Coming of Age in Coney Island

For generations, Coney Island has been a must-see attraction for native New Yorkers and tourists alike. It’s known for its beach, games of chance, hot dogs and thrill rides, like the Cyclone Roller Coaster. But a new book takes readers on a Coney Island-inspired rollercoaster ride of its own.   

 

The book is Zayde’s Arcade: Coming of Age in Coney Island. It focuses on Jason, a 16-year-old who spends his summer working at his grandfather’s penny arcade. Zayde’s Arcade is penned by actor and author Andy Smith. We recently talked with him about his book and his own summers spent at the beachfront in southeast Brooklyn.