Ida's Boy

In Ida’s Boy: Thoughts and Stories of the Quiet Generation, P. R. Fischetti fluidly describes his experiences growing up during the first half of the twentieth century. His memories of the Great Depression, World War II, and the Korean conflict eras will strike a chord with others of his generation and will motivate younger generations to learn about a bygone times of this country’s cultural history. Fischetti brings us back to the time when the focal point for a neighborhood’s social life was the local tavern. In his stories he tells of his Scranton, Pennsylvania, neighborhood when its residents gathered at the Roaring Brook Café to gossip, tell tales of the past, predict the future, air their complaints about life and work, brag about their children, denounce local politicians, sometimes hide from their spouses, get drunk, confess their sins, get religion, sing a song, or just have a place for solitude. Fischetti’s narratives will inspire others of his generation to share their histories, values, and memories with their children and grandchildren. These stories will make you laugh, make you shake your head, make you wonder at how much has changed, but most importantly, they will remind you of the vital roles family and community have played in the American Dream.