Book Launch & Author Conversation: The Essential Eight by Dr. F. Tony Di Giacomo

Parents and teachers: join lifelong educator, researcher, and founder of Novella Prep Dr. Tony DiGiacomo for an engaging and practical conversation about raising capable, confident children in today’s fast-changing world. Drawing from his new book, The Essential Eight™: The Defining 8 Hours of Student Life, Dr. DiGiacomo offers research-based insights and real-world strategies to help parents support their children’s emotional growth, independence, resilience, and long-term success—without burnout, fear, or unrealistic expectations.

This event is designed to be accessible, conversational, and immediately useful, offering parents concrete takeaways they can apply right away at home and school.

What Parents Will Gain:
– Practical strategies for fostering independence and confidence
– Guidance on balancing academic pressure with emotional well-being
– Tools for supporting children through stress, transitions, and setbacks
-A clearer understanding of what truly helps kids thrive long-term, through college admissions and beyond

The evening will include a moderated conversation followed by time for audience questions and discussion.

Who Should Attend:
– Parents and caregivers of elementary through high school–aged children
– Educators and school professionals

Anyone interested in child development and parenting in today’s world

Transform your approach to education and raise capable, independent young adults ready to thrive.

More info: https://novellaprep.com/essentialeightbook/

About the Author:

Dr. Tony DiGiacomo With 20 years of experience working in admissions, development, teaching, and researching, Novella Prep founder and educator Dr. Di Giacomo brings a depth of relevant knowledge to students, families, and education professionals.

Dr. Di Giacomo pursued education-focused degrees, first at Boston University, where he majored in Secondary English Education, mastering the domain of English and was trained in teaching. Following his undergraduate degree, Dr. Di Giacomo obtained a masters degree (M.Ed) in Policy, Planning, & Administration where he learned about the intersection of the classroom with leadership and policymaking. Throughout his undergraduate degree and following his masters degree, Dr. Di Giacomo worked for the Boston University Office of Undergraduate Admissions in a number of key roles, where he gained a unique insight into the operations of the admissions program. Following this experience, Dr. Di Giacomo worked for the University of Virginia supporting their growth initiatives and working directly with students.

Dr. Di Giacomo founded Novella Prep to meet the holistic needs of students by applying his education expertise and experience working with students from many different cultures, backgrounds, and learning needs. Dr. Di Giacomo is a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling and the International Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC).