After nearly four decades in education, Gene J. Miller’s path to becoming a published author began by accident. A longtime educator, Miller spent 19 years teaching English and History, 14 years as a middle school principal, and another stint in higher education at Stockton University. But it was a gift from his family that changed everything.
In December 2021, Miller received Storyworth, a 52-week online autobiography program, as a gift. While the project was initially meant to be a personal memoir, it sparked something bigger. After completing just a few stories, Miller was inspired to create a book based on his adventures growing up in Delanco, New Jersey. Those stories — written initially as a way to guide his oldest grandsons through their middle school years — now form the heart of his debut collection, WARNING: Short Stories for Middle School Boys Only, Because Girls Have Cooties!
Set in the 1960s along the Delaware River in Delanco, Miller’s book offers readers a series of humorous and heartfelt tales that capture the essence of childhood. Each of the 15 short stories in the collection paints a vivid picture of growing up in a small town — full of mischief, friendships, and the occasional life lesson. These non-fiction, personal accounts reflect Miller’s experiences as a boy and tap into the universal themes of coming-of-age.
WARNING is more than just a trip down memory lane. It’s an exploration of the timeless adventures of childhood, from dealing with bullies to discovering the complexities of friendships and even learning that “girls might not have cooties after all.” Each chapter invites readers to remember their formative years while also introducing young readers to the timeless challenges of adolescence.
Miller’s connection to the characters and events in his book runs deep. One of the most memorable characters in the stories is Big Rich Palm, a childhood friend of Miller’s. In a remarkable twist, Miller recently received a handwritten letter from Big Rich’s mother, whom he hadn’t seen in over five decades. The letter initially believed to be a criticism of how Miller had portrayed her in the stories, turned out to be a heartfelt thank you. She expressed pride in how Miller honored her son’s memory in the book. The encounter led to a poignant reunion with Mrs. Palm, now 90, where she gifted Miller a treasured family heirloom — a Zippo lighter once given to him by his grandfather, a gesture that deepened their bond.
These personal connections and memories breathe life into Miller’s writing, making it not only a reflection of his past but also a testament to the relationships that shaped him.
Despite Miller’s extensive background in education, the journey to becoming a published author wasn’t without its challenges. He admits that the hardest part was navigating the publishing world, especially as a first-time author. Initially, Miller was unfamiliar with the mechanics of publishing and the intricacies of query letters, having sent out dozens of inquiries to literary agents without success. After countless rejections and frustrating setbacks, he eventually decided to self-publish the book, choosing to work with Palmetto Publishers, an independent publishing company.
But even self-publishing came with its obstacles. As Miller began preparing to submit the book to major publishers, he encountered roadblocks with industry giants like Scholastic, who changed their submission guidelines just as he was ready to submit. Instead of giving up, Miller pressed on, working tirelessly to develop chapter lessons that accompany each story, offering readers a deeper understanding of the book’s themes. These lessons, intended for classrooms and homeschooling, further enhance the book’s educational value.
While the path to publication wasn’t easy, it ultimately taught Miller an invaluable lesson: persistence is key.
Lessons Learned and the Road Ahead
One of Miller’s most valuable lessons is believing in yourself as a writer. Despite the ups and downs of the publishing process, Miller received overwhelmingly positive feedback once the book was out, including glowing reviews from Kirkus and Entertainment Nightly News.
For Miller, this journey has been transformative. Not only has writing allowed him to reconnect with his childhood memories, but it has also provided a catharsis for past struggles. In his writing, Miller touches on complex topics, such as childhood abuse, without revealing the darkest details. He hopes that his stories can serve as a source of healing for others who may have faced similar struggles.
Looking ahead, Miller is already thinking about his following projects. One fascinating development involves his book’s Chapter 2, “Adventures Along the River,” which has sparked interest in Delanco’s history. Inspired by his own experiences along the Delaware River, Miller’s story about discovering artifacts near wreckage led to a real-life historical excavation by the Riverside Historical Society. While rooted in fiction, Miller’s tales have a powerful connection to reality.
As for the future of his writing, Miller continues to draw inspiration from significant literary figures such as Mark Twain, John Steinbeck, and Ernest Hemingway. These authors’ ability to blend humor with deeper meaning has influenced Miller’s approach to storytelling. “I’ve always seen humor, adventure, and learning in life’s circumstances,” he says.
Gene J. Miller’s book WARNING: Short Stories for Middle School Boys Only, Because Girls Have Cooties! is available on Amazon here. To follow Miller’s work and get updates on his latest projects, visit his website at www.genemiller56.com, where you can read his blog, view reviews, and contact him directly.
Miller’s journey from educator to author is a testament to the power of storytelling, the importance of perseverance, and the deep connection between one’s past and future. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or simply a lover of great stories, Miller’s work reminds us of the adventures, lessons, and friendships that shape us all.
Published by Stephanie M.
