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.