Dennis Ganahl writes laugh out loud stories telling heart warming stories about Catholic boys who are expected to act like saints growing up in 1963. The boys don't have helicopter parents. They have adventures in school and on camp outs in their backyard. They get dirty crawling in sewers, playing in creeks, going to the drive in and playing summer baseball. Ganahl writes about life in 1963 in vivid detail, describing the people, their clothes, the games they played and the food they ate in their modern suburban homes. He also tells about the hoods who were always trying to take the kids' money and how the kids fight back. Ganahl writes like Mark Twain, Jean Shepherd, Bill Bryson and Laura Ingalls-Wilder. The main character, narrator, Mickey McBride and his friends don't want to get caught doing something they're not supposed to do by their parents. The book’s characters are lovable. Let's meet some of the more memorable characters you'll meet.
"Streak had blonde wavy hair and stands six feet tall and ramrod straight. His muscles always bulged out of a black sleeveless t-shirt that he wore with skintight blue jeans, wide black belt with with a big silver buckle, and black motorcycle boots with silver chains across the tops. Streak oozed cool."
"Sister Henry didn't tell us what to do, Instead she shepherded us with silent, subtle commando orders like slightly nodding her head, narrowing her eyes, or cocking and twisting her head. All of her commands are accompanied by her unspoken threat, "Do what I'm telling you or there will be swift punishment."
"Stubby was the funniest kid. He was short and as round as a playground ball. He was a spitting image of 'Curly' and he could imitate every facial expression, sound effect, joke and gimmick Curly ever used. He didn't stop clowning around until somebody wets his pants."
Readers’ reviews about Heroes & Hooligans Growing Up in the City of Saints.
“Equal Parts American Graffiti and Tom Sawyer," David Peters, author
“Boomer magic. Boomers will laugh at how relatable it is and Boomers’ children will now understand their parents. Fun read.” –Diane Schumacker
What a fun collection of stories about growing up! Boys are such a funny breed - one minute completely crazy and the next completely sweet. These stories bring both sides to light and are a reminder that even the most rambunctious boys have huge and beautiful hearts.” Hadley Barrows, author
“A great look at growing up Catholic in the 60s. The characters’ voices ring true and reflect a simpler time when bicycles and families meant everything. Ganahl has snapped a picture of a life we will never see again.” Bill Klutho
“It’s a hoot! Especially the so true stories about the Catholic Nuns! God love ‘em.” Alfred Tuchfarber, author
“Great book. Easy read. Lots of funny stories that will immediately transport you to the magical life of childhood. Thanks, and write another one!” Joe
“I loved this book! It is the most enjoyable book that I’ve read in years. The character development was so well done that you really care about each character in the story. I’d recommend this book to everyone.” Tina Odo
“Great book! Written by a witty and creative storyteller writer. I could have sworn I was the main character!” –Urzlavo
“Ganahl’s book brought back many happy childhood memories. The book was filled with fun and suspense. You will keep wanting to look ahead. Resist the temptation as there are many surprises along the way.” –Paul Grew
“A wonderful tapestry of life stories in the 60’s in St. Louis! The collection of stories makes you smile, laugh, and reminisce about simpler times. It doesn’t matter in which part of St. Louis you grew up; you can remember similar people, places, and happenings. The book leaves you wanting more stories!” –Anonymous
