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My Life #1
Our Teenage Years: Growing Up in a Small Town in the 80's
This is the first book in the (My Life) series. This book is about two best friends growing up in their teenage years in a small town. All the wild adventures and stories from my childhood, after my parents divorced and we went on the run for 11 years. This book includes my first job, girlfriend, prom, driver's license, my first car and many other first we all did in our teenage years. It's a fun-filled adventure about being a teenager, epic road trips and best friends. But really this book is just about LIFE. It will make you laugh and it will make you cry. Please enjoy
This is the second edition of this book.
This is the second edition of this book.
155 pages, ebook
First published November 14, 2017
29 people are currently reading
3818 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Wray
3 books94 followersT.J. Wray
He is a single dad with two kids who is currently working on his next novel. He owns and operates a tow truck for a living, his kids are his whole world, everything revolves around them. He likes to work out and go fishing or take his kids to a ball game. He also restores old muscle cars in his spare time and enjoys riding his motorcycle. He loves to read books, especially to children.
He is a single dad with two kids who is currently working on his next novel. He owns and operates a tow truck for a living, his kids are his whole world, everything revolves around them. He likes to work out and go fishing or take his kids to a ball game. He also restores old muscle cars in his spare time and enjoys riding his motorcycle. He loves to read books, especially to children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
October 13, 2018
One day when we are old and grey
When memories come to mind
The ones that mean the most to us
Our dear friends left behind
These special friends will never die
They are with us every day
We simply have to realise
They are just a thought away
Shirley.
Update.
In my local library there are many books of memoirs on the shelves. The majority of those books are about the rich and famous. This book however contains the memoirs of a very ordinary man who was anything but ordinary. No matter what life threw at T.J he was always positive, worked hard and achieved.
In T.Js school years he met a very special friend who was always their for him. True friendship is a very rare blessing that is experienced by so few. To me that is what makes this story so very special.
This book will make you laugh and make you cry. I couldn't stop laughing at the memory of the fishing trip and the alligator. Oh my, I wonder what the farmer must have thought when he noticed the discarded fishing gear. It must have crossed his mind that he must have a very well fed alligator in his pond that day.
A few of the people sadly are not around anymore. This is why memories mean so much, especially T.Js special friend who will be probably be laughing along with the rest of us as the memories live on through T.Js stories.
Thank you for sharing your memories with everyone T.J. A very special book that I enjoyed reading. This book was sent to me for a fair and honest review and is not biased in any way.
I was here, but know I've gone.
I left my name, to turn you on.
I'll be back before you know it.
This don't rhyme, cause I'm no poet.
T.J.
When memories come to mind
The ones that mean the most to us
Our dear friends left behind
These special friends will never die
They are with us every day
We simply have to realise
They are just a thought away
Shirley.
Update.
In my local library there are many books of memoirs on the shelves. The majority of those books are about the rich and famous. This book however contains the memoirs of a very ordinary man who was anything but ordinary. No matter what life threw at T.J he was always positive, worked hard and achieved.
In T.Js school years he met a very special friend who was always their for him. True friendship is a very rare blessing that is experienced by so few. To me that is what makes this story so very special.
This book will make you laugh and make you cry. I couldn't stop laughing at the memory of the fishing trip and the alligator. Oh my, I wonder what the farmer must have thought when he noticed the discarded fishing gear. It must have crossed his mind that he must have a very well fed alligator in his pond that day.
A few of the people sadly are not around anymore. This is why memories mean so much, especially T.Js special friend who will be probably be laughing along with the rest of us as the memories live on through T.Js stories.
Thank you for sharing your memories with everyone T.J. A very special book that I enjoyed reading. This book was sent to me for a fair and honest review and is not biased in any way.
I was here, but know I've gone.
I left my name, to turn you on.
I'll be back before you know it.
This don't rhyme, cause I'm no poet.
T.J.
February 27, 2019
Over the past weekend, I have been on vacation in Southern Nevada - Las Vegas and Mesquite. It seemed like every time we sat down at a slot machine, blackjack table, or were just waiting for something, a conversation would start up with people around us. Soon we were telling stories about where we were from, tales from our current vacation, legends of travels to Vegas long ago. Getting to know strangers and their stories was all a part of the experience.
Because of this, it is perfect that I had Wray's book along with me. It reads exactly like the conversations I was having. Short anecdotes about Wray's crazy adventures sounded like the response a local at the casino would tell me after one of my stories - with the lead in "well, your story sounds crazy, but just wait until I tell you about this one time . . ."
If you are a fan of memoirs and enjoy a casual delivery, this book is worth checking out. In the prologue, Wray apologizes for not being a wordsmith, but the conversational tone with Oklahoma charm adds a lot to each story. Also, who can complain about the words of someone brave enough to put their stories on paper?
