About This Book
This YA/Crossover novel has been read by more 'baby boomers' than young people. This story is set in WV in 1957, a time when family was family and true friends were essential. You will quickly bond with Keith DeLong and best friend, John 'Flea' Summers, two normal teens growing up in a rugged coal mining town. For a summer job, they decide, instead of working as gophers around the mine, to work outdoors in fresh air and sunshine. They apply for caddy jobs at the Bluefield Country Club, without their parents' knowledge. This move will not sit well with Keith's coal-mining father. Flea is struck with a serious illness. Keith feels overwhelmed by his decisions and increasing heartaches in the midst of his goals. After warning his son about the uppity attitudes of the Bluefield 'rich' folks, against his better wishes, Keith's father allows him to caddy. "You'll learn about them folks...the hard way, son." At the Bluefield Country Club, Keith's nemesis is Eddie Brinkley, the head caddy, and son of a wealthy lawyer. The friction between them intensifies, but Keith refuses to allow this kid to ruin his caddy job, which would solidify his father's biased attitudes. This story will pull you in and have you rooting for these two teens in their struggles and determination. Have a tear-wipe handy. Oh, and then there's the sequel "Out of the Rough." Both novels are suitable for all ages, especially those of us who recall the late 50's and how times were. Review by Larry Webb, Young Adult author: Lee, I just finished "If Bullfrogs Had Wings." Loved it I grew up in the 50s and remember well our feelings of misuse and abuse because we couldn't go to the county fairs, circuses, and movies due to the polio scourge before Jonas Salk perfected the vaccine. Our parents just plain wouldn't let us. Anyway, loved the book and all of its life lessons. Five minutes after finishing, I downloaded its sequel "Out of the Rough." Note to reader: Even if you're not a golfer, you'll enjoy this story because 'golf' is the vehicle used to move it forward...
