An Economic Exchange

Ricky did not like the big bright red letter “F” noted upon his recent test. The shocking circumstances forced poor Ricky to face reality, and take action to not flunk his course, especially since it would provide him with valuable knowledge that he would use for the rest of his life. The incident pushes the lad from Otter Lake to a pivotal turning point where he reaches out to a sympathetic and understanding teacher. With the support and help of a respected Economics teacher, Mr. John Sproviere, Ricky is able to influence the use of alternative teaching methods, that proved not only beneficial to him, but to everyone studying Economics 101! The traditional course delivery by this admirable teacher would be forever changed showing that despite having any fears, being honest and able to suggest change can achieve amazing results. Join Ricky in his continuing journey of discovery, learning, and growth during his teen years in becoming a fine young man! Otter Lake, Quebec is a hidden jewel, a small village in northwestern Quebec. It is the beloved hometown of Little Ricky. Ricky is growing up, and the solid life footings he received in Otter Lake, at home and at St. Mary’s Elementary school have prepared him well to take on the confusing and yet exciting times of teen life. During his adventures of the late 1970s, he will explore the joys, fears, and triumphs during the awkwardness of adolescent life. Thankfully, the early values and teachings given to Ricky by amazing people all around him enable him to succeed, despite tough growing pains. Little Ricky has become the lad from Otter Lake, and he continues to champion happiness, love, understanding, forgiveness, and growth. The twelve short stories in this new collection, as were those in “Little Ricky the Boy from Otter Lake” are works of historical fiction. The plots and the majority of characters in these stories are fictional, however the details and the descriptions of the tales and individuals are based upon the author’s most cherished memories of special times and special people in his life. The short stories in this book explore the complexities and challenges, and loves and fears of teenage experiences including: classroom antics and school studies; finding love; dating, bullying; teen pregnancy; mental health; sexuality; gender; body image and weight gain/loss; death; addiction; and suicide. However, though tough teen subjects, each are told in the most loving, kind, understanding, forgiving, and heartwarming ways that is best known as the Little Ricky way.