I am impressed with the variety of stories in this book. I wonder if I could come up with enough interesting stories about my life to write a book like this. Also, as he mentions several times, it is amazing he is still alive! It seems like at least half of the stories had him in pain, near death, or involved in a vehicle being operated dangerously at some point. I am glad he is still around to tell his tales!
Thank you to T.J. Wray for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am glad you shared with me and, please, BE CAREFUL!😉😁
Because of this, it is perfect that I had Wray's book along with me. It reads exactly like the conversations I was having. Short anecdotes about Wray's crazy adventures sounded like the response a local at the casino would tell me after one of my stories - with the lead in "well, your story sounds crazy, but just wait until I tell you about this one time . . ."
If you are a fan of memoirs and enjoy a casual delivery, this book is worth checking out. In the prologue, Wray apologizes for not being a wordsmith, but the conversational tone with Oklahoma charm adds a lot to each story. Also, who can complain about the words of someone brave enough to put their stories on paper?
I am impressed with the variety of stories in this book. I wonder if I could come up with enough interesting stories about my life to write a book like this. Also, as he mentions several times, it is amazing he is still alive! It seems like at least half of the stories had him in pain, near death, or involved in a vehicle being operated dangerously at some point. I am glad he is still around to tell his tales!
Thank you to T.J. Wray for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am glad you shared with me and, please, BE CAREFUL!😉😁
December 8, 2018
Review to follow tomorrow 😉
So on the face of it TJ and I have very little in common; I grew up in London, he grew up in small town America; I grew up in just one house, he lived in many whilst a child; I grew up as an only child in a stable loving family environment; he grew up in a single parent environment with his sister; I was born in the (very) late 50s, he was born in the late 60s; he grew up in a strict religious environment; me, well I grew up in a mixed religious environment, so have my own views on religion that verge from Greek Orthodox to Judaism.
Now having said all of that, many of the stories in this book were echoes of my own childhood. As a child we were able to travel around London very cheaply but also very safely, we had tremendous adventures. I also grew up in a time when houses were not nose to tail for 50 miles. We had green spaces, fields and stretches of the Thames where we could , well we could just play without worry. I used to go out in the morning on my pushbike with my best friend and return home for tea, checking my Timex to ensure I wouldn't be late.
I may not have been able to ride a motorbike that young (17 in this country) but i have ridden one ever since, and like you TJ, I have been over the bonnet of a car that pulled out in front of me. Hospital beckoned !!
TJ's adventures made me smile, made me laugh, made me sad, made me nod my head in agreement and made me wince. In fact from Page 116 for 4 pages I think, I almost felt like I was reading my own life story. I too split my head open with the flat end of an axe (unfortunately I was 53, so should have known better) I just took too big a back swing and it hit the top of my head with some force. As TJ says, there is an amazing amount of blood. For various reasons I could not visit a doctors so cleaned my head with Vodka, and made a bandage out of cotton wool and sellotape. Needless to say I still have a scar .
And to follow on, yes I have had kidney stones twice, please tell me I will not get a third. I do not know what it compares to but it is no fun believe me, and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy (well maybe I would in my darkest moments).
So all in all, amazingly I could relate to 90% of this book, and to be honest it felt like I was reading a book written by a close friend. A close friend who went through an awful lot more and tougher times than I did, but still came out smiling and regardless of religion (race, colour, creed or nationality) with a proper sense of right and wrong and the understanding that treating people with respect and tolerance is the way to make the world better.
Thanks TJ for sharing that with us all, it was a blast. And now bring on the 90s.
So on the face of it TJ and I have very little in common; I grew up in London, he grew up in small town America; I grew up in just one house, he lived in many whilst a child; I grew up as an only child in a stable loving family environment; he grew up in a single parent environment with his sister; I was born in the (very) late 50s, he was born in the late 60s; he grew up in a strict religious environment; me, well I grew up in a mixed religious environment, so have my own views on religion that verge from Greek Orthodox to Judaism.
Now having said all of that, many of the stories in this book were echoes of my own childhood. As a child we were able to travel around London very cheaply but also very safely, we had tremendous adventures. I also grew up in a time when houses were not nose to tail for 50 miles. We had green spaces, fields and stretches of the Thames where we could , well we could just play without worry. I used to go out in the morning on my pushbike with my best friend and return home for tea, checking my Timex to ensure I wouldn't be late.
I may not have been able to ride a motorbike that young (17 in this country) but i have ridden one ever since, and like you TJ, I have been over the bonnet of a car that pulled out in front of me. Hospital beckoned !!
TJ's adventures made me smile, made me laugh, made me sad, made me nod my head in agreement and made me wince. In fact from Page 116 for 4 pages I think, I almost felt like I was reading my own life story. I too split my head open with the flat end of an axe (unfortunately I was 53, so should have known better) I just took too big a back swing and it hit the top of my head with some force. As TJ says, there is an amazing amount of blood. For various reasons I could not visit a doctors so cleaned my head with Vodka, and made a bandage out of cotton wool and sellotape. Needless to say I still have a scar .
