By: Samantha Poathe
Gene J. Miller, a beloved retired educator, has transformed his decades of teaching and storytelling into a delightful new book for middle school readers. Titled Warning: Short Stories for Middle School Boys Only, Because Girls Have Cooties!, this collection of 15 standalone stories promises laughs, lessons, and a heartwarming trip down memory lane.
Inspired by Miller’s childhood in Delanco, New Jersey, the stories capture the essence of growing up in the 1960s. From mischievous adventures by the Delaware River to navigating friendships, bullies, and part-time jobs, Miller’s tales transport readers to a simpler time while delivering timeless lessons about personal responsibility, decision-making, and growing up.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Delanco and the Delaware River, the book masterfully weaves humor and history, offering a “time capsule” for adults while engaging young readers with relatable antics. Reminiscent of Tom Sawyer and Stand by Me, Miller’s writing blends nostalgia with an adventurous spirit, making it a hit with readers of all ages.
Each chapter introduces new escapades, such as sneaking into a local junkyard guarded by the ominous “Patch-Eye Joe” or exploring rumors of quicksand along the riverbanks. Miller’s colorful characters—like best friends Big Rich Palm and Mark Bruno—add depth and charm to the stories, while childlike illustrations and a vibrant two-page map of Delanco enhance the reading experience.
Miller’s career in education spanned 44 years, during which he taught English and history, coached high school sports, served as a middle school principal, and even worked as an adjunct professor. His firsthand understanding of middle school students inspired him to create a book tailored to their interests. The idea for the book came from his grandsons, who were eager for stories about their adventurous middle school years.
“I wrote this for middle schoolers, but it’s also a time capsule for adults to reflect on growing up in the 1960s,” Miller shared. “It’s fascinating to compare what’s changed—and what hasn’t—over the last 50 years.”
Beyond the humor and nostalgia, Miller’s book is packed with life lessons. Each chapter is accompanied by a teacher’s guide, including vocabulary exercises, writing prompts, and cross-curricular research ideas, making it an ideal resource for educators and homeschoolers. Whether grappling with a bully or learning the value of hard work, readers of all ages will find something to relate to—and plenty to chuckle about.
Kirkus Reviews praised the book as “a remembrance that’s full of delightful, nostalgic turns,” celebrating Miller’s ability to transport readers to his boyhood in small-town New Jersey.
Heroism in the Author’s DNA
While Miller’s stories focus on childhood adventures, his real-life heroism is equally inspiring. Fifty years ago, as an 18-year-old gas station attendant, Miller saved a toddler from a runaway car, risking his own safety to stop the vehicle from crashing into a wall. His bravery earned him the prestigious Carnegie Medal for Heroism, which not only recognized his courage but also provided a scholarship that helped him finish college.
“I became a teacher and affected thousands of kids’ lives over 35 years,” Miller reflected. “That wouldn’t have happened if that incident hadn’t gone down. It changed my life.”
Miller isn’t slowing down anytime soon. While promoting his debut book, he’s already working on a second collection of short stories to explore the darker, more complex challenges of high school. He’s also passionate about bringing Warning into classrooms, book fairs, and book clubs to inspire young readers and share his love of storytelling.
For Miller, the journey from educator to author has been as rewarding as the stories he tells. “Writing is like molding clay,” he explained. “You shape and reshape until it’s just right.”
Gene J. Miller’s book is available on Amazon and through his website, www.genemiller56.com. Whether you’re a middle schooler looking for laughs or an adult seeking a nostalgic escape, Miller’s tales will entertain, educate, and leave you smiling with every turn of the page.
Published by Anne C.