Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
29(29%)
4 stars
38(38%)
3 stars
33(33%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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4 1/2 stars.

It's an easy read that really captured my attention. I particularly liked Calvin, the main character.

My mom graduated from Central High School in 1960, and her siblings did too. So, reading about places like St. Paul back then brought back a flood of nostalgic memories and vivid images for me.

The story might have been a bit far-fetched in some aspects, but that didn't stop me from thoroughly enjoying it.

I found myself immersed in the world created by the author, eagerly turning the pages to see what would happen next to Calvin and the other characters.

Despite its flaws, the book had a certain charm that made it a pleasure to read.

It's the kind of story that you can relax with and let your imagination run wild.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an entertaining and engaging read.
July 15,2025
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A story that takes place in the 50s. It was not a bad story initially, but as it progressed, it took a rather dark turn. The focus shifted towards a girl who was being brutally assaulted and abused by her father. The situation was truly heart-wrenching.


The main character, Cal, a kind-hearted and courageous individual, couldn't stand by and watch this injustice unfold. He felt a moral obligation to help the girl get out of this terrible situation. Cal was determined to do whatever it took to rescue her and give her a chance at a better life.


Cal began to formulate a plan, carefully considering all the possible risks and obstacles. He knew that it wouldn't be easy, but he was willing to face any challenge to ensure the girl's safety. With each passing day, his resolve grew stronger, and he was ready to take action to save the girl from her abusive father.

July 15,2025
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I didn't think I'd like this as much as I did.

To my surprise, it was actually a really good book.

The story was engaging and held my attention from start to finish.

Moreover, the fact that it's set in St. Paul makes it even more interesting.

St. Paul is a vibrant city with its own unique charm and history.

Reading about the characters and their adventures in this familiar setting added an extra layer of authenticity to the story.

I found myself completely immersed in the world of the book and was sad when it came to an end.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read.

It's definitely one that I'll be thinking about for a long time to come.

July 15,2025
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This song has been one of my favorites ever since I first heard it in high school.

The moment the melody reached my ears, it instantly captured my heart. There was something about it that spoke to my soul on a deep level.

The lyrics seemed to tell a story that I could relate to, and the rhythm was so captivating that it made me want to dance and sing along.

Over the years, I have listened to this song countless times, and it never gets old. It always manages to bring back memories of my high school days, the good times and the bad.

It is like a time capsule that takes me back to a place and time that I will always cherish.

I am so grateful to have discovered this song, and I know that it will remain one of my favorites for the rest of my life.
July 15,2025
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Before I delved into this book, I had already read the remarkable “Growing an Inch” (also penned by Stanley Gordon West), and I absolutely adored it!

If you are contemplating reading this book, I would highly recommend also giving “Growing an Inch” a go. The order doesn't really matter as they are both “kinda” interconnected, especially when it comes to the characters.

Anyway, “Until the Streetcars Get Back” is off to a rather promising start. Even though I haven't advanced too far into it yet, it's already captivating. The story is about a senior in high school in 1949. He's a decent guy, not impoverished by any means. He plays football, has a plethora of friends, and is quite popular. However, he finds himself in a rather eerie situation when the creepy girl in school, nicknamed “Gretch the Wretch,” who has never been seen conversing with anyone in school, begins to talk to him and persistently wants to meet him. He discovers that she had an older sister who went a bit insane and that her dad also beats her.

The guy, Calvin, narrates the story from his perspective and时不时 shares tales of his past, which adds an extra layer of flavor to the narrative. Most of his flashbacks contain some sort of emotional moment or connection.

So far, I have a favorable impression of the book, but I'm eagerly awaiting for it to pick up a bit more pace. After reading “Growing an Inch” and falling in love with it, I have high expectations for this book, and I truly hope they are met.
July 15,2025
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A real page turner!

We have a group of high school kids who are living their best lives. They are basically a good group of kids, but at times, they can be devilish pranksters.

Among them is Cal, who shows kindness to an outsider. From that moment on, their lives change. Cal does the wrong thing in an attempt to do the right thing.

I like to imagine that in the next (unwritten) chapter, Cal goes and gets his GED. Maybe he realizes that his actions have consequences and decides to take a different path.

Perhaps he uses his newfound determination to turn his life around and achieve something great. Or maybe he continues to make mistakes but learns from them along the way.

