I Grew Up in Broad Ripple

A hilarious and moving journey through Catholic childhood in the 1950s and 1960s.

Growing up Catholic in 1950s Indianapolis meant first confessions you weren't ready for, nuns who meant business, and a father who absolutely did not want to hear about it. Russell Beck survived all of it ? barely ? and somehow turned it into a book.

I Grew Up in Broad Ripple is a vivid memoir about growing up working-class and Catholic in late 1950s and early 1960s Indianapolis. Beck writes with warmth, honesty, and a sharp eye for the moments that stay with you for a lifetime ? the schoolyard mistakes, the neighborhood mischief, and the strange freedom of being a kid in a world that hadn't quite finished explaining itself to you yet.

These stories will make you laugh out loud, wince in recognition, and maybe remember something you'd long forgotten about your own experiences growing up.

Readers who enjoy memoirs of childhood and Catholic life will find a lot to love.

What readers are saying:

"Reading his prom story had me laughing out loud; this book motivates and gives hope that things eventually fall into place." ? Bonnie

"I learned so much from Russell's life ? it's nostalgic, emotional, heartbreaking, and exciting. His risk-taking spirit is inspiring." ? Caroline