What do you think?
Rate this book
Dad: A Novel
Three generations of dads, playing traditional roles in each other's lives, arrive simultaneously at significant crossroads. The decisions they make and the actions they take will directly - and eternally - affect each other. After a life of hard work and raising children, Robert is enjoying his well-deserved retirement when he discovers that he has an illness he might not be able to beat. At 19, Jonah is sprinting across the threshold of adulthood when he learns, stunningly, that he's going to become a father. And Oliver - Robert's son and Jonah's dad - has entered middle age and is paying its demanding price. While reconciling the time and effort it has taken him to reach an unfulfilling career and an even less satisfying marriage, he realizes that it's imperative that he keep it all together for the two men who mean everything to him. When different perspectives lead to misunderstandings that remain unspoken - sometimes for years - it takes great strength and even more love to travel beyond the resentment. Dad: A Novel chronicles the sacred legacy of fatherhood.
- GenresFiction
288 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2021
4 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
About the author
Steven Manchester
41 books272 followersNew England's Storyteller Steven Manchester is the author of the soul-awakening novel, The Menu, as well as the '80s nostalgia-series, Bread Bags & Bullies; Lawn Darts & Lemonade. His other works include #1 bestsellers Twelve Months, The Rockin' Chair, Pressed Pennies and Gooseberry Island; the national bestsellers, Ashes, The Changing Season and Three Shoeboxes; the multi-award winning novels, Dad and Goodnight Brian; and the heartwarming Christmas movie, The Thursday Night Club. His work has appeared on NBC's Today Show and CBS's The Early Show; in Billboard and People Magazines. Three of Steven's short stories were selected "101 Best" for Chicken Soup for the Soul series. He is a multi-produced playwright, as well as the winner of the 2017 Los Angeles Book Festival, 2018 New York Book Festival, 2020 New England Book Festival, and 2021 Paris Book Festival. When not spending time with his beautiful wife, Paula, or their children, this Massachusetts author is promoting his works or writing. Visit: www.StevenManchester.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSteven...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSteven...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 14, 2021
Review coming! Simply amazing.
August 30, 2021
This is the story of a Dad, or rather DADS. There's the oldest, not wisest, the current, and struggling, and the soon to be...three generations from one family, all just trying to get it right. It takes us through their ups and downs, their good days and bad, the beginning of their journey on the road of fatherhood and through their final days, all of which are filled with memorable moments, pearls of wisdom shared, and tears to be shed. You get the chance to connect with each Dad represented in the now, while discovering where they came from, how it affected the next generation, and even how they plan on utilizing the lessons learned from those experiences to better that of their own children.
The Grandfather was trying to tie up lose ends, and in doing so uncovered some things his mind had shuffled away. It gave him time to come to peace with those moments and realize that his son knew he was coming from a place of love, even if he himself was learning along the way. The current day Dad was actually the most reflective thanks to his own father's condition, but it made for more growth not only in that relationship, but that with his wife and college aged son, both of which were also struggling in their own right. The son and possibly future father future gave us the youthful aspirations few on the world where he was still lost, still searching for what his life path was, but when the wheel was taken out of his hands, so to speak, he was able to finally listen to those around him, and really take ownership of his life to uncover where he truly wished to be.
All the feelings, all the arguments, all the love shared between these three and the family and friends they interact with along the way, go towards building the relationship and role I believe the author was trying to cement from the start. A father, a DAD is such a big part of our lives, such a responsibility as well, but one of the greatest roles that can ever be granted. Just as a mother, a sister, an aunt, an uncle, they serve as someone to guide, grow, teach, and protect. They are someone to whom we should be able to turn to for love no matter the circumstances, but also the person who has to let go and help us fly. It's painted beautifully here, and well represented between the generations. I do believe it will resonate with older teen and adult readers, both male and female, and allow those connections between the reader and the work to linger well beyond the page...and it might, for those in later years, even spark a desire to forge connections previous thought lost before it's too late.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
The Grandfather was trying to tie up lose ends, and in doing so uncovered some things his mind had shuffled away. It gave him time to come to peace with those moments and realize that his son knew he was coming from a place of love, even if he himself was learning along the way. The current day Dad was actually the most reflective thanks to his own father's condition, but it made for more growth not only in that relationship, but that with his wife and college aged son, both of which were also struggling in their own right. The son and possibly future father future gave us the youthful aspirations few on the world where he was still lost, still searching for what his life path was, but when the wheel was taken out of his hands, so to speak, he was able to finally listen to those around him, and really take ownership of his life to uncover where he truly wished to be.
All the feelings, all the arguments, all the love shared between these three and the family and friends they interact with along the way, go towards building the relationship and role I believe the author was trying to cement from the start. A father, a DAD is such a big part of our lives, such a responsibility as well, but one of the greatest roles that can ever be granted. Just as a mother, a sister, an aunt, an uncle, they serve as someone to guide, grow, teach, and protect. They are someone to whom we should be able to turn to for love no matter the circumstances, but also the person who has to let go and help us fly. It's painted beautifully here, and well represented between the generations. I do believe it will resonate with older teen and adult readers, both male and female, and allow those connections between the reader and the work to linger well beyond the page...and it might, for those in later years, even spark a desire to forge connections previous thought lost before it's too late.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
December 6, 2021
Dad by Steven Manchester is the second novel that I have had the pleasure to read, and I am left feeling immense gratitude for the experience. This is the story of three generations of fathers, one nearing the end of life, while another becomes a father for the very first time. In the middle is Oliver, who is negotiating between reconciliation with his own past growing up as his father's son, while at the same time guiding his own son as he prepares to make the transistion into adulthood.
What really resonates with me while reading one of Mr Manchester's books is his ability as an author to peel back the layers of a character to get to the very heart of their deepest thoughts, emotions, and yes, even regrets. His latest novel certainly makes this case.
This is an emotionally charged read from beginning to end, and it will certainly strike a nerve with anyone who has ever experienced, from either side, the most profound relationship, that between father and child. 4.5 stars
Many thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC to read and review.
What really resonates with me while reading one of Mr Manchester's books is his ability as an author to peel back the layers of a character to get to the very heart of their deepest thoughts, emotions, and yes, even regrets. His latest novel certainly makes this case.
This is an emotionally charged read from beginning to end, and it will certainly strike a nerve with anyone who has ever experienced, from either side, the most profound relationship, that between father and child. 4.5 stars
Many thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC to read and review.
January 2, 2022
5 STARS
Steven Manchester has once again written a timeless story that will stay with the reader once the last page is turned.
The Plot: It is a compelling and poignant story that follows the three generations of the Earle males as they are all facing crossroads in their lives. The lives of these men will pull the reader in with this engrossing story. This author has an extraordinary talent of grabbing the reader with his written words whereas the reader becomes, or feels as if, they are part of the story.
The Characters: The three Earle men are believable and realistic. At times I felt that Steven Manchester was relating instances with my family. Get out the tissues because you will be crying, laughing, respecting, and even becoming frustrated at times. Whatever emotion the characters are feeling, so will the reader. The Earles will find a place in the readers' hearts and stay there for a very long time, another gift that the author has with every book he writes.
A beautiful story that will capture your heart, mind, and soul from the start and not let you go as only Steven Manchester can do. Another page-turner that will take hold of your heartstrings and not let go.
I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Steven Manchester has once again written a timeless story that will stay with the reader once the last page is turned.
The Plot: It is a compelling and poignant story that follows the three generations of the Earle males as they are all facing crossroads in their lives. The lives of these men will pull the reader in with this engrossing story. This author has an extraordinary talent of grabbing the reader with his written words whereas the reader becomes, or feels as if, they are part of the story.
