Local author Jade Heasley has released her first book, "1980s Kid," a memoir of her childhood during the '80s.
"Although I'd never wear those clothes again, it was great while it lasted," Heasley said of the decade's fashions.
Raised in Lycoming County, where "1980s Kid" takes place, Heasley found the inspiration to write the book from the humorous events that took place during her childhood.
"Some of the other chapters have things that most people could relate to," Heasley said. "Like the time I was convinced that I heard Santa Claus in the living room."
The book takes readers back to the introduction of cordless phones and home computer systems. The central theme between each chapter is the humor of the entire decade.
"It's a humorous memoir about being bratty and getting into typical childhood scrapes, all taking place in an era when rock stars wore permed mullets and spandex leggings but still managed to look cool, VCRs were status symbols and 5-inch floppy disks were high technology," Heasley said.
Heasley takes the reader on a trip back in time in unforgettable chapters, such as "An Orange Squirt Gun and Angry Neighbors," "Christmas Cheer and Christmas Fear" and "A Shocking Trip to the Mall."
"While the 1980s are the backdrop of the book, no matter what decade you spent your childhood in, you will probably be able to relate to the childhood adventures of getting into trouble with your first squirt gun, hearing Santa Claus in the living room and covering your tracks after accidentally breaking one of your brother's favorite toys," Heasley said.
Heasley graduated from Valley Forge Christian College and Lock Haven University, receiving bachelor's degrees at both institutions.
Heasley said it took her four to five months to write and revise the book.
In order to get it published, Heasley sent the manuscript to publishers, hoping to get a response.
Once a gallery proof was sent for approval, Heasley said she couldn't believe the book was going to be published that May.
"I about fell over when the publisher approved it," she said. "I was thrilled beyond words."
Although "1980s Kid" is her first book, Heasley hopes to write more humorous fiction in the future.
She also added that she plans to have several local booksignings closer to Christmas.
"1980s Kid" is available for $12.99 at Borders and Amazon.com and at local bookstores. It is published by CreateSpace.
For more information, visit www.jadeheasley.com.
