Oakland is on the San Francisco Bay, California. It is literally on the edge of the North American continent. Ruben, the author, writes a detail-rich memoir of this city, a melting pot for many during the late 19th, and 20th Century. Near rail yards, Oakland Port, a gateway of transportation from east to further west, San Francisco. Urban life for youngsters, their freedoms, their energy, and their ability to get along. Music of the times and how it changes. Sports, for the kids, baseball, bicycling, and boxing. Church and police authority are involved in the kids' lives. Graduates from high school are able to get adequate jobs for young families. Then challenges through management and corporate expectations. Also includes family heritage from Chihuahua, Mexico, generations moving north from revolution, settling until disease and death prompt some family members to come to America (with their papers in their hands), only in the 1930s to be sent back. History repeats itself. An authentic memoir. Includes some general history of this area of California. Many photographs tell the story of American culture in the 20th Century.
