Donut Holes for the Soul: Recollections, Musings, and Missives from the Dooryard

by Timothy Cotton

Take a nostalgic journey through the joys of everyday life with Erma Bombeck Award-winner Tim Cotton.

In Donut Holes for the Soul, Cotton weaves together a collection of essays that celebrate simple pleasures, timeless friendships, and the enduring bonds of family and community. From the familiar sounds of a screen door on a warm summer day to lessons learned from helping his mother move, Cotton's stories evoke laughter, warmth, and a sense of home.

Readers will find heartfelt tales of unexpected kindness, like a helpful neighbor who goes above and beyond, a chance encounter that sparks redemption, and reflections on fatherhood sparked by a classic car. Cotton’s relaxed, conversational style makes each story feel like a chat with a trusted friend, offering humor and hope in equal measure.

With vivid anecdotes that capture everything from road trips and roadside chats to the charm of a well-worn flannel shirt, Donut Holes for the Soul invites readers to slow down, reminisce, and find joy in the small things that make life big. Perfect for fans of Erma Bombeck and Mitch Albom, this collection is a comforting escape for anyone who longs for a simpler time.

Genres: Nonfiction

192 pages, Hardcover

Published June 10, 2025

Reviews

[Lee Rush · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have never encountered Tim Cotton’s work, get on Facebook and find him. He’s a retired Maine police officer and a heck of a writer. I look forward to his musings when they find a place in my feed. I’ve even supported his efforts by “buying him a cup of coffee” on his website. Every little bit helps.

His is a style I can very much relate to. He’s not a novelist, or even a short story writer. He’s an “observationist”, much like myself, writing short musings on circumstances in his life. He was my inspiration to do the same.

This book is a collection of these musings from social media. I allowed myself the indulgence of purchasing this book, and further indulged by reading one “observation” per day, with better restraint than I have with eating chocolate or bread. Just one story a day, because I truly wanted to make it last. And it took over two months to finish, one small bite per day.

He is a treasure, and this book is one too. I’m donating my well-treasured copy to my local library, hoping to inspire someone new to read his stories. Or perhaps, to start writing themselves.

And if you like this book as much as I did, consider going to his website and buying him a cup of coffee. He might even thank you for it.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book as I have loved all of Tim Cotton's books. I read this one while on vacation on an island in Penobscot Bay off of Stonington, Maine, the perfect setting to read all about Maine.
Tim's writing tells all about the people of Maine and the ways of Maine. It is uplifting, funny, inspiring, and it guides everyone who reads it to be a better person.
I love reading about his slice of Maine and his lovable dog Ellie. Tim's story always touch something in your soul and restores your faith in humanity.

[Tanis Allen]

As usual TC has written a missive that is full of retrospect and humor.
His musings about friends , families and life in general make for good reading.
I think he connects with his audience through the happenings in his daily life .
He reminisces about music , friends and family . I hope he shares his residual earnings with Ellie .
She deserves a donut or two for her part in his stories .

Another good one TC.

[Janet Lockyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 4th book from a wonderful author of just regular life happenings. I can not come up with a fancy wonderfully worded review there are many out there all ready. If you have not read any of his musings you are missing a lot. If you loved Erma Bombeck you will love Tim's books. In a world that seems to be moving at an ever increasing speed Tim's books are a quiet calm place to be. All ways a pleasure to visit. I am looking forward to all future writing's!.

[Kelly Conrad · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tim Cotton has a way of writing about the most mundane things and somehow making it interesting. He clearly finds joy in the simple and finds the positive in most every situation, even when referencing heavy and sad topics.

I got this book from my mother and father in law for my birthday and can now officially call myself a fan. His writing is like a blanket of calm and sanity in a crazy, broken world.

[Ginger Benedict · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like his other three…..a read for the soul that will one think of experiences in your own life of a time of contemplation , a time of reflection, a time of humor, and a time to practice being better towards our fellow humans. Run to your better purveyor of books to purchase this wonderful read!!

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a quiet afternoon by the lake, it’s a memory of people and places well-loved. It’s relaxing and peaceful and gives food for thought. It’s sitting outside in the waning hours of the day with a beloved old dog. So sit back, listen to the crickets, enjoy the scent of the coming rain and read these stories, this is a “No Anxiety” zone.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. So many of Tim's stories remind me of one in my life. Or sometimes his opinions of things are my same opinions. And he makes me laugh out loud. Thank you, Timothy-Titus, for giving my mind something other to think about than my daily grind. Meeting you at BAM was a highlight of my summer.

[Gail Varga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I have been reading TC’s FB page for years now and his books, this new one is a continuation of love, laughter, some crying, some agreeing…”hey, I do that 😂”, and just wonderful stories of his family, his dog, Ellie, and of the Jagged Edge of America. Sit down in your comfy chair with a cup of tea, coffee, cocoa or a glass of wine and enjoy TC’s musings.

[Joan Brassard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book by Tim Cotton that I’ve read, and I love it! His wry, dry wit and soft heart and life lessons are presented in short, easy to read anecdotes. I read it straight through…now I will pick it up whenever I need a fresh dose of “people are essentially decent”.

[Mary L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tim Cotton brings warmth and humor to his newest book. We are the blessed recipients of his wonderful stories of life, from the everyday to unique. My favorite chapter is Packing With Mama. A book that makes you laugh and cry and contemplate is worthy of the bookshelf.

[Peggy Shoemaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fan of books, postings and blog by Timothy Cotton over the years I especially enjoy his books of musings and missives with recollections on life while relaxing on the beach or by the pool. This book continues the joy this summer as it is easy to pick up and continue a relaxing escape.

[Lisa Ladd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection of stories from Maine author Tim Cotton is not to be missed. If you find yourself reaching for a cup of coffee, or a flannel shirt don't be surprised. We all need more Tim stories in these trying times.

[Kahei · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picked up this book on a whim at the library (can't say no to anything donut related).

Good peaceful read while sitting on your designated reading chair. Some light-hearted stories and others with deeper meaning.

I think I'll go back for his other books.

[Traci · Rating 5 out of 5]

A witty and calming reminder that you need to enjoy the little things in life.

[Nancy Gagne · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book! I enjoyed every page. Fun, funny, poignant and touching. Tim Cotton writes a book that holds your interest and keeps you reading. Looking forward to his next book!

[Sandy Heisey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some of these musings were really excellent.

[Kris Somerville · Rating 5 out of 5]

As expected, another inspiring and entertaining missive from a great storyteller!