The Characters: The three Earle men are believable and realistic. At times I felt that Steven Manchester was relating instances with my family. Get out the tissues because you will be crying, laughing, respecting, and even becoming frustrated at times. Whatever emotion the characters are feeling, so will the reader. The Earles will find a place in the readers' hearts and stay there for a very long time, another gift that the author has with every book he writes.
A beautiful story that will capture your heart, mind, and soul from the start and not let you go as only Steven Manchester can do. Another page-turner that will take hold of your heartstrings and not let go.
I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
September 14, 2021
I have read many books by Mr. Manchester. The thing that I really like about his books are how character driven the stories are. Yet, at the same time strong in the lesson as well. First the characters. This book centers around three generations of men...Robert, Oliver and Jonah.
Instantly, I formed a strong bond with Robert, the matriarch of the family. He had a careful and kind nature about him. Although, this partly came from the fact that he was enjoying his retirement. Yet, whenever he was talking, I was drawn to his words.
Oliver and Jonah were a tie for me for second. It was lovely to see the close relationship that Oliver shared with his son, Jonah. He was there to help guide him through life; while at the same time allowing him to grow into his own man.
Fatherhood is a great honor. One that comes with great responsibility, pride, and love. "There's no love like a father's love."
Instantly, I formed a strong bond with Robert, the matriarch of the family. He had a careful and kind nature about him. Although, this partly came from the fact that he was enjoying his retirement. Yet, whenever he was talking, I was drawn to his words.
Oliver and Jonah were a tie for me for second. It was lovely to see the close relationship that Oliver shared with his son, Jonah. He was there to help guide him through life; while at the same time allowing him to grow into his own man.
Fatherhood is a great honor. One that comes with great responsibility, pride, and love. "There's no love like a father's love."
July 5, 2021
This is largely the story of Oliver, who has some ambivalent thoughts towards his father and a tense relationship with his son – and his wife. Most of the problems arise through unvoiced resentment. We see his thoughts and want to give him a push to say them aloud. When his father Robert enters his final illness, and his son Jonah takes his place as the son, things change for all of them. Oliver will be the patriarch of the family. Much of the story involves people being unable to understand each other’s problems. Towards the end, the family’s faith is the catalyst to their renewed relationship. Those of no faith will find some of this meaningless to their own lives. Nevertheless, the story of the generations of men is one we can all recognise and compare with our own families.
I received an advance review copy from the author.
I received an advance review copy from the author.
September 17, 2021
I would like to start out by saying that this current book was poignant and reached deep into my soul as I read of the turmoil this family was going through.
We have three generations of men looking to heal their souls. The characters will stay with you long after you’ve read the final page. The storyline could very well be anyone’s. Hopefully it isn’t. There were many regrets between a father and son and a son/grandson expecting his own child.
Will there be an ending that resolves their issues? Please get a copy and find out for yourself. This book will make great stocking stuffers for Christmas.
I never read a blurb before buying Steven Manchester’s books… why? Because I know I’ll love it!
Thank you for the ARC, Mr. Manchester.
We have three generations of men looking to heal their souls. The characters will stay with you long after you’ve read the final page. The storyline could very well be anyone’s. Hopefully it isn’t. There were many regrets between a father and son and a son/grandson expecting his own child.
Will there be an ending that resolves their issues? Please get a copy and find out for yourself. This book will make great stocking stuffers for Christmas.
I never read a blurb before buying Steven Manchester’s books… why? Because I know I’ll love it!
Thank you for the ARC, Mr. Manchester.
July 3, 2021
I really love 'lad lit'. I also women's fiction. This book was neither. Lad lit tends to be on the more humourous or wry side, and women's fiction can range from deep and emotional through to chick lit. I haven't really seen lad lit that is deeper, and I certainly haven't seen books about generations of men. Great book, and one that I'd recommend to men or women. I loved the characters, and the interactions between the characters, as well as the story, which was very well written. I will check out the author's other books.
Thank you NetGalley for a copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you NetGalley for a copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review!
August 3, 2021
An emotional rollercoaster that explores what it means to be a dad. This novel follows three generations of men. The oldest, Robert, is facing his own mortality and looking back at his mistakes and successes to use whatever life he has left to guide his son and grandson toward a happy future. Oliver is the middle generation. His point of view carries most of the book. He's tried hard to be better, kinder father than Robert was to him, but is learning that perhaps his touch has been a bit too light. It turns out that Robert might have a little left to teach him. Oliver's son is in college and having a tough time taking the last steps into adulthood when adulthood smacks him in the face. Lucky for him he has a loving father and grandfather to guide him. This is a story of mistakes, love, and forgiveness. It'll touch your heart.
I received an early copy of the novel in exchange for my honest review.
I received an early copy of the novel in exchange for my honest review.
August 23, 2021
This an amazing novel! The author does a fantastic job of portraying the love/hate relationships between fathers and sons. The story follows an elderly man who is about to die, his son and his grandson. The elderly man has a lot of appropriate advice for both younger men. All three are able to express their feelings about real and imagined slights, and reconcile those feelings. The book is so well written you can’t help but feel you are right there with the men and their family. I think everyone should read this book, especially fathers, for insight into how important a father is in a child’s life.
December 27, 2021
Three generations of dads, each at a turning point in their lives, are featured in this heart-tugging book. This emotionally charged novel will resonate with everyone who has been touched by the dads in their own lives. The characters are complex, and the author does a great job revealing all of their layers.
August 24, 2021
Every once in a while an author comes along who writes novels that are so powerfully compelling, poignant, and thought provoking, that they pull at the heartstrings and stir the soul. For me, that author is Steven Manchester and his latest novel, Dad.
Dad is a wonderful story about the complicated dynamics of father/son family relationships that will simply pull at your emotional heartstrings. Author Steven Manchester weaves a richly descriptive tale that follows the emotional journey of the legacy of fatherhood experienced at different stages of life that spans three generations of Earle men: grandfather Robert, son Oliver, and grandson Jonah. The Earles' journey is filled with a multi-layered complexity filled with humor, animosity, unresolved dysfunctional father/son issues, regrets, healing of old wounds, new life experiences, and an emotional second chance to renew the bonds between fathers and sons.
Grandfather Robert is seventy-two and enjoying the fruits of retirement, until he is diagnosed with a terminal disease. Robert wants to take stock of his life, and find a way to make up for all the lost time he squandered by putting other people before his own son Oliver.
Son Oliver is struggling through a middle-life crisis, always worrying about his marriage, job, his relationship with his father Robert, and his parenting skills with daughter Layla and son Jonah. His father's terminal prognosis prompts Oliver to find a way to fight for his marriage, change his parental relationship with his kids (especially Jonah), let go of old resentments, and get the father-son relationship that he always wanted with his Dad before he passes away.
Grandson Jonah is nineteen and living a carefree lifestyle living in his parents' basement, and has grown up addicted to playing video games. He's in his first year of college and is still undecided on a major, he feels lost and doesn't want to study, he unrealistically fantasizes that he can make a career out of competitive video gaming e-sports. All that changes when his girlfriend Marissa tells him that she's pregnant, and suddenly he is faced with a life-changing event: becoming a grownup with upcoming responsibilities.
The reader will be easily captivated and drawn into the Earles' sentimental and touchingly realistic journey. The author does a wonderful job of intertwining the Earles' father/son relationships in an alternating third person narrative that delves into their complex pasts with the difficulties that they face in their present lives. You can't help but get swept away and experience the full gamut of emotions as the Earles face a crossroad in their lives as they hash out their unresolved dysfunctional family dynamic, while considering the intense and difficult choices of how to deal with their current life issues. Grandfather Robert is the catalyst that brings the Earle men together with his wisdom, tough love, and humor. Funny how father/son relationships ebb and flow as life events can bring family members together with a mending and bonding of relationships with an added touch of heart.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention how much I really loved that author Steven Manchester provides the reader with a fresh breath of air with his amazing story that delves into the not that often written about dynamic of father/son relationships. Kudos on an beautifully poignant story.
