false 0 1 1 true 6337897 read 0 true 4546792 currently-reading 0 true 4546791 to-read http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/48165424 to: The Book of Ralph: A Novel (Paperback) by John McNally
I didn't grow up in the seventies; I was already married and a mom. I didn't grow up in Chicago, though I live there now. But I identified with this book for two reasons. First of all, I knew a Ralph a long time ago. In fourth grade, he was the class outcast and I kissed him in front of our principal's office. I don't know why. Secondly, John McNally has this eye for detail that's universal. Details like the smell and whssss of a freshly opened can of beer, the angst of junior high, the embarrassment caused by a parent, sibling rivalry and the journey of just trying to find out who the hell you are.
And I'm giving this five stars because it's been years since I actually chuckled then laughed at loud while reading the first two or three pages. ]]>