Marshfield Memories

Written by Ralph Fletcher

Part of the Marshfield Dreams series

A boy navigates sibling roles, sports rivalries, and adolescent curiosity in a journey from childhood to adolescence.

3.9 Goodreads · 52 ratings

208 pages· 700L

$17.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

Twelve-year-old Ralph juggles being the oldest of nine siblings, often acting as a parent rather than a brother. He yearns for solitude yet fears loneliness, enjoys sports but envies his brother's victories, and faces the awkwardness of adolescence. As he navigates these challenges, Ralph's story unfolds in relatable episodes, capturing the essence of growing up. Will he find his place amidst family expectations and personal desires? This memoir offers a glimpse into the pivotal moments that shape Ralph's journey from boyhood to adolescence, revealing the roots of his storytelling craft.

From the publisher

As the oldest of ten kids, Ralph was often cast as another parent to his siblings rather than 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 marbles with the neighborhood boys but resented the skillful victories of his little brother Jimmy. Thrust into the expectations of impending adolescence, Ralph was curious about girls, but repelled by the improper kissing advances of his first cousin. This satisfying memoir offers a snapshot of the pivotal moments between boyhood and adolescence, all while further tracing the roots of Ralph Fletcher’s acclaimed storytelling.

At a glance