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Project Dad: The Complete, Do-It-Yourself Guide for Becoming a Great Father
Every dad wants to be a great dad. But what does it take to build a great dad? What raw materials does one need? And how do you put them all together?Designed for the do-it-yourselfer in every man, Project Dad is a humorous, biblically based guidebook to becoming a great dad. With short, entertaining chapters that cover five key components, this guidebook encourages fathers to raise their children with a renewed sense of purpose in order to positively impact them in their adult life. Cartmell shows dads that the way they look at, talk to, connect with, act toward, and lead their children is what separates a good dad from a great dad.Discussion questions at the end of each chapter make this book ideal for individual or group study.
- GenresParenting
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2011
3 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Todd Cartmell
10 books12 followersDr. Todd Cartmell is a popular speaker and child psychologist who received his doctorate in clinical psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary. His books include 8 Simple Tools for Raising Great Kids, Project Dad; Respectful Kids; Keep the Siblings, Lose the Rivalry; and The Parent Survival Guide. Dr. Cartmell conducts entertaining parenting workshops around the country and maintains a full-time clinical practice in Charlotte, North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
January 9, 2019
Complete and utter, sexist, bigoted, garbage. A hot pile of shit has less contempt towards active fathers than this book did. A constant reminder throughout that just because someone is a “doctor” doesn’t mean they’re qualified to talk on all matters.
I only finished this book to see how bad it got. Terrible. That’s all I can say.
Two thumbs, all the way down.
EDIT: After sleeping on this review, I felt it necessary to make an edit. It wasn't just that this book was not very detailed, it also made the assumption that because you are a dad, you are already not involved, and are always playing second fiddle to mom. Just honestly, a massive waste of time.
I only finished this book to see how bad it got. Terrible. That’s all I can say.
Two thumbs, all the way down.
EDIT: After sleeping on this review, I felt it necessary to make an edit. It wasn't just that this book was not very detailed, it also made the assumption that because you are a dad, you are already not involved, and are always playing second fiddle to mom. Just honestly, a massive waste of time.
July 6, 2011
- I received this book for free through LibraryThing Member Giveaway -
I initially entered to win this book because I thought my husband would enjoy it. I figured I'd read it just so could write the obligatory review and give it to him for him to enjoy. But upon reading it, I realized...
I love this book, and I am deeply thankful to LibraryThing member Adayriddle for sending it to me.
This isn't one of those books where some "children's expert" condescends to tell you how you should be raising your kids. It isn't one of those books where there is a lot of information that seems good in theory, but then ends up being difficult, if not entirely impractical, to actually put into action.
No.
This book is one that is written in a personal, humorous style, with a practical application. I laughed my way through the book, enjoying how he was so honest and realistic (yet hilarious) in his portrayal of wife/husband and husband/child relationships, and the whole idea of being a man, or husband and father. In being so funny throughout the book he makes reading it enjoyable, not laborious. It's not one of those books you fight your way through because you know it's good for your kids, it's a book that you actually enjoy reading. In fact, it was so enjoyable that I read the whole book in one day. I couldn't put it down. Which only goes to show that this isn't just a great guide for fathers, but is something any parent would benefit from, and enjoy, reading.
Part of why it may be such a fast, easy read may be because of the way he has divided out the book into sections - sections I thought were genius, especially when considering how true the concepts he uses really are...
His main sections relate to how fathers, well, relate to their children:
Your Eyes - how one looks at his children
Your Mouth - how one speaks to his children
Your Heart - how one connects with his children
Your Hands - how one acts towards his children
and Your Feet - how one leads his children
Each section is divided into several chapters that are only a few pages long, so it is easy to feel as though you are making real progress in reading because the smaller chapters are able to be read quicker, and in doing so he makes the information easier to retain, because you are able to reflect more often, allowing each chapter a chance to sink in before moving on.