Dad is an powerful and compelling story written from the heart. It is a must read that will make you ponder your own family dynamic (especially the father/son relationships), stir your soul, and resonate with you for a very long time.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
https://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspo...
Dad is a wonderful story about the complicated dynamics of father/son family relationships that will simply pull at your emotional heartstrings. Author Steven Manchester weaves a richly descriptive tale that follows the emotional journey of the legacy of fatherhood experienced at different stages of life that spans three generations of Earle men: grandfather Robert, son Oliver, and grandson Jonah. The Earles' journey is filled with a multi-layered complexity filled with humor, animosity, unresolved dysfunctional father/son issues, regrets, healing of old wounds, new life experiences, and an emotional second chance to renew the bonds between fathers and sons.
Grandfather Robert is seventy-two and enjoying the fruits of retirement, until he is diagnosed with a terminal disease. Robert wants to take stock of his life, and find a way to make up for all the lost time he squandered by putting other people before his own son Oliver.
Son Oliver is struggling through a middle-life crisis, always worrying about his marriage, job, his relationship with his father Robert, and his parenting skills with daughter Layla and son Jonah. His father's terminal prognosis prompts Oliver to find a way to fight for his marriage, change his parental relationship with his kids (especially Jonah), let go of old resentments, and get the father-son relationship that he always wanted with his Dad before he passes away.
Grandson Jonah is nineteen and living a carefree lifestyle living in his parents' basement, and has grown up addicted to playing video games. He's in his first year of college and is still undecided on a major, he feels lost and doesn't want to study, he unrealistically fantasizes that he can make a career out of competitive video gaming e-sports. All that changes when his girlfriend Marissa tells him that she's pregnant, and suddenly he is faced with a life-changing event: becoming a grownup with upcoming responsibilities.
The reader will be easily captivated and drawn into the Earles' sentimental and touchingly realistic journey. The author does a wonderful job of intertwining the Earles' father/son relationships in an alternating third person narrative that delves into their complex pasts with the difficulties that they face in their present lives. You can't help but get swept away and experience the full gamut of emotions as the Earles face a crossroad in their lives as they hash out their unresolved dysfunctional family dynamic, while considering the intense and difficult choices of how to deal with their current life issues. Grandfather Robert is the catalyst that brings the Earle men together with his wisdom, tough love, and humor. Funny how father/son relationships ebb and flow as life events can bring family members together with a mending and bonding of relationships with an added touch of heart.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention how much I really loved that author Steven Manchester provides the reader with a fresh breath of air with his amazing story that delves into the not that often written about dynamic of father/son relationships. Kudos on an beautifully poignant story.
Dad is an powerful and compelling story written from the heart. It is a must read that will make you ponder your own family dynamic (especially the father/son relationships), stir your soul, and resonate with you for a very long time.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
https://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspo...
January 28, 2022
Dad by Steven Manchester is a fantastical story of not only fatherhood, but the learning curve to self-identity. We watch as 3 generations of men, struggle to become better men, fathers & husbands through Oliver’s story of rowing in a sinking ship. In an era where we are working to heal & educate men on toxic traits that should be renounced, Dad comes in with masterfully written generational views on the subject.
Subjects that we are learning to positively associate with masculine identity, such as therapy, emotional vulnerability & admitting failures. Throughout this story you will root for them to be more vocal, not hide their wounds & to be free of all that the world has trapped them into, in their own identities. Oliver (Father), Robert (Grandfather)& Jonah (Son) are each going on a journey specific to them, but each of them are learning how to let go of their ingrained, inherited & mimicked lessons to not just survive their lives, but to thrive & move forward.
I absolutely adored watching Oliver’s personal struggles with therapy, because as a whole we still view therapy as something for only broken & sick people, not as a preventative measure. This is where we see Oliver’s story not only start, but where he has to now acknowledge he is living. Oliver is on his life’s deathbed trying to throw the medicine cabinet at a problem that would have only needed a band aid had he been willing to be honest with himself & his wife Ginny.
Before any of it can get better though, you would think everyone in Dad only owns gasoline cans, because they are running around like arsonist in the destruction of their paths & nobody seems to want to own up to their parts nor their shortcomings. Except when tragedy strikes & everyone takes a look at their own lives in reference to their new circumstances.
My favorite of these reflections is Robert’s. Robert gives you the surly, “big man” energy you expect from a cantankerous war veteran, but what you don’t expect is the overwhelming desire to support & love his family in the best way he can think of & that is setting them free. Free to make mistakes, free to be better than they ever imagined & free to not need to impress or gain approval from anyone, especially him. Robert shows them how he was proud of them regardless, he just wasn’t sure how to execute his love, but his motivations & intentions were purer than snow on the mountain tops. I choked up watching his relational evolution, because we all walk this struggle & we definitely don’t all walk out with the same level of grace that Robert receives from Oliver.
Oliver’s story though is the show stopper. You will watch him stretch, grow & bend in ways that not only make him uncomfortable, but cause him to push to a place of honesty with himself about where his life has gone & where it will go without a course correcting move. You become enthralled in wanting Oliver to succeed. If you’re like me, you will find yourself screaming at the pages. Oliver is every human on this planet who has to come to terms with the fact that they don’t have all the answers & they can’t save anyone who doesn’t want saving, even if that person is themselves. The only difference is you get to see all of Oliver’s dirty secrets & skeletons.
Dad truly is a novel we need right now. Not just for the world, but for men & this new standard were asking them to accept. Steven Manchester has extended an invitation with his novel Dad to men everywhere to seek help, and to create a brotherhood amongst themselves to heal!
Subjects that we are learning to positively associate with masculine identity, such as therapy, emotional vulnerability & admitting failures. Throughout this story you will root for them to be more vocal, not hide their wounds & to be free of all that the world has trapped them into, in their own identities. Oliver (Father), Robert (Grandfather)& Jonah (Son) are each going on a journey specific to them, but each of them are learning how to let go of their ingrained, inherited & mimicked lessons to not just survive their lives, but to thrive & move forward.
I absolutely adored watching Oliver’s personal struggles with therapy, because as a whole we still view therapy as something for only broken & sick people, not as a preventative measure. This is where we see Oliver’s story not only start, but where he has to now acknowledge he is living. Oliver is on his life’s deathbed trying to throw the medicine cabinet at a problem that would have only needed a band aid had he been willing to be honest with himself & his wife Ginny.
Before any of it can get better though, you would think everyone in Dad only owns gasoline cans, because they are running around like arsonist in the destruction of their paths & nobody seems to want to own up to their parts nor their shortcomings. Except when tragedy strikes & everyone takes a look at their own lives in reference to their new circumstances.
My favorite of these reflections is Robert’s. Robert gives you the surly, “big man” energy you expect from a cantankerous war veteran, but what you don’t expect is the overwhelming desire to support & love his family in the best way he can think of & that is setting them free. Free to make mistakes, free to be better than they ever imagined & free to not need to impress or gain approval from anyone, especially him. Robert shows them how he was proud of them regardless, he just wasn’t sure how to execute his love, but his motivations & intentions were purer than snow on the mountain tops. I choked up watching his relational evolution, because we all walk this struggle & we definitely don’t all walk out with the same level of grace that Robert receives from Oliver.
