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What I Know

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What I Know (so far) is a collection of perspectives, opinions, and observations I have previously dispensed to my children or contemplated on their behalf. As a seasoned, but ever-hopeful pragmatist dad, I'm not terribly confident they paid attention the first (second or third) times I've said them. Sometimes/Oftentimes, I feel like the proverbial fallen tree in the woods. Did my children understand what I said? Did they even listen? Did I at least make a loud, discordant thud?

Ultimately, I view this book as a testament and as a gift to my children. They should know three things: 1) Dad was here. 2) Lead a good and well-lived life. 3) Abundantly and ten-to-the-nth-power tenfold, I love them. I offer this on behalf of our shared hugs and smiles, and on behalf of the tears I have shed for them and with them.

256 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 21, 2022

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Anthony Rondeau

1 book13 followers

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5 stars
52 (88%)
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4 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Dylan Altoft.
Author 5 books19 followers
October 7, 2023
As someone who recently became a dad, this book was really interesting and amazingly entertaining from all the different stories and thoughts as a parent from the author.

It was incredibly heartwarming, making me hope i can learn a lot from the lessons and thoughts the author gives on this book. The parental perspective from this book is incredible unique and powerfully amusing. The author pokes fun at being a parent, themselves, and really makes you feel less alone as a parent, going through a lot of the situations depicted in the book.

If you are a new parent, i would 100% recommend this book to give yourself a good laugh, some amazing relatable stories, and best of all, timeless advice and lessons about children.
Profile Image for A.K. Frailey.
Author 50 books103 followers
February 14, 2024
There were moments while reading this book that I felt as if I was entering too private a personal space, but the humor and raw honesty of Anthony Rondeau's reflections put me at ease. This father's thoughts, rambling as they may have seemed at times, always steered toward a meaningful goal. As an act of careful introspection laid before the public eye and as an intimate act of love for his family, this book qualifies as a success. Beautiful and heartfelt, a man's love is unique. Both personal and universal themes run throughout the book, taking "fatherhood" into the realm of "Wiseman" offering insight into one of the most powerful roles on earth—a good dad. A powerful testimony.
189 reviews16 followers
November 10, 2022
It is a beautifully written book and just by reading the title and looking at its cover you can sort of figure the vibe of the book.This book left me with a mix of emotions and inspiration.

✨This book is a collection of perspectives, opinions, and observations that the author has previously dispensed to his children or contemplated on their behalf. He wanted them to know three things-
1) Their Dad was here. 2) Lead a good and ✨well-lived life. 3) Abundantly and tento-the-nth-power tenfold, he loves them.

✨The book is divided into four sections and each section will teach you some valuable lessons. I absolutely loved all the sections of the book.

✨The author has shared his personal observations, experienced opinions, and thoughtful ideas in this book. Some of them is fact-based and obvious. Some of them are entertaining conjecture.

✨The author started writing this book before he was thirty years old and it was actually just a collection of topical paragraphs that he has collected in his numerous handwritten notebooks. The book is written in easy language and you will feel like the author is talking to you.

✨The book couldn’t be more good!
Words are less to describe the amount of motivation it fills in the readers minds.
The bond of father with his children is so beautiful and inspiring.

✨The language of the book is rich. The writing style of the author is gripping. The pace of the book is perfect. The title and cover perfectly matched the plotline.

✨This book is very different from the ones I typically read and I’m so glad to have read this , it’s one of my favourites now.

