Upon Felters Road: Story of the Afterschoolers

Upon Felters Road: Story of the Afterschoolers is an unforgettable coming-of-age novel that captures the heart of growing up in Binghamton, New York, where lifelong friendships, strong family values, and a close-knit community shape one young man's future. Set during the 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s, this emotionally rich work of historical fiction follows Floyd Davis as he comes of age in the Saratoga Apartments on Binghamton's south side. Alongside his inseparable friends Johnny, Calvin, and Beth, Floyd experiences the joys and hardships of childhood through neighborhood adventures, school, football, first love, music, family celebrations, and the everyday moments that defined an unforgettable generation. Their community is built on loyalty, respect, dignity, and neighbors who look after one another, creating a world many readers will remember with affection and others will wish they had experienced. As the years pass, childhood innocence gives way to adult realities. College, careers, romance, military service, and personal loss lead each friend down a different path. At the same time, the city they love begins to change. Drugs, violence, and organized crime slowly invade neighborhoods once filled with laughter and hope, threatening the families and friendships that have held the community together for generations. When tragedy strikes someone from Floyd's past, he is forced to confront the devastating consequences of violence and decide how far he is willing to go to protect the people and hometown that shaped his life. His journey becomes one of courage, justice, redemption, and the difficult choices that define a person's character. Blending the warmth of nostalgic storytelling with the intensity of an urban crime drama, Upon Felters Road: Story of the Afterschoolers is a powerful family saga celebrating friendship, resilience, and the enduring bonds of community. Rich with authentic period details, memorable characters, classic music and cultural references, and the unmistakable spirit of 1970s and 1980s America, this compelling novel will resonate with readers who enjoy coming-of-age fiction, African American fiction, historical fiction, literary fiction, and stories where family, loyalty, and hope triumph over adversity. Whether you remember life before smartphones and social media or simply appreciate character-driven fiction with heart, Upon Felters Road: Story of the Afterschoolers is a moving portrait of growing up, finding your place in the world, and discovering that home is worth fighting for.