Oliver’s story though is the show stopper. You will watch him stretch, grow & bend in ways that not only make him uncomfortable, but cause him to push to a place of honesty with himself about where his life has gone & where it will go without a course correcting move. You become enthralled in wanting Oliver to succeed. If you’re like me, you will find yourself screaming at the pages. Oliver is every human on this planet who has to come to terms with the fact that they don’t have all the answers & they can’t save anyone who doesn’t want saving, even if that person is themselves. The only difference is you get to see all of Oliver’s dirty secrets & skeletons.
Dad truly is a novel we need right now. Not just for the world, but for men & this new standard were asking them to accept. Steven Manchester has extended an invitation with his novel Dad to men everywhere to seek help, and to create a brotherhood amongst themselves to heal!
September 14, 2021
‘My children have taught me that dreams must be chased until each one comes true’
This reviewer became acquainted with the very special novels of Steven Manchester with his novel `The Unexpected Storm: The Gulf War Legacy' and many short stories that deal with one man's view of the universe in a lighter tone. That followed with his TWELVE MONTHS, GOODNIGHT, BRIAN, ROCKIN' CHAIR, GOODNIGHT, GOOSEBERRY ISLAND, PRESSED PENNIES, THE CHANGING SEASON, BREAD BAGS & BULLIES: SURVIVING THE 80S - each of which allowed entry into his ability to address end of life situations, family relationships as challenged by cancer, by having a child with a critical disease, with death, and with more. The aspect of Manchester's books that is dependable is his ability to introduce delicate subjects without fear and still make the stories flow with a sense of familial love, humanistic views and spiritualism.
Exploring – and celebrating – the father/son bond is a topic that Manchester serves with great sensitivity, respect, and insight. In his usual quietly eloquent prose he opens DAD with the following: ‘How the hell did I ever end up here? Oliver wondered for the umpteenth time. Recently, it had become his pathetic mantra. Jonah’s young face suddenly popped into Oliver’s head like a frightened Jack-in-the-Box. Oh, s**t, Ginny asked me to pick him up from school today. He checked his watch. Three minutes ago. Panic struck his heart. And his school’s ten minutes away. He took off at a sprint for his car, feeling for his cell phone on the way. Racing toward the school, he managed to place a call. No answer. With his heart rate now at a dangerous pace, his breathing turned quick and shallow. A bead of sweat formed across his forehead. This one’s on me, he realized, I screwed up big this time…He’d made an honest mistake that now felt like sheer abandonment.’
With that lens on crisis energizing the reader’s imagination, Manchester proceeds to survey fatherhood, and as the author has distilled the plot, ‘DAD provides insight into three generations of fathers as they endure the life obstacles of entering college, middle-age, and retirement. Jonah, his dad Oliver, and Oliver’s dad, Robert encompass the conflicting generational perspectives of fatherhood. After learning that he is going to be a father at 19, Jonah needs guidance now more than ever. His father, Oliver, and his grandfather, Robert must put aside years of unspoken misunderstanding to help Jonah and one another through these difficult life changes in spite of their strained relationship. The importance of reconciliation between father and son relationships is highlighted through these men and their pursuit to love beyond the resentment.’
Steven is able to deliver difficult messages in a manner that signifies he is wise beyond his years. He will be around for a long time if there are more books like this one to share.
This reviewer became acquainted with the very special novels of Steven Manchester with his novel `The Unexpected Storm: The Gulf War Legacy' and many short stories that deal with one man's view of the universe in a lighter tone. That followed with his TWELVE MONTHS, GOODNIGHT, BRIAN, ROCKIN' CHAIR, GOODNIGHT, GOOSEBERRY ISLAND, PRESSED PENNIES, THE CHANGING SEASON, BREAD BAGS & BULLIES: SURVIVING THE 80S - each of which allowed entry into his ability to address end of life situations, family relationships as challenged by cancer, by having a child with a critical disease, with death, and with more. The aspect of Manchester's books that is dependable is his ability to introduce delicate subjects without fear and still make the stories flow with a sense of familial love, humanistic views and spiritualism.
Exploring – and celebrating – the father/son bond is a topic that Manchester serves with great sensitivity, respect, and insight. In his usual quietly eloquent prose he opens DAD with the following: ‘How the hell did I ever end up here? Oliver wondered for the umpteenth time. Recently, it had become his pathetic mantra. Jonah’s young face suddenly popped into Oliver’s head like a frightened Jack-in-the-Box. Oh, s**t, Ginny asked me to pick him up from school today. He checked his watch. Three minutes ago. Panic struck his heart. And his school’s ten minutes away. He took off at a sprint for his car, feeling for his cell phone on the way. Racing toward the school, he managed to place a call. No answer. With his heart rate now at a dangerous pace, his breathing turned quick and shallow. A bead of sweat formed across his forehead. This one’s on me, he realized, I screwed up big this time…He’d made an honest mistake that now felt like sheer abandonment.’
With that lens on crisis energizing the reader’s imagination, Manchester proceeds to survey fatherhood, and as the author has distilled the plot, ‘DAD provides insight into three generations of fathers as they endure the life obstacles of entering college, middle-age, and retirement. Jonah, his dad Oliver, and Oliver’s dad, Robert encompass the conflicting generational perspectives of fatherhood. After learning that he is going to be a father at 19, Jonah needs guidance now more than ever. His father, Oliver, and his grandfather, Robert must put aside years of unspoken misunderstanding to help Jonah and one another through these difficult life changes in spite of their strained relationship. The importance of reconciliation between father and son relationships is highlighted through these men and their pursuit to love beyond the resentment.’
Steven is able to deliver difficult messages in a manner that signifies he is wise beyond his years. He will be around for a long time if there are more books like this one to share.
July 20, 2021
The Best Writing As Of Yet From Steven Manchester!
Dad: A Novel
By Steven Manchester
It’s rare to read a novel entirely from a dad’s perspective. Steven Manchester has crafted such a story covering 3 generations of “dads” and it’s emotional impact is a 3-2 punch.
When society has historically taught males to suppress their emotions, it’s a welcomed sight to read a story of men coming to terms with an avalanche of emotion. Dad is a story of redemption, of forgiveness, of acceptance but most importantly a story of a dad’s love.
There isn’t an operating manual given when a man becomes a dad. Many mistakes happen along the way, but it is the growth that comes from those mistakes that really makes the man. The relationships between husband and wife, between father and son and also between son and father all impact that growth. The novel Dad touches on each of these.
This novel delves into the core of Oliver’s story, not as the typical mid-life crisis, but the emotional journey as he navigates the circumstances during this time in his life.
This story is relatable on so many levels as parents find conflict in their marriages as their children become adults; to the conflict of reestablishing boundaries between the new adult children; and finally between the parent and their elderly parent. Conflict doesn’t ease as the years pass and relationships need to continue to grow as circumstances change. Adapting to these changes but ultimately realizing love is the glue that holds this family together is at the heart of this story.
Truly, this is the best writing as of yet from Steven Manchester.
Publisher description: “Three generations of dads, playing traditional roles in each other's lives, arrive simultaneously at significant crossroads. The decisions they make and the actions they take will directly – and eternally – affect each other.
After a life of hard work and raising children, Robert is enjoying his well-deserved retirement when he discovers that he has an illness he might not be able to beat. At 19, Jonah is sprinting across the threshold of adulthood when he learns, stunningly, that he's going to become a father. And Oliver – Robert's son and Jonah's dad – has entered middle age and is paying its demanding price. While reconciling the time and effort it has taken him to reach an unfulfilling career and an even less satisfying marriage, he realizes that it's imperative that he keep it all together for the two men who mean everything to him.
