Despite a traumatic and difficult childhood, 39-year-old Boston sales executive, David Kelly, seems to have it all. While building a life of achievement, material success, and professional respect, an unexpected friendship with Tom Fitzpatrick starts him on an emotional and courageous journey that allows him to confront the truth of his past and the impact it has had on the relationships in his life. The Father’s Son is a highly engaging story that will make you think about faith, family, friendship, forgiveness, redemption, love, and truth, and may prove to profoundly impact how you look at life itself.
Jim Sano grew up in an Irish/Italian family in Massachusetts. Jim is a husband, father, life-long Catholic and has worked as a teacher, consultant, and businessman. He has degrees from Boston College and Bentley University and is currently attending Franciscan University for a Master’s degree in Catechetics and Evangelization. He has also attended certificate programs at The Theological Institute for the New Evangelization at St. John’s Seminary and the Apologetics Academy. Jim is a member of the Catholic Writer’s Guild and has enjoyed growing in his faith and now sharing it through writing novels. Jim is the winner for twenty-eight book awards and each of his first four have received the Catholic Writers Guild’s Seal of Approval Award for editorial integrity and faithfulness to Catholic teaching.
Jim resides in Medfield, Massachusetts with his wife, Joanne, and has two daughters, Emily and Megan.
I must admit this novel took me by surprise. I loved the cover and was intrigued by the book. A lot of authors I know and respect kept mentioning it. And yet once I had it, it took me a while to get started. I was a little concerned because I had heard so many good things about the book, I was worried it would not like up to expectations. I was very pleasantly surprised. It is an excellent read, and a wonderful example of Catholic fiction and literature. In some ways it reminds me of the novels by J.F. Powers. It is well written, draws the reader into the lives of the characters and keeps them hooked.
This story will be what I classify as contemporary fiction, or realistic fiction. It is set in our world, in our time, and with our issues and struggles. The story revolves around a Bostonian named David Kelly. From a worldly point of view he has it all. A great job, the corner office, more money than he can spend. And the money and ability to date whoever catches his eye or fancy. But his life is not all it appears to be. After a chance encounter with a man that leads to the basketball court his life starts unfolding. And the walls he has built around his heart and life are not a solid and protective as he had thought.
The story probes the mind, heart and motives of David. As David goes on a journey of self discovery. That discovery is through a mix of being impacted by good men, psychology and a grounding in the Catholic faith that he thought he had left behind. Many of the great scenes in this volume take place in a bar, as David, his new friend and the patrons of the bar discuss big issues and the meaning of life, the universe and everything. David must confront not only himself, but also misunderstandings about events in his own past.
Not only is it a great story it is a catechism and philosophy lesson wrapped in and around the events of the story. It is one of those reads that stays with you. I have already recommended it to a few specific friends. And think it is a book anyone would enjoy reading and benefit from. Though it is written as adult fiction it would also be excellent for teens and young adults. To show them some things so they do not need to learn the lessons the hard way.
This is an excellent read and I highly recommend it. Father Tom is an amazing character and I look forward to the next book featuring him, Gus Busbi. I also know I will read whatever else Jim publishes.
The Father's Son delves deep into the life and mind of its main character, David, a seemingly successful Bostonian, whose dissatisfaction with his life is laid bare by his encounter with a new friend whom he meets regularly on the basketball court.
Catholic apologetics and psychology are grounded in one man's story of self-discovery, healing, and redemption. Like all good stories, The Father's Son is marked by hope. Regardless of the circumstances of our youth or the decisions we make, the call to holiness is universal and, with God's grace, attainable.
Jim Sano may very well be the Scott Hahn and Patrick Madrid of Fiction.
His book, THE FATHER’S SON, is a poignant story filled with solid theology and reasonable psychology. It would be a good read for RCIA participants, for Catholics desiring an entertaining way to enrich their knowledge of the Faith, or for anyone sincerely seeking answers about what the Catholic Church teaches (and why). However, anyone less or otherwise motivated may find the mini-sermons given by David’s friend, Tom, to be . . . well . . . mini-sermons (aka a bit preachy).
Mr. Sano’s main character, David Kelly, is a divorced Bostonian who has become little more than an absentee father to his two kids. He’s a financially successful sales executive who seems to have the world at his fingertips. But there’s much to be pondered upon the pages depicting Mr. Kelly’s life. As is true for anyone, his past has helped to mold him into the person he is today. David Kelly has worked hard to become the man he is today. He's content with who that man is, or is he? Neither the main character nor the reader will anticipate everything that transpires from the beginning to the end of this worthwhile read.
