Showing Up: a novel

by Brett Kinsler

SHOWING UP is a humorous, irreverent, introspective work of fiction about love, loss, and low-stakes poker. It follows the story of Mason DuPont who must deal with his distant mother's descent into dementia and his search for peace. It's a difficult journey for Mason, but he finds a neighborhood poker group, whose silly game variations, good natured teasing, and constant jokes sustain and support him. At the same time, he falls for a spitfire artist who opens his eyes to his creative side. When a member of the group becomes ill, Mason must confront demons from his childhood and reprocess old wounds. The reader will alternate between laughing out loud, and wiping away a tear.

209 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 23, 2024

Reviews

[Heidi Ciravola · Rating 4 out of 5]

Showing Up follows Mason DuPont as he navigates life in his middle years. Through the struggles of loss, closure, and finding what fill his cup. Along the way he finds himself encircled by a group of guys and their poker nights, and in a relationship with a woman who helps him stretch his boundaries.

"The process of changing one's life requires showing up for it."

While reading this I realized I have mostly been reading female driven stories, which was ironic because I remember when I was tired of reading male driven stories! I thoroughly enjoyed Mason's male perspective, while I didn't always connect with the poker table banter, I did connect with how this group of men bonded and related. I'll state the obvious and say, men are different from women, they relate, connect, and bond in ways most women wouldn't. But that doesn't make it any less profound. The joy, comradery, and connection amidst this group of men is a stand out for me in this book.

"Showing up is embracing the messiness of existence, facing challenges head-on, and navigating the uncharted territories of personal growth. Show up means examining the unexamined and being willing to pivot toward the sun as it moves."

Showing Up is a tribute to doing just that. Be present in your life, be present in the lives of those the universe connects you to. Show up.

[Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Showing up, a novel, by Brett Kinsler, is a witty and whimsical journey through the middle of life as told by a man who has experienced love and laughter and loss. The book does a flawless job of bringing the reader into the inner sanctum of a tight group of poker players who Kinsler assembles from his own experiences. The witty banter is reminiscent of many a true poker game that will trigger fond memories for any reader who has sat around a table with a group of friends. Kinsler also deals with some more difficult subjects, including the loss of his father and a close friend. I couldn’t put it down. Well, except when I had to get up to refill my snacks!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who has ever had a parent, a lover, or a friend.