I loved this book. Kudos to the author for taking the initiative to pen it down!
Do read this Gem and be inspired.
I would recommend it to everyone!
Profile Image for Marianne.
420 reviews11 followers
March 7, 2023
I rarely read nonfiction, but I am so glad I did. This book was delightful and heartwarming. It is about a father and his hopes and dreams for his children. It was ‘a words to live by’ kind of book for me. I highly recommend it. I won this prepublication book and read it on my Kindle. Thank you for the opportunity.
Profile Image for Mark Piggott.
Author 10 books54 followers
October 20, 2023
Good Advice for Dads

I found a lot of good advice scattered throughout this book, a lot of things I learned from my Dad or experienced myself as a father. Its a lot of good common sense.
57 reviews40 followers
March 5, 2024
Wonderful, honest, so well-meaning

Excellent book, just leaves you feeling good - deep-down good. Written with such blunt honesty, you trule feel you’re sitting at a bar together with Mr. Rondeau and he’s candidly telling you - speaking directly to you! - about the ins and outs and true feelings of his life abd the lessons he’s learned on the way. After reading this, I feel like his friend! Highly recommend.
1 review
August 24, 2023
This book is like having an engaging relative give it to you straight. Covering topics from defining love to procrastination to selling yourself to understanding mortality, this dad imparts the knowledge and insights he gained throughout his life in a personable way full of dad jokes and warmth. A great gift for any soon-to-be adults, or for dads who'll be having these types of conversations with their kids soon.
Profile Image for Pj.
76 reviews3 followers
September 6, 2024
Poignant

This was a really emotional read. As someone whose parents are not very well at all, to read this reflection on life advice was extremely timely and one that made me well up more than once. I would thoroughly recommend this to anyone who wants to benefit from some words of hard-won wisdom!
7 reviews
February 20, 2024
Normally It is difficult to enjoy a book of advice, usually people are given to giving it and not following it. However, this book is one in a million. It is difficult not to read it, and not to put yourself in the place of a son. It is truly a reflective book, which has provoked mixed, pleasant, nostalgic, evocative feelings in me and has made me remember everything that my Father once wanted to suggest to me, and I was not old enough to understand, and that now as a Father I want transmit to my children in such a way that they do not feel that I intend to control their lives. It is a book that transmits teachings and paternal wisdom in a colloquial, understandable way and with a very good sense of humor. Definitely a book that every parent, and child, should read
Profile Image for Doug Dorsey.
Author 7 books16 followers
February 15, 2024
A Book Full of Great Parenting Advice

Rondeau’s book was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I particularly enjoyed the chapter on tips to listening well… & anytime he related stories about his mom to make a point was particularly impactful. The “Dad Notes” are a nice touch too. I’d simply add my owner dad/reader note that I didn’t always agree with the author’s take on things… for instance in the chapter on heaven-earned, I believe it’s solely because of faith in God & Jesus’ sacrifice that we can get there. But that’s what makes Rondeau’s Book great also… it definitely makes you consider the most important aspects to a life well lived. From one dad to another… GREAT book!
3 reviews
October 17, 2023
Beautifully written. This legacy book serves as a wonderful “inheritance”—a beautiful one way conversation of “these are things I need you to know/hope you remember” thoughts, musings, inspiration, awareness, and advice all presented with a mix of humor, sadness, wisdom, and poignant anecdotes.

This book contains not only what the author knows [thus far], but also highlights and is also a reflection of those important people and events around him and their influences. This is not just a love note to his children, but a celebration and homage to such wonderful people who have influenced his life [Some examples include: his dear cousin Natalie, his wonderful and supportive wife, and his wonderful mom, Bebe]

This book presents itself to be a collection that can be read sequentially, or read by topic based on interest/need. Clearly thoughtful, this book contains great quotes from notable sources, philosophical debates explored, lessons & formulas for success, opinions regarding “best practices”, poignant and sad tales [some noting regret; some lamentations over lost moments], mixed with great advice & humor. The wonderful anecdotes presented, powerful and poignant conversations the author has had, and powerful and poignant conversations that the author WISHES he’s had makes this feels deeply personal as if I’m overhearing a father/child conversation over a long snowbound weekend, or over an engaging 10 course dinner.

This work is honest, raw, and poignant because he identifies his flaws, or perceived flaws. Life isn’t perfect; parenting, as he notes, is a process, and I believe this work serves as a beautiful legacy to his family, a wonderful practical, and engaging read for the audience, and a beautiful testament of an introspective, earnest, humorous, and humbled father.

