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Raising a Father

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"Raising a Father is a celebration. This affectionate and appealing story gives smiles, tears and renewed faith in the human spirit."
- Brent Green , Author, Marketing to Leading-edge Baby Perceptions, Principles, Practices, Prediction "... should be required reading for the planet. Uplifting, instructive, and describes so much of what fathers should aspire to in their relationship with their children."
- Herb Rubenstein , Sustainable Business Group "Raising a Father provides a very candid and honest assessment of the everyday obstacles we all face in trying to attain the proper work-life balance."
- Peter J. Pittman , President, Denver West Rotary Club During Arjun Sen's tenure in the corporate world, a wise, corporate stair-climbing friend told him, "Arjun, in order to achieve bigger glories, one must make smaller sacrifices in life." It was clear he referred to spending less time with family, not being there for children's special moments, and similar "small" sacrifices in personal life. Sen learns the hard way that these sacrifices come with large costs, and in Raising a Father he recounts his journey to this realization. Foreseeing his father-daughter future reduced to obligatory phone calls on birthdays and Father's Day, Sen leaves corporate America. He founds a home-based marketing consulting company in Denver, his ten-year-old daughter's favorite city; names his daughter as manager; and begins the real journey of becoming a true father. In this memoir, Sen discusses how he now measures success differently. Raising a Father tells the story of how a young girl uses her charm, her love, and her caring nature to train her dad to become a better father and a better person.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

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About the author

Arjun Sen

11 books3 followers

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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Jeff.
13 reviews
November 28, 2018
I may be biased because I’ve actually had the pleasure of working with Arjun, but I loved this book. It’s a quick read, and the frank, heart-warming, often comedic recollections of his life’s experiences lets you drop into the shoes of a father who reevaluates and realizes what is truly important to him in life.

Rather than continuing to live his life making excuses for being absent from his daughter’s life, he takes charge and completely reconfigures his “ordinary” round-the-clock corporate life into one that allows greater freedom and ability to spend time with his incredible daughter during her most formative years.

The little anecdotes from his time growing up in India, on through the great triumphs and adventures with his daughter Raka, make you think twice about the impact of decisions you make on a daily basis.

It takes a certain courageousness to share such personal memoirs. I’m grateful to be able to learn from the experiences of others.
Profile Image for Neel Preet.
Author 3 books68 followers
November 25, 2024
Book: Raising A Father
Author: Arjun Sen
Publisher: Evincepub Publishing (2024)
Total Pages: 202
Reviewed By: Neel Preet

Author Arjun Sen’s remarkable memoir, “Raising A Father” is a heartwarming as well as thought-provoking exploration of fatherhood, personal growth and the enduring power of love and family. Known for his success as a branding strategist for some of the most popular global corporations, author Sen turns his lens inward, reflecting on his most profound role — being a father. What unfolds is a deeply personal and universal story of redemption, resilience and the transformative bond between a father and daughter. Even more, the manner in which the author had carried out the task of storytelling in his book is captivating enough to make the readers quench for more with every turn of the page, and this is something that actually makes this title reading worthy!

Author Arjun Sen is an acclaimed Brand Zen who has helped brands like DISH Network, Walgreens, DaVita, AliveCor, CocaCola, Dominos, Win This Fight Foundation, and Floyd’s Barbershop take the next big step to Win Big. Blaine Hurst called him “One of the most Business-Intelligent minds today!” Prior to that, Arjun was the VP of Marketing & Operations for Papa John’s, where his team built their online business, now worth more than $ 1 Billion a year. Whereas, this title, “Raising A Father” is published by Evincepub Publishing and is released in the month of November 2024. Also, the book is available in both paperback as well as in e-book format and the readers can find this title on all the top online marketplaces.

This family and relationship title, “Raising A Father” begins with the author undergoing some self-introspection and reflecting upon his corporate life, where the demands of career success often overshadowed the personal moments with his family. Like many professionals, he was guided by the belief that achieving “bigger glories” required sacrificing smaller, seemingly insignificant aspects of life, such as missing family dinners, special moments, or quality time with loved ones. However, these “small sacrifices” came with enormous costs, leading Sen to an epiphany that would change the course of his life. Realising that his relationship with his daughter Raka might eventually reduce to perfunctory phone calls on birthdays and Father’s Day, Sen made a bold decision: he left his high-flying corporate career, founded a home-based marketing consultancy, and began prioritising his role as a father. This shift became the foundation of this book, a narrative of unlearning, relearning and redefining what it means to be a parent in all true sense!

