The Serenity Gang

by Steve Parks

It’s 2019, and widower Bud Livingston is furious. Manipulated out of his house and into Serenity Assisted Living, he’s convinced he was doing just fine on his own. He wasn’t.

It isn’t long before Bud is befriended by an unlikely crew of 60s-generation free spirits: a one-hit-wonder musician, a battle-scarred Vietnam vet, a sharp-tongued former factory worker, a retired businessman with mild dementia, and an irresistible widow. Refusing to give in to the dull routines of senior housing, they shake things up—even if it stirs up trouble.

Their antics climax with an off-site Woodstock 50th anniversary celebration, and Serenity’s management isn’t laughing. Just as the heat is on, Bud and his friends uncover something shady behind the scenes. And they’re not about to go down quietly.

In a friendship fueled by laughter and mischief, they untangle the regrets they've carried, make peace with the past, and rediscover joy. Sometimes, the best years come at the end.

380 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 15, 2025

About the author

Steve Parks is a judge in a small town in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Since 2014, residents of that beautiful region have been officially recognized as “Yoopers” by Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary—a result of Steve’s humorous twelve-year letter-writing campaign. His efforts drew national attention and led to interviews with The Wall Street Journal, The Huffington Post, and others, as well as special recognition by former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder.

Known for his quick wit and dry sense of humor, Steve has carried those traits through a legal career spanning forty years. Before taking the bench in 2015, he served as the Delta County Prosecuting Attorney and co-founded the Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse. He also established the Delta County Drug and Sobriety Court and served as president of the local chapter of Face Addiction Now.

Steve's debut novel, The Serenity Gang, was awarded the 2025 North American Book Awards Gold Medal in Humor.

Steve lives with his wife and their cat on a small farm and has two adult children. When he isn’t in the woods or on the water, you’ll often find him putzing around his barn while listening to music from the sixties and seventies.

Reviews

[J.L. Hyde · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't tell you how much I loved this book - I smiled throughout the entire thing! It was heartwarming, funny, and smart. It releases in mid-September so do yourself a favor and put it on your list! Everyone wants a feel-good book with everything going on, and this is the perfect distraction.

[Steven Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy reading books that take place in the state that I live in. It’s fun, recognizing local cities and names of places, and I feel more of a kinship with the characters because of that. This book by Steve Parks is no exception. It primarily takes place in the metro Detroit area. It’s a very interesting plot involving a gang of seniors who enjoy and support each other at an assisted living facility. this book has a very interesting plot with lots of humor, empathy, and seriousness. I had a hard time putting this book down and as a slow reader, I finished it in an amazing three days. And for those three days, I felt like I had six new friends I was hanging out with. I hope Steve Parks continues writing and perhaps even a second book with the same group of protagonists.

[Betty LaPointe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be prepared to enjoy meeting a zany group of seniors with the misnomer of “The Serenity Gang.” Through these endearing and distinctive characters, you will be reminded that enjoying life is not limited by age. Beyond laugh-aloud humor with a touch of mystery, the story explores enduring themes of friendship, family, and the human need for connection. Judge Parks presents characters with depth and authenticity. Although from a variety of backgrounds these seniors create a bond and draw the reader into their adventures. Enjoy!

[Gale Brinkman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a delightful book. You will probably identify with some of the characters or will think of someone they remind you of. Many times I laughed out loud at the escapades of these six individuals, all residents of the Serenity Assisted Living Facility. Other times I cried during their touching revelations. Anyone approaching their "golden years" will probably be able to relate. The book is a testament to the value of friendships, enjoying life to the fullest, staying connected and maintaining one's sense of humor throughout life.

[Lois Corcoran · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Serenity Gang introduces a 6-pack of characters who forge an unexpected bond at Serenity Assisted Living. It’s told by Bud, the newest “inmate,” through laugh-out-loud moments and thought-provoking chats.

Together, the Serenity Gang finds adventure and, yes, even intrigue in their formerly sedate surroundings.

Kudos to author Steve Parks for showing us that folks in elder facilities still have life left in them that’s worth living. If I ever wind up in such a place, I can only hope I’ll find a circle of friends like the Serenity Gang.

[Linda Lewandowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful read!!!!

I loved the colorful characters and their personalities! The story line was most interesting; full of humor, compassion, and understanding, particularly of those dealing with the realities and challenges of everyday life. To summarize, it was a most enjoyable read. Well done Steve!

[Piper Desy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A MUST read. I LOVED this book. Read in 2 days. Quick read , captures your attention. Funny, some tears and really it made me want to be a part of the group. I could only hope when I go to an assisted living I meet some people like this book includes. I hope I remember some of the ideas so I can share. Hahahaha. Please give us book number 2.

[Katherine Leduc · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful read!

Interesting characters. Unusual setting but felt very true to life. I would recommend this to anyone who loves slice of life stories (don't worry, there are plenty of slices to please almost anyone. ) I chuckled my way through the antics of these 70 or so year old companions. This is on my to be re-read shelf. Not many books make it to that shelf.

[Dani Poitevint · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It had me smiling and laughing out loud. It also pulled on my heart strings! The storyline is great and it leaves you wanting more. Hopefully this is the start of a series! Can’t wait to read more books by Steve Parks!

[Linda Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I never leave book reviews but this one deserves a thumbs up! The character development was great, I felt like I knew every character in the book. It made me laugh out loud at times, cry a little and smiled through most of the book. Pure enjoyment!

[Flora · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must read for everyone over 60 and the people who love them. My mom & dad (both in their 80’s) and I really enjoyed the storytelling, characters and plenty of Detroit and Michigan references. Really uplifting and the characters are memorable.

[Caren Nicholas · Rating 5 out of 5]

You will not be disappointed when you hook up with The Serenity Gang. The characters are so engaging and their adventures will bring back some classic music and some times worth revisiting. You’ll be left with a promise to Go Out Strong.

[Mikayla Lipka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome read. The short chapters kept me reading. The story line was fantastic! I just can’t say enough good things! I loved this book!!!

[Karen Miron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is both humorous and deeply touching—full of moments that bring laughter as well as tears. It’s warm, heartfelt, and thoroughly enjoyable. I highly recommend it.

[Paulette Pepin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick read. Enjoyed it a lot. Could see myself being friends with these very likeable characters. Hope there will be a sequel.

[Sam Butzin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book kept a smile on my face the entire time. It was such a fun, delightful read. Highly recommend!