Outskirts Press, INC.

In Memoirs of a World War I Baby Boomer, Dr. Phil Trapp takes the reader on a fascinating journey through his life. The chapters proceed chronologically, but the author thoughtfully selects vignettes to shed light on the unique forces and context that shaped the WWI baby boomers. The book begins with family history (imagine knowing a grandfather who was alive during the Civil War), followed by the dramatic changes of the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression and World War II. Chapters after WWII explore Trapp’s experiences during graduate studies in psychology, with insights into this relatively new profession and learning from some of the greats in the field. Subsequent chapters touch selectively on his career as a clinical psychologist and university professor. He provides snapshots of his engagement as agent of change at the university, state and national levels. The memoirs close with reflections on lessons learned through these experiences.

There is something for everyone in Memoirs of a World War I Baby Boomer. For the lover of a good story, Phil Trapp does not disappoint. He is a gifted story teller who understands the power of stories to communicate broader messages. For history lovers, the book is rich in historical detail, including anecdotes about the author’s family in the first century of our country’s existence. For those seeking insight into the human condition, Trapp’s psychological knowledge and personal wisdom provide many opportunities for reflection. The memoirs engage us emotionally with humanity, particularly what World War II taught us, and with life vignettes about love lost and love found. And for those appreciating humor, the memoirs do not disappoint, given Trapp’s signature wry humor.

Ultimately, Phil Trapp has a message – about the impact of history on one’s life and the lessons learned after 95 years on this planet. The Word War I baby boomers are disappearing rapidly. We are fortunate that the author is still willing and able to share his stories and his wisdom.