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Hero: Being the Strong Father Your Children Need
Pediatrician and bestselling author Meg Meeker has a message: Stop undervaluing fatherhood.
We live in a culture that hails motherhood as a woman's crowning achievement yet defines men first and foremost by their professional accomplishments, treating fatherhood as almost incidental—a bonus. But from her years spent as a pediatrician listening to children's needs and fears, Dr. Meeker understands just how crucial a father's role is. Good Men, Great Dads is a powerful affirmation of fatherhood that shows men how being a strong, active father can be their greatest triumph.
We live in a culture that hails motherhood as a woman's crowning achievement yet defines men first and foremost by their professional accomplishments, treating fatherhood as almost incidental—a bonus. But from her years spent as a pediatrician listening to children's needs and fears, Dr. Meeker understands just how crucial a father's role is. Good Men, Great Dads is a powerful affirmation of fatherhood that shows men how being a strong, active father can be their greatest triumph.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published May 15, 2017
159 people are currently reading
852 people want to read
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June 13, 2017
“The Creator of all, the source of all power and wisdom, has one great desire: to be called Father. You share that name with God.”
I do not think there is a greater cheerleader for dads today than Dr. Meg Meeker. This book is friendly, practical, encouraging, and inspired. I think that every dad could be blessed by what Dr. Meeker has written in Hero: Becoming the Dad Your Children Need. Both a love song to dads and a playbook to equip them, this dynamic book will affirm their worth, inform their attitudes, empower their actions, and encourage their very souls. This book is for all dads: seasoned dads, young dads, married dads, divorced, widowed, and single dads. Endorsed by Jim Daly, Dr. Les Parrott, Philip Rivers, Dave Ramsey, Rob Davis, David Tyree, and Benjamin Watson, Hero is about God’s perfect creativity and the unique role fathers fill in the lives of their children.
“It’s time for the men in this country to rise up, stand firm, and truly become the heroes their kids need them to be. I truly believe that, with a world of strong fathers, there simply is no limit to what the next generation can achieve.” -Dave Ramsey, Forward to Hero
Dr. Meg Meeker is a Christian, a pediatrician, a wife, a mother, a daughter, and a contributor to the NFL Fatherhood Initiative. Dr. Meeker’s long experience in clinical medicine, her friendships with dads of many stripes, her family relationships, and her work with Christian fatherhood organizations uniquely qualify her to understand the pressures that dads are under today, the ways in which fathers leave an indelible mark on the health and well-being of their children, and the societal ramifications that evolve when our culture devalues fatherhood. In this book, Dr. Meeker seeks to celebrate masculine fatherhood and empower dads to know their irreplaceability and worth. She does this in part by debunking secular myths and lies about what children need. Additionally, her intention is to equip dads to overcome their own wounds, help dads to heal wounds they may have inflicted on their children, and remind dads that their Father in heaven is always there to support them.
“What happens is that when a father spends meaningful time with a child, the experience is magnified. As a father, you have the power to make time stand still. It’s the power to make fifteen minutes every other week seem like an hour of every night… you alone have this power. I have never heard children talk this way about teachers, or about other people who play important roles in their lives. It’s all about dad, because nothing is more important to children than acceptance and affirmation from their father.”
Moms, this is for you too. If you wish to bless the father of your children, may I suggest that you read this book with an open mind and a heart for the health and well being of your kids? As a wife and a mom, I read this book so that I could know how to best encourage and support my husband. I want my children to have the best father possible. I know that no man is perfect, but I also know that he is the perfect father for my children and that children naturally adore and admire their dads (even in situations of divorce where children do not live with their dad). This is how God designed it to be. He calls men and women into different roles for our own good, for the good of our children, and for His glory. The role that God has designed for dads cannot be fulfilled by moms.
“We fought a battle of the sexes without remembering that battles leave casualties – and we certainly did leave casualties… After thirty years of working as a pediatrician, I can say without a doubt that the sexual revolution was a disaster for kids – with families far more fractured and fragile than they were before and with kids far more endangered physically, through an epidemic of sexually transmitted diseases, and emotionally, because of a breakdown of the nurturing bonds kids need.”
We live in a very broken culture. One in which it is considered insensitive to say that children need their dads. We fear hurting women who have been abandoned, abused, or betrayed by the men in their lives. We hesitate to highlight the gaping hole that is left by a dad who leaves, for whatever reason. Tragically, however, no matter how much we fear hurting those women, children are absolutely hurt when we do not acknowledge the pain that fatherlessness causes in their lives. Our right concern about not wanting to cause pain to single and divorced moms has caused us to remain relatively silent on an issue that is causing destruction in the lives of men and children. Dads are not well served when we do not acknowledge their intrinsic and irreplaceable role. Children are absolutely harmed when they are left fatherless. Children need their fathers and, when a father cannot or will not be found, they need devoted father figures. This book unabashedly acknowledges these truths.
“One of my challenges to dads is to put their love on the line: prove it.”