But just because I say it is an easy, quick read doesn't mean that the content isn't meaningful. He has found a way to touch on important, deep issues in a lighthearted way. The importance of the message certainly isn't lost in it's delivery - in fact, I would say that because of the delivery the message is that much more easily received and more deeply ingrained.
As if that weren't enough, though, he finishes each chapter with key points, highlighting the most important parts of the chapter, and then offers ways to "get to work", with exercises, questions, or things to try to reflect upon the information in the chapter and how it can apply to the father/child relationship.
The central message of this book seems to be that each child is special and unique, with individual areas of special ability, passions, personality traits, and that it is a parent's job to encourage their child/ren, to be in tune with those areas of interest and talent, to support and encourage their child. He speaks of looking for the *good* things in your children, encouraging good habits and characteristics and helping to shape a child in the area where s/he may need improvement, making the importance differentiation between punishing a child and finding lessons through which to actually *teach* your child to learn from his/her mistakes.
I really liked the way he made the distinction between being a referee and a coach - a referee being someone who merely points out where someone is wrong and a coach working in a positive way to turn those areas of weakness into areas of strength by addressing issues in a positive, meaningful way.
He calls us to see each child as God sees them, full of potential and goodness, merely in need of guidance and direction - that it is up to the parent to, as he says, brush the "golden nuggets" that are our children until they shine. The way to bring out that shine, for their goodness and potential to come to fruition, is to help them see themselves as God sees them, as having that potential and goodness, by instilling a sense of worth in them, by letting them know they are valued and loved by their parents.
He makes it very clear that any father can be a great father. It's not about being perfect, it's about be there, being real. "Every dad is a Buzz Lightyear", he says (pg210), speaking of the honesty of the imperfection each parent knows is so real, even though our children tend to see us as almost superhuman, at least for a while.
We may not be superhuman, or super cool space rangers out to protect the galaxy, but we do have a chance to make a real impact on our kids, a chance to be great parents, great fathers (for those of us who happen to be male, lol). Each and every one of us. And Todd Cartmell does a superb job of telling us how. :)
I initially entered to win this book because I thought my husband would enjoy it. I figured I'd read it just so could write the obligatory review and give it to him for him to enjoy. But upon reading it, I realized...
I love this book, and I am deeply thankful to LibraryThing member Adayriddle for sending it to me.
This isn't one of those books where some "children's expert" condescends to tell you how you should be raising your kids. It isn't one of those books where there is a lot of information that seems good in theory, but then ends up being difficult, if not entirely impractical, to actually put into action.
No.
This book is one that is written in a personal, humorous style, with a practical application. I laughed my way through the book, enjoying how he was so honest and realistic (yet hilarious) in his portrayal of wife/husband and husband/child relationships, and the whole idea of being a man, or husband and father. In being so funny throughout the book he makes reading it enjoyable, not laborious. It's not one of those books you fight your way through because you know it's good for your kids, it's a book that you actually enjoy reading. In fact, it was so enjoyable that I read the whole book in one day. I couldn't put it down. Which only goes to show that this isn't just a great guide for fathers, but is something any parent would benefit from, and enjoy, reading.
Part of why it may be such a fast, easy read may be because of the way he has divided out the book into sections - sections I thought were genius, especially when considering how true the concepts he uses really are...
His main sections relate to how fathers, well, relate to their children:
Your Eyes - how one looks at his children
Your Mouth - how one speaks to his children
Your Heart - how one connects with his children
Your Hands - how one acts towards his children
and Your Feet - how one leads his children
Each section is divided into several chapters that are only a few pages long, so it is easy to feel as though you are making real progress in reading because the smaller chapters are able to be read quicker, and in doing so he makes the information easier to retain, because you are able to reflect more often, allowing each chapter a chance to sink in before moving on.
But just because I say it is an easy, quick read doesn't mean that the content isn't meaningful. He has found a way to touch on important, deep issues in a lighthearted way. The importance of the message certainly isn't lost in it's delivery - in fact, I would say that because of the delivery the message is that much more easily received and more deeply ingrained.
