Carol Gino

Carol Ann Gino (born November 2, 1941) is an American author, registered nurse, and educator recognized for her contributions to literature, nursing, and health advocacy.

She is best known for her novel, The Nurse's Story (1982), published by Simon & Schuster, a semi-autobiographical novel, written as medical fiction to protect the identities of the nurses and patients depicted. The book provides a candid portrayal of the challenges faced by nurses and patients, as well as the complexities of hospital life. The Nurse's Story became a bestseller and was serialized in the New York Daily News, Chicago Tribune, and The Washington Post. The novel also appeared on the Los Angeles Times and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. Following its success, Gino was a featured guest on The Today Show, Charlie Rose, and Live with Regis, as well as being covered in People Magazine and New York Magazine, among other television, print, and radio media. In addition to her books, she has written articles for Newsday, The American Journal of Nursing, and Nursing.

Beyond her debut work, Gino has authored several other books, including Rusty's Story, a true story about a young woman diagnosed with Schizophrenia, when what she really had was Epilepsy. Rusty's Story, (1985), published by Bantam Books, won the Epilepsy Foundation of America's National Book Award and held its place in the New York Times best-seller list for multiple weeks.

Then an Angel Came (1997), published by Kensington Books, recounts how Gino's family coped with the loss of her grandson to SIDS. Amid their sorrow, they experienced an unexpected gift—angelic communication that offered them a deeper understanding of their spiritual connections to the baby, to each other, and to their greater purpose in the world.

Gino was the longtime companion of author Mario Puzo, and completed his final novel, The Family, at his request. The book was published posthumously by HarperCollins. Her memoir, Me & Mario: Love, Power & Writing with Mario Puzo, Author of The Godfather (2019), published by aaha! Books, examines their relationship and creative collaboration that lasted for two decades, until his death in 1999. Me & Mario received the 2019 Independent Publisher Book Award in the Autobiography/Memoir category.

Carol Gino's novels often draw from her experiences in the healthcare field, shedding light on overlooked medical realities and the resilience of individuals navigating challenging circumstances. Her works explore themes of health advocacy, hope, and the human spirit, grounded in true-to-life stories.