And to follow on, yes I have had kidney stones twice, please tell me I will not get a third. I do not know what it compares to but it is no fun believe me, and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy (well maybe I would in my darkest moments).
So all in all, amazingly I could relate to 90% of this book, and to be honest it felt like I was reading a book written by a close friend. A close friend who went through an awful lot more and tougher times than I did, but still came out smiling and regardless of religion (race, colour, creed or nationality) with a proper sense of right and wrong and the understanding that treating people with respect and tolerance is the way to make the world better.
Thanks TJ for sharing that with us all, it was a blast. And now bring on the 90s.
October 21, 2018
My first thought after reading this book was that this is proof that no matter what someone has been through, they can overcome and continually strive to move in a positive direction. The narrator (and author), T.J., describes his adventures and "misadventures" in a small town in Oklahoma in the 1980's. Most of these were with his best friend Terry. The friendship and unbreakable bond he had with Terry is a gift that few people are lucky enough to experience in life.
If anyone remembers the 80's, they will certainly be able to reminisce as the author relays his anecdotes from this period in time. These were times where there were no cell phones, high schools had "smoking areas", Jazzercise was the hot new workout trend, and there was no internet.
There is a common thread throughout the book based upon the life lessons that are relayed either directly or indirectly by the author through the stories. They are worth noting and were some timely reminders to me of what is really important in life. I want to thank T.J. for this as I needed these reminders in so many areas.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. However, the above review is honest and unbiased.
If anyone remembers the 80's, they will certainly be able to reminisce as the author relays his anecdotes from this period in time. These were times where there were no cell phones, high schools had "smoking areas", Jazzercise was the hot new workout trend, and there was no internet.
There is a common thread throughout the book based upon the life lessons that are relayed either directly or indirectly by the author through the stories. They are worth noting and were some timely reminders to me of what is really important in life. I want to thank T.J. for this as I needed these reminders in so many areas.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. However, the above review is honest and unbiased.
January 12, 2019
Many thanks to TJ Wray for the opportunity to offer my unbiased review on his book about his formative years and the events that shaped the man he is today.
From the first few pages, he grabbed my heart. Wray may not have a fancy turn of phrase, but he’s down to earth and honest. His sadness and acceptance reach fingers from the pages to hold the reader’s hand through his journey as his parents wash out, and he makes bad choices, and he learns consequences, and he loves life. The reader needs that occasional squeeze because one never knows what’s on the next page: sorrow, pain, or joy.
I appreciated Wray’s frankness and candidness. He is completely truthful with his audience sugarcoating nothing. To have lived through what he did and still be so well-adjusted is a miracle. Thank you, Wray for the chance to get to know you.
From the first few pages, he grabbed my heart. Wray may not have a fancy turn of phrase, but he’s down to earth and honest. His sadness and acceptance reach fingers from the pages to hold the reader’s hand through his journey as his parents wash out, and he makes bad choices, and he learns consequences, and he loves life. The reader needs that occasional squeeze because one never knows what’s on the next page: sorrow, pain, or joy.
I appreciated Wray’s frankness and candidness. He is completely truthful with his audience sugarcoating nothing. To have lived through what he did and still be so well-adjusted is a miracle. Thank you, Wray for the chance to get to know you.
October 3, 2018
T.J. Wray is going to tell you a story about his life as a teen and you know what? It is going to make you laugh, break your heart and have you thinking back to your own life as a teen!
OUR TEENAGE YEARS: GROWING UP IN A SMALL TOWN is the story of what made T.J. Wray the father and man he is today. It’s the story of friendship, dysfunctional families and having to grow up far beyond one’s years too fast. It’s also the story of love and loss and mistakes and triumphs.
Remember your first girlfriend? Your first car? Your very best friend? How about your first taste of responsibility, your first job? T.J. Wray remembers and he wrote it all down, the good, the bad, and the ugly and he did a marvelously entertaining job of it!
Told completely in his own words, no fancy phrases, just from the heart writing, this story is sweet, heartwarming and a testament to the strength of the human spirit to overcome obstacles and pushing forward without whining or blaming the world for their lot in life.
Seriously, we read fiction to be entertained, this is our chance to read a true story filled with heart as one man exposes his very soul in an effort to entertain and give each of us a chance to look back on the life that we, too, survived and grew from!
A real hidden gem that deserves to be read from an author who puts on no airs!
I received a complimentary copy from T.J. Wray!
Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc. (November 13, 2017)
Publication Date: November 13, 2017
Genre: Memoir
Print Length: 123 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
OUR TEENAGE YEARS: GROWING UP IN A SMALL TOWN is the story of what made T.J. Wray the father and man he is today. It’s the story of friendship, dysfunctional families and having to grow up far beyond one’s years too fast. It’s also the story of love and loss and mistakes and triumphs.