Either way, Cal's story is one that keeps us on the edge of our seats, wondering what will happen next.
July 15,2025
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St Paul is a city that offers a good overview of various aspects. It has a rich history and a diverse population, which gives rise to many interesting characters. The city is filled with unique neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character. There are museums, art galleries, and theaters that showcase the city's cultural heritage. The food scene in St Paul is also quite diverse, with a wide range of restaurants offering different cuisines. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or food, St Paul has something to offer. Overall, it is an enjoyable read to explore the city and discover its many treasures.

The people of St Paul are friendly and welcoming, and they take pride in their city. There are many festivals and events that are held throughout the year, which bring the community together. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs to choose from. Whether you are looking for a quiet evening out or a wild night on the town, St Paul has something for everyone.

In conclusion, St Paul is a city that has a lot to offer. It is a great place to live, work, and play. With its rich history, diverse population, and unique neighborhoods, it is a city that is full of life and energy. If you are looking for a new place to explore, St Paul should definitely be on your list.
July 15,2025
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Sometimes the narration of the teenage boy goes a bit too far.

It's a very sad story indeed. However, I really loved the main character.

The way he was portrayed made him come alive in my mind.

Despite the hardships and challenges he faced, he showed great courage and determination.

His emotions were palpable, and I found myself empathizing with him throughout the story.

Even though the narration might have been a bit excessive at times, it didn't overshadow the essence of the story or the charm of the main character.

I was still able to become fully immersed in the story and feel a connection to the events and the people within it.

Overall, it was a moving and engaging read, and I would highly recommend it to others.
July 15,2025
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I simply couldn't put this thing down. It was truly captivating from start to finish.

What really made it special for me were all the wonderful references to St Paul MN. It brought back so many memories and made me feel a deep sense of connection to that place.

The author did an amazing job of incorporating these details in a way that added depth and authenticity to the story. It was like a love letter to the city.

Every time I came across a mention of St Paul MN, my heart would skip a beat. It was as if I was right there, experiencing all the sights and sounds.

I can't wait to see what else the author has in store that might involve this beloved city. This article has definitely left me hungry for more.

I highly recommend it to anyone who has a soft spot for St Paul MN or just enjoys a great read. You won't be disappointed.

July 15,2025
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This is a very good book indeed.

It is set in the Twin Cities, which makes it extremely interesting as one can easily picture the areas that are mentioned in the book and imagine how they look like in the present day.

The story seems to have a certain charm that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

I'm not entirely sure exactly when I read this book, but I do know that it was before 2006.

Perhaps it was during a quiet weekend when I had nothing else to do but curl up with a good book.

Regardless of when I read it, the memories of the story and the vivid descriptions of the Twin Cities still linger in my mind.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good read and has an interest in the Twin Cities area.

It's a great way to explore the city through the eyes of the author and gain a new perspective on the places that make up this vibrant and diverse community.

July 15,2025
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One of my all-time favorite books!

I read it approximately 20 years ago and often think of it. Just recently, I reread it, and it still remains near the top of my list of favorites!

In the early 2000s, I had the opportunity to meet Stanley Gordon West at a school event. I was extremely lucky to be his driver for that day. What an incredibly thoughtful, kind, and generous man he was!

I firmly believe that Cal shares a great deal of similarities with SGW. They both possess qualities that are truly admirable and worthy of emulation. The way they interact with others, their kindness, and their thoughtfulness are all traits that make them stand out. It's no wonder that this book has had such a lasting impact on me and continues to be one of my favorites to this day.
July 15,2025
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Excellent local history is a treasure trove that holds the key to understanding the past of a particular region. It provides valuable insights into the people, events, and cultures that have shaped the area over time. By studying local history, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the unique character and identity of our community.


Local history can take many forms, including written records, oral traditions, and historical artifacts. These sources can help us piece together the story of our region, from its earliest settlements to the present day. They can also揭示 the social, economic, and political forces that have influenced its development.


Moreover, excellent local history can have a profound impact on our sense of place and belonging. It can connect us to our ancestors and to the generations that have come before us. It can also inspire us to preserve and protect the historical sites and cultural traditions that are an important part of our heritage.


In conclusion, excellent local history is an essential part of our collective memory. It enriches our lives and helps us make sense of the world around us. We should all take the time to explore and appreciate the local history of our communities, and work to ensure that it is passed down to future generations.

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