REVIEW: I’ve been a lucky lady lately! My books have been 5 star books and Lawn Darts and Lemonade by Steven Manchester is no exception. When you pick up this book, take a word of advice from me. You’ll want snuggly clothes, a comfy chair, a snack or two, something to drink AND a box of tissues before you sit down. 

I haven’t read all of Steven’s books yet but every one that I’ve read has made me cry. He gets right to the heart of the matter. He is not afraid to tell it like it is. This man has a big heart. I typically don’t like male authors because frankly, most men just don’t get it. This guy does. He isn’t afraid to show that men have hearts, feelings and can love enough to tear them to pieces. 

This is a book about growing up in a crazy family during the 80’s. I love the perspective of Herbie, the middle brother. His older brother is Wally and little brother is Alphonse who the boys call Cockroach. A family of 3 boys! Their parents had a lot to deal with. Mom and Dad give us a lot of wisdom along the way. Wisdom we see passed down to the next generation.

If you love heartwarming stories about families, coming of age stories and stories that will remind you of your youth then this is one book you need to pick up and read. I know you will love it all much as I do. If you’ve read any of Steven Manchester’s books and liked them, you will want to read this one too. It is actually a sequel to Bread Bags and Bullies. Lawn Darts and Lemonade stands very well on its own. You can read it first. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinons expressed in this review are completely my own. 

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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!

“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

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.