As if that weren't enough, though, he finishes each chapter with key points, highlighting the most important parts of the chapter, and then offers ways to "get to work", with exercises, questions, or things to try to reflect upon the information in the chapter and how it can apply to the father/child relationship.
The central message of this book seems to be that each child is special and unique, with individual areas of special ability, passions, personality traits, and that it is a parent's job to encourage their child/ren, to be in tune with those areas of interest and talent, to support and encourage their child. He speaks of looking for the *good* things in your children, encouraging good habits and characteristics and helping to shape a child in the area where s/he may need improvement, making the importance differentiation between punishing a child and finding lessons through which to actually *teach* your child to learn from his/her mistakes.
I really liked the way he made the distinction between being a referee and a coach - a referee being someone who merely points out where someone is wrong and a coach working in a positive way to turn those areas of weakness into areas of strength by addressing issues in a positive, meaningful way.
He calls us to see each child as God sees them, full of potential and goodness, merely in need of guidance and direction - that it is up to the parent to, as he says, brush the "golden nuggets" that are our children until they shine. The way to bring out that shine, for their goodness and potential to come to fruition, is to help them see themselves as God sees them, as having that potential and goodness, by instilling a sense of worth in them, by letting them know they are valued and loved by their parents.
He makes it very clear that any father can be a great father. It's not about being perfect, it's about be there, being real. "Every dad is a Buzz Lightyear", he says (pg210), speaking of the honesty of the imperfection each parent knows is so real, even though our children tend to see us as almost superhuman, at least for a while.
We may not be superhuman, or super cool space rangers out to protect the galaxy, but we do have a chance to make a real impact on our kids, a chance to be great parents, great fathers (for those of us who happen to be male, lol). Each and every one of us. And Todd Cartmell does a superb job of telling us how. :)
June 13, 2011
Project Dad is a humorous and practical guide book written by a dad to other dads. Todd Cartmell’s warm and engaging style will have fathers laughing from the first few pages, and gives doable hands-on advice for becoming a better dad. This book will make an excellent Father’s Day gift!
This is a humorous yet practical book filled with great insight from Todd Cartmell!
Each chapter ends with a part called Key Points - an overview of what was learned, and Getting to Work - ways to put the information into use.
The idea is that as a father "you are to become a fisher of the great things in your children.." and "if you are to become a fisher of great things in your children you have to be looking for great things in your children" (p.42). How true this is! I see this very thing modeled in my husband - and as I read this book I had to smile. He is forever looking for ways to encourage our four children, picking up all the little things that I sometimes overlook: like using good manners, picking up something with out being told, or kind actions toward others. He is also always pointing out the talents our children have and encouraging them in their uniqueness. So, as I read this I was glad to see that such things were being written about - and practical examples being given. Cartmell is not giving a point by point plan to follow, but rather encouraging Dads to step up to the plate and be real.
I also liked the part that pointed out to Fathers the impact of their words. Sometimes that deep voice is so scary. Cartmell simply states it this way; "Because your a father, your words have the power of dynamite.." (WOW!!! Have you thought of that?!),"...From the day your children are born they indistinctly trust your love and rely on your wisdom./...what you say must simply be true.../especially when its about them." Such simple wisdom but so often overlooked! Cartmell does a fantastic job of bringing these simple, often overlook truths to the light.
Its not all the fishing trips, or hunting, or the baseball/football games - it's the relationship that matters.
Finally I liked Cartmell's statement of what a great dad is "A great dad will remind his children of the greatness that God has placed inside of them and will profoundly impact their tomorrows through the power of their words today." (p.72)
Humorous and easy to read - I loved this book. Truly the perfect Father's Day gift. Instead of pointing out inadequacies or giving a check list to follow this book encourages Dads to embrace their very special very important position that God has entrusted them to.