Remember your first girlfriend? Your first car? Your very best friend? How about your first taste of responsibility, your first job? T.J. Wray remembers and he wrote it all down, the good, the bad, and the ugly and he did a marvelously entertaining job of it!
Told completely in his own words, no fancy phrases, just from the heart writing, this story is sweet, heartwarming and a testament to the strength of the human spirit to overcome obstacles and pushing forward without whining or blaming the world for their lot in life.
Seriously, we read fiction to be entertained, this is our chance to read a true story filled with heart as one man exposes his very soul in an effort to entertain and give each of us a chance to look back on the life that we, too, survived and grew from!
A real hidden gem that deserves to be read from an author who puts on no airs!
I received a complimentary copy from T.J. Wray!
Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc. (November 13, 2017)
Publication Date: November 13, 2017
Genre: Memoir
Print Length: 123 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
December 26, 2020
I'm biased on this book, but I have recommended it to everyone I know :)
September 28, 2018
Title: Our Teenage Years Growing up in a small town in the 80's
Author: T.J. Wray
Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Our Teenage Years Growing up in a small town in the 80's" by T. J. Wray
My Thoughts....
When this author as me to read his novel and I said yes I didn't really know what I would get, however, after reading "Our Teenage Years Growing up in a Small Town in the 80's' I found
this one was quite a delightful read. Wow, I found TJ's life was very interesting and exciting along with what all had gone on in his life and with especially his best friend Terry. As I continued to read I quickly saw what TJ's life was all about and from the read I got all of these questions answered from.....
"All the wild adventures and stories of two best friends trying to survive their teenage years. Dealing with parents and siblings, or just trying to survive high school. Remember your first girl friend? Remember your first kiss? Remember your first job? Remember your first prom? Remember your first car? Well this book is about all that, and a whole lot more. But really it's just about LIFE...
It will make you laugh, and it will make you cry."
From this read you will definitely get a little bit of it all from each of the chapters starting with his favorite TJ's teachers, his friend Terry, Patricia, fake ID's, The Alligator Story, Being a role model, Margaret and His Truck, Terry's Parents, His Motorcycle Wreck, Just Your Life [Dusty], Being Eighteen, Graduation, Growing up in a Small Town...[in Guthrie, Oklahoma], The End of the Brown Beast now this was funny!], Terry's Haw-Hauling Carrier, His House Burns Down!...Rock Concert!...The Werewolf Story[ another good story]...Baker's Lake...Best Fishing Hole Ever!...A Different World, Just the Way I's Built...Kenny...Me, Christy, and Baby Melissa...Our Trip to Atlanta and the Georgia Dome...Georgia on My Mind, It's Just a Piece of metal...Ouch!...Hodgepodge Stupid is as Stupid Does.... Kidney Stones...Like Father Like Son....Family Reunion...Don't Shoplift!...Jazzercise... Wrong High School...Just F.Y.L...Bill...Terry and His Dad...The End! Now to fully understand all of this you will have to pick up the wonderful read and see what it is all about. This is a very easy read to follow and keep up with giving you page after page of just what was going on at that time. I will say some of these stories were humorous and how well this author ties it all together in the end and that ending being about his 'LIFE.'
From all above the reader will get a autobiography of TJ's life growing up with his best friend Terry from Guthrie, Oklahoma. I loved how this author was able to deliver a story that laid out so well his life's story giving the reader all of it from the good times, bad times, teenage years, wild adventures, lessons, and family that will definitely benefit his children and even the adults. This was very well done by this author.
Even though his best friend Terry is gone TJ made a promise to write this story and he did a wonderful job in doing so about there many fun and wild adventures times. I also like the dedication TJ made to his father, his three children and two grandchildren of the read. Well done!
Thank you to the author for the gift of the read and my providing my honest opinion of the read. I liked the photos at the end of your read as well as your message you left for the readers.
Author: T.J. Wray
Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Our Teenage Years Growing up in a small town in the 80's" by T. J. Wray
My Thoughts....
When this author as me to read his novel and I said yes I didn't really know what I would get, however, after reading "Our Teenage Years Growing up in a Small Town in the 80's' I found
this one was quite a delightful read. Wow, I found TJ's life was very interesting and exciting along with what all had gone on in his life and with especially his best friend Terry. As I continued to read I quickly saw what TJ's life was all about and from the read I got all of these questions answered from.....
"All the wild adventures and stories of two best friends trying to survive their teenage years. Dealing with parents and siblings, or just trying to survive high school. Remember your first girl friend? Remember your first kiss? Remember your first job? Remember your first prom? Remember your first car? Well this book is about all that, and a whole lot more. But really it's just about LIFE...
It will make you laugh, and it will make you cry."