THE FATHER’S SON has earned four stars from me, though I did consider a three-star rating due to the objectifying scene on page 122. The priest’s assertion that watching a stunning and somewhat seductively attired woman saunter down the sidewalk is morally acceptable (even when done by a man wearing a collar) if a man has the proper mindset of appreciating beauty is shattered by his admission that, while viewing, he was slightly tempted. The excuse he provides for being tempted—that he’s “human and . . . a man” and that the woman had “really beautiful legs”—makes his ensuing comments against objectification ring hollow. It would have been more appropriate for the vowed celibate to avert his gaze once catching sight of Hollywood’s stereotypical irresistible female. Having him justify risking temptation in lieu of practicing “custody of the eyes” was not a fitting prelude to the beautiful truths presented in the remainder of the chapter.
Aside from this isolated, disappointing incident in Chapter 22, I enjoyed reading THE FATHER’S SON. The story not only offers good, solid theology, it’s engaging, has heart, a solid plot, interesting twists, and a decent amount of intrigue.
To know the true consequences of our individual actions may (should) be enough to dissuade us from our horrid choices. Warning: This is not your usual book review.
My biggest takeaway from this book was this: My multitude of suicide attempts for years after the abortion of my only child on October 7, 1983 were (gratefully) unsuccessful. After realizing/witnessing/living the human devastation of the loved ones who remain as the victims of suicide, I have come to learn of its power and evil. Somehow, Jim Sano has grasped all of this pain in one of his very powerful characters (no spoiler alert necessary).
This is a fictional depiction of a Catholic conversion using easily digestible lessons of Catholic doctrine and dogma via basketball chat, bar room banter, inner contemplation, and deep sharing between earned and trusted friends.
While the story can’t possibly be true, the reader is engaged, hopeful, and most grateful for its poignant telling and honest revelation of human toil and grief.
I am reluctant to post this because it doesn’t do the book the justice it deserves. Every Catholic hot-button topic is addressed head on—nothing was too controversial nor too trivial to address. There is well-done research and knowledge behind each argument. For those of us who struggled to return to our faith because of anger at certain Catholic history or perceived injustices, this book is for you. Catholics come home!
I was helped — and felt loved and respected with every page. Thank you, Mr. Sano, for caring for your readers with compassion and His Love!
P.S. As a Boston native, I loved all of the local references. Did Gino Cappelletti know he was cast as a bad guy? Ha! And all who founded and continue to run My Brothers Table must be very grateful for your endorsement. Bless you and your family!
A book about finding yourself and recovering your faith after many life events. This book has wonderful scenes of searching for self, returning to your faith and two main characters that drive you to not want to put the book down. I really enjoyed Father Tom who was a true servant of God.
There are few stories that I have read more than once, and never have I read any twice within a year, until now. For the second time, I have read and finished the Father’s Son by Jim Sano. This is a story to savour and enjoy. My first read through was quick and enjoyable, touched by the characters, impressed by the teachings of the church and left to feel good by the joyful reunions and resolutions of characters. The second time was a slower read. Like a fine meal, I spent more time enjoying the writing, savouring the relationship between the characters and this time more carefully rereading the moments where Tom shares his friendship but more so his faith and the teachings of the church.
This is a story about a chance meeting that changes the lives of two characters, David Kelly and Father Tom. Through their growing friendship David comes to learn more about himself, the people in his life and the Catholic faith. The mysterious puzzles left for David add a twist that drives the story and reveals David’s character. There is so much about this story to love, to enjoy. This is a finely crafter story with likeable and relatable characters that I came to appreciate.
My only complaint, and minor one at that, was that all the major players in this story were just too perfect. Yes David is flawed but a very successful businessman, athletic, apparently good looking and seemed like just a pretty good guy. At times I almost felt that David was just too perfect and that his already enviable life simply became better.
I do hope there is another story to come, perhaps sharing the journey of Angelo, moving from criminal to Christian, or perhaps Kevin, who is probably like so many of us, living fractured imperfect lives, hoping for more.
I truly enjoyed this story and rate this five stars in my world. I will read this again and again and will share this with others I know.
Thanks, Jim Sano. You’ve given me a great story and enriched my faith.
The Father's Son was a very emotional and spiritual journey thru the eyes of characters in the book. The roller coaster ride of one of the main characters, David, was very exhilarating as he learned about his faith and trust in God and others. As the chapters were read it became more difficult to put the book down but I suggest letting certain chapters (when the discussions about God and Church and community become theological involving) resonate in your soul to develop your understanding of why being a Christian and a Catholic is so needed in today's world of who's will we should be following - ours or Gods. I highly recommend reading the book even if you are not a Christian to gain a sense of why we follow and trust Jesus in all aspects of our lives during the good and difficult times. I pray and hope that your journey is as fulfilling and uplifting as mine was when I finished The Father's Son. Mark Smith
The Father’s Son was one of my most favorite books of all time. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking to enrich their Faith and know just the right steps to take to get there. It is simply wonderful to know how we can all put Jesus in the center of our lives to enjoy true peace and love. Thank you for this magnificent book. Laura Mills-Smith
This book is a must read for anyone no matter where they are on their journey in their relationship with God. It is also a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the Catholic Church. Through the character of Tom, the author presents answers to difficult questions facing Catholics and non-Catholics as well. A wide range of topics are explored with surprising depth, and the author writes in such a manner as to offer the reader the opportunity to absorb the subject matter in great or small amounts in each reading.
The book is about forgiveness, friendship, trust, and faith. As I read the book, I often had to stop and reflect on my own life and my own relationship with God. I was moved to tears as the character Tom reminded me of God’s unlimited love for us. I can’t recommend this book highly enough!
The Father`s Son is an amazing spiritual odyssey, not just for the main character, David, but also for the reader. Jim Sano has crafted a tale which masterfully works into the story virtually every answer to every question the reader might have regarding Catholicism. This is a book about self-discovery, self examination, redemption, and most of all the unconditional love God has for each of us, no matter how imperfect we may be. There is enough fun, mystery, surprise, and characters who are easy to relate to and love to make reading the book very enjoyable and easy to keep moving. I found myself laughing out loud, wondering what happens next, and even shedding many tears at different times throughout the book. Truly I felt the inspiration of the Holy Spirit working through the author`s pen in a powerful way.
We often look at people and judge them without truly knowing who they are and what they've been through. David, the main character in this new novel by Jim Sano, is that kind of person--you think you know him based on first impressions, but behind David's rich lifestyle is a man carrying a lot of baggage from his youth, the kind of trials that changed his worldview and affected his relationship with the people he most loved. The reader walks with David on a journey of discovery, unlocking the history that finally reveals a truth that changes everything about his past.
However, what you will gain from this book is not just an entertaining story, but some deep discussions in a bar that are bound to set your mind to thinking about things far beyond the story itself.
I just finished The Father's Son by Jim Sano and it was the best novel that I have read in a long time. It is a perfect read during this summer or anytime. The story brings you into the life of the main character who goes through a process of figuring out what and who gives true meaning to his life. The Catholic faith is artfully, gently and beautifully woven into the story. The characters are all very relatable and the story draws you in. I'm amazed by this book and it is much needed in our world because it highlights God's love for us no matter where we are in our faith journey. I whole heartily recommend this book to anyone. I had borrowed a copy from a neighbor and after returning it, I bought my own copy. It's that good!
This book is very thought provoking and reflective. I find myself searching for my own truths to answer the questions that are asked throughout the story. The setting is perfect for today’s working environments where it is so easy to just get lost in your career and forget about the important things in life such as faith. Miracles happen every day and this reminds me of that when I too get lost in the day to day. I highly recommend this book and love the author’s prose to weave such a wonderful story while bringing out the very fabric of life and faith. Even the title is a riddle that can be answered in different ways. Wonderful book Jim !
The Father's Son is a book written with such depth. The author Jim Sano, explains Catholic doctrine with such clarity. A Catholic all my life there were many areas of the church and its' doctrine that were a bit hazy for me. Jim's knowledge and clear explanations boosted my knowledge of my faith and I am grateful for that. Often, explanations are too complex but this written as a narrative created the perfect flow of information for me. The story line was very interesting with characters that I seemed to know through the detailed descriptions. I would recommend this book to anyone who would like to learn more about the Catholic faith while reading a story that is a page turner.
It is not very often one reads a novel and is touched, "changed" in an extraordinary way as I, in reading Jim Sano's novel, The Father's Son. Presenting the far too familiar struggles of life in post Christian culture, a most engaging story unfolds, demonstrating the understanding of man's purpose, while providing a very clear, foundational understanding of the splendor of Catholicism in this most compelling page turner. This is an amazing, must-read very important book for our times! Caution advised: you may not be able to "put this book down" and you will never forget the experience of this magnificent story!
The Father’s Son is a masterpiece! I write this as someone who is not as in touch with my faith as I was as a child (I’m 29!), but I felt connected to the protagonist’s journey. I felt more connected to god after reading this novel. I felt comfort and pure joy while learning about god’s love for all of us. I recommend this novel to anyone who is open to learning more about how religion can support all of us in today’s world, 2021. You will feel comforted, happy and relived when you read this book. Plus, it’s entertaining and funny (as in it made me laugh out loud), and it’s storyline is relatable and engaging.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will admit to reading the last few chapters with tears in my eyes. Tears of joy and tears of sorrow - at the same time!