My husband is the Project Dad complete - this book encouraged me and well as him. For Dad's that are discouraged or feel that they are missing the mark this book will lift their spirits and give them great ideas.
Thank you Revell for this Review Copy.
This is a humorous yet practical book filled with great insight from Todd Cartmell!
Each chapter ends with a part called Key Points - an overview of what was learned, and Getting to Work - ways to put the information into use.
The idea is that as a father "you are to become a fisher of the great things in your children.." and "if you are to become a fisher of great things in your children you have to be looking for great things in your children" (p.42). How true this is! I see this very thing modeled in my husband - and as I read this book I had to smile. He is forever looking for ways to encourage our four children, picking up all the little things that I sometimes overlook: like using good manners, picking up something with out being told, or kind actions toward others. He is also always pointing out the talents our children have and encouraging them in their uniqueness. So, as I read this I was glad to see that such things were being written about - and practical examples being given. Cartmell is not giving a point by point plan to follow, but rather encouraging Dads to step up to the plate and be real.
I also liked the part that pointed out to Fathers the impact of their words. Sometimes that deep voice is so scary. Cartmell simply states it this way; "Because your a father, your words have the power of dynamite.." (WOW!!! Have you thought of that?!),"...From the day your children are born they indistinctly trust your love and rely on your wisdom./...what you say must simply be true.../especially when its about them." Such simple wisdom but so often overlooked! Cartmell does a fantastic job of bringing these simple, often overlook truths to the light.
Its not all the fishing trips, or hunting, or the baseball/football games - it's the relationship that matters.
Finally I liked Cartmell's statement of what a great dad is "A great dad will remind his children of the greatness that God has placed inside of them and will profoundly impact their tomorrows through the power of their words today." (p.72)
Humorous and easy to read - I loved this book. Truly the perfect Father's Day gift. Instead of pointing out inadequacies or giving a check list to follow this book encourages Dads to embrace their very special very important position that God has entrusted them to.
My husband is the Project Dad complete - this book encouraged me and well as him. For Dad's that are discouraged or feel that they are missing the mark this book will lift their spirits and give them great ideas.
Thank you Revell for this Review Copy.
May 12, 2011
Title: PROJECT DAD
Author: Todd Cartmell
Publisher: Revell
April 2011
ISBN: 978-0-8007-1999-9
Genre: Inspirational/parenting
What does it take to build a great dad?
Men like to build things, usually, and Todd Carmell maintains that they can take this God-given talent to help them become great fathers.
Cartmell has a friendly and even humorous style of writing that will draw you into the book—taking you on an action-packed journey into becoming the dad God intended for you to be—and the dad your kids want you to be.
Some statistics, in case you’re wavering:
. Boys whose fathers offered praise and compliments performed better on tests of cognitive achievement.
. Harsh and inconsistent discipline by fathers has a negative effect on their son’s emotional behavior.
. High levels of father involvement mean fewer behavior problems.
In the pages of PROJECT DAD, you will learn how to:
. look at your children
. talk to your children
. connect with your children
. act toward your children
. lead your children
You already have the raw materials available. Now all you have to do is pick up this blueprint and start building.
PROJECT DAD is, as it says on the cover, the complete do-it-yourself guide for becoming a great father. This book is a necessity for all dads, whether your children are not-yet born, babies, or even teenagers. It might even be helpful for dad’s whose children are grown if they want to find ways to reach their sons.
I highly recommend PROJECT DAD for both your personal library, and the church library. This would also be a good gift for father’s day. $12.99. 225 pages.
Author: Todd Cartmell
Publisher: Revell
April 2011
ISBN: 978-0-8007-1999-9
Genre: Inspirational/parenting
What does it take to build a great dad?
Men like to build things, usually, and Todd Carmell maintains that they can take this God-given talent to help them become great fathers.
Cartmell has a friendly and even humorous style of writing that will draw you into the book—taking you on an action-packed journey into becoming the dad God intended for you to be—and the dad your kids want you to be.
