Mysteries of My Father: An Irish-American Memoir Book

Thomas J. Fleming has written quite a few books on history, particularly the history of the American War for Independence, and historical fiction. This book, however, is an autobiography focusing upon his parents, the Irish-American experience, and New Jersey Democrat machine politics. To say it directly: Fleming can't help but write history no matter what the story is that he is telling.
He grew up during the Great Depression in New Jersey. His experience was that of a Catholic boy who attended Catholic schools and mass. His family was not just strongly Democrat, but his father worked for the political machine in Jersey City.
His father, Teddy Fleming, Sr., grew up tough. He was a boxer, a street fighter, a soldier in World War I, a fellow who graduated with honors from the proverbial school of hard knocks. His wife, however, was a more cultured and educated woman. Both were Irish and Catholic, however, she resented the lower class, often crass and unmannered ways of her husband and many of his cronies.
They really were a good match in terms of each providing what the other needed. But this was not a marriage made in heaven. At least while they were living, it was usually tumultous.
Young Thomas Fleming was a bright student and a reader. He was also an observer, but like most of us, he saw things and learned things from his parents that it took time to sort out and understand.
This book, like all good autobiographies, is a testimony to the search and discovery, usually born of lots of reflection, that make us who we are.
Even though there was a naval officer who wanted to see Fleming make a career in the navy and his dad wanted him to be a lawyer, Fleming decided that he wanted to become a writer. With 50 or more books to his credit (and I want them all!), he more than succeeded.
This is quite a good story.