A Simpler Time

About the Book

What does it mean to grow up in A Simpler Time?

Set in the sun-soaked streets of 1950s and early ’60s Southern California, A Simpler Time: As We Remember is a vivid coming-of-age memoir that captures the rhythm, romance, and rebellion of a generation. Through the lives of Geoff and Natalie, readers relive a cultural tapestry woven from rock and roll music, beach outings, teen romance, drive-in theaters, and the quiet strength of family and community values.

Each chapter unfolds through evocative vignettes, dramatized with journalistic flair and titled after iconic songs of the era. From the jitter of a first kiss to the roar of a muscle car, and from school dances to surf band gigs, the book chronicles the universal experiences of adolescence: freedom, innocence, passion, and heartbreak, all set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America.

With rich nostalgia, musical history, and social snapshots, this memoir connects readers to the emotional pulse of a time when life was slower, sweeter, and still full of wonder. It is perfect for fans of cultural memoirs, rock and roll history, and those who remember (or wish they had) what it felt like to be young in the age of vinyl and values.

Rediscover the beauty of a time worth remembering. Step into the story of A Simpler Time.

About the Author

Growing up in the mid to late 50s and early 60s can be chronicled in many ways. We could tell the story about music, religion, cars, entertainment, and world events, but how do they tie into a life lived during this piece of history? The best way is to add a vignette or story that places the reader from the viewpoint of someone who lived it. We have taken some journalistic liberties to dramatize events that occurred through the eyes of two people, Geoff and Natalie. We have titled each chapter for additional flare with a song from the era. The mid-1950s and early ‘60s meant being surrounded by friends and family and listening to the words in the music played. It was going to the beach, dating, studying together, the influence of the church, watching television, or going to the movies with friends. It was the escape from home that a driver’s license gave. But it was also filled with impetuous youth, immaturity, passion and hanging on to innocence for as long as possible. A Simpler Time is merely something to be enjoyed.