Some statistics, in case you’re wavering:
. Boys whose fathers offered praise and compliments performed better on tests of cognitive achievement.
. Harsh and inconsistent discipline by fathers has a negative effect on their son’s emotional behavior.
. High levels of father involvement mean fewer behavior problems.
In the pages of PROJECT DAD, you will learn how to:
. look at your children
. talk to your children
. connect with your children
. act toward your children
. lead your children
You already have the raw materials available. Now all you have to do is pick up this blueprint and start building.
PROJECT DAD is, as it says on the cover, the complete do-it-yourself guide for becoming a great father. This book is a necessity for all dads, whether your children are not-yet born, babies, or even teenagers. It might even be helpful for dad’s whose children are grown if they want to find ways to reach their sons.
I highly recommend PROJECT DAD for both your personal library, and the church library. This would also be a good gift for father’s day. $12.99. 225 pages.
Read
May 31, 2011While this is a book written for men, I found it a useful tool as a mother too. There are many great suggestions to be a better role model for your children. I also thought it would be good to read it as my husband is not usually into the self-help type of books…not enough sci-fi in it for him :D Todd Carmell surprised me in this book. I was laughing and crying most of the way through. He reminds us that nobody is perfect and his humor (while probably more funny for the men) was the laugh out loud kind. I found myself looking around several times while reading to see if my laughing had drawn any sort of attention to me.
I really enjoyed the re-caps of the key points in each chapter. There is also a “Getting to Work” section that actively draws the reader to examine where they stand with God and their kids.
I recommend this book for any dad, but especially for Christian ones as it really digs into what God has planned for us and how to build our relationship with Christ in order to build our relationship with our kids.
The part of the book that struck me the most is: “Look at your children the way that God looks at them, and you will help them become what God made them to be.” How true is that? I plan to make a print out of it and post it where I can see it daily.
January 4, 2023
I have read this book twice and am now working through it for my third time. It is amazing; it will be a great tool in your arsenal as a Christian Father. In the introduction Todd states:
"Five key Areas
Let's review the main point so far: God is building a dad, and that dad is you. And God's plan is for you to be a great dad for the kids he has entrusted into your care. Five key areas are essential for becoming the great dad God wants you to be and that your children need you to be. To help you remember each area, I've connected each one with a body part, because as my wife keeps reminding me, guys think with their body parts. Here they are from the bottom:
Your eyes - how you look at your children
Your mouth - how you talk to your children
Your heart - how you connect with your children
Your hands - how you act toward your children
Your feet - how you lead your children
Read the rest of the review on my blog Book Reviews and More.
"Five key Areas
Let's review the main point so far: God is building a dad, and that dad is you. And God's plan is for you to be a great dad for the kids he has entrusted into your care. Five key areas are essential for becoming the great dad God wants you to be and that your children need you to be. To help you remember each area, I've connected each one with a body part, because as my wife keeps reminding me, guys think with their body parts. Here they are from the bottom:
Your eyes - how you look at your children
Your mouth - how you talk to your children
Your heart - how you connect with your children
Your hands - how you act toward your children
Your feet - how you lead your children
Read the rest of the review on my blog Book Reviews and More.
April 21, 2016
I really enjoyed the book. Being a new dad of a 2-year old I don't know how much I could apply immediately to my life but it is a book I plan on going back to re-read in the future if for no other reason that to help remind me of some of the good ideas. A lot of it was new ideas to me, some of it was old ideas. Great advice type stuff but hard to implement but the author really does a good job of trying to spell it out with action steps to get you started in the right direction. I recommend this to anyone who wants to be a better dad.
July 7, 2014
This book has plenty of ideas and thoughts that I have been able to implement in my life as a dad. It has made me take a look at myself from the outside and my relationship with my family. I have used the ideas in the book as inspiration for implementing changes in our household that so far have been working out great! I would highly recommend this book to anyone that wants to be a better dad.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews