The characters in the story are fictional (even though some have the same names as people I know). There's no such place as Ramble Street in my Long Island, New York town.

But there is a place called Massapequa Park, New York. I grew up there.

We played kickball and had barbeques where we ate Swedish meatballs and listened to my big brother play the accordion.

There really was a neighbor who loved to sing. His favorite tune was “If I Were a Rich Man.” He still lives in the town of Massapequa Park, and he still has a favorite song.

If you are lucky enough to find him, and ask him nicely, I bet he will sing it for you.

More real things from the book:

The Apollo 11 Landing:

On July 20th 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin took their first steps on the moon. It was beyond historic and arguably one of mankind's greatest achievements.

NASA The 30th Anniversary of the Apollo Landing
This was created for the 30th anniversary. The 40th anniversary website is coming soon and will be linked here.

The Apollo 11 Astronauts:

Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins are and always will be my heroes.

Neil Armstrong bio
Buzz Aldrin bio
Michael Collins bio

The Moon:

Check out these websites, but make sure to look up in the sky tonight.

To the Moon:  A companion to website to the NOVA special. Click on “space pioneers” to hear Buzz Aldrin talk about the first landing.

Quiz Your Noodle:  Take the National Geographic Test on how well you know your facts about the moon.

Quotes about the Moon:  From scientists to poets, everyone has something to say about our nearest celestial neighbor.

The Vietnam War:

The Vietnam War is the longest military conflict in US history lasting from 1959 to 1975.

Battlefield Vietnam:  This timeline from the PBS chronicles the Vietnam Conflict.

The Massapequas:

Located on Long Island not too far away from New York City are the towns of Massapequa and Massapequa Park.

Massapequa Map:  Here's a map to see where the story takes place.

Dandelions:

To some, they're a common weed. Others see their beauty.

Fun facts on dandelions:  This site lists interesting facts about our most easily recognizable flower.