I wish more parents would take the time to craft a thoughtful, introspective legacy piece. I hope this author has many more opportunities to sit at a large dinner table [without phone, internet, and text distractions] to converse with his children. I hope the author knows how proud they are of him, as well. And, I hope the author doesn’t feel as if he’ll be forgotten—there are many “take-aways” and notable moments, from this work, for that to occur.

Though his story was uniquely his, there was a universal quality to many of his insights. A specific audience was targeted, but there’s a universal quality to “parent wisdom”, or “father wisdom”. The “everyman voice”, embodied in this work, can lead many readers to wonder whether all new and experienced fathers feel this passionate in regards to fatherhood.

This is a moving, enjoyable, and poignant examination of a life, a love letter styled book to serve as a legacy, and an analysis and reflection of the experience we call, “life”. Thoroughly engaging and a time well spent.

Would, definitely, recommend.
Profile Image for Adrian Lopez.
Author 11 books42 followers
February 10, 2024
Parents are the first teachers for us all. That is both for better or worse. This is a beautiful collection of stories and knowledge passed down to his children.
3 reviews
October 6, 2023
A Parental Catharsis

Compiled from notes, observations, research, and stories over thirty years and published as a book dedicated to his four kids—already adults when this book was published—What I Know (so far) is a mixture of stream-of-consciousness, memoir, Dear Abby Column, rough humor, and self-exploration. The book is organized into four sections: Who I Am, Relationships, Guesses, and Advice. As any book developed over such an extended period, revisions multiplied as experiences abound.

The first section is nearly embarrassingly intimate and almost a plea to his kids to be understood for his mistakes and reassured that he has always loved them. It takes courage to expose yourself like that, and I admire the author for doing it.

The second section explores the concept of Love, and the author comes up with a neat definition: Love is Soup. That resonated with me: I could see how Love is a compendium of your experiences and unique to each of us, like a soup. You may like chicken soup, and I may like borsch. It’s all a matter of culture and taste and the Love we experience during our lifetime.

The author also discusses unconditional Love at great length and detail—only to add another chapter stating that unconditional Love is impossible unless Love is reciprocated. That statement would have angered Washington Irving, who said, “Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify your heart,” However, I agree with Mr. Rondeau that love dies if not reciprocated—and any divorced parent knows that.

The following two sections are more didactic, although section three begins with the statement that Boys are Stupid and Girls are…. The description of women as baffling is not misogynistic but the honest attempt of a male trying to understand and fail a female. I can empathize with that. Females ARE full of contradictions—and I, for one, love that.

This book isn’t perfect, and it meanders with anecdotal side trips and attempts at balancing sad scenes with humor. However, it is the honest effort of a father trying to leave a legacy of Love to his kids and offers a benchmark to other parents. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for M. Ainihi.
Author 12 books97 followers
February 2, 2024
Insightful, honest, and amusing…
The author of “WHAT I KNOW (so far)” shares wisdom and personal opinions through what I felt were candid and relatable experiences. The works thoughtfully written and well-organized pages contain useful insights from a father for navigating, not just fatherhood but parenthood in general.
A quick and interesting read.
34 reviews1 follower
January 5, 2024
Heartfelt Wisdom, Timeless Love

What I Know (so far) by Anthony Rondeau is an intimate and heartfelt collection of life lessons and reflections shared by a father with his children. Rondeau, a first-time author, positions himself as a seasoned yet hopeful pragmatist, acutely aware of the uncertainties surrounding the impact of his words on his children. This book transcends the conventional boundaries of parental advice, delving into the profundity of a father's love and concern. It's not just about the wisdom imparted but also about the earnestness and vulnerability with which it is delivered. Rondeau's reflections range from poignant observations to pragmatic advice, all rooted in the deep love for his family.