Interestingly, this book is all about the power of presence as author Arjun Sen candidly shares how he restructured his life to be there for his daughter — not just physically, but emotionally as well. The decision to name Raka the “manager” of his consulting firm is not just a playful nod to their bond; it is symbolic of the significant role she plays in shaping his journey as a father. Author Sen’s vulnerability shines throughout the memoir. He does not shy away from discussing the challenges that he faced, including a difficult divorce and ongoing health struggles. Rather than being sources of despair, these obstacles become catalysts for deeper connection with Raka. Their shared experiences underscore the importance of resilience and the unbreakable bond forged through love, trust and mutual understanding.

One of the ‘Most Compelling Aspects’ of this title is the author’s willingness to learn from his daughter. Parenting, often seen as a one-directional process, is presented here as a reciprocal journey. Through honest conversations with Raka, Sen begins to see his blind spots and misunderstandings as a father. The initial manuscript of the book, written as a Christmas gift for Raka, underwent significant restructuring after feedback from the family members, including his brother Oni. This process became a powerful lesson for author Sen, forcing him to confront the gap between his intentions as a parent and Raka’s lived experiences. The rewritten version reflects this growth, offering the readers an authentic and relatable account of fatherhood that resonates deeply!

In addition, author Sen’s storytelling is imbued with warmth, humour and emotional depth. His anecdotes — whether they revolve around the everyday moments or life’s bigger challenges, paint a vivid picture of his relationship with Raka. From lighthearted tales to profound reflections, the author captures the essence of parenting as a dynamic, ever-evolving journey. The memoir also celebrates the broader theme of family. Author Sen’s emphasis on building connections and prioritising relationships over material success is a powerful reminder of what truly matters in life. The book is not just about his relationship with Raka but about the universal bonds that define us as human beings.

Now, upon reaching the final part of the review, i.e. the Book Verdict, we can conclude that a title like “Raising A Father” is for sure a MUST READ one. The book deserves a chance by the readers as it is a poignant and inspiring memoir that celebrates the transformative power of love, presence and family. Through his candid storytelling, author Arjun Sen reminds the readers that life’s greatest successes are not measured in professional achievements but in the bonds we nurture and the lessons we learn from those we love. This book is a tribute to the magic of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit. For anyone seeking a story of hope, growth and the enduring strength of family, this title is indeed an essential read. Undoubtedly, this work by author Sen is a heartfelt and inspiring memoir that will leave the readers reflecting on their own relationships and the true meaning of success!

Book’s Link: https://www.amazon.in/dp/9363556255
Profile Image for Sameer Gudhate.
1,384 reviews47 followers
April 16, 2025

Ever had that sinking feeling that success might be costing you more than it’s worth? That was me when I stumbled upon Raising a Father by Arjun Sen. The title itself was enough to pull at my heartstrings—because it flipped the usual narrative. This isn’t just a parenting book; it’s a soul-searching memoir, a love letter to fatherhood, and a mirror to anyone chasing the wrong kind of success.

Arjun Sen, a former corporate executive, isn’t your typical author. He’s a dad who woke up one day and realized he was losing the most precious thing in his life—his daughter. This book isn’t about raising a child; it’s about how a child ended up raising her father. And that, my friend, is the twist that makes this memoir unforgettable.

Raising a Father follows Sen’s journey from a high-powered, constantly traveling executive to a present, emotionally available father. The turning point? A simple but piercing moment with his ten-year-old daughter that made him reevaluate everything. He quits his job, moves to her favorite city, and even names her the manager of his new business. What unfolds is an authentic and heartwarming transformation rooted in vulnerability and love.

Unlike most memoirs, this one doesn’t just chronicle events—it tracks a relationship, a transformation, and a redefinition of what success really means.

Sen writes the way a close friend would talk over coffee—earnest, open, and occasionally disarming. His prose is simple but deeply affecting, letting the emotions take center stage. There’s no pretense or flowery language here. And that’s what makes the book accessible and relatable—it feels like a conversation rather than a monologue.

