The Sounds At the River’s Edge is a touching childhood memoir by Bobbie J. McLaren.

Childhood is a source of great memories and life experiences. Childhood is the stage where we learn some of the basic things in life. The things we hold there often have to do with our childhood years- our core values, the people closest to us, moments, and discoveries. Of course, like any other childhood, it mostly involves fun, playing, and friends. For many whose childhood happened three or four decades ago, growing up means spending time outdoors, interacting with kids your age, and having fun without the aid of modern toys and gadgets. And many hold those memories and consider them the simpler and happier times of their lives. Today, we will feature a book that celebrates childhood and innocence at a simpler and more joyous period.

The Sounds At the River’s Edge

The Sounds At River’s Edge: True stories of growing up on the Intracoastal Waterway is a 200-page childhood memoir by Bobbie J. McLaren. The book romanticizes a period before the digital age and the Internet. Published in 2007, The Sounds At the River’s Edge creates a touching nostalgia for the ‘good old days’ and takes readers back to a more innocent, less arduous existence. The book is especially appealing to those who grew up without the luxury of smartphones, gadgets, and technology that is now robbing many children of outdoor adventures and physical activities as forms of socializing and entertainment. McLaren heartily shares her own experiences while looking back at wonderful memories of her childhood. Today, childhood is mainly confined in front of monitor screens and the unlimited joys that the Internet provides. Yet somehow, there is a considerable void in today’s childhood experience. Socializing and physical interaction is rare, which is kind of sad for the modern generation.

“In a time before fast food, microwave ovens, and home videos; there existed a world where adventure was as close as your next thought. Entertainment wasn’t where you go or how much money you spent, but what you did. Playing outside was the normal thing for most children, in fact, to stay “in the house” was sheer punishment. Being grounded usually meant no television or use of the telephone. These are stories of a very imaginative child and the love of a father. A world that seemed to move more slowly and a time that watched history change on a daily basis as never before in the twentieth century, with joy and sorrows, tears and laughter. “The Sounds at River’s Edge” is viewed from the eyes of a child spanning only four years, but what years they were! It’s a wonder any of us survived.” (excerpt from book description)

About the Author

Bobbie J. McLaren was born in 1950s. She hails from South Florida in Northern Palm Beach County. McLaren graduated from Palm Beach Gardens High School in 1972. McLaren developed a passion for creating and writing poetry, short stories, or gospel music. Growing up, she channeled her energy into these creative forms. Now that she’s living in North East Alabama atop Lookout Mountain, McLaren wrote Vacation Bible School programs for her church and worked with Drama’s. Among her other interests and endeavors includes learning to paint and to sketch. Her full-time employment also keeps her busy. Bobbie J. McLaren lives happily at home with her two cats and being surrounded by a great family that lives all around her in the Fort Payne area.
If you want to know more about Bobbie J. McLaren and her book, you can purchase a copy at Amazon or visit her author’s website today.