Sometimes books like this can be disorganized. Even if the author’s points are perceptive and erudite, some books in this style wander all over the landscape and fail to really commission readers into making the necessary changes in their lives that will affect the results they are hoping for. Not so with this book. Dr. Meeker is categorically a physician who intends to look after the psychological and emotional health of her readers and to prescribe for them a heavy dose of truth and encouragement. Organized in an intelligent way, the book is divided into ten chapters, each of which explores an aspect of fatherhood. Each chapter starts with a friendly reflection on the topic and then moves into examples from Dr. Meeker’s clinical experience. Teaching and cheerleading the whole time, the chapter ends with practical advice that can be applied to the life of any father. Like her friends at the NFL Fatherhood Initiative, Dr. Meeker views the subject of this book, fathers, as men in need of a solid and practical plan to capitalize on their natural talents, hone their skills, and encourage confidence.
“‘Father’ is a word of such profound significance, meaning, and hope that it was the first word Jesus uttered when he was crucified. It was the cry of a man who agonized for the people he loved. Those people are us. And the Father he cried out for watches over us still, just as you, in your children’s imaginations, will always watch over them, just as Brett Favre’s father was always watching over him. Be worthy of your children. Be like your own Father, the one who is in heaven.”
I do not think there is a greater cheerleader for dads today than Dr. Meg Meeker. This book is friendly, practical, encouraging, and inspired. I think that every dad could be blessed by what Dr. Meeker has written in Hero: Becoming the Dad Your Children Need. Both a love song to dads and a playbook to equip them, this dynamic book will affirm their worth, inform their attitudes, empower their actions, and encourage their very souls. This book is for all dads: seasoned dads, young dads, married dads, divorced, widowed, and single dads. Endorsed by Jim Daly, Dr. Les Parrott, Philip Rivers, Dave Ramsey, Rob Davis, David Tyree, and Benjamin Watson, Hero is about God’s perfect creativity and the unique role fathers fill in the lives of their children.
“It’s time for the men in this country to rise up, stand firm, and truly become the heroes their kids need them to be. I truly believe that, with a world of strong fathers, there simply is no limit to what the next generation can achieve.” -Dave Ramsey, Forward to Hero
Dr. Meg Meeker is a Christian, a pediatrician, a wife, a mother, a daughter, and a contributor to the NFL Fatherhood Initiative. Dr. Meeker’s long experience in clinical medicine, her friendships with dads of many stripes, her family relationships, and her work with Christian fatherhood organizations uniquely qualify her to understand the pressures that dads are under today, the ways in which fathers leave an indelible mark on the health and well-being of their children, and the societal ramifications that evolve when our culture devalues fatherhood. In this book, Dr. Meeker seeks to celebrate masculine fatherhood and empower dads to know their irreplaceability and worth. She does this in part by debunking secular myths and lies about what children need. Additionally, her intention is to equip dads to overcome their own wounds, help dads to heal wounds they may have inflicted on their children, and remind dads that their Father in heaven is always there to support them.
“What happens is that when a father spends meaningful time with a child, the experience is magnified. As a father, you have the power to make time stand still. It’s the power to make fifteen minutes every other week seem like an hour of every night… you alone have this power. I have never heard children talk this way about teachers, or about other people who play important roles in their lives. It’s all about dad, because nothing is more important to children than acceptance and affirmation from their father.”
Moms, this is for you too. If you wish to bless the father of your children, may I suggest that you read this book with an open mind and a heart for the health and well being of your kids? As a wife and a mom, I read this book so that I could know how to best encourage and support my husband. I want my children to have the best father possible. I know that no man is perfect, but I also know that he is the perfect father for my children and that children naturally adore and admire their dads (even in situations of divorce where children do not live with their dad). This is how God designed it to be. He calls men and women into different roles for our own good, for the good of our children, and for His glory. The role that God has designed for dads cannot be fulfilled by moms.
“We fought a battle of the sexes without remembering that battles leave casualties – and we certainly did leave casualties… After thirty years of working as a pediatrician, I can say without a doubt that the sexual revolution was a disaster for kids – with families far more fractured and fragile than they were before and with kids far more endangered physically, through an epidemic of sexually transmitted diseases, and emotionally, because of a breakdown of the nurturing bonds kids need.”
We live in a very broken culture. One in which it is considered insensitive to say that children need their dads. We fear hurting women who have been abandoned, abused, or betrayed by the men in their lives. We hesitate to highlight the gaping hole that is left by a dad who leaves, for whatever reason. Tragically, however, no matter how much we fear hurting those women, children are absolutely hurt when we do not acknowledge the pain that fatherlessness causes in their lives. Our right concern about not wanting to cause pain to single and divorced moms has caused us to remain relatively silent on an issue that is causing destruction in the lives of men and children. Dads are not well served when we do not acknowledge their intrinsic and irreplaceable role. Children are absolutely harmed when they are left fatherless. Children need their fathers and, when a father cannot or will not be found, they need devoted father figures. This book unabashedly acknowledges these truths.
“One of my challenges to dads is to put their love on the line: prove it.”
Sometimes books like this can be disorganized. Even if the author’s points are perceptive and erudite, some books in this style wander all over the landscape and fail to really commission readers into making the necessary changes in their lives that will affect the results they are hoping for. Not so with this book. Dr. Meeker is categorically a physician who intends to look after the psychological and emotional health of her readers and to prescribe for them a heavy dose of truth and encouragement. Organized in an intelligent way, the book is divided into ten chapters, each of which explores an aspect of fatherhood. Each chapter starts with a friendly reflection on the topic and then moves into examples from Dr. Meeker’s clinical experience. Teaching and cheerleading the whole time, the chapter ends with practical advice that can be applied to the life of any father. Like her friends at the NFL Fatherhood Initiative, Dr. Meeker views the subject of this book, fathers, as men in need of a solid and practical plan to capitalize on their natural talents, hone their skills, and encourage confidence.