The essence of the book lies in its three core messages: the enduring presence of a father, the importance of leading a good and well-lived life, and the boundless love he holds for his children. Rondeau's self-aware humor, admitting to not being the "sharpest bulb in the knife shed," adds a layer of humility and relatability to his narrative. He encourages his children to be critical thinkers, to understand their motivations, and to stand firm in their beliefs, all while reassuring them of his unwavering pride and love. This book is a testament to the often understated but profound influence of parental guidance, serving not only as a guide for his children but also as an inspiring read for parents and non-parents alike.
Profile Image for Mike Coville.
Author 12 books57 followers
December 29, 2023
Dad approved

This book resonated with me as a father. There is always so much you want to say to your kids and the author does a great job of putting it down in this book. A mix of dad jokes and personal antidotes drives home the point that a father’s job is to give their kids the best chance they can. Much of the book is directed to the author’s own children, so the advice is personal and specific at times, but there are more than enough universal truths being disseminated to make it worth your time to read. I would recommend this book for fathers who are looking for the words to say the things they wish they could, but also for any one who wants a better look into the role of dads.
Profile Image for Robert Rondeau.
1 review
November 16, 2022
I didn't want to put the book down & I cannot wait to read the author's next book! The book was entertaining and thought-provoking.
Profile Image for John Nix.
24 reviews7 followers
May 9, 2024
Insightful Reflections


Anthony Rondeau’s book, "what i know(so far)", invites readers on an introspective journey through personal reflections and philosophical musings. This Kindle book, just like the title reflects, offers a unique blend of memoir, self-help, and philosophical inquiry.
Rondeau’s writing style is refreshingly conversational and straightforward. He shares anecdotes and experiences from his own life, inviting readers to consider their own perspectives and life lessons. The book is structured into short, digestible chapters, each exploring a different theme or insight that Rondeau has gleaned from his experiences.
One of the book's strengths lies in its authenticity. Rondeau doesn't claim to have all the answers; instead, he humbly shares what he has learned "so far" in his life. This humility makes his reflections relatable and accessible to readers from various walks of life.
The content of "what i know(so far)" covers a wide range of topics, from relationships and personal growth to broader existential questions. Rondeau’s insights often prompt deeper contemplation, encouraging readers to pause and reflect on their own beliefs and values.
However, some readers might find the book lacking in depth on certain subjects. While the brevity of each chapter makes for easy reading, it also means that some topics could benefit from more elaborate exploration and analysis.
Overall, "what i know(so far)" is a thought-provoking read suitable for anyone interested in personal development and philosophical inquiry. Anthony Rondeau's sincerity and genuine desire to share his wisdom shine through the pages, making this Kindle book a worthwhile addition to one’s digital library.
In conclusion, if you enjoy books that prompt introspection and offer gentle reminders of life's lessons, "what i know(so far)" by Anthony Rondeau is worth picking up. It's an engaging read that encourages readers to ponder their own experiences and insights, making it a valuable companion for those on a journey of self-discovery.

Profile Image for Sagar Naskar.
883 reviews16 followers
August 14, 2023
Book Review ~ 📚

Title : What I Know (So Far)
Author : Anthony Rondeau

Anthony Rondeau's What I Know (So Far) is a touching and wise collection of dad-wisdom that offers a welcome change from the typical self-help books. Rondeau delivers his life lessons and thoughts in a realistic and captivating way by combining pragmatism and inspiration.

It's simple to relate to Rondeau's insights and experiences because of his writing style, which is both humorous and tragic. He talks about everything from life and love to self-acceptance and personal development. His sincere desire to impart his knowledge to readers is apparent, and this instills his writing with an impactful feeling of sincerity.

The book's most notable feature is Rondeau's ability to provide advice without seeming dogmatic. His views and tales are enjoyable and accessible, giving the reader the impression that they are speaking with an experienced friend. His remarks strike a chord with people of all ages and walks of life since he is an experienced dad and has valuable insights to share.

