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by C. Edwin (Trzeciak) Tracy (Author), Paul Schultz (Illustrator)
Part philosophical memoir, tribute to a blue-collar football town, and historical snapshot of the mid-twentieth century, this book is a microcosm of the American Dream. From war-torn Eastern Europe, we follow as the author's father escapes to the New World and settles in New Jersey to raise a family. Here, there was opportunity for everyone, and patriarch Tata instilled a strong work ethic and moral code in his children. One of these Polish kids was the author, influenced by his family and wider community of South River (teachers, coaches, mentors, friends) to reach new heights as a second-generation American that culminated with a "gude jobb" in a successful career and a "gude life," as Tata would say, filled with happiness and love.
C. Edwin Tracy traces a momentous time in American history, chronicling the popular culture-movies, music, sports-of the 1940s, '50s, and '60s, while also recounting the injustices of the Jim Crow era that galvanized him and other students of his high school into a local rebellion which shocked the town and surrounding communities. Throughout it all, European immigrants like Tata were forging new lives and providing the next generation with the means for success. This family memoir honors Tata and shares his many wisdoms, while also reflecting on life in small-town, blue-collar America and weaving together memorable characters, personal anecdotes, and pivotal historic moments.