“‘Father’ is a word of such profound significance, meaning, and hope that it was the first word Jesus uttered when he was crucified. It was the cry of a man who agonized for the people he loved. Those people are us. And the Father he cried out for watches over us still, just as you, in your children’s imaginations, will always watch over them, just as Brett Favre’s father was always watching over him. Be worthy of your children. Be like your own Father, the one who is in heaven.”
February 8, 2019
Well, I did not expect to sit down and read through this entire book today. It was a really, really easy read. Let me begin by disclaiming that I am not the book's primary intended audience. I am neither a father nor a man. I am not even a parent; however, my book club is reading the book and I still found value in participating. Personally, it gave me a new perspective of fathers and men, of my own father. Furthermore, the book gave me insight and, I hope, a way to better understand and relate to my future husband. There were several principals I took away from the book that I can apply as a mother one day and several principals I intend to discuss with my future husband. The book made me think about my own relationship with my father and my childhood and where we stand presently. It gave me a way to look back and reconcile some things with myself. That said, my point is that I believe the book is useful and provides great value for more than just fathers and men.
Dr. Meeker has written a very simple book that speaks of the profound value of fathers in the family life. She presents sound research, practical applications of potential processes, relatable antidotes, and an abundance of encouragement for fathers. This book is chock full of messages to reaffirm the value and necessity of good, heroic fathers in our families. Not only does she state and show the need for good men, but she states that every man has the potential and ability to become those heroes for their children and wives. This is an excellent read, insightful, and I plan to search for more of Dr. Meeker's work on mothers and women, for books in which I am the intended audience. I would highly recommend this book to any man or woman who desires to uplift fatherhood and become a better person themselves.
Dr. Meeker has written a very simple book that speaks of the profound value of fathers in the family life. She presents sound research, practical applications of potential processes, relatable antidotes, and an abundance of encouragement for fathers. This book is chock full of messages to reaffirm the value and necessity of good, heroic fathers in our families. Not only does she state and show the need for good men, but she states that every man has the potential and ability to become those heroes for their children and wives. This is an excellent read, insightful, and I plan to search for more of Dr. Meeker's work on mothers and women, for books in which I am the intended audience. I would highly recommend this book to any man or woman who desires to uplift fatherhood and become a better person themselves.
May 15, 2017
I am a big fan of all of Meg Meeker's books. When I became a parent 7 years ago I found her books. Her advice on parenting, motherhood and raising strong children speaks to my heart. I was extremely excited to read Hero- and this book did not disappoint. This book is a "how to" book for dads, explains the different ways moms and dads parent, gives ideas for dads of how to attacks problems that come up with parenting all while building up dads to show them that they are the heroes in their children's eyes.
Not only is this book great for dads and any father figure it is great at showing the differences in parenting of moms and dads. One example Meeker describes a comparison In terms of football- women want to talk about the problem and dads want to run the play. Kids need both ways to resolve a problem.
An example of how moms and dads interact differently was eye opening- when teaching kids to swim Mother's usually stand in front, making eye contact and encouraging the child into the safety of their arms. While dads stand behind their kids so they did not face sympathetic pair of encouraging eyes but the challenge of the water. With two of my children swimming- this was exactly what happened. It was interesting to have this ahhh haa moment while reading and seeing that dad's way of teaching is really important.
This book was uplifting and encouraging of the role dads play as heroes in their child's lives. I highly recommend this book for all dads (and moms can sneak a read too when the dads aren't looking). This is going to be at the top of my list of baby shower gifts for new dads.
Not only is this book great for dads and any father figure it is great at showing the differences in parenting of moms and dads. One example Meeker describes a comparison In terms of football- women want to talk about the problem and dads want to run the play. Kids need both ways to resolve a problem.
An example of how moms and dads interact differently was eye opening- when teaching kids to swim Mother's usually stand in front, making eye contact and encouraging the child into the safety of their arms. While dads stand behind their kids so they did not face sympathetic pair of encouraging eyes but the challenge of the water. With two of my children swimming- this was exactly what happened. It was interesting to have this ahhh haa moment while reading and seeing that dad's way of teaching is really important.
This book was uplifting and encouraging of the role dads play as heroes in their child's lives. I highly recommend this book for all dads (and moms can sneak a read too when the dads aren't looking). This is going to be at the top of my list of baby shower gifts for new dads.
July 25, 2019
Very well-written and informative. Dr. Meeker uses plenty of good stories to illustrate her point, and I was able to pull some important lessons to implement right away.
March 29, 2020
Muy buen libro. Buenos casos. Muy práctico. Muuuuuuy recomendando pasa cualquier papá.
March 11, 2019
The three questions in chapter 5 that every Father(or parent really) needs to answer for their child is huge. Dealing with your child while keeping these questions in mind is practical, realistic and can change a life. Your child's life.
June 16, 2017
ALL DADS MUST READ. Dads everywhere need to be reminded of how important their role as a father is. You are your child's hero. Meg Meeker reminds us of this and calls us to being the hero our children need.
