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This memoir portrays a cohesive family’s everyday life in the Bay Ridge Neighborhood of Brooklyn in the 1950’s and early 60’s. It consists of eleven stories narrated through the eyes of a child (the author, Claudia) from age five through early adolescence.
Claudia and her brothers grew up in a modest family, surrounded by a supportive, multi-generational network of relatives and neighbors. The memoir touches upon themes of apartment-life culture, immigration, sibling relationships, and the innocence of a protected childhood. Humor abounds, especially when older Italian relatives ''drop by.'' Most of the stories are light-hearted. Two stories touch upon more serious topics involving an automobile accident and the death of pets.
Growing Up in Brooklyn Long Ago provides a springboard for young readers (ages 6-10) and their families to explore their own histories and values.
Claudia's stories come to life by inspiring her young readers to think about their own experiences. She has mastered an engaging form of storytelling.
What a warm, charming book about growing up in Brooklyn! Readers will feel like they are right there with Claudia, the author, playing the games of Chutes & Ladders and Candyland of our childhood. And as a special bonus, Claudia has cleverly embedded little life lessons in her stories. This is indeed a very special children’s book.
About the Author Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Claudia Milazzo Hutchison graduated from Ft. Hamilton High School and State University of New York at Buffalo. In her mid-20’s she traveled to explore the West Coast, and she never left. Claudia and her husband Don live in Portland, Oregon, in the same neighborhood in which they raised their children.
Retired from teaching and social work, Claudia volunteers for various environmental and community health causes. In her spare time she is found in her kayak, on her bike, or in her reading chair. Along with Don, she enjoys golf, travel, and their favorite pastime - visits with their grandchildren.