I especially loved the quotes and “words of wisdom” at the end of chapters. They linger in your mind, long after you’ve closed the book.

Sen’s daughter is the real hero here. Through her small actions and big heart, she teaches her father what truly matters. Their bond is the beating heart of this story, and it’s portrayed with tenderness and honesty. The idea that a child can guide a parent—not just the other way around—is both refreshing and revolutionary.

The book flows organically, like a well-paced conversation. It doesn't try to wow you with plot twists; instead, it slowly draws you into a world where change happens not in grand gestures, but in quiet moments of realization. It’s not linear, and that’s okay—it mirrors life.

At its core, Raising a Father is about presence. It's about redefining success—not as a corner office or a fat paycheck, but as showing up for the ones you love. It touches on work-life balance, emotional intelligence, and the courage it takes to unlearn what society defines as “making it.”

I’ll admit—this book got me misty-eyed more than once. As a parent, I found myself reflecting on how many “small” moments I might be letting slip. One particular passage, where Sen imagines his future relationship with his daughter reduced to obligatory birthday calls, hit me like a truck. It’s a powerful wake-up call.

The book’s honesty is its superpower. Sen never paints himself as a perfect dad. Instead, he lets us walk alongside his flaws, his fears, and his redemption. The small anecdotes, the wisdom from his daughter, and the courage to change course—these make the memoir feel lived-in and real.

If I had to nitpick, the structure could feel a bit meandering for readers expecting a tightly packed narrative. Some transitions are abrupt, and a few segments repeat ideas already shared. But honestly? These are minor compared to the emotional and philosophical weight the book carries.

Reading this felt like being gently nudged to look inward. As someone who’s often guilty of glorifying being “busy,” this book reminded me to pause, to listen, and to be present. It didn’t preach—it shared. And sometimes, that’s the most powerful way to teach.

Raising a Father isn’t just a book—it’s a gift. It speaks to parents, professionals, and anyone who’s ever asked themselves, “Am I giving enough to the people who matter most?” Sen’s story is a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to realign your life with your heart.

If you’re looking for a memoir that’s equal parts heartwarming and eye-opening, this one’s for you. Don’t be surprised if it changes you a little. It certainly changed me.


Profile Image for Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ).
2,244 reviews81 followers
November 22, 2024
Arjun Sen’s "Raising a Father" is a deeply heartfelt exploration of parenthood, resilience, and personal growth. Known for his groundbreaking work in branding with global giants like Coca-Cola and Papa John’s, Sen shifts focus from corporate triumphs to the most meaningful role in his life: being a father. This book, born from his relationship with his daughter Raka, is a touching narrative that intertwines his challenges with broader themes of familial love and self-discovery.

Originally written as a Christmas gift for his daughter, "Raising a Father* evolved into much more. Through honest conversations with Raka and constructive feedback from family members like his brother Oni, Sen restructured his initial narrative into an authentic account of parenting. This process revealed the gap between his intentions and Raka’s lived experiences, compelling him to reexamine his role as a father. The result is a beautifully rewritten book that resonates with readers on a universal level.

The Core Themes: Love, Loss, and Resilience
At its heart, the book reflects on the central themes of love, resilience, and the power of presence. Sen candidly shares his struggles with a difficult divorce and ongoing health challenges, and how these events strengthened his bond with Raka. Their journey underscores the importance of prioritizing family over professional achievements, portraying the value of connection and support during life’s most testing times.

Dynamic Storytelling and Emotional Depth
Arjun Sen’s writing stands out for its emotional depth and dynamic storytelling. Balancing moments of joy and introspection, he brings humour and vulnerability to the narrative. Whether recounting playful banter with Raka during spelling bees or reflecting on difficult times, his authentic voice ensures a profound connection with readers. The anecdotes—simple yet profound—illustrate the beauty of everyday parenting moments and their long-lasting impact.

Parenting as a Two-Way Learning Process
A recurring theme in the book is the reciprocal nature of parenting. Sen portrays his journey not just as a teacher but as a learner, with Raka providing insights that shape his understanding of compassion, kindness, and responsibility. Particularly moving is their trip to London, where Raka’s act of kindness toward a homeless man becomes a transformative experience for both father and daughter. Through these narratives, Sen emphasizes the significance of empathy and shared values in building a strong parent-child bond.

From Book to Movement
The success of "Raising a Father" exceeded expectations, leading to speaking engagements, heartfelt connections, and even an offer to adapt the book into a feature film. This progression highlights the universality of its message—one that celebrates hope, growth, and the transformative power of love. Sen’s reflections reveal that the journey of fatherhood is not about guiding a child alone but about mutual growth and understanding.

A Testament to Love and Humanity
"Raising a Father" is a powerful reminder of what truly matters in life: the bonds we nurture and the lessons we learn through them. Arjun Sen’s ability to blend personal anecdotes with universal truths creates a narrative that is as inspiring as it is relatable. For anyone seeking a story of resilience, love, and the enduring strength of family, this book is an essential read. It is a testament to the magic that unfolds when life is approached with patience, purpose, and unyielding belief in the power of human connection.
131 reviews2 followers
April 18, 2025

Arjun Sen's book Raising a Father is a profoundly personal introspection rather than merely a memoir. Despite being the story of a single man, it somehow feels like a mirror for anyone who has ever been overly engrossed in life's hectic pace.

The book's pivotal moment is subdued but memorable. When Sen's daughter asks him a few basic questions about himself, he discovers that he is unable to respond to the majority of them. That seemingly insignificant moment strikes like a goods train. It's devastating in its own right, but it's not dramatic. The weight of what he has been missing is palpable.

And that is the unique quality of this book. It doesn't preach. It makes no effort to be profound. It simply and honestly tells the truth. You respect Sen more because he owns up to his mistakes and doesn't hide them.

Seeing a father rediscover how to be present, both physically and emotionally, is a profoundly touching experience. It's not a big show when he quits his corporate job to be nearer to his daughter and appoints her as manager of his new business. He is gradually becoming the parent and person he wants to be.

The story's emphasis on listening is what really got my attention. actual listening. to a kid. to oneself. to the important things. And how challenging that is in a world that is always encouraging us to strive for more, accomplish more, and be more. Sen's writing is straightforward, bordering on plain at times, but that's precisely why it works.

Sitting across from someone who isn't attempting to impress you is how it feels. He is merely attempting to be genuine. Being a father made me stop, think, and be honest. I wanted to give my own child a bigger hug because of it. Because sometimes being there for someone when they need you is more important than doing more.

This book doesn't make a big statement. It has a soft voice. But long after you've turned the last page, it remains with you.
394 reviews6 followers
April 17, 2025
"Raising a Father" is a heartwarming life story of a lovable father and daughter. The bond between them is truly cherishing, and the path they've crossed is both heart wrenching and inspiring, reminding us to live life to the fullest. The author excellently portrays the father-daughter relationship, bringing their conversations, thoughts, and body language to life.

The book masterfully explores every situation from both perspectives, allowing readers to learn and grow alongside the characters. Arjun Sen's career journey, from corporate employee to motivational speaker, aeronautical engineer to restaurant owner and consultant, shows that life is full of experiences waiting to be explored.

The book beautifully captures the challenges of a single father raising a little daughter and the transformative power of love and innocence. Through Raka's perspective, Sen becomes not only a better father but also a better human being.

The author's writing style makes the book easy to read, with short, humorous, and thought-provoking chapters that share multiple perspectives. The chapter names are catchy and attractive, and each chapter begins with a powerful quote that lingers, making you eager to turn the page.

The title "Raising a Father" is perfect and sensible, a tribute to his sweet daughter. The book cover, featuring his childhood artwork of a red sky, nostalgically takes us back to our own memories.

The language is easy to comprehend, and the author redefines success through his life story, inspiring everyone who reads this book. It's not only a gift to his daughter but a lifetime gift to the world, for those who wish to live life meaningfully.
Profile Image for Aachal .
174 reviews6 followers
April 28, 2025
Review for Raising a Father by Arjun Sen

"Raising a Father" is a heartfelt and eye-opening story that challenges the way we think about success, family, and presence. Arjun Sen shares a deeply personal journey — not of raising his daughter, but of being raised by her in the ways that matter most.

Sen, once a busy executive chasing traditional success, experiences a wake-up call through a simple but powerful conversation with his young daughter. What follows is a moving transformation, as he chooses connection over career, presence over prestige. His decision to step away from the corporate grind and rebuild his relationship with his daughter forms the emotional backbone of this memoir.

The writing is refreshingly simple and honest. It feels less like reading a book and more like sitting down with a friend who's willing to show you both his regrets and his hopes. There's no preaching here — just real moments that linger long after you finish reading.

I especially appreciated the small reflections and "Words of Wisdom" at the end of each chapter. They offer gentle reminders about what truly matters in life and often prompt you to pause and reflect on your own priorities.

At its heart, Raising a Father isn’t about perfection — it’s about showing up, listening deeply, and choosing love over ambition. It's a book that speaks to parents, professionals, and anyone feeling the tension between career and family life.

If you’re looking for an authentic, soul-stirring read that might just change the way you view success, this is one you shouldn’t miss.

Highly recommended for anyone ready to reconnect with what’s truly important.
Profile Image for Ruchita Tripathy.
82 reviews3 followers
April 21, 2025
Raising a Father by Arjun Sen is a heartfelt memoir and guide that blends personal experience with parenting advice.
Raising a Father is not your typical parenting book—it flips the script by focusing on how a father was "raised" by his daughter. Arjun Sen, a former Fortune 500 executive, shares his journey from being a work-focused, absentee dad to becoming a fully present and emotionally connected father. The turning point comes when his daughter, Raka, gives him a questionnaire that opens his eyes to how little he knows about her life.
Sen recounts how he made the bold decision to leave his high-powered career to prioritize his relationship with his daughter. The book is filled with candid stories, reflections, and life lessons, all wrapped in an emotionally honest and accessible writing style. It's not just a memoir—it's a wake-up call to parents about the importance of time, presence, and genuine connection.
Encourages emotional growth and introspection for fathers and caregivers. This book is inspiring and emotionally resonant. It's a reminder that parenting is less about perfection and more about presence and love. Whether you're a parent, a child, or simply someone interested in personal growth, Raising a Father offers a touching perspective on what really matters in life.
43 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2025
Raising a Father is more than just a story—it's a mirror for every parent who's ever questioned their role in their child's life. Arjun Sen takes us on a deeply personal journey, showing how his daughter's honesty made him reevaluate everything he thought he knew about being a father.
The book begins with a simple, yet powerful moment: his daughter gives him a questionnaire. Her answers—and the ones he couldn’t give—spark a transformation. From that point on, Sen chooses to prioritize his daughter over his career, making sacrifices that many would find difficult, even unthinkable.
What stands out is the authenticity in his voice. He doesn’t pretend to be a perfect dad. He owns up to his flaws and learns from them. The title itself is genius—it’s not about raising a child, but about how a child raised him into a better father, and arguably, a better man.
This is a book about second chances, vulnerability, and the power of love between a parent and child. It reminds us that it's never too late to make a change—and that sometimes, our children are our greatest teachers.
Touching, honest, and quietly profound. A must-read for any parent who wants to build a deeper, more meaningful connection with their child.
Profile Image for Sagar Naskar.
810 reviews14 followers
April 28, 2025
In his moving memoir Raising a Father, Arjun Sen examines how fatherhood has redefined success. Sen's story, set against the backdrop of a high-flying professional existence, starts with a profound realization: the little sacrifices we make for success—missed meals, missed birthdays—aren't really that minor. Sen takes the unimaginable step of leaving corporate America to be fully present in his daughter's life after being shaken by her quiet honesty.

Sen's daughter is the book's most interesting character; she grows from a young girl into the protagonist of the story thanks to her purity, love, and quiet strength. She serves as the story's emotional center as well as a mirror, reflecting her father's potential.

Sen's tells touching stories that are funny and surprisingly honest. His observations on life, parenting, and love are poignant and approachable. Long after the last page, you are still reminded of the saying, "If you open the door, people will show you how good they can be."

I strongly advise all parents to read this book, especially those juggling the pressures of contemporary work. It is a poignant reminder that success is best measured in moments rather than milestones, and it goes beyond simply being a parenting memoir.
Profile Image for Asmita.
213 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2025
This book surprised me in the best way possible. I originally bought it thinking it was something my husband or brother would appreciate, but out of curiosity, I skimmed a few pages—and couldn’t put it down.

Despite being written from a father’s perspective, the themes felt deeply universal. As a mom, I found myself pausing to think about how I show up in my kids’ lives—not just in the day-to-day tasks, but emotionally. The author’s honest storytelling and the way he opens up about his own experiences made the book feel real and quietly profound.

One thing that really stood out were the “Words of Wisdom” at the end of each chapter. They’re short, but they stay with you. There’s one line I keep coming back to: “If you open the door, people will show you how good they can be.” It’s the kind of thought that quietly shifts how you move through the world.

This isn’t just a parenting book. It’s about connection, growth, and learning to show up better for the people you love. If you’re open to being moved, this one’s worth your time—regardless of the title.
1,189 reviews46 followers
April 13, 2025
What if success isn’t about climbing, but about choosing where, and with whom, you want to stand still? Arjun Sen’s Raising a Father is a bold answer to that question.

This emotionally rich memoir takes readers through Sen’s awakening from corporate glory to personal emptiness. Advised by peers to make “small” sacrifices for bigger professional wins, he realizes too late that those sacrifices weren’t so small after all.

The fear of becoming a background character in his daughter’s life is what finally jolts him to act. The author’s decision to quit the corporate world and move to his daughter’s favorite city is not a story of loss, it’s a powerful tale of realignment.

Through his daughter’s guidance, he transforms not just into a better father, but into a fuller human being. The book offers not just a personal story but a roadmap for others wanting to redefine success on their own terms.
232 reviews3 followers
April 27, 2025
A quiet yet profound journey of self-discovery unfolds in this memoir, where a parent realizes the cost of being absent in the pursuit of success. The story is not about making dramatic changes overnight, but about the small, everyday decisions that lead to a deeper connection with what truly matters—family.

Through a series of honest and relatable reflections, the book explores the emotional shift from a life driven by ambition to one focused on presence and love. What stands out is how the parent, guided by the simple wisdom of a child, learns that the most valuable moments are the ones shared in the here and now, not in future accolades or promotions.

This is a story that speaks to anyone balancing work and family, offering a gentle reminder that success isn’t measured in titles or achievements, but in the time we give to those who matter most. It’s a heartfelt reflection on how love, in its quietest form, can transform a life.
408 reviews5 followers
April 27, 2025
"Raising a Father" is a gentle, thoughtful story about realising what truly matters. Arjun Sen writes from the heart as he looks back on years spent chasing success, only to realise he was drifting away from his daughter. The turning point isn’t dramatic—it’s quiet, personal, and very relatable.

The strength of this book lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t try to be overly emotional or preachy. Instead, it shows how small steps—like spending more time at home or listening with care—can change a relationship. The author’s journey from being a busy executive to an involved, present father is inspiring because it feels possible.

His daughter’s presence in the story brings warmth and honesty. Through her eyes, he begins to see life differently. This memoir isn’t just about parenting—it’s about paying attention, making time, and choosing connection over ambition. A sincere and heartfelt read that stays with you in quiet, meaningful ways.
375 reviews8 followers
April 27, 2025
"Raising a Father" by Arjun Sen is a touching reflection on love, priorities, and second chances. Through a personal and honest narrative, the author shares how he stepped away from a fast-paced corporate life to reconnect with the one person who mattered most—his daughter. It’s not a dramatic shift, but a gradual awakening to the moments he had been missing.

The book's tone is gentle and thoughtful, filled with small yet powerful scenes that show how everyday interactions can reshape a relationship. The author doesn’t claim to have all the answers; instead, he shares his journey with humility, allowing readers to see the transformation through his eyes.

His daughter’s role isn’t just supportive—she is central to the story, helping guide him back to the heart of fatherhood. "Raising a Father" is a quiet but memorable reminder that it’s never too late to choose presence over pressure, and love over routine.
797 reviews17 followers
April 27, 2025
"Raising a Father" by Arjun Sen is a quietly powerful memoir that captures the emotional recalibration of a father who chooses love over ambition. Rather than follow the well-worn path of career advancement, the author takes a bold turn, stepping away from the corporate world to embrace something far more meaningful—fatherhood, in its truest sense.

The book gently explores how everyday choices shape relationships. Through warm storytelling and personal insight, the author reveals how real success is found in connection, not in accolades. His daughter isn’t just present in his story—she becomes the soul of it, helping him rediscover joy, purpose, and balance.

The author’s narrative isn’t loud or dramatic, but it’s deeply sincere. The book quietly nudges readers to rethink what they value most. With its heartfelt tone and simple clarity, "Raising a Father" reminds us that the best transformations often begin with a single decision to show up—fully and honestly—for those we love.
Profile Image for Fatima Shamsi.
347 reviews4 followers
June 15, 2025
Reading Raising a Father made me stop and think about the relationships in my own life. The author shares how he once placed his job above everything, even missing his brother’s wedding without much thought. That moment hit me hard — it showed how disconnected he had become. But what makes this story special is how his young daughter slowly brings him back, not through big gestures, but with simple, honest moments that make him reflect.

What really touched me was their growing connection. It felt natural and full of emotion. The daughter, with her questions and quiet strength, guides her dad to see what’s really important. It’s almost like she becomes his teacher in life, helping him open up and be present. Watching their relationship shift like that felt both emotional and comforting.

I also liked learning about the author's many career changes — from engineering to running restaurants. His journey reminded me that it’s never too late to change. This book truly left a mark on me.
98 reviews1 follower
April 16, 2025
Heartfelt, humorous, and refreshingly honest, Raising a Father is one of those books that sneaks up on you with its simple charm and ends up leaving a deep impact.

This particular story—from a seemingly small incident of rushing to Kolkata to get anti-rabies shots—shows how one act of kindness became a pivotal moment in the narrator’s life. The writing captures the youthful pride, campus camaraderie, and the joy of being acknowledged in a tight-knit student community.

But beneath the humor and nostalgia, there's a strong current of self-discovery and emotional growth. The book beautifully captures how the author, a father himself, learns valuable life lessons in the most unexpected ways—often from his daughter.

It's a blend of coming-of-age, parenting wisdom, and Indian college life memories rolled into one. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an inspiring yet easy read.
233 reviews7 followers
April 27, 2025
This memoir takes you on a personal journey of realizing what truly matters in life. It’s about a parent who, caught up in the rush of career ambitions, begins to understand the high cost of missing out on the most precious moments with their child.

The story isn’t grand or overly dramatic—it's about small realizations and simple choices that lead to a deeper connection. The shift from chasing professional success to embracing the joys of everyday family life is both relatable and inspiring.

The most beautiful part of this journey is the way a child, with her innocent wisdom, helps her parent find balance and meaning. It’s a refreshing reminder that sometimes the answers to life’s big questions lie in the simplest moments spent with those we love. This story leaves you thinking about how we measure success and whether we’re truly present for the people who matter most.
43 reviews
May 2, 2025
The title of the book piqued my interest. As a reader, I often gravitate toward books about raising children or becoming a good parent, but the concept of "raising a father" was new to me. The intriguing title compelled me to pick it up, and I'm glad I did.

The book is based on the author's experiences as he comes to understand the importance of stepping up as a "real father" to his daughter, especially after his divorce from his wife. He shares his journey toward becoming a more engaged and supportive father.

Each chapter conveys a meaningful lesson and concludes with a simple quote. The relationship between the father and daughter is beautifully depicted. He admits that his daughter has transformed him into a better person, which is reflected in the title of the book, "Raising a Father."

A good read to go through. Would rate the book 4.5 out of 5.
Profile Image for Madiha Reads.
861 reviews15 followers
June 15, 2025
Raising a Father made me feel a mix of emotions I wasn’t ready for. The part that really hit me was when the author’s daughter asked him some simple questions about his life — and he couldn’t answer most of them. It wasn’t loud or dramatic, but it shook him deeply, and honestly, it made me pause too. That moment showed how far he had drifted from himself and from his role as a parent.

What moved me the most was how he slowly changed, not by making big speeches, but by quietly taking steps to be there for his daughter. He even left his job and let her take part in his new work life, giving her a place of importance. Watching that bond grow was really heartwarming. Their journey together felt real and full of love.

The story feels personal. More than just a book for his daughter, it felt like a reminder for all of us to live more intentionally.
311 reviews7 followers
April 16, 2025
Arjun Sen’s Raising a Father is a moving tribute to the transformative power of love, specifically, a daughter’s quiet strength and unwavering presence.

This is not a story about abandoning ambition, but about redirecting it towards what truly matters.

The author’s honest recollection of his years in corporate America is both relatable and sobering. The ‘small sacrifices’ he once made in pursuit of success, missing birthdays, skipping family time, begin to reveal their massive emotional costs.

The most beautiful part? The author's daughter becomes his guide, helping him grow into the father he always wanted to be. With light humor, sincerity, and striking clarity, the author illustrates how the parent-child dynamic can evolve into a partnership of mutual growth.

If you’re a parent, especially one juggling career pressures, this memoir may just be the perspective shift you didn’t know you needed.

Naming his daughter the “manager” of his new business isn’t just cute; it’s symbolic of his commitment to re-prioritize.
260 reviews3 followers
April 16, 2025
Raising a Father by Arjun Sen is more than just a memoir, it’s a brave, soul-searching journey that challenges the modern definition of success.

The author takes readers into the high-stakes world of corporate ambition, where small “sacrifices” like missed birthdays and absent moments are accepted norms.

But when he dares to ask himself, “What am I really building?”, everything changes.

The turning point is profound: his daughter’s quiet honesty becomes the spark that redefines the author's path.

The author leaves the corporate grind, names his daughter as manager of his home-based consulting firm, and learns what it truly means to be present.

The author’s storytelling is sincere, relatable, and filled with good life lessons.

For any parent caught in the hustle, Raising a Father is a gentle wake-up call. It would remind readers that legacy isn’t built in boardrooms, it’s built in living rooms, at the dinner table, and in the everyday moments most people often overlook.
949 reviews13 followers
April 24, 2025
These 119-page novel speaks volumes about the life of our author, his bond with his four-years old daughter. This book is also a journey of phases of our writer's life since childhood. His attachment to and influence of his grandmother in his life. How she guided them. We also read about various episodes of the author, like his experience in the art class to his winning a soccer match or his exposure to his engineering college. Later, how his Bond with Raka is beautifully communicated took my heart. Like her repeated questions, and her helping a lady in the airport. This book is so well narrated that I couldn't put it down. It's a compilation of the emotions, sentiments and happiness of a father.
Profile Image for Rohan Jethloja.
72 reviews1 follower
April 22, 2025
Raising a Father by Arjun Senis a heartfelt memoir that traces Arjun Sen’s powerful transformation from a high-flying corporate executive to a devoted single father. Confronting the steep price of “small” sacrifices made for career success, Sen courageously rewrites his priorities. Guided by the love and wisdom of his young daughter, he redefines success through meaningful connection and presence.

The book is touching, honest, and inspiring—a celebration of fatherhood and the human spirit. With warmth and candor, Author invites readers into a journey of rediscovery that underscores the importance of family, making it a must-read for parents and professionals alike.
49 reviews
May 25, 2025
"Raising a Father" is a heartwarming memoir by Arjun Sen, who leaves his corporate career to prioritize his relationship with his daughter. After realizing the high cost of professional success, Sen redefines what it means to be successful and starts a home-based business.
Through his journey, he learns valuable lessons from his young daughter, who teaches him to become a better father and person.
This book is a beautiful account of the transformative power of love and family.
A touching and inspiring read for parents and anyone looking for a more meaningful life. A great reminder of life's true priorities. Should read to all.
Profile Image for Patrick Collins.
582 reviews2 followers
October 11, 2014
This book is terrible. I haven't disliked a character in a book this much since I was twelve and felt like the round table knights jealous of sir Lancelot had ruined everything good in the world by forcing him to run away with Gwenevere. And this guy is real. Perhaps it is because I get to stay home with both of my kids for at least three months a year? And our two income family situation means that I must leave work at 4:30 and pick my son up? Is my work done when I do this? Or when I have to make dinner for the family? No - so listening to blather about work getting in the way of family strikes me as an archiac and childish excuse for selfishness. And the anecdotal, perfect daughter vignettes just don't seem honest - they seem like reconstructions for a self-help book that has left a permanent stain on my bedside table. Don't pick this one up.
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