When different perspectives lead to misunderstandings that remain unspoken – sometimes for years – it takes great strength and even more love to travel beyond the resentment.
Dad: A Novel chronicles the sacred legacy of fatherhood.”
Available now for pre-order released on September 14, 2021
Dad: A Novel
By Steven Manchester
It’s rare to read a novel entirely from a dad’s perspective. Steven Manchester has crafted such a story covering 3 generations of “dads” and it’s emotional impact is a 3-2 punch.
When society has historically taught males to suppress their emotions, it’s a welcomed sight to read a story of men coming to terms with an avalanche of emotion. Dad is a story of redemption, of forgiveness, of acceptance but most importantly a story of a dad’s love.
There isn’t an operating manual given when a man becomes a dad. Many mistakes happen along the way, but it is the growth that comes from those mistakes that really makes the man. The relationships between husband and wife, between father and son and also between son and father all impact that growth. The novel Dad touches on each of these.
This novel delves into the core of Oliver’s story, not as the typical mid-life crisis, but the emotional journey as he navigates the circumstances during this time in his life.
This story is relatable on so many levels as parents find conflict in their marriages as their children become adults; to the conflict of reestablishing boundaries between the new adult children; and finally between the parent and their elderly parent. Conflict doesn’t ease as the years pass and relationships need to continue to grow as circumstances change. Adapting to these changes but ultimately realizing love is the glue that holds this family together is at the heart of this story.
Truly, this is the best writing as of yet from Steven Manchester.
Publisher description: “Three generations of dads, playing traditional roles in each other's lives, arrive simultaneously at significant crossroads. The decisions they make and the actions they take will directly – and eternally – affect each other.
After a life of hard work and raising children, Robert is enjoying his well-deserved retirement when he discovers that he has an illness he might not be able to beat. At 19, Jonah is sprinting across the threshold of adulthood when he learns, stunningly, that he's going to become a father. And Oliver – Robert's son and Jonah's dad – has entered middle age and is paying its demanding price. While reconciling the time and effort it has taken him to reach an unfulfilling career and an even less satisfying marriage, he realizes that it's imperative that he keep it all together for the two men who mean everything to him.
When different perspectives lead to misunderstandings that remain unspoken – sometimes for years – it takes great strength and even more love to travel beyond the resentment.
Dad: A Novel chronicles the sacred legacy of fatherhood.”
Available now for pre-order released on September 14, 2021
September 27, 2021
When I first started to read this novel, I am not sure what I expected but by the mid-point in this novel, I could not put it down and found myself in tears. I lost myself in Robert, Oliver and Jonah’s stories – finding a bit (or a lot) of my own stories in there.
Robert reminds me very much of my own Grandfather – the protector and the provider. Always present on the sidelines but not quite in the thick of things. He is firm in his beliefs and is a strict disciplinary figure, he loves his child but shows his love in a different way. While the extremes of this type of discipline at that time can be argued with, his beliefs on family, hard work and sacrifice are to be applauded. Especially as he works so hard to pass these on to his own son, Ollie. Like so many of us, Ollie uses his own childhood experiences to guide his own journey in fatherhood and adulthood. He disciplines his son in a new way, encouraging him to show feelings and provides for his son so that life isn’t so hard. Does this backfire on him? Maybe, maybe not. Jonah is a young man on the brink of becoming an adult and trying to find his own way in the world. What appears on the outside as him being lazy, is perhaps him trying to understand his own place in a world that is constantly changing.
It is a sudden illness and the realization that time is not limitless, that each of the men in this story are able to open up about their experiences, their memories, ask for forgiveness and to understand where each individual is coming from in order to move forward. Our childhood experiences may guide our adult actions and the relationships we have, but it is important to understand and appreciate that our parents did (and do) everything they can for us and in the moment, truly do believe that what they are doing is for the best. While each generation strives to get better at parenting and raising responsible, bright, moral young adults – we will make mistakes, our children will find faults in our actions and perhaps we will even find understanding in the actions of our parents as we learn more about them, their history and their childhood.
This is a very touching book, I found myself crying several times through the last quarter of the novel. The relationship that we have with our Father (and father figures) is so important and equally important for us to understand, to forgive and to be patient. Time is not endless (and given all that has happened in the last two years this should hit home) and it is so important to say I love you, to talk about what has hurt us and to forgive and move forward. Dad: A Novel is a must read story that you will not put down.
Robert reminds me very much of my own Grandfather – the protector and the provider. Always present on the sidelines but not quite in the thick of things. He is firm in his beliefs and is a strict disciplinary figure, he loves his child but shows his love in a different way. While the extremes of this type of discipline at that time can be argued with, his beliefs on family, hard work and sacrifice are to be applauded. Especially as he works so hard to pass these on to his own son, Ollie. Like so many of us, Ollie uses his own childhood experiences to guide his own journey in fatherhood and adulthood. He disciplines his son in a new way, encouraging him to show feelings and provides for his son so that life isn’t so hard. Does this backfire on him? Maybe, maybe not. Jonah is a young man on the brink of becoming an adult and trying to find his own way in the world. What appears on the outside as him being lazy, is perhaps him trying to understand his own place in a world that is constantly changing.
It is a sudden illness and the realization that time is not limitless, that each of the men in this story are able to open up about their experiences, their memories, ask for forgiveness and to understand where each individual is coming from in order to move forward. Our childhood experiences may guide our adult actions and the relationships we have, but it is important to understand and appreciate that our parents did (and do) everything they can for us and in the moment, truly do believe that what they are doing is for the best. While each generation strives to get better at parenting and raising responsible, bright, moral young adults – we will make mistakes, our children will find faults in our actions and perhaps we will even find understanding in the actions of our parents as we learn more about them, their history and their childhood.
This is a very touching book, I found myself crying several times through the last quarter of the novel. The relationship that we have with our Father (and father figures) is so important and equally important for us to understand, to forgive and to be patient. Time is not endless (and given all that has happened in the last two years this should hit home) and it is so important to say I love you, to talk about what has hurt us and to forgive and move forward. Dad: A Novel is a must read story that you will not put down.
June 30, 2021
I highly recommend Dad: A Novel by Steven Manchester. His writing is so honest and raw. In this book, which will be officially available on August 17th of 2021, he shares a window into relatable fears, thoughts, emotions, and scenarios that provide a comfort through the common theme in all of his work- that none of us are ever alone. Virtual book club, Book Club-Hosted by Heather Skinner, read his book The Menu as our April 2021 first ever book of the month feature. Those who fell in love with that read will also enjoy his next touching book. We get to follow along through the perspectives of the Earle family as they learn that while there is no rule book to life, they can still carry on and overcome anything together. There is also the Steven Manchester signature inclusion of new poems he has written and weaved beautifully into the story. I am thankful for this book that has deeply impacted me and has left me with reflections of my own life that will only benefit me as I move forward. I loved that in this book Steven normalizes therapy for adult males and that it is OK to cry. As a mother, this read not only connected with me as a parent, but also served as an important reminder that husbands and dads really do share the same fears we do and simply express and handle them differently. They key is to never stop working on making things better together. I was involved in the story right from the intriguing first line, “How in the hell did I ever end up here?” and got wrapped up in advice and wisdom throughout like, “it’s hard to see where you are heading when you don’t remember where you’ve been.” It was a heartwarming read with a wonderful writing style that shows instead of tells as an experienced author like Steven does so well with moments like, “his heart sank into his leather sandals.” I was along for the ride completely as I read through blurry tears to the end. Much like the way a dream in your sleep can prepare you to handle tough situations in life, reading Steven Manchester’s work builds a strength inside you that you can carry with you after and for always. -Heather Skinner
January 7, 2022
Dad: A Novel
By Steven Manchester
2022
Reviewed by Angie Mangino
Rating: 5 stars
Chapter one introduces readers to Oliver Earle.