July 26, 2017
My scale for rating books:
1 star = hated it
2 stars = didn't like
3 stars = liked it
4 stars = loved it
5 stars = life changing
It was especially nice to read a book that built up manhood and didn't mock manliness. Though it may be my own selection bias, I've become more aware of television commercials, sit-coms, etc. portraying the dad as a simpleton and buffoon and mom as mature and all knowing. Take the Simpsons, Modern Family, and any Lowes or Home Depot commercial as an example.
I became acutely aware of pattern in the nightly, bed-time reading to my three-year old daughter. I began refusing to read the Berenstain Bears books to her (her favorite) at bed time because their mother is constantly portrayed as mature and all wise while their father the dimwitted buffoon. Refer to Berenstain Bears Go to the Doctor, Berenstain Bears: Too Much TV, or Berenstain Bears: Too Much Junk Food. The best thing for a child is two mature parents. Repeatedly exposing a child to stories where one parent is less capable and mature than the other sets a bad example and undermines the parent portrayed as less competent in the eyes of the child.
That said, upon completing this book I rated it 3 stars in spite of the fact that I really liked it more than 3 stars would indicate on my scale above. The 3-star rating was a result of the quantitative and qualitative claims made were anecdotal and without citations or references. The first citation was encountered 44% through the book. There was, however, an extensive bibliography at the end of the book.
A week after reading and implementing the guidance, I have decided to increase the rating to 5 stars (life changing). I have realized incredible results with all three of my children – 2 boys (10 & 8) and 1 girl (3). They were very well behaved to begin with my relationship with them is even stronger. They are more obedient and I’m more patient with them. Temper-tantrums are fewer in occurrence and deescalate even quicker.
This book has certainly improved my life and relationship with my kids (regardless of the scarcity of citations/references). For that fact, I have revised my rating to 5 stars as it has been life changing.
1 star = hated it
2 stars = didn't like
3 stars = liked it
4 stars = loved it
5 stars = life changing
It was especially nice to read a book that built up manhood and didn't mock manliness. Though it may be my own selection bias, I've become more aware of television commercials, sit-coms, etc. portraying the dad as a simpleton and buffoon and mom as mature and all knowing. Take the Simpsons, Modern Family, and any Lowes or Home Depot commercial as an example.
I became acutely aware of pattern in the nightly, bed-time reading to my three-year old daughter. I began refusing to read the Berenstain Bears books to her (her favorite) at bed time because their mother is constantly portrayed as mature and all wise while their father the dimwitted buffoon. Refer to Berenstain Bears Go to the Doctor, Berenstain Bears: Too Much TV, or Berenstain Bears: Too Much Junk Food. The best thing for a child is two mature parents. Repeatedly exposing a child to stories where one parent is less capable and mature than the other sets a bad example and undermines the parent portrayed as less competent in the eyes of the child.
That said, upon completing this book I rated it 3 stars in spite of the fact that I really liked it more than 3 stars would indicate on my scale above. The 3-star rating was a result of the quantitative and qualitative claims made were anecdotal and without citations or references. The first citation was encountered 44% through the book. There was, however, an extensive bibliography at the end of the book.
A week after reading and implementing the guidance, I have decided to increase the rating to 5 stars (life changing). I have realized incredible results with all three of my children – 2 boys (10 & 8) and 1 girl (3). They were very well behaved to begin with my relationship with them is even stronger. They are more obedient and I’m more patient with them. Temper-tantrums are fewer in occurrence and deescalate even quicker.
This book has certainly improved my life and relationship with my kids (regardless of the scarcity of citations/references). For that fact, I have revised my rating to 5 stars as it has been life changing.
February 7, 2018
in our society today it's ready to get distracted with everything fighting for our attention. technology and other efficiencies have made knowledge and relationships more ubiquitous. however, with all of this connectivity is it easy to get not focus deep. this book is all about that: focusing on what is truly important because, believe it or not, they are focusing on you. drawing from personal interviews and personal insights, Dr. Meeker immerses you in examples of what a good father is and should be: a hero in every sense of the word. saving your family from the society and pitfalls that labor to tear them from you and destroy them.
September 24, 2024
"Hero" by Meg Meeker is a compelling exploration of what it means to be a hero in today’s world. Meeker, a pediatrician and author, focuses on the importance of male role models and the characteristics that define true heroism.
The book is structured around the idea that authentic heroes are not just found in comic books or movies, but can be everyday figures in our lives. Meeker emphasizes qualities such as courage, integrity, and the willingness to sacrifice for others. She draws on a multitude of real-life examples, from historical figures to modern-day individuals, illustrating how these traits can manifest in various contexts.
One of the strengths of Meeker's writing is her ability to connect with both young men and their parents. She provides practical advice for fathers and mentors on how to nurture these heroic qualities in boys, encouraging open conversations about values and challenges. Her approach is both empathetic and empowering, making it accessible for readers from different backgrounds.
Additionally, Meeker tackles contemporary issues such as the influence of social media and the pressures young men face today. She argues that understanding and defining heroism in a modern context is crucial for the development of healthy, confident young men.
Overall, "Hero" is an insightful read that encourages reflection on the nature of heroism and the responsibility of adults to guide the next generation. It’s a thought-provoking book that is sure to resonate with parents, educators, and anyone interested in fostering positive values in young people.