From this read you will definitely get a little bit of it all from each of the chapters starting with his favorite TJ's teachers, his friend Terry, Patricia, fake ID's, The Alligator Story, Being a role model, Margaret and His Truck, Terry's Parents, His Motorcycle Wreck, Just Your Life [Dusty], Being Eighteen, Graduation, Growing up in a Small Town...[in Guthrie, Oklahoma], The End of the Brown Beast now this was funny!], Terry's Haw-Hauling Carrier, His House Burns Down!...Rock Concert!...The Werewolf Story[ another good story]...Baker's Lake...Best Fishing Hole Ever!...A Different World, Just the Way I's Built...Kenny...Me, Christy, and Baby Melissa...Our Trip to Atlanta and the Georgia Dome...Georgia on My Mind, It's Just a Piece of metal...Ouch!...Hodgepodge Stupid is as Stupid Does.... Kidney Stones...Like Father Like Son....Family Reunion...Don't Shoplift!...Jazzercise... Wrong High School...Just F.Y.L...Bill...Terry and His Dad...The End! Now to fully understand all of this you will have to pick up the wonderful read and see what it is all about. This is a very easy read to follow and keep up with giving you page after page of just what was going on at that time. I will say some of these stories were humorous and how well this author ties it all together in the end and that ending being about his 'LIFE.'
From all above the reader will get a autobiography of TJ's life growing up with his best friend Terry from Guthrie, Oklahoma. I loved how this author was able to deliver a story that laid out so well his life's story giving the reader all of it from the good times, bad times, teenage years, wild adventures, lessons, and family that will definitely benefit his children and even the adults. This was very well done by this author.
Even though his best friend Terry is gone TJ made a promise to write this story and he did a wonderful job in doing so about there many fun and wild adventures times. I also like the dedication TJ made to his father, his three children and two grandchildren of the read. Well done!
Thank you to the author for the gift of the read and my providing my honest opinion of the read. I liked the photos at the end of your read as well as your message you left for the readers.
December 26, 2020
This is the second edition of this book. We re-formatted it for Kindle and added 4 or 5 pages of text. I read it this second time to make sure there were no mistakes... This book is FREE right now on Kindle Unlimited and $2.99 on Kindle.. Also I just released the second half of the story, or book #2, called (The '90s: Life on the Road). Enjoy! and feel free to let me know what you guys think...TJ
February 6, 2021
Bringing back memories
As someone who grew up in the eighties as well this book brings back a lot of memories
I was nodding my head at parts as I read because I did a lot of things the author did.
Teenage memories are good to think about sometimes, some good some bittersweet they formed who we became today.
The author has been through a lot mentally and physically. I honestly don't know how he's still walking around with all he's been through.
This is a great book , it's inspirational and encouraging and I am so glad I got a chance to read it.
I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
As someone who grew up in the eighties as well this book brings back a lot of memories
I was nodding my head at parts as I read because I did a lot of things the author did.
Teenage memories are good to think about sometimes, some good some bittersweet they formed who we became today.
The author has been through a lot mentally and physically. I honestly don't know how he's still walking around with all he's been through.
This is a great book , it's inspirational and encouraging and I am so glad I got a chance to read it.
I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
April 26, 2018
John Mellencamp's song "Small Town," an all-time favorite of mine, echoes in my ears as I flip through the last few pages of T.J. Wray's book "Our Teenage Years." The book is based on true stories about how TJ and his childhood buddy Terry grow up in a small town in Oklahoma but cherish big dreams and share big responsibilities. TJ promised to Terry on writing a book about their teenage years of fun and adventures prior to Terry's premature death, here now is the book full of interesting stories and life lessons for children and grown-ups alike.
August 9, 2019
Take a walk down memory lane in T.J. Wray’s Our Teenage Years! This memoir/story is a fun waltz through Wray’s whacky life, filled with anecdotes and nostalgia we can all relate with. It was an interesting and fond look back at a different time perfect for anyone looking to cruise the 60s onward!
July 22, 2018
Throughly enjoyed this book
January 13, 2019
I recently won this book in a giveaway. I wasn't sure about it at first. But I really enjoyed reading it. Took me back to my own teenage years. It reminded me of my first job, my first car, my first boy friend. and all my old friend from high school. What I call the wonder years. Thank you (Wray) for reminding me of the good ol days.. I would recommend everyone over the age of 30 to read this book, it puts everything in perspective..
May 16, 2018
This is a autobiography about the author's experience; as you may have guessed growing up in a small town. This book is entirely true and will give you hours of enjoyment.
June 27, 2018
Its a great read!! Would recommend to read!!
October 20, 2018
Quick read. Very entertaining with a lot of life messages in it. I also grew up in Wisconsin and love the small towns. Still live in one.
May 25, 2019
Enjoyable Read
This book is an easy enjoyable short read. It is not well written, in fact it is semi-literate, but that is what provides its charm. If I have any criticism, it's that Wray's stories about growing up in rural Oklahoma while somewhat interesting, are not very exciting. I had more daring experiences growing up in urban New Jersey.