Naturally, the author of the book is my favorite character. Anthony Rondeau is a compelling and likable character because of his candor, vulnerability, and earnest commitment to sharing his life's lessons. His stories on relationships, children, and self-discovery are particularly vivid and resonant.

I completely advise What I Know (So Far) to anyone looking for a sincere, heartfelt, and useful manual for coping with life's difficulties and rewards. This book delivers a beautiful fusion of humor, knowledge, and relatability, whether you're a parent, a young adult, or just seeking for an uplifting read. You'll find solace in Anthony Rondeau's practical guidance while reflecting on your own experiences after reading his remarks. For those who value real insights conveyed with a dash of warmth and humor, What I Know (So Far) is a must-read.

⭐ Rating : 5/5 🌟⭐
⭐ Must Recommended 🌟
546 reviews12 followers
April 9, 2024
I also am a dad with kids who roll their eyes at my "wisdom" and "humor." Of course we wonder if we've passed anything at all along to them, and deep down we probably know that our musings about the meaning of life are not any more profound than anyone else's. But they DO matter, if only because we've succeeded in raising them to the point where they are old enough to understand them. The picture we get, which Is true for many fathers, is that we hang around, watch sports and take naps on the couch, provide money for the family, and then wonder if all this is enough, or really expresses our love. It's not, and it doesn't, but it doesn't matter since there isn't much we can do about it. The book is a kind of picture of fatherhood in the modern world, though we never find out some of the details, like where he worked, or how that made him feel, or whether that job ssssrendered him unable to do the dishes, the laundry, and the diapers. The best sign of his loving the family is simply still being there after all those years, in spite of the hard stuff we often don't see.
2 reviews1 follower
Read
November 24, 2023
What I know so Far.
This book is written by a father who pours his thoughts onto paper to his children. It is not often we see a man bare his soul as he advises his children to live the best lives possible. His two daughters and two sons are lucky because it is obvious he dearly loves them.
Anthony Rondeau divides the book into four sections where he tells us about himself and the love he feels for his family. We not only meet his immediate family but also learn about his parents and his beloved cousin. Some of the most emotional parts are where he speaks about his cousin’s and mother’s deaths. Natalie, his cousin, has a fatal illness but, somehow, because of ‘Anthony Tuesdays’ the sadness of her dying is lessened by their sense of fun when Anthony visits her in the hospital. From his mother Anthony, and we, learn ‘The only things you can take with you are your memories,’ also reminding us to live the best life possible.
Profile Image for R.J. Logar.
Author 2 books1 follower
April 16, 2024
"What I Know (So Far)" by Anthony Rondeau is a delightful exploration of life's lessons and the wisdom of a seasoned dad. Rondeau's blend of practicality, motivation, and inspiration shines through, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking guidance or simply a good dose of Dad-Wisdom.

Through his own experiences and reflections, Rondeau delivers relatable advice on love, self-acceptance, and being a good human being. His storytelling is engaging, filled with humor and sincerity. This book isn't just about advice—it's about fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

In "What I Know (So Far)," Rondeau challenges readers to embrace their individuality, stand firm in their beliefs, and strive for a life of purpose. This genuine gem of a book is a beacon of light and wisdom in an often complex world, leaving readers inspired and uplifted by Rondeau's profound insights and genuine fatherly wisdom.
44 reviews1 follower
October 17, 2024
A Timeless Legacy of Love and Wisdom

"What I Know (so far)" is a profoundly moving and inspiring collection of perspectives, opinions, and observations from a devoted father to his children. This beautifully crafted book is a testament to the transformative power of paternal love and a legacy that will resonate with readers of all ages.

The author's writing is sincere, authentic, and infused with warmth, humor, and vulnerability. His insights on life, love, and resilience are both personal and universally relevant, offering readers valuable lessons on living a good and well-lived life.