The book is structured around the idea that authentic heroes are not just found in comic books or movies, but can be everyday figures in our lives. Meeker emphasizes qualities such as courage, integrity, and the willingness to sacrifice for others. She draws on a multitude of real-life examples, from historical figures to modern-day individuals, illustrating how these traits can manifest in various contexts.
One of the strengths of Meeker's writing is her ability to connect with both young men and their parents. She provides practical advice for fathers and mentors on how to nurture these heroic qualities in boys, encouraging open conversations about values and challenges. Her approach is both empathetic and empowering, making it accessible for readers from different backgrounds.
Additionally, Meeker tackles contemporary issues such as the influence of social media and the pressures young men face today. She argues that understanding and defining heroism in a modern context is crucial for the development of healthy, confident young men.
Overall, "Hero" is an insightful read that encourages reflection on the nature of heroism and the responsibility of adults to guide the next generation. It’s a thought-provoking book that is sure to resonate with parents, educators, and anyone interested in fostering positive values in young people.
December 8, 2017
First things first, this book is written from an Evangelical world view and frequently mentions God and quotes scripture from time to time. I'm not saying that "non-religious" folk can't learn anything from the material in the book, but if that world view does not align with your own view than I would advise a different book. Now that that's out of the way, on to the review.
Right out of the gate, I was very pleased with the writing style chosen by Dr. Meeker. She often illustrates concepts by using stories of her clients and how she advised them in certain situations. It was a great alternative to blinding the lay reader with science that is often hard to follow and difficult to understand so I very much appreciated that. As for the material itself, I personally got a lot out of it. Lots of actionable advice that you can start using today to better improve your relationship with your kids regardless of age.
This is a great introduction to the overall subject of fatherhood. Having read this, I'm now looking for something that delves a little deeper into the psychology behind the father/child relationship. Overall a great book that I would recommend to new fathers or more senior fathers alike.
Right out of the gate, I was very pleased with the writing style chosen by Dr. Meeker. She often illustrates concepts by using stories of her clients and how she advised them in certain situations. It was a great alternative to blinding the lay reader with science that is often hard to follow and difficult to understand so I very much appreciated that. As for the material itself, I personally got a lot out of it. Lots of actionable advice that you can start using today to better improve your relationship with your kids regardless of age.
This is a great introduction to the overall subject of fatherhood. Having read this, I'm now looking for something that delves a little deeper into the psychology behind the father/child relationship. Overall a great book that I would recommend to new fathers or more senior fathers alike.
July 11, 2018
Love, love, love that fatherhood and its importance is being talked about!
I read this book for insights into how I can help support my husband as my children's father. My biggest take away from that is to let him parent--step back sometimes and leave it between the kids and their father. I don't have to and shouldn't be involved in and monitoring every interaction. I may be a tad controlling in this area, so a great insight for me on that.
I think this would be a valuable book for any father (or mother) to read to be reminded of the value of father's in their children's life. I found it especially significant that some pretty poor dad's still made a big and positive difference in their children's life when compared to not having a dad, so imagine how impactful good, striving fathers are. I think this also highlighted how beneficial two parent households are when possible.
I loved that she didn't shy away from spiritual aspects.
Now for the content: I found some of the content "meh" and other content, "Yes! Wow!" While some of the content was just average in value for me, still a worthwhile read.
I read this book for insights into how I can help support my husband as my children's father. My biggest take away from that is to let him parent--step back sometimes and leave it between the kids and their father. I don't have to and shouldn't be involved in and monitoring every interaction. I may be a tad controlling in this area, so a great insight for me on that.
I think this would be a valuable book for any father (or mother) to read to be reminded of the value of father's in their children's life. I found it especially significant that some pretty poor dad's still made a big and positive difference in their children's life when compared to not having a dad, so imagine how impactful good, striving fathers are. I think this also highlighted how beneficial two parent households are when possible.
I loved that she didn't shy away from spiritual aspects.
Now for the content: I found some of the content "meh" and other content, "Yes! Wow!" While some of the content was just average in value for me, still a worthwhile read.
July 14, 2018
Dr. Meeker is a parenting expert stemming from her work as a pediatrician, work for which I'm sure she is quite qualified and very capable of doing. This book, however, did not strike a solid chord with me. The tone of the book is very much "Dads are the best thing ever" and harkens a lot of concepts that assume a lot that isn't current reality - namely, that many moms these days are the breadwinners of families, and her book is strife with examples of terrible fathers (absent, alcoholic, etc) yet she uses perspectives of how the mom handled these dads (by not saying to the children that the dad was in need of help) that made the dad powerful and beneficial to his children. I had a hard time digesting a lot of those examples, because in my head they just didn't really make sense. Also, perhaps it was my copy, but the book had quite a few typos that detracted from the focus of the book. I'm not sure this is a real playbook for new dads, but perhaps could be helpful to fathers that have zero clue or need some specific direction that is biblically based.
April 5, 2021
At first I wasn't super impressed with this book. However, it got better as it progressed, which is unusual for most nonfiction books IMO.
This is as much of a pep talk for dads as it is instruction on how to be a good dad. I was expecting more of the latter, which is why I didn't like this book very much at first. But how to be a good dad is mostly pretty obvious. Her two main suggestions? Don't be a drunk and don't be angry and abusive. Duh. What most dads need is a good pep talk and some encouragement of why dads are important, how we can make a difference, and maybe a little advice on how to do better.
