The summer of 76

The evolution of Mumbly Peg

Some of you have asked me where the story for Mumbly Peg originated.

The inspiration for this project began as early as 1976 during a sleep-away camp for inner-city kids. As a nerdy, suburban 13-year-old, I was unknowingly sent on a bus alone to Chicago's South Side, and after a brief stop to pick up other campers, we journeyed seven hours to northern Michigan. What unfolded was a fish-out-of-water, coming-of-age adventure, where I endured hazing, shared a kiss with a beautiful girl, and faced a challenge from her brother. A nighttime game of Mumbly Peg—like bocce ball, but with a switchblade—to prove my manhood.

I kept quiet about this story for ten years. I think I was too annoyed with my parents to share. Eventually, I started talking about it, and it later felt like a pretty funny story that continued to develop over time. So, take a look at this serial novel, and let me know your thoughts. Talks of a book and a movie have been discussed with lots of people and continue to evolve. Thank you.