"A stylishly told, heartfelt tale of addiction, recovery, and parenthood." - Kirkus Reviews
Hide and A Dad’s Journey From Soulless Addiction to Sole Custody is the story of a three-year-old girl being raised by drug-addict parents. This sobering account is told by her father, a washed-up musician. When his wife kidnaps their daughter and serves him a bogus restraining order, he must decide between deepening his drug excesses or protecting his daughter from her mother’s reckless choices.
Alone, with no guarantee of being reunited with his little girl, the father struggles. Can he overcome a gender-biased legal system, a culture dismissive of fatherhood, and the improbability he’ll mature beyond the familiar lure of his irresponsible lifestyle?
A tragic account of the damage inflicted upon children by those with substance abuse disorder (SUD), this memoir reveals the inner dialogue and contradictory deeds of addicts. Crafted to benefit afflicted families seeking sanity, alcoholics seeking sobriety, and dads identifying their purpose. This is one addict father’s hope to earn the privilege of being at his daughter’s side.
I really enjoyed the depth of this book. You truly went on the journey with the author and I found myself cheering him along the way. The way men are mistreated in the system and his overall strength and will to do what's right for his child is admiral.
There is strong, raw emotion in this heartfelt memoir. I shed so many tears (both joy and sorrow) reading Hide and Seek! Grab your tissues.
I had to play each chapter title song as I read to set the mood and tone, which really balanced the content with the creator. I recommend doing this, as it is a very engaging read that may take you a couple of hours.
I was lucky to hear the author Paul’s music in my teens and early 20s, and so I can attest to his musical talent and charisma that he references in his story. His weekly acoustic night at the Las Vegas Shark Club was a highlight of my and my friend's week. That said, I had no clue he was struggling with any addictions. It would not have mattered if I did or not because his path and purpose are clearly exactly where they need to be.
This is ultimately a love story about what trials and tribulations a parent can overcome and how to overcome them for the love of their child. The nuggets of wisdom are there for your ‘back pocket’ as Paul says. Understanding the mindset of an addict is very powerful information for those who know and love them or who are looking for healing. Even though some content is shocking at first, it matters as it is part of the arc that is addiction and recovery. He found his way through his faith and desire to be the best father he could be. May those who need it find this book.
About me: my favorite genres are autobiographical or biographical, and Nick Hornby is an all-time favorite author of mine, which is relevant for the music connection. Also, my late dad is my favorite human, and he thankfully was sober for the love of myself and my brother. This memoir hits my heart on many levels. I hope my review can do it justice, as I think everyone will benefit from reading it. 5 out of 5 stars!