Maybe the biggest take-away for me is that play time is important for kids. I'm not great at that but this book provided some motivation to improve. It also made me realize that ANY improvement in fatherhood can go a long way, especially in childrens' eyes. There were plenty of other little things that the book discussed that I can do better on as well.
If all dads read this book and implemented a couple of its suggestions, the world would be a MUCH better place.
This is as much of a pep talk for dads as it is instruction on how to be a good dad. I was expecting more of the latter, which is why I didn't like this book very much at first. But how to be a good dad is mostly pretty obvious. Her two main suggestions? Don't be a drunk and don't be angry and abusive. Duh. What most dads need is a good pep talk and some encouragement of why dads are important, how we can make a difference, and maybe a little advice on how to do better.
Maybe the biggest take-away for me is that play time is important for kids. I'm not great at that but this book provided some motivation to improve. It also made me realize that ANY improvement in fatherhood can go a long way, especially in childrens' eyes. There were plenty of other little things that the book discussed that I can do better on as well.
If all dads read this book and implemented a couple of its suggestions, the world would be a MUCH better place.
August 10, 2021
Piękna książka, pokazująca wyzwania, jakie czekają ojca podczas dorastania dzieci, ale również świetnie podkreślająca role, jaką ojciec pełni w rodzinie, czy nawet społeczeństwie. Autorka przytacza badania, jaki wpływ na całe życie ma wychowywanie się z tatą obok. Ciekawe przykłady z życia, umacniają i dodają sił. Pokazanie, że często nie chodzi o wielkie wspólne wyjazdy, ale po prostu bycie razem na co dzień.
Rozdzielenie tego jak wygląda relacja z mamą, a jak z tatą z punktu widzenia dziecka, poparta psychologią, pomaga zrozumieć codzienne sprawy trochę lepiej. Bardzo mocny nacisk został również postawiony na dyscyplinę (tę pozytywną), która daje dzieciom bezpieczeństwo. Sporo przykładów co ojcowie powinni robić jak najczęściej (żyć zgodnie ze swoimi wartościami, okazywać uczucia, być zawsze opanowanym) oraz czego nie robić (brać rzeczy do siebie, uginać się pod presją rówieśników). To tylko kilka, więcej w książce.
Świetna pozycja! Każdy, kto jest tatą, powinien jej posłuchać i to nawet nie raz. Sam na pewno będę do niej wracał :)
Rozdzielenie tego jak wygląda relacja z mamą, a jak z tatą z punktu widzenia dziecka, poparta psychologią, pomaga zrozumieć codzienne sprawy trochę lepiej. Bardzo mocny nacisk został również postawiony na dyscyplinę (tę pozytywną), która daje dzieciom bezpieczeństwo. Sporo przykładów co ojcowie powinni robić jak najczęściej (żyć zgodnie ze swoimi wartościami, okazywać uczucia, być zawsze opanowanym) oraz czego nie robić (brać rzeczy do siebie, uginać się pod presją rówieśników). To tylko kilka, więcej w książce.
Świetna pozycja! Każdy, kto jest tatą, powinien jej posłuchać i to nawet nie raz. Sam na pewno będę do niej wracał :)
February 3, 2021
It may seem odd for me to have read a book about being a strong father.
At the time, I was recovering from my divorce and as a parent who was going to need to be both mom and dad, I was looking for something. Anything. And this book appeared.
Not only did this book give me a new found set of skills to help me navigate, but it also gave me a brand new way to look at my relationship with my father. I asked him questions I had not been brave enough to ask before.
The challenge I found within this book stemmed from a few too many examples in certain points. It is a great way to get the idea across, and yet I felt as if I was receiving too much.
Overall, I appreciated the view of how to be the best mom and dad I could be as a single woman to children who needed my stability.
#bookreview #writeadreamlife #booksbooksbooks #booklover #singlemothers #mompreneurs
#familyiseverything #familylife #dadtobe #bonusdad #dadlife
(first published on my IG account 11/19/2020)
At the time, I was recovering from my divorce and as a parent who was going to need to be both mom and dad, I was looking for something. Anything. And this book appeared.
Not only did this book give me a new found set of skills to help me navigate, but it also gave me a brand new way to look at my relationship with my father. I asked him questions I had not been brave enough to ask before.
The challenge I found within this book stemmed from a few too many examples in certain points. It is a great way to get the idea across, and yet I felt as if I was receiving too much.
Overall, I appreciated the view of how to be the best mom and dad I could be as a single woman to children who needed my stability.
#bookreview #writeadreamlife #booksbooksbooks #booklover #singlemothers #mompreneurs
#familyiseverything #familylife #dadtobe #bonusdad #dadlife
(first published on my IG account 11/19/2020)
June 23, 2025
More Than Just a Book
…….left a deep impression on me—not just as a book about parenting, but as a symbol of love, growth, and family values. After the pandemic, I often wandered through small shops. In a Catholic store, I came across a quiet corner displaying books on life skills, healing, and personal development.
It was there them. I purchased this book along with Strong Mothers, Strong Sons and Father to Son and Hero:being the strong father your children need, as Christmas gifts in 2021—for my husband.