“How in the hell did I ever end up here? Oliver wondered for the umpteenth time. Recently, it had become his pathetic mantra.”
Readers meet his son Jonah after he picks him up from school.
“On the way home, Jonah asked, ‘Dad, were you all freaked out because you were a few minutes late?”
Oliver looked in the rearview mirror and offered a partial shrug.
The little guy chuckled. ‘You worry too much.’
‘I’m your dad. That’s my job,’ Oliver told him, thinking and you have no idea just how much. He looked back at his son again and grinned. But you will someday.’”
Readers learn of Oliver’s wife, Ginny, and their daughter Layla.
Chapter two begins introducing Robert Earle, Oliver’s father, completing readers’ entry into Oliver’s family dynamics.
“I woke up one morning and realized, I’m 72 years old, Robert thought. Now how in the hell did that happen? Although I’m retired, I …
‘Are you still with me, Dad?’ Ginny asked, yanking him from his daydream.”
Readers see Jonah’s perspective as a first-year college student in chapter three.
“How in the hell am I supposed to know where to go from here, Jonah wondered, if I have no idea where I am?”
The author’s use of similar type musings in the first three chapters is an excellent interconnection of the three men: father, son, and grandson.
Readers connect to the three quickly, drawn into their similarities while alert to their differences.
The men in this family will make you laugh, cry, and most importantly feel both the bond and the disconnect experienced by most fathers and sons.
This book grabs readers immediately, connects with them, and will be one they will not want to put down.
https://amzn.to/3HIvELC
Angie Mangino currently works as a freelance journalist and book reviewer, as well as author of 17th Century Tottenville History Comes Alive, first in a series of Tottenville History books. www.AngieMangino.com
By Steven Manchester
2022
Reviewed by Angie Mangino
Rating: 5 stars
Chapter one introduces readers to Oliver Earle.
“How in the hell did I ever end up here? Oliver wondered for the umpteenth time. Recently, it had become his pathetic mantra.”
Readers meet his son Jonah after he picks him up from school.
“On the way home, Jonah asked, ‘Dad, were you all freaked out because you were a few minutes late?”
Oliver looked in the rearview mirror and offered a partial shrug.
The little guy chuckled. ‘You worry too much.’
‘I’m your dad. That’s my job,’ Oliver told him, thinking and you have no idea just how much. He looked back at his son again and grinned. But you will someday.’”
Readers learn of Oliver’s wife, Ginny, and their daughter Layla.
Chapter two begins introducing Robert Earle, Oliver’s father, completing readers’ entry into Oliver’s family dynamics.
“I woke up one morning and realized, I’m 72 years old, Robert thought. Now how in the hell did that happen? Although I’m retired, I …
‘Are you still with me, Dad?’ Ginny asked, yanking him from his daydream.”
Readers see Jonah’s perspective as a first-year college student in chapter three.
“How in the hell am I supposed to know where to go from here, Jonah wondered, if I have no idea where I am?”
The author’s use of similar type musings in the first three chapters is an excellent interconnection of the three men: father, son, and grandson.
Readers connect to the three quickly, drawn into their similarities while alert to their differences.
The men in this family will make you laugh, cry, and most importantly feel both the bond and the disconnect experienced by most fathers and sons.
This book grabs readers immediately, connects with them, and will be one they will not want to put down.
https://amzn.to/3HIvELC
Angie Mangino currently works as a freelance journalist and book reviewer, as well as author of 17th Century Tottenville History Comes Alive, first in a series of Tottenville History books. www.AngieMangino.com
September 14, 2021
In Dad we meet three generations of the Earle family, all have different attitudes, hopes and expectations but what draws these three men irrevocably together is that they have a common bond of fatherhood. A grandfather, father and son, all take their specific place in this absorbing story of just what it means to be, quite simply, a dad, and as the old adage goes, any man be a father but it takes someone special to be a dad.
Each of them have their own specific worries which impacts on the story in a meaningful way. Patriarch, Robert, now retired, is facing some distressing health worries and is caught between looking back at his life, and his hopes for the future for his son and grandson. Caught in the middle is Oliver who is at a sort of crossroads and is left worrying about the meaning of his life as a father caught up in an unsatisfactory marriage, whilst his son, Jonah, at just nineteen, with his life drifting ahead of him, discovers that, unexpectedly, he is going to be a dad for the first time. As these three very different men face up to the challenges of their lives, they each learn something important about themselves, and each other, in the process.
As always this talented author gets right into the heart of family life and brings meaning and understanding to these important cross generational dilemmas and shows how, with love and kindness, one generation can help those who are following in their footsteps. If we are honest with ourselves all family relationships are complicated and perhaps none more so than for dads who wear so many different guises through the course of their lives, and I think this story shows their vulnerability, along with their strengths.
Dad is a heartwarming, and rather poignant, multi-generational story about the poignancy of ever changing family dynamics, the bonds of fatherhood and the choice of learning from mistakes and going forward into a new understanding of what it means to be , quite simply, a dad.
Each of them have their own specific worries which impacts on the story in a meaningful way. Patriarch, Robert, now retired, is facing some distressing health worries and is caught between looking back at his life, and his hopes for the future for his son and grandson. Caught in the middle is Oliver who is at a sort of crossroads and is left worrying about the meaning of his life as a father caught up in an unsatisfactory marriage, whilst his son, Jonah, at just nineteen, with his life drifting ahead of him, discovers that, unexpectedly, he is going to be a dad for the first time. As these three very different men face up to the challenges of their lives, they each learn something important about themselves, and each other, in the process.
As always this talented author gets right into the heart of family life and brings meaning and understanding to these important cross generational dilemmas and shows how, with love and kindness, one generation can help those who are following in their footsteps. If we are honest with ourselves all family relationships are complicated and perhaps none more so than for dads who wear so many different guises through the course of their lives, and I think this story shows their vulnerability, along with their strengths.
Dad is a heartwarming, and rather poignant, multi-generational story about the poignancy of ever changing family dynamics, the bonds of fatherhood and the choice of learning from mistakes and going forward into a new understanding of what it means to be , quite simply, a dad.
September 26, 2021
This is the story of three generations of dads in the Earle family. The patriarch of the family, Robert, is retired when he learns he has a serious illness. Then we have his son, Oliver, who is dealing with a boring career and a troubled marriage. Jonah is Oliver’s teenage son who is trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life when he’s tossed a curve ball and has to rethink his plans.
The book delves into the relationship of the three men and how it effects everything they do today. The main focus is on Oliver. He has to figure out how to deal with a not-so-perfect father and how to not make the same mistakes with his own son. At the same time, he wants his marriage to work but they hit more stumbling blocks than anything else.
I don’t want to give away too much of the storyline.
The book is a huge slice of life filled with realistic characters in realistic situations. It’s a poignant, heartwarming story that grabs your heart. My eyes were drowning in tears as I read this book. Talk about tugging at your heartstrings. This book certainly did that and more. It’s one of those books that you won’t soon forget.
I’ve been a big fan of Steven Manchester’s work for years and this did not disappoint. In fact, it’s now my favorite of his books. Thank you for this emotional ride. If I could give this higher than 5 stars, I would. It's on my favorites of 2021 list.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The book delves into the relationship of the three men and how it effects everything they do today. The main focus is on Oliver. He has to figure out how to deal with a not-so-perfect father and how to not make the same mistakes with his own son. At the same time, he wants his marriage to work but they hit more stumbling blocks than anything else.
I don’t want to give away too much of the storyline.
The book is a huge slice of life filled with realistic characters in realistic situations. It’s a poignant, heartwarming story that grabs your heart. My eyes were drowning in tears as I read this book. Talk about tugging at your heartstrings. This book certainly did that and more. It’s one of those books that you won’t soon forget.
I’ve been a big fan of Steven Manchester’s work for years and this did not disappoint. In fact, it’s now my favorite of his books. Thank you for this emotional ride. If I could give this higher than 5 stars, I would. It's on my favorites of 2021 list.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 5, 2021
How many novels have you read where there are generations of women? Grandmother/mother/daughter. If you are like me, the answer is hundreds.
This is a generational family novel - about the MEN. Totally different! When I received an ARC from #netgalley I was pretty excited to try something new.
And the results are........*drumroll please*..... I loved it!
Although I really liked all three men, the older - Robert, was my favorite. Even when it wasn't his point of view, he had these little one liners that I could hear my dad saying. Like telling his son with brown eyes that they were brown because "he was full of shit". He also had some fabulous advice about life. Knowing he was ill, and he might not recover, he wanted to impart all of his advice.
Oliver, the middle aged man, was my husband and all the men I know this age with their thinning hair, using a CPAP and getting soft in the middle. I could just feel his mid-life crisis that he was trying to avoid.
I loved being able to read the thoughts from a male point of view. And I thought this was beautifully written.
Side note: When people say that a book is beautifully written, I often shy away because that often equates to boring in my opinion. But in this case i wasn't bored for a moment. I had actually never heard of this author but now will be looking for more books by him.
This is a generational family novel - about the MEN. Totally different! When I received an ARC from #netgalley I was pretty excited to try something new.
And the results are........*drumroll please*..... I loved it!
Although I really liked all three men, the older - Robert, was my favorite. Even when it wasn't his point of view, he had these little one liners that I could hear my dad saying. Like telling his son with brown eyes that they were brown because "he was full of shit". He also had some fabulous advice about life. Knowing he was ill, and he might not recover, he wanted to impart all of his advice.
Oliver, the middle aged man, was my husband and all the men I know this age with their thinning hair, using a CPAP and getting soft in the middle. I could just feel his mid-life crisis that he was trying to avoid.
I loved being able to read the thoughts from a male point of view. And I thought this was beautifully written.
Side note: When people say that a book is beautifully written, I often shy away because that often equates to boring in my opinion. But in this case i wasn't bored for a moment. I had actually never heard of this author but now will be looking for more books by him.
September 13, 2021
Three generations of dads are now at a crossroads. Robert is enjoying his retirement but now has discovered he has a rare disease that may not be beatable. His son, Oliver, is struggling. Middle aged now, his marriage is foundering and his job is unfulfilling. His son, Jonah, is in college but not happy with what he is learning. His life focusses on his girlfriend and now he finds that, still a teenager, he is about to become a Dad as well.
Each man has a different perspective but with Robert’s illness, they are forced to communicate and reconcile their different points of view. Along the way, they come to realizations that change their outlooks. Each has something to contribute and each learns from the other. They learn that life is a cycle and love powers that cycle in many ways. This is one of those books where a review cannot do it justice. There is so much in these pages that you can take away and apply to your own life. Learn what is important and that work is required to make your marriage succeed. We may get lost along the way but with the help of our family we can return to what is important. Here’s to the Dads in our lives and not just our own. This ones for you!
Each man has a different perspective but with Robert’s illness, they are forced to communicate and reconcile their different points of view. Along the way, they come to realizations that change their outlooks. Each has something to contribute and each learns from the other. They learn that life is a cycle and love powers that cycle in many ways. This is one of those books where a review cannot do it justice. There is so much in these pages that you can take away and apply to your own life. Learn what is important and that work is required to make your marriage succeed. We may get lost along the way but with the help of our family we can return to what is important. Here’s to the Dads in our lives and not just our own. This ones for you!
September 14, 2021
An inspirational story that families everywhere can relate to, this novel explores the relationships between three generations of men in the Earle family. Robert is nearing the end of his life and wants to make sure his son, Oliver (who is himself married with two "almost" grown children) understands the events that shaped their relationship into what it has become over the years. In turn, Oliver is trying to navigate how to best impart his own wisdom to his son, Jonah, to better prepare him for the road ahead. The story is gripping and emotional and could easily describe any one of the men we know at various stages in their lives. I laughed as I read the inevitable "dad" jokes sprinkled throughout. And I was brought to tears a time or two, both in sadness and in joy. So I definitely recommend having tissues close by. This book is a life lesson for male or female, and sheds light on what shapes and influences us and the people we strive to become. A good, fulfilling story that you may even want to pass it down to your own kids someday. Thank you to Steven Manchester for my early copy. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
October 1, 2021
Dad, a Novel. Steven Manchester
Ernest Hemingway spent weeks coming up with “true” words to end his first novel, The Sun Also Rises.
For many reasons, lovers Jake Barnes and Lady Brett Ashley could not consummate their relationship. Brett muses, “we could have had a damned fine life together”, to which Jake responds, “Isn’t it pretty to think so.”
Manchester’s Oliver and Ginny Earle, Oliver’s dying dad Robert, son Jonah and his pregnant girlfriend Marissa, and daughter Layla, struggle in a family with apparent hopeless dysfunction. They talk a lot but don’t communicate.
Not until his marriage is on the rocks, Jonah a member of the gaming generation, Kayla off to study in Montenegro, and Robert living his final days in intensive care, does Oliver commit to restoring familial bliss.
It works. Oliver ameliorates his tragic existence by telling all how much he loves them, proud to be a husband, dad, and son. They respond accordingly.
This novel reads a redemptive tale, one that is blessed with an unfailing trust in the healing powers of Jesus Christ.
I received a complimentary copy from the author to give an honest review.
WC Beaver
Ernest Hemingway spent weeks coming up with “true” words to end his first novel, The Sun Also Rises.
For many reasons, lovers Jake Barnes and Lady Brett Ashley could not consummate their relationship. Brett muses, “we could have had a damned fine life together”, to which Jake responds, “Isn’t it pretty to think so.”
Manchester’s Oliver and Ginny Earle, Oliver’s dying dad Robert, son Jonah and his pregnant girlfriend Marissa, and daughter Layla, struggle in a family with apparent hopeless dysfunction. They talk a lot but don’t communicate.
Not until his marriage is on the rocks, Jonah a member of the gaming generation, Kayla off to study in Montenegro, and Robert living his final days in intensive care, does Oliver commit to restoring familial bliss.
It works. Oliver ameliorates his tragic existence by telling all how much he loves them, proud to be a husband, dad, and son. They respond accordingly.
This novel reads a redemptive tale, one that is blessed with an unfailing trust in the healing powers of Jesus Christ.
I received a complimentary copy from the author to give an honest review.
WC Beaver
October 5, 2021
This book follows Jonah, Oliver and Robert. They are each at a crossroads in life. In Jonah's case he's trying to figure out life and where that leads when his girlfriend winds up pregnant and how to hand;e all life it throwing his way. Oliver is having a hard time with his relationship. He hasn't figured out if he wants to continue the marriage with his wife or leave. He's also meeting with a psychiatrist to analyze his life. Robert is at the part where he is retired and trying to figure out what to do with his life. He does different charity events to help those less unfortunate but when Robert is hit with a health scare that puts him on a very different life path one he hadn't counted on. Will these men figure out their life journeys or are they doomed to fail?
Oh my word, Mr. Manchester has figured it out. He writes with such depth of character you feel like you know these men and their family/. You find yourself unable to put the book down without seeing how it ends and what lessons they learn from one another. If you haven't read his books yet you are totally missing out and you must check them out to see how it goes!
Oh my word, Mr. Manchester has figured it out. He writes with such depth of character you feel like you know these men and their family/. You find yourself unable to put the book down without seeing how it ends and what lessons they learn from one another. If you haven't read his books yet you are totally missing out and you must check them out to see how it goes!
October 13, 2021
Dad: A Novel
By Steven Manchester. 5 Stars *****
I would of given this 10 stars if I could,
WOW!! An Incredibly Powerful Read!!
If you have read this authors book the Menu than you know how in-depth, emotional and scary accurate his writing can be and the book Dad is just as powerful. I have read numerous books and numerous authors but Steven Manchester has become a favorite of mine. He is absolutely brilliant.
Words can't describe how much this book touched me.
This book spans three generations of the men in a family who will tell a emotional story about their lives, their feelings, the heartache and triumphs and so much more.
If your looking for a book to pass on to your male children that will have an impact on a cycle of lives and those that surround them then grab this book. Be prepared though to experience powerful emotions that will have your heart pounding. The writing is like being on a rollercoaster that lasts and lasts and leaves you breathless.
I have had the privilege to read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving a review of it.
Reviewer for Nook Books and More Blog.
By Steven Manchester. 5 Stars *****
I would of given this 10 stars if I could,
WOW!! An Incredibly Powerful Read!!
If you have read this authors book the Menu than you know how in-depth, emotional and scary accurate his writing can be and the book Dad is just as powerful. I have read numerous books and numerous authors but Steven Manchester has become a favorite of mine. He is absolutely brilliant.
Words can't describe how much this book touched me.
This book spans three generations of the men in a family who will tell a emotional story about their lives, their feelings, the heartache and triumphs and so much more.
If your looking for a book to pass on to your male children that will have an impact on a cycle of lives and those that surround them then grab this book. Be prepared though to experience powerful emotions that will have your heart pounding. The writing is like being on a rollercoaster that lasts and lasts and leaves you breathless.
I have had the privilege to read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving a review of it.
Reviewer for Nook Books and More Blog.
August 19, 2021
Oh, my heart. I knew when the story started I’d be ripped up, torn apart, and then slowly put back together.
I felt like this was Oliver’s story. He is the son dealing with his father’s end of life. He is the father dealing with his children becoming adults and how that changes their relationships. He is the husband learning how to be with his wife. Oliver’s father, Robert, gives him advice and encouragement through all of these life happenings but Robert’s time is limited. The advice must come quickly and without judgement.
I had tears as I took in the story and saw how it mirrored some of my life. I could see a lot of my father in Robert and loved that the love between Robert and Oliver was obvious. The story was not always easy to read, there was tough topics, and end of death decisions being made but the story was respectful, truthful, and full of love. Steven Manchester has written another master piece that will stay with me, keep me thinking about it, and have me recommending it often.
I felt like this was Oliver’s story. He is the son dealing with his father’s end of life. He is the father dealing with his children becoming adults and how that changes their relationships. He is the husband learning how to be with his wife. Oliver’s father, Robert, gives him advice and encouragement through all of these life happenings but Robert’s time is limited. The advice must come quickly and without judgement.
I had tears as I took in the story and saw how it mirrored some of my life. I could see a lot of my father in Robert and loved that the love between Robert and Oliver was obvious. The story was not always easy to read, there was tough topics, and end of death decisions being made but the story was respectful, truthful, and full of love. Steven Manchester has written another master piece that will stay with me, keep me thinking about it, and have me recommending it often.
March 24, 2021
A poignant, tender family journey that holds love, fear, acceptance, hope and anticipation!
Truly a story that will have you reading and re-reading pages when patriarch, Robert speaks to his son, Oliver, and his family.
Robert has had a life well-lived, but the clock is running out for him and he has so much more to tell.
Will there be enough time to say it all? Can his family listen and understand?
There are so many lessons to be learned for both the characters inside these pages and the readers while they turn the pages of this novel.
Do yourself a favor, don't let time run out!
Read this book! It is what we all could use at this time!
"It's folks' attitudes that decide how happy they are, and what they think of those around them. People carry judgements with them--good or bad." Robert smiled. "The one person you can never escape from is yourself, so make sure you keep a good attitude."
Truly a story that will have you reading and re-reading pages when patriarch, Robert speaks to his son, Oliver, and his family.
Robert has had a life well-lived, but the clock is running out for him and he has so much more to tell.
Will there be enough time to say it all? Can his family listen and understand?
There are so many lessons to be learned for both the characters inside these pages and the readers while they turn the pages of this novel.
Do yourself a favor, don't let time run out!
Read this book! It is what we all could use at this time!
"It's folks' attitudes that decide how happy they are, and what they think of those around them. People carry judgements with them--good or bad." Robert smiled. "The one person you can never escape from is yourself, so make sure you keep a good attitude."
June 28, 2021
Dad by Steven Manchester
What I like about this book is that there are parts in there that remind me of my dad and things he did through the years.
Love that the relationships change as time goes on as they draw closer to one another.
They are all strong and brave in their own way and got each others backs. Hard parts are the struggles but rewards come through from the hard work done.
Big hands, this is so my father. I think the more work he did is testament to them being so large. I recall when he worked up to 4 jobs a day, He also treasured family especially at holidays.
It was unwritten but you had to be at family gatherings, even if you had to bring your in=
laws with you that was accepted also.
Thanks to all who helped make this book, so much research, love local places mentioned that are no longer around.
Can't wait for the next book from this author.
A KEEPER! Beautiful story.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
What I like about this book is that there are parts in there that remind me of my dad and things he did through the years.
Love that the relationships change as time goes on as they draw closer to one another.
They are all strong and brave in their own way and got each others backs. Hard parts are the struggles but rewards come through from the hard work done.
Big hands, this is so my father. I think the more work he did is testament to them being so large. I recall when he worked up to 4 jobs a day, He also treasured family especially at holidays.
It was unwritten but you had to be at family gatherings, even if you had to bring your in=
laws with you that was accepted also.
Thanks to all who helped make this book, so much research, love local places mentioned that are no longer around.
Can't wait for the next book from this author.
A KEEPER! Beautiful story.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Read
September 14, 2021Dad by Steven Manchester
What I like about this book is that there are parts in there that remind me of my dad and things he did through the years.
Love that the relationships change as time goes on as they draw closer to one another.
They are all strong and brave in their own way and got each others backs. Hard parts are the struggles but rewards come through from the hard work done.
Big hands, this is so my father. I think the more work he did is testament to them being so large. I recall when he worked up to 4 jobs a day, He also treasured family especially at holidays.
It was unwritten but you had to be at family gatherings, even if you had to bring your in=
laws with you that was accepted also.
Thanks to all who helped make this book, so much research, love local places mentioned that are no longer around.
Can't wait for the next book from this author.
A KEEPER! Beautiful story.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
What I like about this book is that there are parts in there that remind me of my dad and things he did through the years.
Love that the relationships change as time goes on as they draw closer to one another.
They are all strong and brave in their own way and got each others backs. Hard parts are the struggles but rewards come through from the hard work done.
Big hands, this is so my father. I think the more work he did is testament to them being so large. I recall when he worked up to 4 jobs a day, He also treasured family especially at holidays.
It was unwritten but you had to be at family gatherings, even if you had to bring your in=
laws with you that was accepted also.
Thanks to all who helped make this book, so much research, love local places mentioned that are no longer around.
Can't wait for the next book from this author.
A KEEPER! Beautiful story.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews