by Larry Schardt (Author)

Summer 1970. Peace and love are everywhere.

Home is a volatile powder keg wired to erupt. Larry never knows when Dad will transform from mellow "Dr. Jekyll" into raging "Mr. Hyde." Music is his only escape. The fantasy of running away to feel safe and find peace is just a dream. Until it isn't.

When a new friend invites him to hitchhike to Ocean City, New Jersey, 15-year old Larry grabs the chance. He's desperate and feels he has no choice. This is the moment he's been waiting for. In an instant he decides to leave and not wait for tension on the home front to build and explode all over again.

On the road, he is conflicted about his decision-happy he escaped, yet sad his mother will worry, and terrified he will be caught and sent back home. But the Jersey Shore is not what he expected.

A timeless and universal coming-of age lesson, Larry learns the art of peace, love, and forgiveness. Step back in time and join him on this runaway summer adventure.