Our family bookshelf has always reflected these values. To us, books are not just stories—they are connections, a journey of healing and growth. That simple gift, given during a time of many changes, still reminds me today that sometimes, just the right words at the right moment can create something truly meaningful.
…….left a deep impression on me—not just as a book about parenting, but as a symbol of love, growth, and family values. After the pandemic, I often wandered through small shops. In a Catholic store, I came across a quiet corner displaying books on life skills, healing, and personal development.
It was there them. I purchased this book along with Strong Mothers, Strong Sons and Father to Son and Hero:being the strong father your children need, as Christmas gifts in 2021—for my husband.
Our family bookshelf has always reflected these values. To us, books are not just stories—they are connections, a journey of healing and growth. That simple gift, given during a time of many changes, still reminds me today that sometimes, just the right words at the right moment can create something truly meaningful.
June 5, 2018
Meg Meeker wrote a terrific book for fathers based on research, common sense, and anecdotes she's collected. The book does an excellent job of highlighting the importance of a father in a child's life (while not downplaying the importance of a mother, of course). I have to say, it was refreshing to read something positive about dads. Today in popular culture, fathers seem to be portrayed as dumb, out-of-touch, sports- and/or sex-obsessed buffoons instead of mature men; I'd also venture to say that I know too many men that fit that profile, rather than the one of a strong, caring, in-touch man proposed in Meeker's book.
This book was so good I'm ordering a copy for a guy that I work with who is expecting his first child--he won't be disappointed.
This book was so good I'm ordering a copy for a guy that I work with who is expecting his first child--he won't be disappointed.
June 30, 2021
English
Overall, it is a very good book, it gives you very specific tips on how to exercise parenthood and how to deal with parenting.
The only con was that sometimes he talks too much about religion as a basis for parenting, personally I do not agree on that point, but general terms I liked the book.
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Español
En general es un muy buen libro, te da tips muy especificos de como ejercer la paternidad y como lidiar con la crianza de los hijos.
En el unico contra fue que en ocasiones habla demasiado de la religion como base para la crianza, personalmente no estoy deacuerdo en ese punto, pero terminos generales me gustó el libro.
Overall, it is a very good book, it gives you very specific tips on how to exercise parenthood and how to deal with parenting.
The only con was that sometimes he talks too much about religion as a basis for parenting, personally I do not agree on that point, but general terms I liked the book.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Español
En general es un muy buen libro, te da tips muy especificos de como ejercer la paternidad y como lidiar con la crianza de los hijos.
En el unico contra fue que en ocasiones habla demasiado de la religion como base para la crianza, personalmente no estoy deacuerdo en ese punto, pero terminos generales me gustó el libro.
January 21, 2022
I couldn’t recommend this book more highly. I am buying a case of them and giving them to the Fathers at our church.
Dr. Meg Meeker writes from a Christian perspective, she is a counselor, pediatrician, and has worked with the NFL’s Fatherhood Initiative. You can tell, when you’ve read enough books, when someone is writing from their intellect and their presumption and when they’re writing from a place of experience and competence. She writes from competence, offers clarity, and is very motivating.
Whether you’re a young dad, a first time dad, have several children, or are an older father, even a grandfather, I’m confident this book will speak to you. I can’t overstate how simply yet profound the encouragement is in this book. It was a shot in the arm for me.
Dr. Meg Meeker writes from a Christian perspective, she is a counselor, pediatrician, and has worked with the NFL’s Fatherhood Initiative. You can tell, when you’ve read enough books, when someone is writing from their intellect and their presumption and when they’re writing from a place of experience and competence. She writes from competence, offers clarity, and is very motivating.
Whether you’re a young dad, a first time dad, have several children, or are an older father, even a grandfather, I’m confident this book will speak to you. I can’t overstate how simply yet profound the encouragement is in this book. It was a shot in the arm for me.
December 12, 2025
I will start with - I am not the intended audience. I am not a father. Or a man. But I am a mother who really enjoyed listening to this with her husband. There was a lot of insight here and it really built my compassion for my husband as a father. I have always appreciated his ability to pick up where I lack, and being a male in the roles he fills has shown beneficial time and time again. However, I loved how this really focused on the importance of a fathers presence in a child’s life and gave perspective into what we as parents (who didn’t have fatherly influences) can do to help fill those gaps for our little ones. I don’t even know if that makes sense because I never write reviews and this is hard for me 😂 moms & dads - it’s a quick good read, read it.
July 13, 2017
Dr. Meeker is one of my favorite go-to sources for parenting advice... I'm a big fan of her books and podcast. One of the things I have always loved about her is that she is a huge champion of fathers. She recognizes not only the importance of fathers, but the magnitude of their influence (good or bad). This is a great read for dads of any age (and a great gift for new dads!), but this book is also an important read for mothers as it illustrates how very different our parenting roles are as mother and father. Both are certainly vital and equally important. But when a daughter asks if she is worth fighting for, and when a son asks if he has what it takes... they always look to DAD.
July 17, 2019
This book was interesting and I'm glad I read it. All of the stories and conclusions seem to come from anecdotal evidence and personal experience (so basically the opposite of Emily Oster), but I found it interesting nonetheless.