This book is an easy enjoyable short read. It is not well written, in fact it is semi-literate, but that is what provides its charm. If I have any criticism, it's that Wray's stories about growing up in rural Oklahoma while somewhat interesting, are not very exciting. I had more daring experiences growing up in urban New Jersey.
January 1, 2019
I received this in a giveaway. There are some good messages but I found it too preachy, judgmental and contained a lot of offensive language in my opinion.
March 31, 2019
The 1980s, a decade much different than our current one, were different in fashion, music, and social behaviors. For T.J. Wray, the 1980s were a decade of growing up and chalk-full of stories and memories that should never be forgotten. Born into a bad homelife, T.J.’s parents divorced when he was young. He and his sister were taken to live with their father in Texas in an unstable living environment, then an unstable and hazardous family life when their stepmother was introduced into the picture. At the age of thirteen, T.J. left to live with his mother and stepfather in Guthrie, Oklahoma. This living arrangement proved to be unsafe as well, until he started high school and met his soon-to-be best friend, Terry. Eventually, T.J. and Terry hit it off and were inseparable. "Our Teenage Years" is full of stories from T.J.’s decade of growing up, including jobs he held, girlfriends he acquired, and every crazy story you can think of involving two teenage boys. Currently having kids of his own, they have urged him to write down all of his stories so as not to be forgotten. Most of his stories even include life-lessons that are beneficial for all readers to hear. Taking his teenage years into account has made T.J. fully understand the impact of living a positive life, and challenges his readers throughout the book to achieve individual positivity toward different areas of life.
T.J.’s story is of a true underdog who started out with literally nothing, and through sheer positive work ethic and attitude, he was able to change his life. Starting with his first job as a paperboy, he continued to show each of his bosses that he had what it took to do the job and complete it correctly. Hearing of T.J. as a teenager, I would say he was the complete package of the perfect son-in-law for a couple’s daughter – hard working, went to church, didn’t smoke, drink, or do drugs, and was just overall a good kid. Of course, the occasional stories thrown into his book also show that he was a teenage boy, and enjoyed the pastimes of fishing, shooting guns, working on automobiles, and hanging out with friends, even if the pastimes weren’t done completely legally; but hey, it was the ‘80s, a different time for sure. The way T.J. writes is very personable and easy for readers of any age to relate to. "Our Teenage Years" is the first book in the “My Life” series, with his next one, "The ‘90’s: Life on the Road" on the shelves. I would highly recommend both reads for a light-hearted and pleasant read.
T.J.’s story is of a true underdog who started out with literally nothing, and through sheer positive work ethic and attitude, he was able to change his life. Starting with his first job as a paperboy, he continued to show each of his bosses that he had what it took to do the job and complete it correctly. Hearing of T.J. as a teenager, I would say he was the complete package of the perfect son-in-law for a couple’s daughter – hard working, went to church, didn’t smoke, drink, or do drugs, and was just overall a good kid. Of course, the occasional stories thrown into his book also show that he was a teenage boy, and enjoyed the pastimes of fishing, shooting guns, working on automobiles, and hanging out with friends, even if the pastimes weren’t done completely legally; but hey, it was the ‘80s, a different time for sure. The way T.J. writes is very personable and easy for readers of any age to relate to. "Our Teenage Years" is the first book in the “My Life” series, with his next one, "The ‘90’s: Life on the Road" on the shelves. I would highly recommend both reads for a light-hearted and pleasant read.
May 1, 2019
This is a heartwarming memoir of the author's memories and coming of age as a young man in a small town. It is written in a conversational style, just like you were on the porch, drinking an ice cold drink; the author brings you deep into his world of friends, family, and especially his best friend Terry. You will be taken on back roads racing, a house fire, kindness shown with a brown bag and french fries, heartbreak, and many other adventures. Also there are lessons of the author's parents shared, one from his dad was always having Chap Stick in his pocket to meeting an 81 year old grandparent for the first time. There are so many endearing moments sprinkled throughout this book. There was part of a quote from the author in a response on how he would answer a question from God, "Sir, I did the very best I could with what you gave me to work with..." You have to read the book to get the full quote :) But I felt that was a theme all the way throughout the book, including pictures at the end to help the reader connect with the story. You get a real down to earth look into the author's life. I'm an older reader so I went down memory lane as there are several references to growing up in the 80's. It is a good read if you like memoirs and want to travel back in time. This book takes you there.
December 6, 2018
I received this book from the author for review.
The author, T.J. Wray, gives a glimpse of life as a teenager in Oklahoma in the 80's. As specific as that scenario is, it resonated with me because I WAS a teenager in Oklahoma in the 80's.
We get anecdotes about his life and adventures in a small town. Although T.J. is not a professional writer, he is good at conveying emotion and vividly describing the world as his teen eyes experienced them.
