One wild weekend. Two brothers. A lifetime of memories.

Step into the vibrant summer of 1997 with ten-year-old Dave and his rule-breaking younger brother, Kyle, as they embark on a wild, laugh-out-loud weekend with their Boston sports-obsessed grandfather, Russell "Gramps" Marsden.

Based on true stories, this memoir-style novel is a nostalgic journey through a 90s childhood, where sibling rivalry meets heartfelt family bonds. From the historic penny candy stores of Cape Cod to the legendary energy of Fenway Park and the old Boston Garden, Dave must navigate his brother's antics and Gramps' playful, word-twisting humor.

But when Kyle decides that Mom's "don't spend Gramps' money" rule is more of a suggestion than a law, Dave is caught between his conscience and his brother's escalating chaos. What starts as a simple trip for treats turns into a series of comedic adventures that test their bond and define a generation. Featuring original interior art and real family photos, this volume is more than just a story; it's a time capsule of New England culture and the quirky traditions that stay with us forever.

Perfect for fans of Clean Getaway and The Terrible Two, A Weekend at GRAMPS '97 celebrates the intergenerational connections that shape who we become.

Dave Mercaldo (known to his students as Mr. Mercaldo) is an author, educator, and school librarian with nearly two decades of experience in New York City and Martha's Vineyard. Holding a Master's in Elementary Education and School Building Leadership, Dave has spent his career fostering a love of storytelling in the classroom and the library.In his middle-grade series, A Weekend at Gramps '97, Dave draws on his own childhood adventures to celebrate family bonds, 90s nostalgia, and the quirky traditions of New England. His work is deeply informed by his expertise in pedagogy and curriculum development, ensuring his stories are as educational as they are engaging.A firm believer in Frederick Douglass's sentiment that "it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men," Dave also publishes school magazines and collaborates with fellow creators to inspire creativity in young minds.When he isn't in the library or writing, Dave is a world traveler and athlete-having explored the Great Pyramid of Giza, swum with whale sharks in Mexico, and completed the Marine Corps Marathon. A resident of the greater New York City area and a lover of 90s hip-hop, he also enjoys DJing as DJ D-Merc. Follow his journey on social media @davemercaldo for updates on his 2026 book tour and educational resources.