. 

While the title of this book is attention getting, it is also appalling. Yet, this is a powerful true story, which is difficult to put down, and merits reading. 

I can also see where some people may be "triggered" by this work, especially those who have personally suffered due to similar crimes or experienced something of this tremendous pain in the lives of their loved ones.

The beginning, which chronicles Alessandro Serenelli’s demise, portrays how it is due in part to immoral books and images, which are graphically described at times. It also reveals Alessandro’s tragic family dynamic which contributed toward his perversion. However, I Killed Maria Goretti also provides a unique pathway to healing and forgiveness through the heroic witness of a young virgin saint.

There are many devotees of St. Maria Goretti due to her innocence and fortitude. She couldn’t wait to receive Jesus at her First Communion. Maria wanted to become more like Jesus and keep Him close to her heart. When that day finally arrived, she promised Jesus three things: that she would always keep her body and soul pure for Him; that she would often ask Our Lady of Sorrows to help sinners; and that she would pray three Hail Marys each morning and night, asking our Blessed Mother to help her remain pure, strong, and without sin. 

In the second part of the book, which focuses on Alessandro's conversion, he has an epiphany regarding the power of the written words that we consume. Di Donato explains, "He realized the fact that the printed word could be a potent influence for the activation of either good or evil. It was like a substance taken into one’s being; putrid air or poisonous food made for illness and even death; the consummation of profound and humanistic letters evoked healthy, compassionate feelings for life."

Inspired by St. Maria Goretti’s radiance when she appeared to him following her death, Alessandro was transformed and spent the remainder of his life growing in holiness. 

St. Maria kept her First Communion promises. She gave her life reflecting the beauty and purity of Jesus in the Sacred Host. St. Pius X referred to St. Maria as “the child martyr and the St. Agnes of the Twentieth Century.”

Although readers may be "triggered" by the horrendous crime, the Precious Blood of Jesus brings healing. Readers will find hope through the intercession of the young virgin, St. Maria Goretti.

Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Institute Press’ Director of Publicity, Sarah Lemieux at slemieux@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a physical or digital copy of I Killed Maria Goretti and/or to schedule an interview with their spokesperson Michael Lichens.