Marshfield Memories: More Stories about Growing Up - by Ralph Fletcher (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A heartfelt middle grade companion to Marshfield Dreams that captures the boyhood years of twelve-year-old Ralph Fletcher in relatable episodes of everyday disappointments and triumphs.

As the oldest of nine kids, Ralph was often cast as another parent to his siblings rather than as an older brother; teetering between these two conflicting roles, Ralph longed to be home alone on a sick day, but hated the emptiness of feeling left behind. He loved to play sports with his neighborhood friends but resented the skillful victories of his younger brother. Thrust into the expectations of impending adolescence, Ralph was curious about girls, but embarrassed to take part in the school square dance. This satisfying memoir offers a snapshot of those pivotal moments between grade school and high school, all while tracing the roots of Ralph Fletcher's acclaimed storytelling.

Christy Ottaviano Books

Review Quotes

"Like the mock funeral his friends gave him when he and his family moved away from Marshfield, readers will find these reminiscences "sad, funny, a little weird, and very sweet." Engaging episodes, not beyond the ken of the current generation and lit with just enough sentiment to give them a warm glow." --Kirkus Reviews

"Fletcher relates more stories about growing up in a large, close-knit family in the 1960s in this winsome sequel to Marshfield Dreams . . . Fletcher loved writing poetry but struggled to make his "words fly." They take flight now in this lovingly written, humorous, and poignant memoir about a gentler time." -- Booklist

About the Author