Two Ways Out of Stockton

by Axel Gearman

A gritty, real-life adventure of a young boy who grows into a troubled, yet functioning man determined to forge a different path than his estranged father. A story of love and loss; life and death; perception and reality; and betrayal and forgiveness.

When five-year-old Axel Gearman’s parents divorce, he is made to tell his father he no longer wants to see him. Wanting to be a good boy, he obliges and spends the next several decades not seeing or knowing his dad. Now an adult, Axel has become a loving father and husband with a good job, a nice home, and some deep-seated issues. After receiving an unexpected phone call informing him of his father’s impending death, Axel makes a cross-country journey to reunite with him, settle his affairs and find closure.

Two Ways Out of Stockton provides a candid glimpse into the hard complexities of family and regret with a dash of humor. The musical and pop culture references bring life to the often relatable and sometimes heartbreaking moments throughout this touching memoir.

Add to the reading experience with the "Two Ways Out Of Stockton (Soundtrack)", available on Spotify.

320 pages, Paperback

First published November 8, 2021

Reviews

[Michael Stricker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it! Axel has an incredible voice. Can’t wait to read more!

[Brett Lange · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! It’s a vivid account of a man’s final moments with his estranged father. I feel anybody can take something from his story whether it’s a new perspective of your parents or a lesson or two learned on parenting your own. It was written in a way that easily digestible and I found it easy to imagine myself there with Axel on the Colorado highways or in the California ghetto. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an fast paced and satisfying read!

[Jeff Wheeland · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an fantastic and touching glimpse into the relationship between an estranged father and son, and the author's attempt to get to know his unknown father in his last days. Beautifully written, intricately detailed, and hilarious with Axel's (Axe-hole's) point of view shining throughout. A great read!

[Chloe King · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! The conflicting relationship the author had with a lifetime of anger towards his estranged father, but also wanting to be there in his father’s final moments, was so raw and captivating. Axel did an amazing job capturing all the emotion - it had me laughing and crying throughout. The music references gave me a nostalgic feel that made me feel like I was in the passenger seat, along for the ride. Would definitely recommend!