Must Read: Remember Atlantic City Before The Casinos?
Hey Folks,
If you love Atlantic City history, I have something I think you’re really going to enjoy.
Every once in a while, I come across a story that reminds me how much Atlantic City has changed—and how important it is to remember where we came from.
Most people know Atlantic City for the casinos, entertainment, and the world-famous Boardwalk. But long before gaming arrived, there was another Atlantic City. A city of neighborhoods, local characters, old-school cars cruising the streets, and young people trying to find their place in the world.
That’s exactly what you’ll find in Full Moon Bop, a riveting new novel by author James Rahn.
A Trip Back To Atlantic City In 1971
Set during the winter of 1971, years before casinos transformed the city, Full Moon Bop follows fifteen-year-old Billy Mott, an orphan struggling to find direction while growing up in a fading shore town.
Billy is restless, rebellious, and searching for something more. As he becomes immersed in friendships, street culture, adventure, and increasingly dangerous situations, he’s forced to confront the choices that may ultimately define the rest of his life.
What makes this story especially appealing to local readers is its setting. The Atlantic City portrayed in these pages isn’t the Atlantic City of today. It’s the city many longtime residents remember—a place filled with grit, character, and unforgettable stories.
If you’ve ever wondered what life was like here before the casinos arrived, this book offers a fascinating glimpse into that world.
Why I Think You’ll Enjoy It
Over the years, I’ve talked with thousands of people throughout South Jersey who grew up in Atlantic City during the 1960s and 1970s. Their stories are filled with neighborhood legends, memorable characters, and experiences that younger generations rarely get to hear about.
Full Moon Bop captures that atmosphere beautifully. It’s a coming-of-age story, but it’s also a snapshot of a unique moment in Atlantic City’s history.
If you enjoy local history, stories about the old neighborhoods, or simply want to experience Atlantic City before casinos forever changed the city, I think you’ll really enjoy this book.
Coming Soon: James Rahn On The AC Mike Show Podcast
I’m excited to share that author James Rahn will soon be joining me on an upcoming episode of The AC Mike Show Podcast.
We’ll be talking about the inspiration behind Full Moon Bop, what Atlantic City was really like before casinos arrived, the writing process, and many of the real-life influences behind this fascinating novel.
If you’re a fan of local history, great storytelling, or simply enjoy hearing from people who are helping preserve South Jersey’s rich heritage, you won’t want to miss this conversation.
Get Your Copy Today
If you’re looking for a great summer read, this is one I highly recommend.
👉 Click Here To Order Full Moon Bop On Amazon
Whether you’re a lifelong local, a fan of Atlantic City history, or simply enjoy a compelling coming-of-age story, I think you’ll enjoy the journey.
What’s Coming Up
- The AC Mike Show Podcast featuring many fascinating guests.
- More Atlantic City stories, local personalities, and community spotlights.
- Summer events, concerts, and entertainment happening throughout South Jersey and the Jersey Shore.
About James Rahn
James Rahn is the author of Full Moon Bop, Rittenhouse Writers: Reflections on a Fiction Workshop, and Bloodnight. A graduate of Columbia University’s MFA program, he founded Philadelphia’s renowned Rittenhouse Writers’ Group, which has helped more than 2,200 writers over nearly four decades.
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Thank you for being part of the AC Mike community. I’m grateful you’re helping preserve and share the stories that make Atlantic City such a special place.
Live-Work-Play-AC!
See you on the 48
AC Mike
I taught history to 11th & 12th grade for 21 years in a private Catholic academy. I enjoy learning about how things were, are, and came to be in both instances. This sounds like something I’d definitely enjoy reading!
I taught history to 11th & 12th grade for 21 years in a private Catholic academy. I enjoy learning about how things were, are, and came to be in both instances. This sounds like something I’d definitely enjoy reading!