In The Manoa Gang, Collins relates many humorous anecdotes of growing up in Manoa Valley on Oahu, Hawaii. He tells the story of a Hawaii long gone and the people and events that made up his life in those fascinating and formative times. The book contains many delightful tales of his "adventures and capers," such as the time he and some friends repainted the median stripes down the length of Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki a bright green to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.