A true story from the spring of 1960
Snookie's
Boys
Racism and youth basketball in 1960 New York City
Jimmy Sullivan
Snookie’s Boys brings a personal memoir of recognition, race, and change to life. Set in New York during the late 1950s and 1960s, it reflects a defining period in American history. Through Jimmy Sullivan’s experiences, readers discover the human side of prejudice and social change. The story offers a perspective shaped by memory, truth, and lived experience, inviting readers to journey through a changing America.
10
boys on the
Metropolitan Biddy
All-Stars
6 / 4
white players and
Black players
13
years old, every one
of them
1960
New York State
champions, in
March
About the book
Snookie's Boys
A personal story of race, childhood memory, and change in 1960s New York.
Snookie’s Boys takes readers into a defining period of American history through the personal experiences of Jimmy Sullivan. Set against the racial and social realities of New York in the late 1950s and 1960s, the book offers an intimate look at the people, relationships, and events that shaped his understanding of the world around him.
More than a story from the past, Snookie’s Boys invites readers to reflect on how much society has changed, what still deserves to be remembered, and why firsthand experiences remain an important part of understanding history.
About the author
Jimmy Sullivan
Jimmy Sullivan is the author of Snookie’s Boys, a deeply personal account shaped by his experiences in New York during the late 1950s and 1960s. Through his writing, he offers readers a firsthand perspective on race, prejudice, and the social changes taking place during a defining period in American history.
His goal is not only to share his own story, but also to preserve the experiences of those who lived through that era and help today’s readers better understand how far society has come—and why the lessons of the past still matter.
With Snookie’s Boys, Jimmy invites readers to look beyond traditional history books and experience this period through the eyes of someone who was there.
Writes
Narrative nonfiction and memoir
Subjects
Sports history, race relations, mid-century New York
Contact
JamesSullivan@gmail.com
Video trailer
Two and a half minutes on the 1960 season
Discover the story behind Snookie’s Boys through a powerful glimpse into Jimmy Sullivan’s personal journey. Explore the realities of race and social change in New York during the late 1950s and 1960s. The trailer brings the book’s historical setting and emotional message to life. Watch now and step into a story shaped by memory, experience, and change.
Chapter previews
Read the first pages
Snookie’s Boys takes readers through a personal journey shaped by race, and social change in New York. Each chapter reveals another part of Jimmy Sullivan’s experiences and the world around him. Together, these stories offer a closer look at a defining period in American history.
The Photograph
A Changing New York
Step into New York during the late 1950s and discover the social atmosphere that shaped everyday life. This chapter introduces the people, places, and experiences that set Jimmy’s story in motion.
Stuyvesant Town
Lines That Divided
This chapter explores the racial barriers and social attitudes that influenced communities during the era. Through personal experiences, readers see how prejudice affected ordinary relationships and daily life.
Snookie
Acquaintances Beyond Differences
Amid division and uncertainty, meaningful acquaintances begin to challenge expectations. Jimmy reflects on the connections that helped him see people beyond the boundaries created by society.
The Madison Square Boys Club
As experiences become more powerful, Jimmy begins to recognize the deeper realities of racism and inequality. This chapter captures moments that changed his understanding of the world around him.
The Championship Run
The 1960s brought growing conversations about equality, civil rights, and social transformation. Jimmy’s personal journey unfolds alongside a country beginning to question long-standing attitudes and divisions.
Going Home
Lessons That Remain
Looking back, Jimmy reflects on the people, experiences, and changes that left a lasting impact on his life. The chapter reminds readers why remembering the past is essential to understanding the present.
Merch
Read the first pages
Testimonials
What readers are saying
Snookie’s Boys brings history to life through a deeply personal perspective. It made me think differently about race, basketball, and the changes America has experienced.
Jimmy Sullivan’s story feels personal, honest, and reflective. The book offers a human view of an important period in New York’s history.
This book goes beyond dates and facts by showing how social change affected real people and everyday relationships. A meaningful read for anyone interested in American history.