Through this book, the author achieves his goal of leaving a lasting impact on his children, but also extends a gift to readers everywhere. His words will touch hearts, inspire reflection, and remind us of the importance of love, family, and legacy.
Profile Image for Douglas.
Author 20 books47 followers
December 31, 2024
This book, from a father of four children, takes on a casual narration in the form of a letter to his kids. I expected a few anecdotes and fatherly advice similar to what I might give my kids...and they were present...but it also included a lot of personal experience, tragedies, mistakes, and soul-searching. Topped off with some humor.

We also see the perspectives from the loss of his "you-only-live-once" mother, and a cousin that helped him develop the book before passing away.

I also found a few paragraphs on fatherhood in the viewpoint of "making the sale". Launched from his sales experience. This was overall good information for me, not just in fatherhood, but marketing also. It was a good open letter that I'm glad he shared.
Profile Image for The Night Owl.
42 reviews
July 10, 2025
A Father’s Honest Gift of Wisdom and Love

Anthony Rondeau reflects on the moments, lessons, and heartfelt truths he’s shared or tried to share with his children over the years. Blending humor, humility, and deep affection, this collection of thoughts is part life advice, part love letter, and entirely from the heart of a devoted dad.

Whether his words landed the first time or not, Rondeau offers them here as a lasting reminder: Dad was here, he loved hard, and he hoped to leave something meaningful behind. Honest, touching, and often laugh out loud human, this debut from a self proclaimed “not the sharpest bulb in the knife shed” is a celebration of fatherhood, family, and figuring things out together.
5 reviews
November 26, 2023
It is very rare to find a book that is both thoughtful and fun…even humorous! Anthony Rondeau manages this minor miracle in his book, “What I Know (So Far). I’m a dad myself, with adult children, and reading this book brought back a lot of wonderful memories. Through a great blend of humor and philosophy, Anthony does a wonderful job communicating that acquiring “dad wisdom” is more of a journey than a destination. As I read this book I was reminded that the older I got, the smarter I realized my father was! Regardless if you are not yet a dad, are a new dad, or an old one, you will enjoy this book. Pick up a copy…it’s definitely worth your time!
Profile Image for Jeffrey A.
Author 2 books2 followers
March 18, 2024
What I Know

A letter from a 50 something dad to His grown children. While this book has a lot of good content, it was a difficult read for me. Multi-page paragraphs, extra long chapters, and occasional rambling off topic hindered my attentiveness.
It is however, a believable account of what an average dad would want his kids to know, but sadly most dad's either aren't brave enough or simply take the time to put into words the wisdom they should bestow on their kids. Kudos for putting this out there.
I couldn't give five stars because of the formatting but if you can overlook that it's a good read.
Profile Image for Victor Torvich.
30 reviews40 followers
May 7, 2024
This book is not about parenting. It is partially about parental care, but it is much more. Anthony Rondeau admitted, "I have always wanted to be a writer." It shows. He is a thoughtful, self-reflecting, and observant person. Karen A. Foster said, "To be human is to be fully engaged in a lifelong learning journey." Anthony Rondeau is such a human.
In his book, Anthony stated, "I gather information, question everything until I understand it, and then I spew information as if I should be trusted." The author writes a lot about his personal experiences, which are relatable to parents and most of us.
1 review
August 18, 2023
Loved the letter to the author's kids at the beginning of the book. The book is a guide the author has left for his kids in the line of a memento. I can resonate with this as a parent where you want to keep a part of you for your next of kin. The Author makes the books very interesting to read with funny anecdotes and his personal memories and experiences. The book is a cross between an autobiography and a guide with tons of advice and experiences for his kids. An interesting read for any parent.
Profile Image for Moona.
986 reviews85 followers
June 30, 2024
What I Know (so far) by Anthony Rondeau is a heartfelt collection of insights and reflections shared with his children. As a seasoned and hopeful pragmatist, Rondeau presents a compilation of perspectives, opinions, and observations he has gathered over the years. The book serves as a testament and gift to his children, emphasizing three key messages: his presence in their lives, the importance of leading a good life, and his profound love for them. With a blend of wisdom and emotion, this book offers valuable life lessons and a lasting legacy for his family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews