Nostalgia Meets Storytelling

Steven Smith, who teaches high school English at Chippewa Jr./Sr. High School, has published The Boys of Rubber City, a novel capturing the adventures of growing up in Akron during the 1970s.

Chippewa is proud to celebrate one of its own—Mr. Steven Smith, high school English teacher, and now published author! His book, The Boys of Rubber City, takes readers back to the neighborhoods of Akron’s Firestone Park in the early 1970s, a time before smartphones, video games, and the internet.

Instead of screens, kids created their own fun—playing baseball, inventing games, exploring their streets, and forming lifelong bonds of friendship. Through humor, detail, and heartfelt storytelling, Mr. Smith captures the joys, mischief, and unforgettable memories of youth in a community shaped by Akron’s history.

This accomplishment highlights not only Mr. Smith’s talent as a writer but also his ability to inspire students at Chippewa. His success reminds us all that storytelling has the power to connect generations and celebrate the places we call home.

We are excited to congratulate Mr. Smith on this achievement and look forward to seeing how his passion for literature continues to enrich both his students and our community.