There are lots of life lessons presented in his many stories. Also, in many ways, this is a cautionary tale. T.J. gives examples of what NOT to do and why. He gives us all an idea of how being a kid in the 80's was different that being a kid now. Honestly, I like those old days better.
Most importantly, T.J. teaches a lesson in priorities. Savor your family and friends. Your experiences with them is all that matters. Love and cherish your children, because they are your true legacy on this Earth. When God calls you home, they will be your mark on the world, more than any material possessions or money can ever do.
I loved reading this. It was genuine, real, heart-felt. Thanks T.J. for giving me a look back on the world of my youth through your adventures in small town Oklahoma.
The author, T.J. Wray, gives a glimpse of life as a teenager in Oklahoma in the 80's. As specific as that scenario is, it resonated with me because I WAS a teenager in Oklahoma in the 80's.
We get anecdotes about his life and adventures in a small town. Although T.J. is not a professional writer, he is good at conveying emotion and vividly describing the world as his teen eyes experienced them.
There are lots of life lessons presented in his many stories. Also, in many ways, this is a cautionary tale. T.J. gives examples of what NOT to do and why. He gives us all an idea of how being a kid in the 80's was different that being a kid now. Honestly, I like those old days better.
Most importantly, T.J. teaches a lesson in priorities. Savor your family and friends. Your experiences with them is all that matters. Love and cherish your children, because they are your true legacy on this Earth. When God calls you home, they will be your mark on the world, more than any material possessions or money can ever do.
I loved reading this. It was genuine, real, heart-felt. Thanks T.J. for giving me a look back on the world of my youth through your adventures in small town Oklahoma.
May 14, 2019
In Our Teenage Years, author T. J. Wray chronicles his life growing up in a small town in Oklahama in the 1980s. He recalls growing up in a dysfunctional home, working as a newspaper boy at minimum wages, becoming a teen dad, and reveals his innocent adventures as a teenager with his best friend Terry. The young boy we meet here is someone who makes mistakes and learns from them.
While Wray lacks the flair of a veteran writer, he tells his story in simple words, touching readers’ hearts with his candid approach, a humble narrative, and profound insights.
With its lively stories about a bygone era when life was simpler and happier, the book will delight readers who grew up during the 1980s.
While Wray lacks the flair of a veteran writer, he tells his story in simple words, touching readers’ hearts with his candid approach, a humble narrative, and profound insights.
With its lively stories about a bygone era when life was simpler and happier, the book will delight readers who grew up during the 1980s.
Read
November 15, 2018---- Disclosure: I received this book for free from Goodreads. ---- Reviewing in order to fulfill my obligation to review the book in exchange for having received it in a goodreads giveaway. So, I like the cover. It's what drew me to the book. For future potential readers: this is a self-published book.
January 20, 2019
I found this book inspiring. After the author went through so much, he still came out smiling and looking forward to the future. I find it inspiring that people can overcome so much sadness and still live rewarding and prosperous lives. This author reminds us about what is most important in life, (Family and Friends). Great Read!
April 7, 2019
Beautiful and enjoyable read!
Thoroughly enjoyed it
Thoroughly enjoyed it
April 15, 2020
"You can take a lot of things away from a guy. But you be well warned to not try and take his truck."
There are many wonderful anecdotes in this book that I could have shared, but this one really struck a chord, probably because after twenty-plus years of marriage I know too well how attached men can get to their trucks!
Our Teenage Years by T.J. Wray is a humorous, sometimes heart-breaking and disarmingly candid memoir about growing up in a small town in Texas in the 1980s. With a rich Texas drawl and a descriptive narrative that is somehow comforting and familiar, Wray has presented his readers with a book which is as abundant in detail as it is in content. This autobiography had me gripped from beginning to end.
By telling the story of his teenage years in a relaxed and informal way, made this book an incredibly personal experience. Instead of reading the words, I felt as if I were sat outside on a cool evening, listening to Wray recount his life. This intimate feel not only made this book immensely readable but a thoroughly enjoyable experience as well. Our Teenage Years is so compelling that I found it next to impossible to put down. One more page became one more chapter. This is the kind of book that one would forsake sleep to finish.
Wray has captured the very essences of the 1980's, and although the 80s seems but a distant past to many of us, myself included, it was a very different time to the one we live today. The freedom that teenagers had back then is depicted with beauty and elegance. Such freedoms meant that Wray and his best friend, Terry, often found themselves in troublesome situations — whether it be arguments settled with fists in school, or hopping over a fence to do a spot of illegal fishing on private property.
Wray is very open about the abuse he endured as a young child, both physical and mentally, which at times makes for some challenging reading. But his honesty gave this book a keen sense of authenticity. However, his story is also remarkably uplifting. Wray has not allowed himself to become bitter, nor does he blame others for how his life turned out. Wray is undoubtedly one of those people whom when thrown a curveball, has the determination as well as the mentality to face such a difficult pitch head-on. He is never thwarted nor discouraged. He is forever striving to make a better life for himself.
