Simpler Times

About the Book

The eighth child of Polish immigrants, 'Sonny' learns survival skills in the slums of Jersey City, NJ during the thirties and early forties. His catholic upbringing affects his responses to the challenges of growing up.

About the Author

Frank R. Dufay, Ed. D., received his doctorate in Educational Administration from New York University in 1963. As an educator, he taught at every level, from kindergarten to elementary, middle school, high school, and college. As an administrator, he served as an elementary school principal, an assistant superintendent of schools K-12, and as the executive director of a 5-country regional education center in New York State. Throughout the country, he has lectured, on request, to school districts, service clubs, and colleges regarding the need for educational innovation. His book, Ungrading the Elementary School, was an educational best-seller requiring five printings. He co-authored the publication, How Children Learn published by the New York State Elementary Principals Association.

Although he is pleased with his acheivements as an educator, Dr. Dufay is deeply aware of his beginnings: as the eighth child of immigrant parents - from Poland. Growing up in Jersey City, New Jersey, he enjoyed the penny candy store...playing stickball...helping his pop, at times, with the moving business...never forgetting the business card that read: DUFAY & SONS, LOCAL & LONG DISTANCE, ESTIMATES CHEERFULLY GIVEN, PIANO HOISTING A SPECIALTY...CALL BERGEN 4-8989. WE MOVE ANYWHERE.

In this book you will read about the adventures of a much-loved youngster finding opportunities for happiness in the "slums". As he grew, he developed a near-obsession about being the first person to run the four-minute mile. And, yes, he loved writing. This chronicle represents his wanting to share "those simpler times". Enjoy, if you will.