Synopsis

From New England’s Storyteller, Steven Manchester, comes the nostalgia-filled sequel to Bread Bags & Bullies; a novel about growing up in a whacky family during the 1980s. Boom boxes, leg warmers, and Rubik’s Cubes—it’s all there. A hysterical walk down memory lane!

It’s the summer of 1984, a season of dodging lawn darts and chugging lemonade—or at least the discolored tap water Ma tried to disguise as lemonade.

Growing up is never easy, no matter what era you do it in. For generations, teenagers have suffered peer pressure, bullying, fear of rejection, and a sadistic obstacle course of one unexpected challenge after the next. Three brothers, Wally, Herbie, and Cockroach, learn that the past can be filled with questions—even shame and regret—while the future might be shrouded in worry and fear. But staying in the moment, now that’s where the sweet spot is.

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Praise

“Steven Manchester’s Lawn Darts & Lemonade is so much fun, filled with laughter, tears, and Big Hair.” – Taylor Dayne, ’80s Recording Artist, Love Will Lead You Back

“When Sunglasses At Night is the main character’s favorite song, you just know you’re in for a fun and quirky ’80s-centric novel!” – Corey Hart, ’80s Icon

“I read Lawn Darts & Lemonade and really enjoyed it. There is a raw honesty and purity of passion in this coming-of-age novel. Manchester has incredible skill as a novelist.” – Thomas G. Waites, Actor, The Warriors

Review

This story took me back to my high school days and many times I found myself nodding and reminiscing about the music (which I still listen to), the stores, and just life in general in the 1980s.

I have not read the book that this is the sequel for, but I don’t think that is necessary. I enjoyed Walt, Herbie, and Alphonse (aka Cockroach) from their interactions with each other, their parents, and how they dealt with life in general. This is a good coming-of-age story as well as we see Herbie start to spread his wings more and Cockroach, well, he is a hot mess but a smart kid too. I had to laugh at how their mom kicked them out of the house and said to be back when the street lights come on. I think many can relate to this if they are like me. And the trip to the S&H Green Stamp store? What a flashback! I think my first iron was from this store.

Who remembers lawn darts? Those things could take an eye out or GI Joe might become a mangled mess once these boys get done with him.

This story is about love, memories, friendships, and family. The author is a masterful storyteller and you won’t be disappointed if you decide to pick up this book.

We give it 5 paws up.

About the Author

New England’s Storyteller Steven Manchester is the author of the soul-awakening novel, The Menu, as well as the 80s nostalgia-fest, Bread Bags & Bullies. His other works include #1 bestsellers Twelve Months, The Rockin’ Chair, Pressed Pennies, and Gooseberry Island; the national bestsellers, Ashes, The Changing Season and Three Shoeboxes; the multi-award winning novel, Goodnight Brian; and the beloved holiday podcast drama, The Thursday Night Club. His work has appeared on NBC’s Today Show, CBS’s The Early Show, and BET’s Nightly News. Three of Steven’s short stories were selected “101 Best” for Chicken Soup for the Soul series. He is a multi-produced playwright, as well as the winner of the 2017 Los Angeles Book Festival, 2018 New York Book Festival, and 2020 New England Book Festival. When not spending time with his beautiful wife, Paula, or their children, this Massachusetts author is promoting his works or writing.

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