Some of my notes:
Kids seek dad's love more than mom's. Mom's always around, not dad, so they feel that the love needs to be earned
Kids do better when parents are together, even if unhappy, rather than divorced and happy
6 plays:
1. play with kids
2. pray with kids
3. say the truth
4. Be steady
5. Be firm (provide discipline)
6. Stay committed
Some of my notes:
Kids seek dad's love more than mom's. Mom's always around, not dad, so they feel that the love needs to be earned
Kids do better when parents are together, even if unhappy, rather than divorced and happy
6 plays:
1. play with kids
2. pray with kids
3. say the truth
4. Be steady
5. Be firm (provide discipline)
6. Stay committed
July 12, 2023
Not much new here. First few chapters had some decent thought provoking ideas but the latter half becomes so simplistic (e.g., don’t call your child an idiot) that it’s either patronizing or this book is really meant for someone with little to no developed perspective in parenting at all.
Very anecdotal and any mentions of research are generic (no mentions of specific references, studies, books, etc.)
I lost count of the number of times the author said “if you only take one thing away from this book, it’s ___.” Several noticeable editing errors as well. Overall just not a well put together or insightful book.
Very anecdotal and any mentions of research are generic (no mentions of specific references, studies, books, etc.)
I lost count of the number of times the author said “if you only take one thing away from this book, it’s ___.” Several noticeable editing errors as well. Overall just not a well put together or insightful book.
July 14, 2024
I’m not gonna lie moments I cried and there was some very solid advice in here, but it was VERY preachy and religious, and honestly right wing motivated which is fine if you skew that way I don’t care but I don’t and there were moments that I was kind of just surprised that a pediatrician was touting. One part she stated that studies say children do better with parents in unhappy marriages than divorced and I was just kind of thinking “are you saying parents should stay in unhappy marriages?” And then she also stated “sometimes it’s better if men don’t show their emotions as fathers” and yeah there’s that among other things.
December 19, 2024
Reminded me of the simple, good old family structures and dynamics I had grown up in. I agree that some of those values are being eroded with time, at least in my head. However, I am not sure if it is right to blame anyone for the change. The book reminded me of how my father used to be, and how I am different.
Then it swerves into loony territory, pointing out that this is all a leftist conspiracy against the great country of America, and that God created Man in his image, and that I must become a heroic father figure for my child to set things right. The comical exhortations in the last quarter of the book diluted the intent and message it had set out to give.
Then it swerves into loony territory, pointing out that this is all a leftist conspiracy against the great country of America, and that God created Man in his image, and that I must become a heroic father figure for my child to set things right. The comical exhortations in the last quarter of the book diluted the intent and message it had set out to give.
November 20, 2017
The beginning of this book brought tears to my eye. Meg brought some really touching stories / secrets to the light. The last half of the book was more preachy and fizzled out for me.
The book did make me wonder about looking from a "harder" or "softer" angle. Sometimes, you can be hard on yourself to do better or you can be soft on yourself and say you're perfectly fine the way you are.
Unlike the books, I've been reading lately, this book falls in the harder category specifically calling out fathers to do better.
The book did make me wonder about looking from a "harder" or "softer" angle. Sometimes, you can be hard on yourself to do better or you can be soft on yourself and say you're perfectly fine the way you are.
Unlike the books, I've been reading lately, this book falls in the harder category specifically calling out fathers to do better.
December 11, 2017
This book is truly wonderful...
Unlike so many "self help" books these days, this book actually gives practical advice and information. There is no question that I got a lot of ideas out of it for how to become a better father.
Though I am an atheist-pagan... I found the spiritual (predominantly Christian) values and lessons contained in this book to be helpful and enlightening. I was not off-put by them, though some readers may be.
I am truly grateful to have read it, and probably will read it again someday. I've already started implementing changes in how I raise my three boys.
Unlike so many "self help" books these days, this book actually gives practical advice and information. There is no question that I got a lot of ideas out of it for how to become a better father.
Though I am an atheist-pagan... I found the spiritual (predominantly Christian) values and lessons contained in this book to be helpful and enlightening. I was not off-put by them, though some readers may be.
I am truly grateful to have read it, and probably will read it again someday. I've already started implementing changes in how I raise my three boys.
June 5, 2018
Just when you think you know about being a dad. You forget that the position comes with the hero title from the very beginning. It's a weird journey. But this book reminded me it was meant to be that way. And that it's not about about getting everything right but the big things right.
After all, we share same title as God. It is what He wanted to be called by his children. Father. I needed to be reminded of the importance and responsibility of that title. It gives me energy to know that we're suppose to do is hard by design.
After all, we share same title as God. It is what He wanted to be called by his children. Father. I needed to be reminded of the importance and responsibility of that title. It gives me energy to know that we're suppose to do is hard by design.
July 26, 2020
Ciekawa, warta czasu lektura. Czytałem wcześniej "Mocno ojcowie, mocne córki" (świetna) i "Tata bohater" nie wnosi wiele nowego, ale nadal – doceniam klarowną wizję opartą na solidnych fundamentach, promocję pozytywnego wizerunku i podkreślenie wagi ojcostwa, bez oglądania się na polityczną poprawność i bez idiotycznych filozofii, które podkopują dziś społeczną rolę ojca. Ta książka to coś o wiele więcej niż poradnik dla tatusiów – to także recepta na nieco lepszy świat, w którym więcej ludzi unika życiowych raf i odnajduje szczęście.
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