I did not read it all at once as the theological elements gave me pause to think and reflect on my own life, my own journey and my own relationship with God. That said, the story of such an unlikely friendship, mutual respect, and the slowly building trust between the two main characters is inspirational and filled with hope.
This is a book that will 'stay with me' for a very long time and I highly recommend it.
Are the Catholic teachings true? The Father’s Son has the answer. It shows how loving God, walking with Christ, caring for family, respecting women, and celebrating the Eucharist will save your life. Life can be hard and meaningless like a rock but Christ’s teachings will polish it into a diamond. That’s what this book is about.
It’s an entertaining story, with real characters, a strong sense of place, and brilliant plot turns. I cried five times. Jim Sano has communicated an empowering message eloquently. The Catholic teachings are true. The Father’s Son proves it.
I am in late 20s and trying to figure out life. This book took me not only on a spiritual journey, but also an emotional one. I could relate to the main character David in a lot of ways, but this book opened my eyes to new ways of thinking and looking at my relationships in my own life. It puts into perspective as to what is important in one's life. It also helps one to understand comfort in trying situations. The Father's Son also touches on topics that society puts a negative spin on, and the author makes clear points as to what being faithful to God in trying times means.
It’s been quite a while since I had a novel that I wanted to stay up all night to read. And one that challenged me personally. Jim Sano’s “The Father’s Son” fit both of the qualifications. Many men may struggle with the busyness of work. We see our value in what we do there. But men can discover there is much more along with the main character, David Kelly on his road to redemption. While it is a spiritual journey of a modern man, there are surprises that will keep coming up till the end. It’s a great read for any Catholic man, which is true to theology and engaging in the reading.
The Father's Son is a heartfelt and beautifully written story. The author has created realistic and moving characters that stay with you long after finishing the book. The plot is well-paced and the settings in the book are described in such a way that I felt like I was there. The importance of relationships is a major focus in this book and a greater understanding and appreciation for the Catholic faith is masterfully incorporated.
Questions galore filled my head as I kept reading with anticipation each chapter of The Father’s Son. Because David seems so together in most areas of his life, it kept gnawing at me. Why can he not commit? Why is there a chill running through the family's relationships? It did not seem to fit. Tom is the catalyst who brings out David's best, and worst, too!
This novel "makes you laugh, makes you cry, and keeps you waiting." Now, that's a good book.
This is a great novel. Jim Sano put a lot of research and care in describing the religious and theological aspects which are essential for following the story. He has a knack for keeping you on your toes. Just when you think you know the outcome he throws in a twist that you were not expecting. It is one of those books which is difficult to put down once you have begun reading it. It is both educational and entertaining.
This was a very uplifting book. It thoroughly explained what it's like to go from being self centered to being Christ centered from a Catholic point of view. The author, through story form did an excellent job. The only reason I gave it 4 stars was because I got bogged down in the theology and that's only because I'm very familiar with the theology of the church - and this author was right on point.
I had a hard time putting this book down. So much mystery and intrigue, I felt like I was on the journey with the main character to found out the truth about his inner feelings. It's a feel good story and would strongly recommend to anyone who loves a story where trust and faith can overcome any obstacles. Trust me, you'll enjoy this book from beginning to end with all of the twists and turns.
The Father's Son is a fantastic read that captivates with a realistic and enjoyable story line, very relatable characters in today's world, history and life lessons, whether you are a Catholic or not. It is all tied together beautifully and makes for a thought provoking journey through the eyes of a person, David Kelly, that we can all relate to!
The Father's Son is the story of successful salesman David Kelly, who realizes his very broken life has been a series of avoided relationships and superficiality. A newfound friendship with someone he sees as truly happy leads him back to his faith and his abandoned wife and children while discovering additional truths that lead to healing. Highly recommend, couldn't put it down.
A nice, engaging read. A storyline easy to follow and fun. Thoughtful and heartfelt faith inspiring with humor, sports and nostalgia built in. A good read for vacation or quarantine.
This was a wonderful, masterful, book. If you want to know who the Father is being referred to: read the book. I don't want to give it away. I may even read it again looking for nuggets I may have missed!
This book is simply amazing! The characters are so real and relatable. The relationships between all (I won't spoil the book) hit me in the heart. Mr. Sano's book is inspiring. I'm looking forward to reading his next one.
A very moving and poignant story of a Boston Executive who is shown the love of God through a journey of mystery and a few surprise twists while guided by the help of a new found friend.