The Buzz Boys

 'The Buzz Boys' is a heartbreaking, raw story about five boys growing up in a small Chicago suburb during the 1960s and 1970s. Known as 'The Buzz Boys', Robby, Marco, Petey, Billy, and Johnny all came from homes filled with unimaginable physical, emotional, and sexual abuse at the hands of their fathers. It is told by Robert Mazzara, now 60 years old, as he reflects on the tragic events of the past. During the first chapter of the book, attorney Robert Mazzara is shocked to hear on the news that a horrific murder-suicide had occurred the night before. Unfortunately, it was Marco Pezza, his best friend. He killed his father before turning the gun on himself. Suddenly, Robert realized he was the last of the 'Buzz Boys'. He sobbed uncontrollably.

Near Cortland Avenue, most of the families were immigrants from Italy who worked long hours to live the American dream. The husbands and fathers came home and took out their anger and rage on their wives and children. School officials, neighbors, and even law enforcement turned a blind eye. It was clear to wives and children that if they said anything, it would only worsen home life. Husbands would only get a slap on the wrist. Children would never be taken away from their homes due to abuse. "Nobody was saying a damn word!" 

The mother of one of the boys committed suicide. Sadly, one of the boys lost both parents in a murder-suicide. All of the boys, along with their siblings, were molested and/or raped by their own fathers. The children suffered physical abuse to the point where they were black and blue, swollen, bleeding, and had broken bones. As a team, the boys supported and helped one another. Throughout grade school, high school and beyond, or until they died, they were bound together by their bond. Drinking alcohol helped them escape pain and memories. 

Throughout the book, each chapter is titled, which I really enjoyed. For example: Chapter 4 - The Playground (1966), Chapter 8 - The Suzie-Q, Chapter 13 - Shop Class (1975). Readers get a glimpse into what the chapter might contain. It was also nice for me because as I read further into the book, I wanted to look back at something and I knew what had happened, so I just had to find that chapter.

This is not a book for everyone. As a parent, I would not feel comfortable letting my teenager read this book. There may be a triggering element to this book for those who have been abused. Several parts of it are very descriptive which is understandable. The book is well written. 

Disclaimer - I received this Ebook in exchange for my honest thoughts.