Coming from a poverty inflicted home, Wray describes how very keen he was to earn money from a young age. He also speaks of how he refused to shy away from his responsibilities. His determination to always do the right thing and his frank and remarkably honest confessions when he fell short of what he expected from himself was very humbling. This story is also one that a younger generation could undoubtedly take something from. Wray's little snippets of advice throughout this book gives his story a rather fantastic role-model mentality for future generations, especially for those young adults whose situation mirrored his. Wray does not use this biography to lecture, he doesn't say you mustn't do this, but he does encourage the reader to think about their actions before they commit to a path of destructive behaviour.
Wray wanted to honour his friend, Terry, in this book, and he has done so with skill, diligence and humour. I think Terry, if he were still alive, would be very proud of how he was portrayed in Wray's autobiography.
There is a sense of sentimental longing in Wray's story, which I think resonated with me. I thought this book was absolutely fabulous, and I cannot wait to read Book 2 and find out more about this fascinating man and his life.
I Highly Recommend.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.
January 26, 2020
Not at bad read, but needs work. The author points at the beginning he isn’t a writer and to overlook any issues we might find. Well, that’s okay, but when you venture out to be a writer it is our responsibility to make sure the work is as sharp as one can make it and call on others who can help in the process. This is a point he makes time and time again about hard work and surrounding yourself with the right mentors. When it comes to writing, he needs to follow his own advice.
The major problem with the story is the organization. There is not definitive time line to follow. It bounces all over the place. A good editor could have provided some excellent insight in organizing the author’s thoughts. I understand sometimes we have to jump back to cover a topic that wasn’t thoroughly fleshed out or need refreshing, but not the whole story.
That said, there is some excellent sage advice sprinkled through this memoir. T.J. learns at an early age to be accountable for his actions even though his parents, both natural and step seem to have a tough time of doing that. He learns and develops an excellent work ethic and like most of us, along the way he and his best bud Terry manage to raise enough hell for about a dozen teenagers and lived to tell the tale. Their adventures are well worth the read.
Being a teenager in the 70’s I can relate to a lot of his stories. While T.J. grew up in rural Guthrie, Ok and I in Tulsa, many of his stories and adventures are well worth the trip down memory lane. I would like to know one thing, how did they get to the bar in Oklahoma City. If they drove there, why did they have to call one of their moms to rescue them?
If you wish for the simple days when life was easier and we didn’t have a care in the world, other than surviving, I recommend this story.
Three stars
The major problem with the story is the organization. There is not definitive time line to follow. It bounces all over the place. A good editor could have provided some excellent insight in organizing the author’s thoughts. I understand sometimes we have to jump back to cover a topic that wasn’t thoroughly fleshed out or need refreshing, but not the whole story.
That said, there is some excellent sage advice sprinkled through this memoir. T.J. learns at an early age to be accountable for his actions even though his parents, both natural and step seem to have a tough time of doing that. He learns and develops an excellent work ethic and like most of us, along the way he and his best bud Terry manage to raise enough hell for about a dozen teenagers and lived to tell the tale. Their adventures are well worth the read.
Being a teenager in the 70’s I can relate to a lot of his stories. While T.J. grew up in rural Guthrie, Ok and I in Tulsa, many of his stories and adventures are well worth the trip down memory lane. I would like to know one thing, how did they get to the bar in Oklahoma City. If they drove there, why did they have to call one of their moms to rescue them?
If you wish for the simple days when life was easier and we didn’t have a care in the world, other than surviving, I recommend this story.
Three stars
June 7, 2019
I really didn't know what to expect when TJ mailed me this book and asked me for an honest review. I actually kind of loved it! I loved the realness of it and how TJ spoke from the heart. He truly wanted what's best for everyone. I loved that he had such a close relationship with his best friend and his best friend's parents. I loved that he was a hard worker and wants to make a good example for his kids. I believe this author wants to be a good person.
Now, to the hard part. This book needs an editor. This book needs an editor, badly. I think that if the author got himself an editor, had that person edit the book, the content would be so much better and polished. I loved this book and wish all the best to the author.
Now, to the hard part. This book needs an editor. This book needs an editor, badly. I think that if the author got himself an editor, had that person edit the book, the content would be so much better and polished. I loved this book and wish all the best to the author.
May 11, 2022
T.J. recounts his childhood in a moving and inspirational way. With parents divorced at a young age and his father taking him unexpectedly, they live on the run for 11 years. He describes a toxic relationship with his step-parents as well many teenage experiences. But through it all he is able to maintain a close relationship with his best friend, Terry. The book is easy to read and filled with many humorous and heart-warming stories as well as advice. Our Teenage Years will take you back in time to a unique experience in small town America in the 80s.
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